August 3, 2022 Wilfred Joseph

 

The "Bug Light" Lighthouse
This lighthouse sits on screw piles that, at low tide, it looked like a bug. Commissioned in 1870.

Long Island Bug Lighthouse Cruise and Tour

There’s always something fun to do on Long Island’s North Fork, but one of the more popular attractions has to be the Bug Light. Long Beach Bar “Bug” Lighthouse helps mariners navigate the hazardous sandbar between Orient Harbor and Gardiner’s Bay. The original structure was built in 1870 on screw piles which left an opening beneath the structure and inspired its nickname “Bug” Light because when the rocks were covered at high tide, the lighthouse looked like a giant water bug. After arsonists set fire to it in 1963 `The East End Seaport Museum and Marine Foundation established ta group to reconstruct Long Beach Bar “Bug” Light.

Considering coming to the North Fork for a weekend, consider this romantic trip to the Bug Light. Come to Greenport, on Long Island’s North Fork, for a Long Island Bug Lighthouse Cruise and Tour.

The lighthouse is a gateway to Greenport, Shelter Island, and Peconic Bay and is officially known as the Long Beach Bar Light. It became known as the “Bug” Light because it was initially constructed on a screw-pile platform that elevated it above Gardiner’s Bay. The name had stuck when the light was converted from a screw-pile platform to a concrete caisson foundation. From a distance, the spindly pilings supporting the structure made the lighthouse look like a giant bug walking on water.
Long Beach Bar Lighthouse was constructed in 1871 and decommissioned in 1948 after a sandbar had grown to make the beacon useless as a channel marker. Various groups tussled over buying the historic light until 1963, when arsonists solved the ownership issue by burning the lighthouse to the foundation.
The foundation sat unencumbered until the summer of 1990 when the organization floated out a replica to replace the original. The “replica” was so complete that, in 1993, the Coast Guard recognized the beacon as federal aid to navigation. The Bug Light has been back in service ever since.
The Greenport’s East End Seaport Museum and Marine Foundation owns, operates, and maintains the Bug Lighthouse. As part of their funding and outreach, they offer a variety of lighthouse tours from late May through late October.
Bug Lighthouse cruises are narrated, often by a local guide, Bob Allen. Bob was raised in Greenport and is a descendant of a Bug Lighthouse keeper. Consequently, his narrations can take you behind the scenes of the lighthouse, as well as back in time.

Bug Lighthouse Cruise and Tour Schedule

  • Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
  • When: Saturdays,  September, October, and November 2022, from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm
  • Where: East End Seaport Museum and Marine Foundation
  • Cost: $59.00, 10% discount for seniors & veterans
  • Tickets: are available online at

You can also pick them up at the East End Seaport Museum here.
Bug Lighthouse Cruise Lodging
Locally owned and operated, Arbor View House Bed and Breakfast is a Long Island B&B that offers upper-tier amenities, delicious breakfasts, and an insider’s knowledge of the area. Give yourself the reward of luxury, comfort, and uncommon service during your Long Island getaway with a stay at Arbor View House Bed and Breakfast!

“The owner is so very nice,; headvised of places we could go and things we could do! And the beds!!! I have back issues, and it’s hard to sleep comfortably in a bed! I don’t know where they got them from, but I woke up feeling amazing”!!! Kashia B


Bikes-in-a-vineyard-1200x800.jpg

August 2, 2022 Wilfred Joseph

GUIDED BREWERY AND VINEYARD BIKE TOURS THROUGH THE NORTH FORK’S WINE COUNTRY

two bicycles on stands in a vineyard
Enjoy a leisurely ride through the idyllic countryside of the North Fork Wine Country on a Vineyard Bike Tours.

Pedal your way to the taste of the North Fork wine country; explore breweries, wineries, and more. Enjoy a guided  “Vineyard Bike Tours” brewery and vineyard tour through the North Fork’s Wine Country. The North Fork has well-organized guided bicycle tours of the area’s wineries, breweries, and farm stands.  You’ll enjoy riding through the tree-lined streets of the various hamlets and enjoying the scenic views of the Peconic Bay.  You’ll see historic landmarks and beautiful vineyards.

The organizers pay attention to the details of your dietary request and make sure your trip is well documented.  Riding through the North Fork is like no other experience you’ve had.  Normally you’d be zipping past important landmarks without knowing their history and significance.  They are passionate about cycling and bring that to their creation of this event.

