Oceanside

The city of Long Beach and some small barrier islands stand between Oceanside, NY and the Atlantic, making its name not entirely accurate. However, the hamlet of 32,000 still embraces its waterfront location.

Oceanside’s schools, with a student population of 6,100, are well-regarded. There is a kindergarten center, six elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Newsweek magazine recently placed Oceanside High School in the top 2% of high schools nationally. Approximately two dozen Advanced Placement courses are offered. Middle school students have been recognized for their extensive work with charity organizations, including Ronald McDonald House. The vast majority of students meet standards on state exams.

There are numerous leisure time options. Oceanside Park is located on the waterfront, offering a playground and opportunities for sports. Though there are no beaches, Hempstead Town runs four small beaches nearby: Lido Beach, Lido West, Point Lookout and Sands. Jones Beach State Park is about fifteen minutes away. Golfers will be drawn to the Middle Bay Country Club, which has an 18-hole course and a catering hall. Fishermen can hop on one of the fishing charters. The South Shore Sports Complex is an indoor facility which includes batting cages, turf fields, and an exercise room among its amenities. The Oceanside Library, besides circulating books and other materials, organizes art lectures, book discussions and language classes.

Most residents probably find they can meet their shopping needs within the town. There is a Stop & Shop and Trader Joe’s for groceries. The Whistle Stop Bake Shop has been popular since its opening in 1977. Shopping areas are also located along Brower Avenue and Long Beach Road. Though shopping areas with larger selections are nearby, Oceanside’s location is not convenient to any major highways. The section of Sunrise Highway cutting across Nassau County has traffic lights, so it is slower-moving than the Southern State Parkway.

Homebuyers will find a good amount of inventory, with many possibilities in the $200-$300k range. There are homes on the water, or with water views, though flooding has been an issue for some homeowners. Some houses have no basements because of their proximity to the water. The housing inventory also includes co-ops and condominiums, most priced between $200,000 and $300,000