Looking for a new top vacation spot – or perhaps somewhere to settle down for good? If so, you should consider the Gold Coast of Nassau County as a top contender in your search. Also referred to as the North Shore of Long Island, this region is known for its gorgeous estates and lavish, luxurious lifestyles.
History of the Gold Coast
First settled and discovered in the middle of the seventeenth century, this area was first inhabited by the Dutch. Later on, towns in the east North Shore were inhabited by the English. Very early in its history, this region was prized for its tillable acreage and was a major agricultural port. Whaling, too, was an important part of the economy.
Later, the Gold Coast was prized for its contribution to the steel and transportation industries. Due to this rapid increase in wealth, the area was quickly settled, with hundreds of mansions built in the latter part of the nineteenth century. Many of these were owned by wealthy members of society, including J.P. Morgan, the Vanderbilts, F.W. Woolworth, and more. Some of the greatest architects of our time were involved in creating these luxurious homes.
Today, the North Shore retains much of its luster. Although only about 200 of the original 500 mansions survive, this portion of the island is filled with suburbs and developed neighborhoods.
Geography
This scenic area is known for its many peninsulas and established harbors. With many hamlets and beaches to explore, this portion of Long Island is both rural and suburban. When the island splits into separate forks at the east end, the hills of the North Shore become flat. The land here is mostly rural, with the South Fork being more well known for its tourism and populated towns.
The Gold Coast can also be further broken down into several major neighborhoods, all of which are home to elaborate estates and gorgeous landscapes. These include Bayville, the Brookvilles, Glen Cove, Great Neck, Lattingtown, Manhasset, Mill Neck, Muttontown, Old Westbury, The Roslyns, Oyster Bay, and Port Washington.
What the Gold Coast Is Known For – and Why You Should Visit
This area of Long Island, despite being just a short train ride away from the heart of New York City, offers visitors so much more past the hustle and bustle of the big city. From sparkling waterfront vistas to family attractions like the Bayville Adventure Park, this region has something for everyone.
This region made its mark during the Gilded Era, but its legacy is far from being just a thing of the past. There are so many things to do here, from its multiple museums to its quiet beaches, that a one-time visit won’t be enough to fully acquaint you with the Gold Coast.
While this area was once known for its wealthy, extravagant estates and upscale lifestyles, it is known as a much quieter, more relaxed alternative to some of the busier, more congested tourist traps on Long Island. If you’re looking to escape in style, the Gold Coast has everything you need to do it right.