Port Washington, New York

Port Washington
Boating, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are central to life in Port. Multiple marinas and yacht clubs line the bay, including the Manhasset Bay Yacht Club and Port Washington Yacht Club. File photo: Nejdet Duzen, licensed.

Port Washington is a picturesque waterfront town on Long Island’s North Shore, known for its stunning harbor views, walkable downtown, excellent schools, and artsy, small-town vibe. Located at the tip of the Cow Neck Peninsula in Nassau County, Port Washington offers a relaxed lifestyle with a touch of maritime charm – just 40 minutes from New York City by train.

Overview

Port Washington is a hamlet and census-designated place in the Town of North Hempstead, with a population of about 16,000 residents. Though it’s close to Manhattan, Port Washington feels a world apart – with sailboats in the harbor, mom-and-pop shops along Main Street, and a strong sense of community pride.

In addition to the main hamlet, the greater Port Washington area includes Manorhaven, Baxter Estates, Port Washington North, and Sands Point — each with its own unique flavor.

Things to Do in Port Washington

  • Manhasset Bay & Harbor Activities – Boating, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are central to life in Port. Multiple marinas and yacht clubs line the bay, including the Manhasset Bay Yacht Club and Port Washington Yacht Club.
  • Sands Point Preserve – A 216-acre park and nature reserve located on the former Guggenheim estate. Visitors can explore the Hempstead House mansion, hike wooded trails, enjoy nature programs, and take in panoramic Sound views.
  • Main Street Shopping – This lively, walkable downtown offers local boutiques, bookstores, bakeries, cafes, and art galleries — with a strong “shop local” culture.
  • Landmark on Main Street – A performing arts venue and community center that hosts concerts, comedy shows, lectures, and children’s programming.
  • Harbor Links Golf Course – A public 18-hole championship course and 9-hole executive course in nearby Roslyn Heights, offering scenic golf with views of the bay.

Dining in Port Washington

Port Washington boasts a rich culinary scene, from waterfront seafood spots to global cuisine:

  • Louie’s Grill & Liquors – Waterfront fine dining with panoramic bay views and fresh seafood
  • Ayhan’s Mediterranean Marketplace – Longtime favorite offering Greek and Turkish dishes
  • La Piccola Liguria – Intimate, family-run Northern Italian restaurant
  • Wild Honey on Main – Farm-to-table dishes in a cozy, upscale space
  • Finn MacCool’s – Irish-American pub fare with water views
  • Dolphin Diner – Classic American diner experience
  • BosphoRus – Turkish cuisine in a bright, modern setting

Transportation & Access

  • LIRR Port Washington Station: Final stop on the Port Washington Branch, offering direct, express service to Penn Station and Grand Central – no transfer at Jamaica required
  • By Car: Accessible via Northern Boulevard (Route 25A) and Port Washington Boulevard
  • Nearby Airports: LaGuardia (30 min), JFK (45 min)

Local Highlights

  • Population: ~16,000 (hamlet); ~30,000 including surrounding incorporated villages
  • ZIP Code: 11050
  • School District: Port Washington Union Free School District — consistently high-ranking in academics, arts, and sports
  • Government: Hamlet in the Town of North Hempstead; surrounding villages have separate mayors and boards
  • Nearby Communities: Sands Point, Manhasset, Great Neck, Roslyn

Community Events & Festivals

  • HarborFest – Annual June celebration featuring boat rides, live music, food vendors, and a crafts fair on the town dock
  • Port Holiday Magic – Holiday tree lighting, caroling, and shopping discounts each December
  • Farmers Market – Weekly market with local produce and goods
  • Landmark Shows & Lecture Series – Year-round cultural programming in the heart of town

Did You Know?

  • Sands Point served as the inspiration for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s fictional “East Egg” in The Great Gatsby.
  • The Port Washington LIRR branch is the only line that does not require a transfer at Jamaica to reach Manhattan.
  • The North Hempstead Town Dock is a favorite sunset spot, complete with benches, fishing areas, and a seasonal ice cream stand.