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Looking for a summer getaway that’s close to the city but feels like a world away? Just a short ride from New York City on the Long Island Railroad, Glen Cove and Sea Cliff are two charming North Shore towns waiting to be discovered. With stunning waterfront views, scenic hiking trails, vibrant local events, and a thriving food and arts scene, they’re perfect for a day trip or weekend escape.
Nature lovers will feel right at home here. You can wander through the 62-acre Garvies Point Preserve, a peaceful coastal forest with trails and educational exhibits, or explore the expansive Welwyn Preserve, a 204-acre nature sanctuary that’s also home to the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center. Whether you’re hiking shaded trails or simply soaking in the serenity, these preserves offer the perfect dose of natural beauty and reflection.
If you’re more of a water enthusiast, Glen Cove’s harbor is your playground. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide across Hempstead Harbor, or enjoy boating services and dockside dining at Safe Harbor Glen Cove’s full-service marina. There’s no better way to spend a sunny afternoon than being out on the water with views of the Long Island Sound all around you.
Summer in Glen Cove and Sea Cliff also means events, music, and community fun. Every Friday evening in July and August, downtown Glen Cove comes alive with Downtown Sounds, a free outdoor concert series that fills Village Square with live music and dancing. And if you’re planning around Independence Day, don’t miss the spectacular fireworks show at Morgan Memorial Park—an evening that includes live music, beach picnicking, and views of neighboring towns’ displays lighting up the sky.
The food scene is another reason to visit. In Sea Cliff, you’ll find cozy gems like Fosters or Maldon & Mignonette for locally sourced, upscale dining. Glen Cove offers several great options too, including The Cove Restaurant & Oyster Bar, where you can dine waterfront with fresh seafood and craft cocktails in hand.
As you stroll through the historic streets of Sea Cliff, you’ll also come across charming boutiques, vintage shops, art galleries, and amazing Victorian homes that reflect the creative spirit of the community. This is a place where you can shop slow, discover something special, and meet the passionate people behind the businesses.
Best of all, getting here is easy. The Sea Cliff and Glen Cove stations on the LIRR’s Oyster Bay Branch offer a direct and scenic ride from the city. Once you’re here, everything is close and walkable—or just a short drive away.
Whether you’re craving adventure, culture, relaxation, or great food, Glen Cove and Sea Cliff are the kind of places that surprise and delight at every turn. So, pack a beach bag, grab your camera, and plan your visit to one of Long Island’s most charming waterfront escapes this summer.
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