West Meadow Beach Spring, Stony Brook, NY 11790

## Overview West Meadow Beach Spring is a natural water source located within West Meadow Beach Park in the hamlet of Stony Brook on Long Island's North Shore, Suffolk County, New York. Situated along the scenic coastline of Long Island Sound, this spring — which may be artesian in nature — has long been used by locals as a drinking water source. Visitors have reported that the water tastes clean, and it is common to see people filling containers here. While the surrounding landscape lacks the mountainous terrain often associated with natural springs, the coastal park setting is remarkably picturesque, with views of the Sound, salt marshes, and a long barrier beach that stretches into Smithtown Bay. West Meadow Beach Park is managed by the Town of Brookhaven and is a popular destination for swimming, birdwatching, and nature walks. The spring adds a unique draw for those interested in natural water sources on Long Island, where such features are relatively uncommon. ## Directions 1. From the intersection of NY-25A (Main Street) and Quaker Path in Stony Brook, head north on Quaker Path. 2. Continue as Quaker Path becomes Trustees Road, heading toward the waterfront. 3. Follow Trustees Road to its end at West Meadow Beach Park (the address is near 109 Trustees Road, East Setauket, NY 11733). 4. Enter the park and look for the spring within the park grounds near the beach area. 5. **GPS Coordinates:** 40.936379, -73.144062 *Note: The park may charge a parking fee during the summer season when lifeguards are on duty. According to local visitors, parking fees are typically not enforced outside of lifeguard hours (generally after Labor Day or in the off-season). Check with the Town of Brookhaven for current parking policies.* ## What to Expect The spring is located within the grounds of West Meadow Beach Park, a well-maintained public park along the North Shore of Long Island. The water source appears to flow year-round, and locals have reported regularly collecting water from it for personal use. Whether it is a true artesian well or a gravity-fed spring has not been definitively confirmed, but the steady flow suggests a reliable underground source. The surrounding area is scenic and worth exploring even beyond the spring itself. West Meadow Beach features a long barrier beach, tidal wetlands, and excellent views across Long Island Sound. Birdwatchers may spot osprey, herons, and various shorebirds, especially during migration seasons. The park also has a nature trail that winds through the salt marsh. During the summer months (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day), the beach area is staffed with lifeguards and a parking fee may apply — this is a Town of Brookhaven resident beach, so non-residents may face higher fees or restricted access during peak season. However, visitors have noted that parking charges are generally not enforced after lifeguards leave for the day or during the off-season, making early morning, evening, or shoulder-season visits a good option for those looking to avoid fees. The spring is easily accessible and does not require a strenuous hike, making it suitable for visitors of all ages and mobility levels.