Island Park, New York

The Island Park Station is part of the Long Island Rail Road’s Long Beach Branch, serving as an important commuter hub for residents of Island Park, Long Beach, and the surrounding South Shore communities. Located at Long Beach Road and Austin Boulevard, the station provides a direct and efficient connection to New York City, making it a key reason why Island Park is attractive to commuters who enjoy small-town life but need city access. File photo: Gerry Matthews, licensed.

Island Park, located in Nassau County on Long Island’s South Shore, is a small yet vibrant village known for its close connection to the water, strong community spirit, and convenient access to beaches and parks. With a population of just under 5,000 residents, Island Park offers a tight-knit, small-town atmosphere while remaining only a short train ride away from New York City.

History and Community

Island Park was incorporated as a village in 1926, although its history stretches back to the 1600s when it was originally settled by colonists. Its location between Long Beach and Baldwin Harbor made it a natural hub for fishing, boating, and later suburban development. Today, Island Park is a blend of modest bungalows, waterfront homes, and small businesses, many of which cater to the local boating and dining scene.

The village has also endured and rebuilt after challenges such as Hurricane Sandy, reinforcing its reputation as a resilient and close-knit community.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Island Park maintains a laid-back, coastal vibe. Residents enjoy a mix of family-owned shops, seafood restaurants, and waterfront bars that are especially popular during the summer months. Austin Boulevard serves as the main commercial thoroughfare, connecting the village with nearby Long Beach and Oceanside.

Community life is centered around schools, local sports, civic groups, and year-round village events, from parades to holiday gatherings.

Parks and Recreation

Island Park is surrounded by natural attractions:

  • Masone Beach – A local favorite for swimming and picnicking, with lifeguards on duty during the summer.
  • Shell Creek Park – Offers sports fields, playgrounds, and scenic walking paths.
  • Nearby Beaches – Long Beach and Lido Beach are only minutes away, providing expansive oceanfront fun.
  • Waterfront Access – Boating, kayaking, and fishing are central to Island Park’s recreational culture, with marinas and docks throughout the village.

Transportation

  • Long Island Rail Road (Island Park Station) – Offers direct service to Penn Station, making the village a convenient commuter location.
  • Major Roads – Austin Boulevard connects Island Park to Long Beach, while Long Beach Road links to Oceanside and Rockville Centre.
  • Proximity – Just 25 miles from Manhattan, making it accessible for work or day trips.

Visitor’s Snapshot: Island Park, NY

FeatureDetails
LocationSouth Shore of Nassau County, Long Island
PopulationApprox. 5,000
Incorporated1926
Main AccessIsland Park LIRR Station, Austin Boulevard
Local ParksMasone Beach, Shell Creek Park
Nearby BeachesLong Beach, Lido Beach
Community VibeWaterfront living, resilient, family-oriented
Best Known ForSmall-town charm, dining scene, boating lifestyle

Island Park may be small in size, but its character is anything but. With its waterfront setting, friendly atmosphere, and easy access to beaches and New York City, the village continues to shine as one of Long Island’s hidden gems on the South Shore.