Long Island Map

Description: This map shows states boundaries, New York City, Atlantic ocean, islands, airports, Brooklyn (Kings), Queens, Nassau county, Suffolk county, cities, towns, and villages on Long Island.

Long Island is a densely populated island located in the southeastern part of the state of New York, in the United States. It extends eastward from New York Harbor into the Atlantic Ocean, and is bordered to the north by Long Island Sound, across which lies the state of Connecticut. The island is approximately 118 miles (190 km) long and 23 miles (37 km) wide at its widest point, with a total land area of about 1,376 square miles (3,564 km²), making it the largest island in the contiguous United States.

Long Island comprises four counties: Kings and Queens, which form the New York City boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens on the western end, and Nassau and Suffolk, which constitute the suburban and rural eastern portion. As of the 2020 census, the island had a population of approximately 8.07 million residents, making it the most populous island in any U.S. state or territory.

The island was originally inhabited by the Lenape and other Algonquian-speaking peoples before European colonization. Dutch and English settlers established communities during the 17th century, with the Dutch controlling the western portion and the English settling the eastern end. After the British takeover of New Netherland in 1664, the entire island came under English rule. During the American Revolutionary War, the Battle of Long Island, fought in August 1776, was the first major battle after the Declaration of Independence and the largest battle of the war.

Geographically, Long Island was formed by glacial deposits during the last ice age, resulting in two parallel terminal moraines: the Harbor Hill Moraine along the north shore and the Ronkonkoma Moraine through the center. The South Shore features barrier islands and sandy beaches along the Atlantic, including Fire Island and Jones Beach, while the East End splits into two peninsulas known as the North Fork and the South Fork, the latter containing the Hamptons.

The economy of Long Island is diverse, encompassing finance, healthcare, education, scientific research, agriculture, and tourism. The region is home to Brookhaven National Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and Stony Brook University. The North Fork and parts of the South Fork support a significant wine industry, with more than 60 vineyards. Commercial fishing, particularly for shellfish, remains an important activity along the coast.

Transportation infrastructure includes the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), the busiest commuter railroad in North America, founded in 1834. Major highways include the Long Island Expressway (Interstate 495), the Northern State Parkway, and the Southern State Parkway. The island is served by two major airports, John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport, both located in Queens.

List of Cities, Towns, and Villages on Long Island

Nearest Islands

The Best Beaches on Long Island

Main sights on Long Island