Long Island Sound boaters looking for a peaceful, scenic spot to spend a day or weekend will find a hidden gem on Mattituck Creek, tucked away on the North Shore of Long Island. Some 15 nautical miles from Westbrook and Clinton (the latter boasting a public ramp with overnight parking), Mattituck Inlet is within easy reach of Connecticut boaters, and the channel depth of 5 feet makes the creek accessible to relatively large power vessels, as evidenced by Mattituck’s fleet of working lobster boats and trawlers.
Your pot of gold awaits at the head of the creek, home to the transient-friendly Strong’s Water Club and Marina, which offers slips and moorings for boats up to 75 feet. The basin in front of the marina is also a federal anchorage with excellent holding ground and a depth of 7 feet, although you’ll have to find your own way ashore.
From Strong’s, boaters can launch forays into the surrounding countryside. Lovely Mattituck Village is a short bike ride from the water, although the marina can arrange for other forms of transportation. The heart of the village is Love Lane, where you’ll find interesting shops and restaurants.
Wine aficionados will find their fix at the Roanoke Vineyards Wine Bar, also on Love Lane, but you can also go straight to the source for a tour of the nearby winery. Indeed, the Mattituck area is home to numerous small wineries, including the award-winning Macari Vineyards and Shinn Estates, and most offer tours and tastings.
