We have a broad selection of ice cream shops on Long Island. To come up with the top 10 is a really big challenge. We may miss some excellent shops and may want to include some others but you can only have 10 places in our top 10 list. Here is our list of the best ice cream shops on Long Island.
Long Island’s Top Ice Cream Destinations!
1. Coyle’s Homemade Ice Cream (Bay Shore & Islip): The Legendary Classic
- Why it’s a MUST: A true Long Island institution, Coyle’s isn’t just serving ice cream; they’re serving nostalgia. Famous for their super-premium, intensely flavored homemade scoops and famously generous portions.
- Don’t Miss: Dive into the Captain Crunch for a blast from the past, or explore their ever-changing, innovative menu.
- What Locals Say: “The best ice cream on Long Island! The portions are huge and the flavors are always delicious.” – Yelp | “This place is a must-visit for any ice cream lover. The homemade waffle cones are amazing too!” – Google
2. Old Fashioned Ice Cream (West Babylon): A Trip Down Memory Lane
- Why it’s a MUST: Step into a postcard-perfect, family-friendly parlor that delivers exactly what it promises: charming, old-fashioned ice cream perfection. Ideal for a relaxed afternoon treat or a classic post-dinner indulgence.
- Don’t Miss: Their milkshakes and sundaes are pure Americana bliss.
- What Locals Say: “Great place for a classic ice cream experience. The staff is friendly and the prices are reasonable.” – Yelp | “This is our go-to spot for ice cream sundaes! The kids love it and the portions are perfect for sharing.” – Google
3. Lics Ice Cream (Northport): Where Creativity Meets Creaminess
- Why it’s a MUST: Prepare for a flavor journey! Lics is a modern shop that pushes the boundaries with unique, inventive flavors crafted from fresh, top-tier ingredients. They also champion inclusivity with fantastic vegan options.
- Don’t Miss: Be adventurous! Their rotating menu always has something new and exciting. Vegans rejoice – their creamy creations are a dream.
- What Locals Say: “The flavors here are incredible! They always have something new and exciting to try.” – Yelp | “Lics is a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions. Their vegan ice cream is delicious and creamy!” – Google
4. Sweet Treats on the Wharf (Port Washington): Ice Cream with a View!
- Why it’s a MUST: Elevate your dessert experience! This delightful shop offers homemade ice cream with a side of stunning waterfront vistas. A leisurely stroll along the Port Washington harbor, followed by a sweet treat, is pure summer magic.
- Don’t Miss: Grab your favorite scoop and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
- What Locals Say: “The ice cream is delicious, but the real star of the show is the view! Perfect for a summer evening.” – Yelp | “This is a hidden gem! The staff is friendly and the location is unbeatable.” – Google
5. McNulty’s Ice Cream (Miller Place): Family Recipes, Unique Twists
- Why it’s a MUST: This beloved family-owned spot perfectly blends classic comfort with exciting innovation. Expect all your favorite flavors, plus intriguing creations like lavender honey or decadent peanut butter brownie.
- Don’t Miss: Pair your scoop with one of their homemade waffle cones or fresh baked goods.
- What Locals Say: “This is our favorite ice cream shop in Suffolk County. The ice cream is delicious and the staff is always friendly.” – Yelp | “McNulty’s is a great place to bring the family. They have something for everyone!” – Google
6. Strong Island Ice Cream (Greenport & Patchogue): Farm-to-Cone Freshness
- Why it’s a MUST: Experience the true taste of Long Island! This “farm-to-cone” creamery is obsessed with fresh, local ingredients, translating into vibrant, seasonal flavors. They also offer fantastic dairy-free options made with rich coconut milk.
- Don’t Miss: Sample their seasonal specials for a true taste of local bounty.
- What Locals Say: “The best ice cream on the North Fork! The flavors are so fresh and unique.” – Yelp | “Strong Island is a great option for anyone looking for a delicious and healthy ice cream treat.” – Google
7. Marvel’s Ice Cream Shop (Lido Beach): A Coastal Classic with Unbeatable Flavors
- Why it’s a MUST: For those near the South Shore’s beautiful beaches, Marvel’s in Lido Beach is an absolute institution. This family-run shop has been serving up some of Long Island’s most beloved homemade ice cream for decades, creating a perfect synergy between sun, sand, and sensational sweets. It’s the quintessential stop for a refreshing treat after a day at the beach, known for its consistent quality, rich flavors, and friendly, old-school charm.
- Don’t Miss: Dive into their incredibly creamy “Pistachio” or the always-popular “Coffee Oreo.” Their soft-serve is also legendary, often hailed as the best around, perfect for a classic swirl on a hot day.
- What Locals Say: “Marvel’s is a Lido Beach tradition! The ice cream is always fresh, and it’s the perfect spot after a long day at the ocean.” – Yelp | “Consistently amazing homemade ice cream for years. You can’t beat their soft serve and their classic flavors are perfect.” – Google
8. Gelateria Dei Coltelli (Williston Park): An Authentic Taste of Italy
- Why it’s a MUST: Transport your taste buds straight to Italy! This charming Italian gem offers more than just incredible, creamy gelato; you’ll also find an exquisite selection of Italian pastries and desserts.
- Don’t Miss: Indulge in their rich, authentic gelato and explore their delightful pastry case.
- What Locals Say: “The gelato here is amazing! So creamy and flavorful. They also have a great selection of pastries.” – Yelp | “This is a great spot for a post-dinner dessert. The ambiance is lovely and the service is excellent.” – Google
9. Magic Fountain Ice Cream Shop (Mattituck): North Fork’s Whimsical Wonderland
- Why it’s a MUST: Nestled in the heart of the North Fork, Magic Fountain lives up to its name, enchanting visitors with its whimsical charm and an astonishing array of unique, homemade ice cream flavors. This iconic roadside stand is a vibrant hub of creativity, known for pushing the boundaries of traditional ice cream with fun, unexpected combinations and incredibly creamy textures. It’s a joyful, essential stop for anyone exploring Long Island’s wine country or simply seeking an extraordinary scoop.
- Don’t Miss: Be bold and try one of their legendary, often quirky “Crazy Flavors of the Day” – you might discover your new obsession! Their “Lavender Honey” or anything with their famously rich “Death by Chocolate” is always a winner.
- What Locals Say: “Magic Fountain is a North Fork legend! Their unique flavors are mind-blowing, and it’s such a fun, quirky spot to visit.” – Yelp | “The best ice cream on the North Fork, hands down. Always worth the drive for their amazing creations and friendly service!” – Google
10. Snowflake Ice Cream Shoppe (Riverhead): The East End’s Iconic Scoop
- Why it’s a MUST: A beloved institution on the East End, Snowflake has been a quintessential Long Island summer stop for generations. This charming, classic ice cream parlor is famous for its incredible variety of homemade flavors, generous portions, and the nostalgic experience of ordering from their iconic window. It’s the perfect reward after a day at the beach or exploring the North Fork.
- Don’t Miss: Their legendary Homemade Hard Ice Cream – especially unique flavors like “Strawberry Cheesecake” or their rich “Fudge Ripple.” And definitely consider one of their towering sundaes!
- What Locals Say: “Snowflake is a Riverhead tradition! Always worth the line, the ice cream is truly homemade and so delicious.” – Yelp | “You haven’t truly experienced summer on the East End until you’ve had a cone from Snowflake. So many great flavors!” – Google