Winter on Long Island offers peaceful trails, open skies, and excellent wildlife viewing without the crowds. From coastal marshes to wooded preserves, cold-weather months are ideal for spotting waterfowl, birds of prey, and native mammals. Our REALTORS® at Howard Hanna Coach Realtors share their favorite places to explore this winter.

Winter Wildlife Destinations on Long Island

Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge – Shirley, NY

Address: 340 Smith Road, Shirley, NY 11967

At Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge, tidal marshes and woodlands come alive in winter as migratory birds settle along the Carmans River.

• Ducks, geese, and swans gather in protected waterways
• Frequent sightings of hawks and owls
• Flat, accessible trails for winter walks

Its mix of open marshland and quiet trails makes this refuge a rewarding winter destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Quogue Wildlife Refuge – Quogue, NY

Address: 3 Old Country Road, Quogue, NY 11959

Quogue Wildlife Refuge offers a quiet winter escape with ponds, forest paths, and wide-open views.

• Regular sightings of white-tailed deer
• Active winter birds near unfrozen water
• Calm trails ideal for cold-weather outings

This refuge is a favorite for residents who appreciate quiet surroundings and easy access to protected open space on the South Fork.

Connetquot River State Park Preserve – Oakdale, NY

Address: 4090 Sunrise Highway, Oakdale, NY 11769

Winter highlights the natural beauty of Connetquot River State Park Preserve, where the river winds through protected forest.

• Waterfowl along the riverbanks
• Forest trails filled with songbirds
• Scenic views ideal for photography
  Access to preserves like this draws interest to communities offering Commack homes for sale. 

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve – Lloyd Harbor, NY

Address: 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington, NY 11743

Open meadows and Long Island Sound views define winter at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve.

• Sightings of bald eagles and hawks
• Deer and foxes in open fields
• Sweeping coastal scenery
  North Shore access like this adds lifestyle appeal for buyers considering Huntington and Northport homes for sale.

Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve – Merrick, NY

Address: 1500 Merrick Road, Merrick, NY 11566

At Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve, elevated walkways overlook marshland that remains active throughout winter.

• Shorebirds and waterfowl near tidal areas
• Wide, winter-friendly walking paths
• Viewing platforms with South Shore vistas

The elevated views and open walkways make this preserve an easy and rewarding spot for winter wildlife watching along the South Shore.

Muttontown Preserve – East Norwich, NY

Address: 51 Route 25A, East Norwich, NY 11732

Wooded trails and ponds make Muttontown Preserve a favorite for winter wildlife watching.

• Wintering birds in wooded areas
• Frequent deer sightings
• Quiet paths near established neighborhoods

Nearby options like East Norwich homes for sale appeal to buyers seeking space and scenery.

Marine Nature Study Area – Oceanside, NY

Address: 500 Slice Drive, Oceanside, NY 11572

The Marine Nature Study Area offers compact coastal habitat with excellent winter visibility.

• Ideal low-tide birdwatching
• Boardwalks through marshland
• Educational features for families

Coastal preserves like this enhance interest in Garden City homes for sale. 

Ready to Live Near Long Island's Natural Spaces?

These winter wildlife destinations add year-round value to everyday living. If you're thinking about buying or selling nearby, we can help you explore Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale. Take the next step and contact us to get started.