Navigating the Atlantic from Long Island, New York
Long Island is situated in proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, a distinction which often leads to some geographical confusion. While located in the state of New York, Long Island is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to its south and east, with a number of geographical formations that further define its coastal area.
The Geographical Context of Long Island
Long Island's Position Relative to the Atlantic Ocean
Long Island is not an isolated entity but a part of a larger geographical context. It is important to understand where Long Island is situated in relation to the Atlantic Ocean and other landmarks. Long Island is an extensive island running roughly east-west, parallel to a portion of the shoreline of New York and the majority of the state of Connecticut, stretching about 125 miles long and generally less than ten miles wide.
The Atlantic Ocean and its Proximity
The Atlantic Ocean is situated to the east of Long Island, defining its eastern boundary. Despite many referring to Long Island as an island, it can also be considered a peninsula due to its narrow width. The East River forms part of the western edge, separating Long Island from the city of New York, specifically Manhattan. The East River is a vital waterway that connects Long Island to the main land, though it is relatively shallow and sometimes considered the boundary of Long Island. However, due to its connection to the Atlantic, it is often debated among geographers as to whether Long Island is technically a peninsula or an island.
Long Island Sound
To the north of Long Island, separated by a narrow strip of land, lies the Long Island Sound. This is an arm of the Atlantic Ocean, and although it is predominantly called a sound, it is still a geographic formation that extends the influence of the Atlantic. This area is part of the Atlantic Ocean ecosystem and shares many characteristics with it. To the south, the barrier islands provide additional landmarks such as Jones Beach, Fire Island, and the Hamptons.
Further Geographical Details
The south shore of Long Island is characterized by a series of barrier islands that date back to some of the earliest known beaches in the world. These islands also serve as significant features that influence the coastline. Between these barrier islands and Long Island island itself, lies another arm of the Atlantic known as the Great South Bay. The Great South Bay is a natural body of water that contributes to the complex character of Long Island’s coastline.
Local Navigation and Geography
Navigating the local geography of Long Island is often a matter of understanding the interplay between the Atlantic Ocean and the various waterways. For instance, heading west from Long Island leads to the Brooklyn Bridge, which connects to the city of Brooklyn. To the north, one reaches the Long Island Sound, an arm of the Atlantic. Moving east brings one to the Montauk Bridge, which connects Long Island to the coastal town of Quahog, part of the fictional town of Rhode Island where Peter Griffin from the cartoon series "Family Guy" lives.For those traveling south from Jericho, New York, the drive takes one for a couple of hundred miles, consistently moving south along the coastline. The geographical layout of Long Island is such that while the Atlantic Ocean is to the east, moving in a north-south direction will take you through the various local waterways and back to New York City.