Pirate's Cove - Belle Terre, NY

Pirate's cove is one of the most beautiful places on Long Island, and helped push me to get my own kayak. It is not too far from Main Street in downtown Port Jefferson and there are multiple ways to access it. The proper name of the park it is in is McCallister Park. What is so beautiful about this place are the unique land formations there. Firstly the cove itself is serene like a lake. Then, surrounding the cove are massive sand dunes that appear to be about 2 stories high. Walking up these is a fun climb. From the top you will realize that directly on the other side is the Long Island Sound and a view of Connecticut in the distance. The view is palatial and panoramic in that on both sides of you there are gorgeous water views. The cove side also has rocky beaches and the remains of what are supposed as the remains of a wooden pirate ship sticking out of the water. There is a great amount of space to explore there and hike. The land connected to the area is the east side of the opening between Port Jefferson Harbor and the Long Island Sound. Swimming in the cove is great too. It is a bit like an oasis.

As a kayaker the unique beauty of the place is that the best way to access is by boat or kayak. Some people spend time connected to the moorings in the cove relaxing on their boats. For kayakers, the main way I recommend reaching Pirate's Cove is by parking in the parking lot all the way to the right behind the community center. The lot there has free parking, and is directly next to the public beach in downtown Port Jefferson. Once you are there the beach is easy to launch from. A bonus is that dogs are allowed at that beach. Once you have launched you can kayak along the shore line there and view some interesting looking homes in the hills of Belle Terre. To your left at the beginning there is a large field of boats parked in the harbor. The paddle can take a good amount of time and be tiring but it makes reaching the cove all the more rewarding to arrive at. Resting there is excellent as well. I recommend bringing lunch with you to eat there. As you continue paddling there are some docks extending from the properties in Belle Terre. As you look back you can see a view of downtown Port Jefferson from the outside looking in. The on your right an opening will appear and this will be Pirate's Cove. Take in the sights of the great hills and unique scenery and enjoy.

There is a second route to get to Pirate's Cove as well. Down the street from Se-port Deli. There is a marina a small beach where launching is possible. From there you go east and continue straight through the opening to Port Jeff Harbor. Be warned before you go that this route crosses paths with the Port Jeff Ferry to Connecticut, although this adds to the fun. Continue straight across the harbor and you will reach Pirate's Cove. Another fun fact is that it appears people have beach fires there in the evening, the legality of which I am doubtful. The other ways to reach this location would either be form Cedar Beach or a private residence I believe.

Be sure to be respectful of the space, the nature, and the cleanliness of the location as it is a rare gift that is best if kept accessible to the public.

As always, remember to check the weather ahead of time.