West Islip, New York

Drone Photo Aerial Bayview Elementary School West Islip West Islip School District
Drone aerial view of Bayview Elementary School in West Islip, part of the West Islip School District. The campus sits within a suburban neighborhood surrounded by tree-lined streets and open green spaces, highlighting the community’s strong focus on education and family life. File photo: Christopher M Brennan, licensed.

West Islip, New York, is a South Shore hamlet located within the Town of Islip in Suffolk County. Bordered by Babylon to the west, Bay Shore to the east, and the Great South Bay to the south, West Islip offers a blend of suburban neighborhoods, strong schools, and access to waterfront recreation. With close proximity to Robert Moses Causeway, Sunrise Highway, and the Long Island Rail Road, the community is well-suited for commuters while maintaining a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

History

The history of West Islip dates back to the early colonial period when the area was part of the larger Islip settlement, established in the 17th century. Farming and fishing were central to the local economy for generations, with waterfront access shaping its development. The mid-20th century brought significant suburban growth as Long Island expanded, and West Islip evolved into a thriving residential community. Today, it maintains much of its suburban character while offering modern amenities and easy access to Long Island’s beaches and parks.

Things to Do

  • Robert Moses State Park – Accessible via Robert Moses Causeway, this oceanfront park offers miles of sandy beaches, picnic areas, fishing, and nature trails.
  • Captree State Park – A favorite for boating and fishing, located just across the causeway.
  • West Islip Marina Park – Provides waterfront access, boat slips, and a peaceful setting along the bay.
  • Good Samaritan University Hospital – Not a tourist attraction but a notable institution, serving as a major healthcare provider in the region.
  • Nearby Babylon Village & Bay Shore – Dining, shopping, nightlife, and cultural events are just minutes away.

Education

West Islip is served by the West Islip Union Free School District, which includes several elementary schools, an intermediate school, a middle school, and West Islip High School. The district is well-regarded for academics, athletics, and extracurricular programs. Private and parochial options are also available in the area.

West Islip, NY Quick Facts

CategoryDetails
LocationSouth Shore, Town of Islip, Suffolk County
Nearby CommunitiesBabylon, Bay Shore, Brightwaters, North Babylon
Population (2020)~26,400 residents
Median Household Income~$122,000 (U.S. Census ACS 2023)
Median Age~44 years
School DistrictWest Islip Union Free School District
TransportationSunrise Hwy (27), Robert Moses Causeway, Babylon LIRR Station nearby
Notable AmenitiesRobert Moses State Park, Captree State Park, West Islip Marina

West Islip, NY, provides residents with a quintessential Long Island lifestyle: suburban comfort, strong community schools, and direct access to some of the region’s most beloved beaches and parks. Its convenient location along the South Shore makes it attractive for commuters, while its bayfront and recreational opportunities enhance quality of life for families and visitors alike.