Nestled between Long Island's two forks, tiny Shelter Island has for centuries served as a secluded getaway spot. Relaxed and barely developed, it has some nice beaches, protected coves great for boating and swimming, and an atmosphere unlike anything on the North or South forks. More than one-third of the island is owned by the Nature Conservancy and maintained as a preserve, and there's lots of lush greenery and dense woods all across the island. The only "townlike" area is around Shelter Island Heights on the island's northwest corner, where you'll find a couple of restaurants and antique shops, and the north ferry.
