Attractions and Places To See around East Moriches - Top 9

East Moriches offers a variety of hiking experiences. You can explore the trail system at Terrell River County Park, which leads through forests to the shoreline of Moriches Bay. The Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge features six miles of trails through an undeveloped estuary system and upland Pine Barrens. For a longer adventure, a segment of the iconic 125-mile Paumanok Path runs through Otis Pike Preserve - West, connecting to Suffolk County's extensive trail network. Additionally, Calverton Ponds Preserve offers trails with waterfront views through oak-pine forest.

Yes, several outdoor spaces are suitable for families. Terrell River County Park provides a big green area and trails that are generally suitable for all skill levels. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Recreational Trail is a mostly flat, 9.5-mile paved and hard-packed dirt trail, great for walking or cycling with children. Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge also offers trails for wildlife spotting, and Calverton Ponds Preserve has trails with waterfront views through its unique forest habitat.

For excellent wildlife spotting, visit the Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge, popular year-round for sightings of red fox, wild turkey, and white-tailed deer. Terrell River County Park also offers opportunities to spot wildlife amidst its lush vegetation and wetland views. Calverton Ponds Preserve is home to diverse plants and wildlife, including over 30 rare and endangered species.

East Moriches has a rich history reflected in its structures. The East Moriches Historic District contains several historic buildings, including the Historic Smith Duck Farm at 1 Bay Avenue, a Brookhaven Town landmark. Nearby in Center Moriches, you can find other significant sites like the Historic Havens Homestead, the Historic Mary E. Bell House ("Slave House"), and the Historic Terrell-Havens-Terry-Ketcham Inn ("Moriches Inn"), all recognized for their historical importance.

Yes, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Recreational Trail is a 9.5-mile, mostly paved trail that takes cyclists on long stretches around the Calverton Executive Airpark. For more road cycling options, you can explore routes like the "Dune Road – Dune Road loop from Speonk" or the "Speonk River – Aspatuck River loop from Speonk," which are part of the broader network of Road Cycling Routes around East Moriches.

Given its location on Moriches Bay, East Moriches is ideal for water-based activities. Fishing is very popular, with charters like Fish On Fishing of East Moriches offering full and half-day trips. The Atlantic Cove Marina, in business since 1935, provides boat launching ramps, fueling, bait, and repair services, accommodating vessels up to 60 feet. Robert Cushman Murphy County Park also offers fishing and row boating opportunities.

East Moriches offers outdoor activities year-round. Spring and fall generally provide pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring. During the summer, the area is great for water activities, but it's advisable to bring bug repellent, especially when visiting natural preserves like Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge or Terrell River County Park, and to stay on marked trails to avoid ticks and poison ivy.

Parking is generally available at major parks and preserves. For instance, Terrell River County Park has parking facilities. At Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge, restrooms are available at the visitor center and the start of the White Oak trail. While many trails are natural paths, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Recreational Trail is mostly paved, making it more accessible for strollers or those seeking smoother surfaces. Atlantic Avenue Park also offers well-maintained trails for walkers.

East Moriches offers a selection of dining options. For Pan-Asian cuisine, you can visit Tony's Sushi and Steakhouse Restaurant. Coral Tapas and Wine Bar, recognized as one of Newsday's Top 100 Restaurants in 2018, provides water views and a diverse menu. These establishments offer convenient choices for a meal after exploring the area's attractions.

Calverton Ponds Preserve is unique for its 350 acres of oak-pine forest and distinctive coastal plain ponds. It's recognized for having one of the highest concentrations of rare and endangered species in New York State, including over 30 rare plants, fish, damselflies, and amphibians, making it a significant ecological site.

Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. At Terrell River County Park, people appreciate the phenomenal vistas, beach access along Moriches Bay, and the lush trails where they might spot wildlife. The Calverton Ponds Preserve is loved for its waterfront views and the chance to immerse oneself in a unique natural habitat. The opportunity for year-round wildlife spotting at Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge is also a major draw.

Yes, for runners, there are several options. The "White Oak Trail" at Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge is an easy 4.8 km route. More challenging options include the "Paumanok Path and Manorville Hills Loop" (13.1 km, moderate) and the "Orchard Neck Creek – Areskonk Creek loop from Center Moriches" (18.9 km, difficult). You can find more details on these and other routes in the Running Trails around East Moriches guide.