Bellport Village, NY

Bellport, a small village on New York's Long Island, may not be all that well-known with its larger-than-life neighbors, the Hamptons and Manhattan, stealing the limelight -- but that's just fine with Bellport residents. With its stately homes (many historic) perched on large, tree-filled lots, its marinas, and its private Ho Hum Beach (that's anything but "ho-hum"), Bellport is a sweet sanctuary that barely resembles what you'd expect to find so close to NYC.

While you can take a 90-minute train ride into the city, you'll feel far removed from the Big Apple in Bellport. And since it hasn't been "discovered" yet, the village has very little traffic congestion -- far less than the Hamptons. It is somewhat off the beaten path, making the charming downtown area -- filled with antique shops, restaurants, boutiques, and more -- a hidden gem.

After renting in Bellport, you'll enjoy access to Ho Hum Beach, a private beach for villagers to enjoy via private boat or ferry. You won't find elaborate hotels or surf shops on unspoiled Ho Hum Beach -- just two miles of unspoiled beach, showers and changing rooms, and a concession stand.