Cow Neck Peninsula, Long Island, New York
The Cow Neck Peninsula is a historic and scenic stretch of land on the North Shore of Long Island in Nassau County. Jutting into Manhasset Bay and Hempstead Harbor, the peninsula includes several North Shore communities known for waterfront views, colonial history, and a relaxed suburban lifestyle. Today, the Cow Neck Peninsula is closely associated with the Port Washington area and remains one of Long Island’s most distinctive geographic features.
History
The name “Cow Neck” dates back to colonial times, when the area was used as communal grazing land for cattle owned by settlers in neighboring communities. The peninsula’s natural boundaries made it easy to control livestock while also protecting fertile farmland.
In the 1800s, large estates, farms, and small harbors began to take shape, eventually giving way to residential neighborhoods, yacht clubs, and small village centers. While modern development transformed much of the area, many reminders of the peninsula’s agricultural and maritime past still remain in museums, historic homes, and preserved landscapes.
Geography & Setting
The Cow Neck Peninsula sits between two major bodies of water:
- Manhasset Bay to the west
- Hempstead Harbor to the east
Its location provides sweeping waterfront scenery, sheltered coves, and access to Long Island Sound. Quiet residential streets, parks, beaches, and marinas line much of the coastline, giving the peninsula a distinctly coastal character.
Communities on the Cow Neck Peninsula
The peninsula includes or is closely tied to several well-known North Shore communities, including:
- Port Washington
- Manorhaven
- Sands Point
- Baxter Estates
- Port Washington North
Together, these communities share schools, shopping districts, waterfront recreation, and a shared sense of place connected to the bay and harbor.
Parks, Recreation & Things To Do
Outdoor life is a major part of the Cow Neck Peninsula experience. Residents and visitors enjoy:
- Walking trails and waterfront overlooks
- Kayaking, sailing, boating, and fishing
- Local beaches and marina areas
- Historic sites and museums
- Scenic parks and nature preserves
With both Manhasset Bay and Hempstead Harbor nearby, access to the water is never far away.
Transportation & Access
The Cow Neck Peninsula is easily reached by road and rail. Major local roads connect to the Long Island Expressway and Northern State Parkway, while the Port Washington Long Island Rail Road line offers direct service to Manhattan, making the area popular with commuters and day-trippers alike.
Vicinity of Cow Neck Peninsula
Cow Neck Peninsula Snapshot
| Location | North Shore, Nassau County, Long Island |
|---|---|
| Borders | Manhasset Bay (west) and Hempstead Harbor (east) |
| Associated Communities | Port Washington, Sands Point, Manorhaven, Baxter Estates |
| Known For | Historic waterfront communities and scenic coastal views |
| Primary Character | Suburban residential with strong maritime heritage |
| Nearby Attractions | Manhasset Bay, local parks, marinas, beaches, and museums |
The Cow Neck Peninsula blends history, natural beauty, and waterfront living in one of Long Island’s most recognizable North Shore settings. With scenic bays on both sides, charming neighborhoods, and easy access to parks and marinas, it remains a distinctive and inviting part of the Port Washington region.
