A small beach with big drama. That’s what’s happening at Napeague Beach in East Hampton, where the sound of waves crashing against the shore is drowned out by a heated debate over who gets to enjoy this slice of seaside paradise. For years, locals have relished the tranquility of Napeague Beach, a hidden gem accessible only by car. But now, that tranquility is threatened by disputes over ownership and access rights, pitting neighbors against each other and drawing lines in the sand—literally.
The controversy centers around a 4,000-foot stretch of beach, known affectionately as Truck Beach by those who have historically driven their vehicles onto the sand to enjoy fishing, picnics, and family gatherings. However, this longstanding tradition has been challenged by a group of homeowners asserting their property rights over the beach, claiming it has been privately owned since the 1800s.
Residents express frustration over the “extreme number of cars” using the beach, leading to concerns over safety, noise, and cleanliness. “The beach has actually been privately owned since the 1800s,” one resident stated, emphasizing the homeowners’ determination to address what they see as egregious violations of their property rights.
This legal skirmish has not only drawn in the residents but also the town of East Hampton itself, which argues that Napeague Beach should remain accessible to the public. In 2016, the then Town Supervisor Larry Cantwell and advocates like Tim Taylor of Citizens for Access Rights defended the communal nature of the beach, highlighting its significance not only to locals but also to the broader community, including teachers, EMS personnel, and firefighters who respect and cherish this natural resource.
The legal battle reached a pivotal moment in 2021 when the New York State Court of Appeals sided with the homeowners, establishing their claims to the beach based on titles extending to the mean high-water mark. This ruling reversed a previous decision that had favored the town, sparking a complex debate over the rights of public access versus private ownership. In defiance of this ruling, a group of baymen and their supporters conducted a drive onto the beach in an act of civil disobedience in June of the same year, asserting their traditional right to use the beach for fishing-related activities.
The case’s intricacies are further complicated by historical deeds and the interpretation of easements granted for specific purposes like fishing. While the court has delineated the limits of these easements, questions remain about the practical implications for fishermen who rely on vehicle access for their livelihoods and homeowners seeking to protect their property rights.
East Hampton Town officials, including former Town Supervisor Peter Van Scoyoc, have expressed disappointment with the court’s decision, highlighting unresolved issues and the impact on community traditions. The town is exploring all options, including the possibility of eminent domain, to restore traditional access rights. However, this path is fraught with challenges and uncertainties regarding public benefit and the cost of compensation to property owners.
The battle continues. Before leaving office, Mr. Scoyoc reiterated that the ongoing fight is not just about a stretch of sand but also about broader issues of access, community rights, and the preservation of public spaces for future generations. With the final resolution still uncertain, residents and officials alike are seeking a path forward that honors both the history and the collective spirit of Napeague Beach.