Vineyard Bike Tours
  • Cruise the North Fork Long Island from the seat of a single or tandem Hybrid bicycle (Helmets Included)
  • Enjoy unlimited non-alcoholic refreshments throughout your tour experience to stay energized while riding from location to location.
  • Professional guides will direct you through the beautiful North Fork landscape, leading you from winery to brewery and more.
  • Gain privileged access to wander vineyard fields.
  • Enjoy extra-virgin olive oil & fine vinegar tastings to infuse your pallet with local flavors.
  • Visit local farm stands and purchase freshly made jams, pies, fruits, and vegetables for your home.
  • Stroll down Love Lane after the tour for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience
  • Take advantage of a support vehicle to transport any purchases
  • Expert guides will capture moments from your day; photos will be available for free download
  • Duration: Approximately 5 Hours
  • When: Sundays, August 7,14,21,28 at 10 am -3:30 pm
  • Where: East End Bike Tours
  • Distance: Approximately 14-18 miles (dependent on the selected route)
  • Cost: $ 96-$155
This bike tour was by far the best part of my North Fork Weekend. I can’t say enough good things about it.

CHOOSE YOUR ROOM HERE



July 22, 2022 Wilfred Joseph
The Long Beach Bar (Bug Light) Lighthouse
Bug Light – This Lighthouse is one of the 8 Lighthouses here on the North Fork of Long Island
New York's Long Island is home to almost 20 lighthouses, most spread along the northern shore or up at the east end on the North Fork, also known as wine country! Touring the Lighthouses of Long Island is an excellent and romantic getaway.
No Long Island vacation would be complete without at least some time spent investigating the wineries of the North Fork. Long Island’s North Fork is home to nearly 40 wineries and has long been considered one of the best viticultural areas in the country.
Wineries, while one of the biggest draws to the area, are hardly the only North Fork attraction. Long before there were vineyards or a wine country to be enamored of, Long Island was primarily known as a port for its abundant fishing. Consequently, the Long Island Sound shoreline is dotted with lighthouses. 


May 8, 2022 Wilfred Joseph

Smiling Couple on a beach on a Romantic GetawaySmiling Couple relaxing on a beach on a Long Island Romantic Getaway

Romantic Getaways on Long Island North Fork

It's easy to understand why many people plan Romantic Getaways on Long Island North Fork. The place is inherently romantic, especially the North Fork of Long Island in Wine Country. When was the last time you devoted a weekend to romance? When was the last time you went away with your one and only? Was it before you got married or was it before you had childre, Have you really showed your new lover how much you care and want to spend time with them, Isn't it time you had a romantic getaway to relax, rejuvenate, and revive your spirit at our Long Island NY Bed and Breakfast? Linger over a late dinner in nearby Greenport, and sleep the following morning. Wake up to the smell of brewing coffee and get yours outside your door.  Leisurely make your way downstairs to a romantic, three-course breakfast when you awake. Pamper yourself with spa services. Arrange for a couple's massage at our unique partner spa. Hire a car to transport you to several award-winning wineries like Sparkling Pointe with their award-winning champagne that's bubbly and crisp, with notes of citrus and a hint of sweetness, or Kontakosta close to our inn with an overlook of the Long Island Sound and a view of Connecticut. You can do so much to reignite the flame and recreate the intimacy.  You could walk hand in hand along Rocky Point beach just down the road, go for a nice long bike ride to Orient State Park or sip champagne on the deck or garden. East Marion is just two miles east of Greenport and past the Lavender Farm. At this end of the Island, water embraces us on three sides, filling the air with that distinctive, salty fragrance. The rhythmic sound of lapping waves is never far from your ears. The area is not well populated. There are few people here--enough to justify excellent restaurants and wineries, but not so many to make it feel crowded. There are miles of sandy beaches to walk to and you can see the stars at night. Romantic Getaways on Long Island Celebrate a holiday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, or any holiday or long weekend is a  good time for a romantic getaway on Long Island. Make an excuse to be romantic and come out to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, babymoon or elopement. Take advantage of our Romantic Getaway, and treat your sweetie right. We'll also provide a coupon for dinner at either The Frisky Oyster or Noah's. Bring your sweetie here to pop the question. Come here to celebrate an anniversary. Plan a few days at our Long Island Bed and Breakfast to visit as many North Fork Wineries as possible. Or come to explore the North Fork of Long Island together, two people in love. Here's what you get when you choose Arbor View House for your Romantic Getaway.
  • Breakfast- a delicious three-course course each day tailored to your dietary preferences
  • Fresh Flowers-Specially arranged in your room
  • Champagne-Award-Winning North Fork and Chocolate Truffles valued at $150
  • Dinner Coupon-for the Frisky Oyster or Noah’s in Greenport valued at $150
  • Empress Aromatherapy Bath – Our six senses aromatherapy bath, with rose petals, essential bath oils, bath salts and soaps, candlelight, and music, valued at $165

Book Now for Only $399 

BOOK YOUR ROOM and add your Long Island Romantic Getaway HERE

• You may add a Couple’s Massage or other Spa Services, a VIP or Self-guided wine tour. Call (631) 477-8440 for Pricing

Plus, all the amenities that come with a typical stay- excellent concierge service, Living and Room Fireplaces, Private Jacuzzi tubs, Fine Linens, High-Speed Wireless Internet, HDTV, and Streaming Movies.

