Shelter Island Electric Bike Tour

Explore the timeless beauty of Shelter Island on this 2-hour guided electric bike tour. Starting at the Shelter Island Ferry terminal, you’ll cycle to historical sites including Rams Head Island, Coecles Harbor, and Crescent Beach in Shelter Island Heights, while your guide shares fascinating stories and local history at each stop. This easy and accessible ride offers an engaging mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and an opportunity to appreciate the island’s unique charm.

1. Meeting Point: Shelter Island Ferry Terminal

Your adventure begins at the Shelter Island Ferry Terminal, where you’ll meet your guide and receive a brief introduction to your electric bike. After a short ferry ride from Greenport, you'll arrive on Shelter Island, ready to explore the island’s history and landscapes. The ferry itself has been in operation for over a century, and it has played a crucial role in connecting Shelter Island with the North Fork of Long Island.

Historical Highlight:

The Shelter Island Ferry is an iconic part of the island’s heritage, offering transportation to and from the mainland since the late 19th century. The ferry service has been integral to the island’s development, supporting both tourism and local trade for generations.

2. Rams Head Island

From the ferry terminal, your tour heads west to Rams Head Island, a small, picturesque island off the coast of Shelter Island. While Rams Head Island is not accessible by land, it offers sweeping views from the nearby shoreline.

Historical Highlight:

Rams Head Island was once the site of a thriving fishing community in the 1800s, with families using the island’s shores for their livelihoods. The island's isolation also made it a favored spot for smugglers during Prohibition, as its remote location provided a discreet landing point for illegal shipments.

Points of Interest:

Views of Rams Head Island from the shoreline
Rich maritime history and smuggler lore
Quiet coves ideal for birdwatching

3. Coecles Harbor

Next, you’ll pedal toward Coecles Harbor, one of Shelter Island’s most beautiful and serene locations. This tranquil harbor has been the backdrop for local commerce and recreation for centuries. Along the way, your guide will share the history of the harbor and its significance in the island’s development.

Historical Highlight:

Coecles Harbor has long been a center for maritime activity, dating back to the early Colonial period. The harbor was once a thriving site for shipbuilding, particularly during the 19th century when sailing vessels were central to the island’s economy. In the 1800s, Coecles Harbor was also a hub for the whaling industry, with local vessels setting sail for the Atlantic.

Points of Interest:

Scenic views of the harbor’s calm waters
Stories of shipbuilding and whaling history
Peaceful, protected waters—perfect for wildlife spotting

4. Crescent Beach (Shelter Island Heights)

Continuing along, your ride will bring you to Crescent Beach, located in the picturesque Shelter Island Heights area. Known for its curved, sandy shore, Crescent Beach has long been a favored spot for relaxation and recreation.

Historical Highlight:

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Crescent Beach was a popular destination for wealthy New Yorkers who built grand estates along the shore. The area became a fashionable summer retreat, drawing visitors who appreciated the island’s beauty and quiet charm. Many of these historic homes still stand today, evoking the golden age of American summer estates.

Points of Interest:

Stunning views of Long Island Sound
Historical mansions along the beach, dating back to the Gilded Age
Tranquil shoreline, perfect for a short rest or photo op

5. Return to Shelter Island Ferry Terminal

After your stop at Crescent Beach, your tour will loop back toward the Shelter Island Ferry terminal. As you cycle through the charming streets of Shelter Island Heights, your guide will share a few more tales about the island’s history, including its role during the American Revolution and its more recent evolution as a summer destination for artists, writers, and nature lovers.

Historical Highlight:

Shelter Island has always been a refuge—whether for Native American tribes, early European settlers, or, more recently, artists and intellectuals seeking respite from city life. During the American Revolution, Shelter Island was strategically important, with its sheltered harbors offering safe refuge for Patriot forces. In the 20th century, the island became a hub for creative figures, including renowned artists and writers, who were drawn to its beauty and quiet allure.

Tour Conclusion

Your electric bike tour concludes back at the Shelter Island Ferry Terminal, where you’ll have time to explore the area further or enjoy a bite to eat at one of the island’s charming local spots. The tour offers a perfect blend of scenic exploration and historical storytelling, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Shelter Island’s rich past and natural beauty.