Sands Point Preserve
Sands Point Preserve is a scenic and family-friendly nature preserve featuring a diverse landscape of beaches, meadows, woods, and gardens. It offers hiking trails of various difficulties, picnic areas with tables, a playground, and beach access (no swimming). The preserve is dog-friendly with on-leash areas, wheelchair accessible, and includes onsite parking. Visitors enjoy the historic mansions, birdwatching, and peaceful natural views including breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound. Facilities include restrooms, parking, and a kid-friendly environment.
Reviews
One of my family’s favorite parks. Such a beautiful scenery. They even have a playground on the grounds, access to the beach, hiking, and a cute lake. Great location for taking professional photos as well! So many nice spots. And so many memories made here.
Beautiful scenic preserve . We visited and there was a dog costuming event taking place, and we didn’t feel welcomed by the other visitors, but still managed to enjoy the views and scenery. We had hoped to go on one of the tours they offer, but it had been canceled that day. We paid NULL to get in, there’s plenty of parking, but not much to do other than walk around and observe nature. They have a self guided bird watching tour as well, but we didn’t stay to do it. If ever I go back, I’d be equipped with a blanket and a picnic spread. There’s a lovely view of the long island sound.
Beautiful park, well worth the price of admission. I love birdwatching here. A fantastic place to bring kids for an afternoon hike. They have a playground, a small beach (no swimming! It’s a nature preserve) and a 19th century mansion with an imitation castle-gatehouse. Really lovely gardens and a view of New Rochelle and the Connecticut coastline. Dog friendly, but make sure to follow leash laws.
TThe landscape is truly stunning, featuring scenic trails and lush gardens that create a peaceful retreat for relaxation and reconnecting with nature. Book in advance for a guided tour of the castle. The property features two castles—Gould and Hempstead House—overlooking the bay with spectacular views. The grounds are beautifully maintained. We initially came to a casual visit to relax and explore turned into one of the most enjoyable mini getaways we’ve had in a while. The kids had a fantastic time at the play area and train ride. If you’re visiting Long Island, don’t miss the chance to explore Hempstead House at the Sands Point Preserve.
If you’re unfamiliar with the area, ensure your GPS is functioning properly. We experienced poor internet service and had to rely on security for directions to the highway.
Great to visit preserve even in cloudy weather. Modest admission fee per car is well worth it to maintain Gilded Age mansions and preserve trails. I’m not a fan of preserve’s parking lot. It is large, but cobblestone / grass cover leads to bumpy and uncomfortable parking experience. Highlights of the visit were beach / cliff walks and pond area. Mansions look impressive but gardens around them are just ok. Overall, variety of landscapes (beach, meadows, woods) and hiking opportunities made the visit memorable.