What are the best scenic drives on Long Island?

Diners enjoy waterfront dining along Long Island’s scenic coastline as the sun begins to set, creating a relaxed atmosphere overlooking the harbor. From fresh local seafood to spectacular water views, the island’s waterfront restaurants are among the best places to experience Long Island’s coastal charm and vibrant dining scene. File photo: James Kirkikis, licensed.

Long Island offers some of the most scenic drives in the Northeast, with routes passing through charming waterfront villages, rolling vineyards, historic estates, picturesque beaches, forests, and coastal landscapes. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon drive or a full-day road trip, the island’s diverse scenery provides memorable experiences throughout every season.

In Short

Some of the best scenic drives on Long Island include routes through the North Fork, the Hamptons, Montauk, the North Shore, and the South Shore. Along the way, you’ll discover beaches, wineries, waterfront villages, parks, and many additional destinations featured in our Long Island Points of Interest guide.

What Are the Best Scenic Drives on Long Island?

Exploring Long Island by car is one of the best ways to experience the region’s remarkable variety of landscapes. Scenic drives lead travelers through quiet country roads, historic villages, coastal highways, vineyards, and waterfront communities that showcase the island’s natural beauty and rich history.

The North Fork is one of the island’s most popular driving destinations, with picturesque vineyards, farm stands, wineries, and charming villages such as Greenport. Visitors can enjoy beautiful countryside views while stopping at local attractions, restaurants, and waterfront parks along the way.

Another favorite route follows the Hamptons toward Montauk, passing elegant seaside communities, ocean beaches, historic landmarks, and spectacular Atlantic Ocean scenery. On the western side of the island, drives along the North Shore reveal historic Gold Coast estates, harbor towns, and tree-lined roads, while the South Shore offers beautiful coastal scenery and access to many of Long Island’s famous beaches.

Whether you’re planning a fall foliage drive, a summer coastal adventure, or a relaxing weekend road trip, Long Island offers countless opportunities to discover scenic destinations. For even more places to explore along your journey, browse our Long Island Points of Interest guide.

Quick Facts

Looking For…	Recommended Resource
Scenic Destinations	Long Island Points of Interest
Wine Country Drive	North Fork
Ocean Drive	The Hamptons to Montauk
Historic Coastal Drive	North Shore
Beach Drive	South Shore
More Places to Explore	Browse the complete Long Island Points of Interest guide.

From vineyard-lined country roads and historic harbor towns to oceanfront highways and picturesque coastal villages, Long Island offers scenic drives for every season. Whether you’re taking a leisurely afternoon drive or planning a full weekend getaway, the island’s beautiful landscapes make every journey part of the destination. For even more places to visit along the way, explore our complete Long Island Points of Interest guide.