realestate

Jamesport: Rural charm lures buyers to scenic coastal community

Riverhead town councilwoman describes community as tight-knit, family-oriented.

I
n the charming hamlet of Jamesport, a tranquil oasis on Long Island's North Fork, residents and visitors alike can revel in the area's natural beauty and rich history. Councilwoman Joann Waski, a lifelong resident, describes Jamesport as "a community that's all about open spaces, beaches, vineyards, and farms." With its picturesque setting along Great Peconic Bay and Long Island Sound, Jamesport offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

    The hamlet's unique character is preserved by zoning regulations that prohibit big-box stores and grocery chains. Instead, mom-and-pop shops and local businesses thrive, creating a tight-knit community where neighbors know each other well. "We do things together, raise our children together," Waski notes. "We're a very close-knit community."

    Jamesport's history dates back to around 1690, when settlers from Massachusetts arrived and established a commercial outpost. The area's shallow waters made it less suitable for large ships, but the hamlet became a thriving market for bunker fish, which were used as fertilizer or oil in lamps and paint.

    In the 1830s, James Tuthill founded James' Port, which eventually became South Jamesport, with the hope of turning it into a major shipping port. However, the area's shallow waters proved too challenging, and Tuthill ultimately focused on developing the deeper waters surrounding Greenport.

    Today, visitors can explore the hamlet's many farms, wineries, and beaches, including the historic South Jamesport Beach overlooking Great Peconic Bay. The first winery in the area, Jamesport Vineyards, opened in 1986 and paved the way for several others that now dot the landscape.

    For those seeking a primary residence or vacation home, Jamesport offers a wide range of styles, from cozy cottages to large waterfront properties. According to data from OneKey MLS, between March 7, 2024, and March 6, 2025, there were 27 home sales with a median sale price of $875,000.

    Some notable listings in the area include:

    * A $2.5 million home overlooking Peconic Bay, featuring three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and an open floor plan.

    * A $1.9 million contemporary home built in 2023, boasting five bedrooms, three full baths, and four spacious decks.

    * An $899,000 Cape-style home with four bedrooms, hardwood floors, and a detached two-car garage.

    Recent sales in the area include:

    * A $2.1 million home on Lockitt Drive, featuring three bedrooms and three bathrooms.

    * A $780,000 Cape-style home on Eileen Circle, boasting four bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms.

    * A $750,000 Cape-style home on Ziemacki Lane, with three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms.

    With its unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and community spirit, Jamesport is an attractive destination for those seeking a tranquil escape from the city or a primary residence in a charming hamlet setting.

Coastal Jamesport village scene with charming homes and scenic waterfront views.