Greenport’s Charming Beachside Sound View Hotel
Thoughtfully refurbished, this North Fork destination isn’t just for summer getaways
While many tend to associate the East End of Long Island with summertime, rosé and maybe clichés, there are plenty of reasons to head that way—even during the colder months. One of those reasons is Sound View. Located on the laid-back North Fork, and spread out over a quarter-mile of beach on Route 48, this thoughtfully refurbished hotel offers undeniable charm.
First opened in 1953, the hotel (now run by Filament Hospitality) has had several additions through the years, and keen-eyed design enthusiasts will be able to note each era’s witness marks. But Brooklyn-based Studio Tack (who also helmed the design of Scribner’s Catskill Lodge and Hill-Side) has thoughtfully straddled the line between retro and contemporary—keeping special remnants without veering too far toward kitsch. The lush piano bar still boasts its red leather booths, and while the bar was entirely pulled out and brought up to date, it was then put back almost identical to its original iteration. Art from the 1950s, by local impressionists, adorns several walls next to new, custom indigo prints by Jon Robshaw. The restaurant’s original captain-style bar stools have been reupholstered with a rich navy leather.
Drawing inspiration from Long Island Sound, blues of all tones permeate the property. The guest-room floors are a recycled rubber and cork blend, mimicking the pebble beach outside. Stripes, sailcloth and rope harken to Greenport’s nautical past. Yet all these thematic touches avoid being heavy-handed and gimmicky. The texture, patterns and motifs are nuanced and warm.
While its rocky private beach will be covered in snow soon, Sound View—and the whole area—offers a lot during winter. From Make Workshop‘s Sashiko class (17 November) to a pom pom party (15 December) and more crafty lessons, to holiday pop-ups, to parties, to Sid Gold’s piano karaoke and beyond—there are countless activities at the hotel itself. Beyond the property, we ventured to 8 Hands Farm, ate at American Beech, drank at Brix & Rye and more. There’s also Peeko Oyster Farm, countless wineries and several great vintage stores all nearby.