Couple enjoying a Romantic Long Island North Fork Getaway
Loving Young Couple in an Embrace with Eyes Closed on a Long Island Romantic Getaway

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March 21, 2022 Wilfred Joseph

Arbor View House -Your Long Island Wedding Venue

Black newlyweds, man standing behind the woman with their hands clasped around her
Newlyweds

Imagine a lovely romantic day in a beautiful setting with all your loved ones and friends present.  They’re all having a wonderful time, and you are stress-free.  Isn’t that what you imagine for your wedding day?

Why ruin the most magical and romantic day of your life, your wedding day, with a big elaborate affair?  A big wedding comes with stress, debt, and continuous planning.  There’s a much easier way at our small Long Island Wine Country wedding venue Arbor View House!

Big weddings may seem fun and romantic from the outside but let me tell you, once you’re embroiled in making one happen, those illusions are often quickly dispelled.  Of course, if money is no object and you’re interested in how good a show you put on, then, by all means, go right ahead.

You’ll probably prefer a more intimate wedding ceremony if you want to express your love and commitment without breaking the bank.

Inexpensive vs. Cheap

People often think that an inexpensive wedding means a cheap one.  Nothing could be farther from the truth.  On the flip side, you can pay a lot for chintz!  Good things need not be expensive.

In other words, it’s not the money, but the style and care going into your ceremony that defines whether it’s “cheap” or not.

Intimate wedding ceremonies take less time to plan, with fewer details involved.  A choice like this means less stress and more flexibility when planning your ceremony.

A smaller guest list means a more intimate ceremony.  While sharing your special day with EVERYONE is tempting, those big crowds can be very impersonal.  You are more sure of connecting with your guests with a smaller group.  You’ll also be more likely to find a few moments alone with your intended, as well as more control over the feel of the wedding itself.  PRICELESS.

A smaller wedding can also mean more money for things like the photographer, catering, or a band.  Then again, maybe you can save it for your honeymoon or your new home together!

At the very least, you’ll buy fewer regrets with a small wedding.

Small Long Island Wedding Venue

Arbor View House Bed and Breakfast is your answer to the small Long Island wedding venue question.  We can help plan all aspects of your ceremony: from music and catering to photography and a wedding officiant.  Even better, our Long Island Bed and Breakfast can host many of your overnight guests for the event!

If you’d like to learn more about how we can help you make the most of your special day, call (631) 477-8440!



March 21, 2022 Wilfred Joseph

Champagne and Chocolate Truffles
Enjoy the smooth taste of Champagne with the Chocolate truffles.

 

Empress Aromatherapy Bath  Long Island Romantic Getaway

Enjoy an Empress Aromatherapy Bath on your Romantic Getaway at our North Fork, Long Island,

Empress Aromatherapy Bath for your Long Island Romantic Getaway

NY bed and breakfast.  We are great believers in bringing ease and relaxation to our guests in every way we can.  One of these methods is the use of aromatherapy.  An aromatherapy bath will stimulate your six senses.  This form of alternative medicine uses essential oils, music, and other sources of mood-enhancing aromas to bring about good health.   This service is unique to our Bed and Breakfast here on the North Fork.
For thousands of years, humans have used the essence of plants for healing purposes.  Today, aromatherapy continues to benefit millions of people worldwide, including guests at our Long Island B&B!  But Dr. Jean Valnet is credited with founding the modern aromatherapy movement during the mid-20th century.
In particular, our Empress Aromatherapy Bath is unique to Arbor View’s spa treatments.  We have specially formulated this combination of sensory delights to stimulate sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, and romance!
The Six Senses treatment is often given after dinner as an extraordinary “dessert.” Your bathroom is decorated with candles.  We play romantic music of your choice.  There are delicious champagne and chocolate truffles, and rose petals are scattered about the room.  A bath of carefully combined essential oils soothes and relaxes.  We can also provide a scroll printed with romantic poetry to be read to your loved one.  This treatment is altogether refreshing, strengthens, and eases away stress.  It’s genuinely an excellent way to show someone you care.

