To Port Washington

Port Washington is surely one of the most stunning jewels in the crown of Long Island. Surrounded by Manhasset Bay, "Port" -- as the 32,000 residents like to call it -- is a scenic spot to spend the better part of an afternoon. If you're looking for waterfront beauty peppered with Main Street charm, parks, art galleries, antiques shops, nature, local history and superb restaurants, put Port Washington on your calendar.

Where to shop
The Red Door (289 Main St.). A perfect antiques store to meander and find everything from marbles to mirrors, doll houses, old postcards, clocks, crystal, steamer trunks, quilts and books from the 1800s.
My Studio (284 Main St.). Betty Stephens dreamed of creating a place for artists to practice their crafts, a la the Renaissance. My Studio -- a combination art studio, school and gallery -- is that dream.
Dolphin Bookshop (941 Port Washington Blvd). An oasis for the bibliophile: an old fashioned bookstore with a dreamy selection of toys, cards and gifts. There's an impressive cooking and gardening book selection. The Dolphin host book signings and story time for kids (closed Sundays).


What to do
Calling all fishermen. Stroll by the marina at the Port Town Dock (Lower Main Street), which has the largest anchorage of sailboats on the North Shore. It's a favorite spot for amateur and expert fishermen alike. Walk along the brick-paved paths to Sunset Park, where you can stop and relax with a view of the water while sipping hot soup.
Historical house tour. The Sands-Willets House (336 Port Washington Blvd) is a national landmark. Its 11 furnished rooms reflect the lives of the two families that lived there from 1715 to 1967.
Animal Lovers. (25 Davis Ave.). Purpoted to be the largest pet adoption in the world, the North Shore Animal League America is a dog and cat lover's paradise. The adoption center and pet store open daily.



Where to eat
Baked to Perfection. (91 Main St). Stop for a cup of coffee and a homemade, yummy muffin top or a pastry-size Ultimate Chocolate Cake.
Ayhan's Mediterranean Marketplace (293 Main St.). For takeout, or to sit down for a picture-perfect view of the bay, feast Mediterranean style. The baklava is sinful -- pistachio, chocolate and walnut.
Amalfi of Port Washington (49 Old Shore Rd.). Casual Italian cuisine and more than 30 varieties of pizza. Try the Amalfi pie with tomatoes, fresh garlic and oregano.