Prince's Bay | Staten Island

Prince’s Bay, Staten Island – In Detail

Prince’s Bay is a historic, residential, and coastal neighborhood on the South Shore of Staten Island, New York City. It is known for its natural beauty, historic landmarks, and maritime heritage, making it one of the more tranquil and upscale parts of the borough.

Location and Geography

Borders: Huguenot (north), Pleasant Plains (west), Raritan Bay (south)

Character: Suburban with a mix of natural shoreline, wooded parks, and residential enclaves

Topography: Slightly hilly in parts, with a prominent shoreline and tidal wetlands

Historical Overview

Early History

Originally called Lemon Creek, named for the tidal creek still visible today

Later renamed Prince’s Bay after William III of Orange (the "Prince" in question), although some legends claim it was named for a visit by a British royal

Oyster Fame

In the 19th century, Prince’s Bay was internationally famous for its oyster beds

“Prince’s Bay Oysters” were considered a delicacy, served in high-end New York and European restaurants

Harvesting stopped due to pollution and overfishing by the early 20th century

Industrial Legacy

Home to the S.S. White Dental Manufacturing Company, one of Staten Island’s largest employers in the early 20th century

The factory complex was in operation until 1972

The area has since been redeveloped for mixed commercial and residential use

Landmarks and Historic Sites

1. Seguine Mansion

Built: 1838

Style: Greek Revival architecture

Significance: One of Staten Island's grandest antebellum homes

Current Use: Owned by NYC Parks; sometimes open for public events and tours; located within Lemon Creek Park

2. Abraham Manee House

Built: Portions date back to circa 1670

Style: Dutch Colonial and later additions

Status: One of the oldest surviving houses in New York City; landmark eligibility debated due to its deteriorated condition

Parks and Natural Spaces

Prince’s Bay is notable for its access to green and blue space—a defining feature of the neighborhood.

Lemon Creek Park

Includes:

Lemon Creek Marina – Staten Island's last active marina

Tidal Wetlands – home to egrets, herons, and other shorebirds

Trails, fishing piers, and views of Raritan Bay

Supports kayaking, birdwatching, and nature walks

Wolfe’s Pond Park

One of Staten Island’s largest public parks

Features:

Wolfe’s Pond Beach

Tennis courts, dog run, playgrounds

Nature trails and bluff-top views of the Atlantic

Bloomingdale Park

Located just north of Prince’s Bay

Popular for sports, jogging, and family activities

Community and Lifestyle

Demographics: Predominantly residential, middle-to-upper income households

Housing:

Mostly single-family homes, townhouses, and some condominiums

Real estate is among the most desirable in Staten Island due to the low density and proximity to nature

Vibe: Quiet, family-oriented, and removed from the denser urban areas of Staten Island

Transportation

Staten Island Railway (SIR):

Prince’s Bay Station serves local commuters, connecting to the Staten Island Ferry via St. George

Bus Lines:

Local and express buses connect to other Staten Island neighborhoods and Manhattan

By Car: Easy access to Hylan Boulevard and Korean War Veterans Parkway

Education and Services

Served by NYC public schools including P.S. 5, I.S. 7, and Tottenville High School

Libraries and local medical offices serve neighborhood needs

Retail options are limited but growing, with larger shopping centers available in nearby neighborhoods

Notable Characteristics

Low commercial density: No central commercial hub—more residential and nature-focused

Flood zone areas: Some parts near the coast are prone to tidal flooding and subject to zoning regulations

High community pride: Residents often emphasize the neighborhood's peaceful, clean, and green environment

Prince’s Bay represents a blend of historic Staten Island, natural beauty, and modern suburban living, making it a unique enclave in New York City. Its combination of waterfront access, wildlife habitats, and historic charm gives it a distinctly non-urban atmosphere while still being within NYC limits.