Long Island, NY Romantic Getaway

The Benefits of a Hot Bath

  1. Relaxation: One of the most significant benefits of a hot bath is relaxation. Warm water can help soothe sore muscles and calm your mind, making it an excellent way to unwind after a long day.
  2. Pain Relief: Heat has been shown to reduce pain, so soaking in a hot bath can be helpful for those who suffer from arthritis or other types of joint pain.
  3. Improved Sleep: A hot bath before bed can help you fall asleep faster and improve the quality of your sleep. This is because it can help to lower your body temperature, which is necessary for good sleep.
  4. Skincare: Hot water can help open up your pores, making removing dirt and oils from your skin easier. Additionally, it can help to improve blood flow to the skin, which can help to improve its appearance.
  5. Respiratory Health: Hot steam from a bath can help to clear out your sinuses and improve your breathing. This is especially helpful for those who suffer from allergies or respiratory conditions.
  6. Reduced Stress: A hot bath can help to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting the release of endorphins, which are feel-good hormones that can help you feel more relaxed and calm.

Overall, taking a hot bath can be a great way to promote relaxation, relieve pain, improve sleep, and enhance your overall health and well-being.

The Empress Aromatherapy Bath at our Long Island, NY Romantic Getaway is also a perfect way to surprise your partner.  If this sounds (smells, tastes, or feels) good to you, this romantic spa treatment is offered as an individual item or can combine with another romantic package.  Contact us at Arbor View House (631) 477-8440 today to give your sweetheart the ultimate surprise.

Empress Aromatherapy Bath for your Long Island Romantic Getaway

The Benefits of Aromatherapy



February 15, 2022 Wilfred Joseph

Sparkling Pointe Sign

 

Vineyards and Wineries on the North Fork of Long Island

For the best wine on Long Island, go no further than the Vineyards and Wineries on the North Fork of Long Island. Yes, the Hamptons on the South Fork of Long Island have those beautiful white sand beaches, while our lovely North Fork beaches are pebbly. It’s true, but join us here if you love to be where the wine is.  So,  when you stay at our B&B near Greenport, NY, you’ll be in the heart of Long Island Wine Country.

Far and away, the North Fork is where most Long Island wineries are clustered. The clustering is partly because of the sunny yet protected maritime climate. The glacial soils also drain well, providing enough nutrients and moisture for the vines. Many people on the East Coast still don’t realize that a tremendous wine-producing area is only a short drive away! However, wine lovers have gotten the message. The wine-making industry has grown considerably since the first winery, Hargrave Vineyards in Cutchogue, opened in 1975. It is now called The Borghese Vineyard. The Long Island Wine Region has over 55 wineries open to the public, with 4000+ acres of vines.

The American Viticultural Areas of Long Island–North Fork of Long Island, The Hamptons, and Long Island, are recognized as some of the country’s finest grape-growing and wine-producing AVAs.

Most of the acreage is Vinifera grapes. Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay are the main varietals. Still, others include Chenin Blanc, Dolcetto, Gewurztraminer, Lemberger, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Syrah, Tocai Friulano, and Viognier.
One of my favorites is Kontakosta in Greenport.  The winery is set back in the vineyard at least a quarter of a mile from the street. You come upon this majestic building designed and built with reclaimed barn wood and glass.  On a clear day of the Long Island Sound, there is a magnificent view at the end of the property.  This is the only vineyard with a view of the sound.

Great wines are produced only a short drive from New York City and other major East Coast cities. Come to Long Island’s North Fork and experience some of the best wines in the U.S. without traveling very far! Our Bed and Breakfast near Greenport is just the place to stay during your East End Long Island wineries tour.

