Shelter Island: Where to stay and play

North Ferry (631-749-0139, northferry.com) connects to Greenport on the North Fork. Rates are $16 same-day round-trip, $11 one way. The South Ferry (631-749-1200, southferry.com) connects to North Haven on the South Fork. Rates are $17 same-day round-trip, $14 one way.

On the island, car service is available from Shelter Island Go-Fors (631-749-4252). Bikes can be rented from Piccozzi’s Bike Shop (177 N. Ferry Rd.; 631-749-0045, jwpiccozzi.com).

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Photo Credit: Doug Kuntz

Change comes slowly — and rarely — to Shelter Island.

Summer after summer, the hills roll, the marshes rustle and the waves lap the crescent beaches. The hospitality scene is similarly constant: a dozen or so bed and breakfasts, and six small hotels.

This year, however, change is afoot on the hotel front: The venerable Chequit has been completely renovated by new owners, and another set of new owners has taken over La Maison Blanche and renamed it Shelter Island House.

Here’s a rundown of Shelter Island’s hotels. Be forewarned that in most cases, hotels require a two- or three-day minimum stay, and rates may vary depending on the month or day of the week.