Aerial photograph of a narrow curved sand spit with calm shallow water on both sides, scattered sandbars, a wooded shore far across the sound.

Shell Beach

A thin finger of sand reaching into Shelter Island Sound, with South Fork views and nesting plovers.

Sound
No lifeguards
Flat, calm water

Best for: A reflective walk, warm water and views toward West Neck Harbor and the South Fork
Go when: Early or late, outside nesting season for the best of the spit
Mind this: No lifeguard or facilities; piping plovers nest on parts of the beach

Shell Beach is a thin finger of sand that reaches into Shelter Island Sound: narrow, unguarded and quiet, with views of West Neck Harbor and the South Fork and warmer water than the ocean side.

There are no facilities, so bring water, shade and a bag for your trash. Parts of Shell Beach serve as habitat for nesting birds, including piping plovers, so walk the wet sand, keep clear of posted areas and do not bring a dog into them. The nesting birds guide explains the rules and why. If a lifeguard matters to you, go to Wades Beach.

Permit rules are on Hamptons Beach Pass. See the Shelter Island page for the full list.

Shell Beach

If you want a guard