  1. Kontakosta
  2. Sparkling Pointe, a winery in Southold, specializes in sparkling wines. Cynthia and Tom Rosicki, a couple who fell in love with the beauty and potential of the North Fork of Long Island, founded Sparkling Pointe. Their passion for creating exceptional sparkling wines and promoting the region has helped to make Sparkling Pointe one of the premier wineries in the area. The winery’s focus on traditional winemaking methods and its commitment to quality over quantity has led to numerous accolades and awards, including being named “Winery of the Year” by the New York Wine and Grape Foundation. Sparkling Pointe produces sparkling wines, just as its name suggests, including Brut, Rosé, Blanc de Blancs, and others. My favorite is the Brut. The winery uses traditional methods to deliver its wines, including hand riddling and disgorging, allowing maximum flavor and character in the final product. The winery also has a tasting room and outdoor patio with vineyard views, making it a beautiful and relaxing destination for wine lovers. They often run out of blends that become popular. The winery hosts various events throughout the year, including live music performances, food and wine pairing events, and educational vineyard tours.
  3. Bedell Cellars is a family-owned winery founded by Kip Bedell in 1980 and located in Cutchogue. It has since become one of the most acclaimed wineries in the region. Bedell Cellars produces various wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and blends. The winery is mainly known for its Merlo which has won numerous awards and accolades, including being served at the presidential inauguration of Barack Obama in 2013. Visitors to Bedell Cellars can enjoy wine tastings, tours of the vineyard and winery, and special events throughout the year.
  4. Macari Vineyards is a family-owned winery located in Mattituck. The vineyard was founded in 1995 and has since become one of the region’s most highly-regarded and largest wineries, with over 500 acres cultivated. Macari Vineyards produces various wines, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and blends. The vineyard is mainly known for its Bordeaux-style red blends, which have won numerous awards and accolades. My favorite is Cab Franc. The vineyard is certified as both a sustainable and organic winery. Its beautiful location, dedication to organic farming, and exceptional wines make it a standout in the region. The winery has a tasting room and outdoor patio with vineyard views.
  5. Paumanock Vineyards, one of the earliest to plant grapes, is a family-owned and operated winery in Aquebogue. The vineyard was founded in 1983 by The Massouds. The vineyard has won many awards, including the 2015 Festival of New York State Wines Governor’s Cup for their 2010 Merlot Grand Vintage. The 2018 New York Wine Classic for their 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon was named the Best Red Wine of the competition. In 2019 at the New York Wine Classic, Paumonock won the prestigious Governor’s Cup for their 2017 Riesling as the Best Wine in New York State. Paumonock won the 2020 New York Wine Classic for their 2016 Grand Vintage Merlot, which won the Best Merlot category. In addition to its wines, Paumanock Vineyards is known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The vineyard has implemented several practices to reduce its carbon footprint, including solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and installing electric vehicle charging stations. Visitors to Paumanock Vineyards can enjoy wine tastings, tours of the vineyard and winery, and special events throughout the year.
  6. The Old Field Vineyards is a family-owned winery located in Southold. Run by a mother-daughter team, the vineyard was founded in 1974. The Old Field Vineyards produces various wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and blends. The vineyard is known for its focus on sustainable farming practices and minimal intervention in the winemaking process, allowing the grapes’ natural flavors to shine through. Its commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the region, dedication to sustainable farming, and exceptional wines make it a standout in the area. One of the unique features of The Old Field Vineyards is its history. The property has been in the Baiz family for over 100 years. The original farmhouse and barns have been preserved and restored. The winery also has a tasting room and outdoor patio with views of the vineyard and Peconic Bay, making it a beautiful and relaxing destination for wine lovers.


January 19, 2018 Wilfred Joseph

 

Winterfest Long Island North Fork
The Winterfest Logo

Long Island Winterfest 2018 is weeks away, from February 22 through March 18. The mid-winter music, wine, and art festival brings big-name musical acts and special events to Long Island’s north and south forks. Local wineries, breweries, restaurants, artists, performers, and more all get in on the act. Don’t miss it!
Long Island Winterfest is an annual, multi-week music festival featuring the best jazz, blues, soul, rock, and country music east of NYC. More than just a music festival, Winterfest is also an opportunity to sample some of Long Island’s wine and food scene. Events will be held at various venues, including North Fork and South Fork vineyards, tasting rooms, craft breweries, and restaurants.



December 22, 2017 Wilfred Joseph

Long Island Spa GetawayThe end-of-the-year holidays can be an awful lot of fun – but also an awful lot of work! Reward yourself for getting through them – and the year! – with a Long Island spa getaway in North Fork wine country!
As much as we look forward to the holiday season, there can also be a sense of relief once they’ve passed: phew! It’s wonderful to see so many friends and family in so short a time but the net result of so many parties, dinners, and get-togethers can be real fatigue. Why start off the new year feeling old when you can treat yourself to a Long Island spa getaway at our North Fork wine country B&B?



December 8, 2017 Wilfred Joseph

Long Island New Year's EveThere are so many different ways to enjoy a North Fork Long Island New Year’s Eve! Parties, dinners, stage shows, and more. If you were thinking of spending your New Year’s Eve on Long Island, great idea! You’ll have no trouble finding great ways to ring in 2018!
We’ve said it many times and it bears repeating: there’s always something fun to do on Long Island’s North Fork. This is especially true during the end of the year holidays. We know how to throw a party and New Year’s Eve sees dozens of them across the island. Some of the best are right here in Long Island Wine Country with lots of dinners and special events at theaters, restaurants, and wineries.