Sands Point Preserve
Sands Point Preserve, located at the tip of the Port Washington Peninsula on Long Island’s North Shore, offers a captivating blend of Gold Coast grandeur, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Set on 216 acres of historic estates, woodlands, gardens, and beaches overlooking the Long Island Sound, the Preserve invites visitors to step back into history while enjoying outdoor adventures all year round.
History & Gold Coast Legacy
Sands Point Preserve is deeply rooted in Long Island’s fabled Gold Coast era:
- The land was originally part of the vast estate holdings of banking and railroad magnates, most famously Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim.
- The site’s iconic mansions – Hempstead House and Castle Gould – were inspired by European castles and stately homes, reflecting the opulence of early 20th-century high society.
Hempstead House & Castle Gould
The heart of the Preserve is its grand architecture:
- Hempstead House: Completed in 1912, Hempstead House is a 50,000-square-foot mansion featuring marble floors, grand halls, hand-carved woodwork, and lush formal gardens. Today, it hosts cultural events, weddings, film shoots, and seasonal celebrations.
- Castle Gould: Modeled after Ireland’s Kilkenny Castle, Castle Gould was built as a stable and service complex; it now houses museum exhibits, educational programs, and event spaces.
Nature Trails, Gardens & Wildlife
Sands Point Preserve is not just about historic mansions:
- Woodland Trails: Miles of scenic pathways wind through forest, wildflower meadows, pond habitats, and along the sweeping bluffs above the Sound.
- Gardens: Elegant rose and perennial gardens, maintained in Gold Coast style, offer tranquil places to stroll, relax, and enjoy the changing seasons.
- Wildlife: The area is home to deer, foxes, birds, and butterflies, providing ample opportunities for nature observation and photography.
Activities & Programs
The Preserve is an active hub for community, culture, and learning:
- Seasonal Events: Farmer’s markets, concerts, Halloween parties, Spring Fling, art shows, and storytelling bring families and visitors together throughout the year.
- Education: Environmental programs, nature walks, children’s camps, and history tours engage all ages in discovery and stewardship.
- Special Rentals: The historic mansions and landscaped grounds offer unique backdrops for weddings, private events, and film productions.
Visiting Information
Open year-round, Sands Point Preserve is located at 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, NY:
- Visitor amenities include picnic areas, a dog-friendly policy (on leash), and accessible facilities.
- Entry fees support ongoing preservation, programming, and restoration efforts.
Sands Point Preserve Quick Info
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 216 acres |
| Established | Early 1900s (Gold Coast era mansions completed by 1912) |
| Main Landmarks | Hempstead House, Castle Gould, Falaise Mansion (seasonal tours) |
| Nature | Woodland trails, meadows, beaches, gardens |
| Location | 127 Middle Neck Rd, Sands Point, NY 11050 |
| Events | Festivals, concerts, nature walks, weddings, film shoots |
| Fun Fact | Featured as a setting in major films and TV series |
Experience Sands Point Preserve
Sands Point Preserve is a magical destination where history meets natural wonder. Explore grand mansions reminiscent of the Gilded Age, wander serene woodland trails, attend lively community happenings, or simply picnic along the Sound with stunning water views. It’s a living testament to Long Island’s storied past and vibrant present, welcoming everyone to enjoy the best of Gold Coast elegance and the great outdoors.
