Top 5 Local Markets to Explore on Long Island’s North Fork

The North Fork isn’t just about vineyards and beaches—it’s also home to some outstanding farmers markets that showcase the region’s freshest produce, best baked goods, rustic charm, and community spirit. If you’re staying with us at one of Luxury Beach Getaway’s North Fork properties, here are five markets you won’t want to miss:

1. Greenport Farmers Market (Mitchell Park, Greenport)

When: Every Friday from 2:00 pm to 5:30 pm (May through October) 
Why go:

• It’s beautifully located in Mitchell Park right by the water, so you can pair a market run with a stroll along the waterfront. 
• Expect fresh fruits & veggies; breads; meats, seafood, cheese; artisanal goodies like pickles, preserves, baked goods, and more. The variety is excellent.

Pair it with your stay:
If you want to be just minutes away from this market, consider relaxing at the Luxury Beach Cottage: Wineries, Shopping & The Hamptons. This charming beach cottage is not only close to vineyards but is also perfectly positioned for visits to Greenport.

2. Riverhead/East End Food Market (Riverhead)

Where & When: This is a year-round farmers market (through East End Food Institute) located in Riverhead, operating several days per week plus Saturdays.
Highlights:

• Extensive selection of fresh local produce, baked goods, seafood, cheese, jams, honey, etc.
• Rain or shine: don’t let the whether stop you from exploring the market.

Near which property:
For a stay that gives you easy access to Riverhead’s amenities (including this market), check out our Once Upon a Tide: a true beach house on the North Fork that is spacious, offers great views of the Long Island Sound and easy drives into Riverhead.

3. Little Creek Oyster Farm & Market (Greenport)

What & Where: Located in Greenport’s Bootleg Alley, this is a seafood market/raw bar. 
Why it’s special:

• You can get oysters, clams, smoked fish and other seafood fresh off local boats. Perfect if you love maritime flavors.
• The setting is classic North Fork—port-side, rustic, charming. Great for bringing back tasty items to your vacation rental to cook or just enjoy overlooking the harbor.

Combine with which stay:
The Sunset Perch: with a private pool and rooftop deck, this North Fork house is an excellent option. After gathering seafood from Little Creek, you can fire up the BBQ or grill at the house and dine al fresco with a view.

4. Farm Stands & Roadside Markets Across Riverhead & Mattituck

Looking for something less formal? See where the day takes you when you take a scenic drive along Sound Avenue. You will find a network of farm stands and roadside markets across Riverhead, Mattituck, and neighboring towns—one of the North Fork’s greatest charms.

What you’ll find:

• Seasonal produce (berries, corn, peaches, tomatoes, etc.)
• Orchards offering “pick-your-own” fruits when in season (apples, peaches, berries, etc.)
• Homestyle baked items, homemade jams, honeys, artisan items, often from generational family farms.

Stay nearby recommendation:
If you want to be immersed in the farm-stand culture, check out our Large Modern North Fork Barn: this vacation home’s backyard backs up to the vineyards, and many of the farm stands are just short drives away.

5. Seasonal & Specialty Markets

These are markets that pop up or run only seasons (spring through fall, harvest times) or are focused on specialty items (flowers, pickles, mushrooms etc.). Some examples:

• Pure specialty producers via Greenport Farmers Market (mushrooms, small-scale picklers, bakeries, etc.) 
• Vendors in the East End Food Market who specialize in baked goods, cheeses, plants, crafts. 
• “Popup” offerings at wine farms or vineyard stands, especially during harvest time or weekends. You must try Palmer Vineyards’ Sunset Fridays event, offering wood-fired pizza that showcases farm-to-table ingredients harvested right on the North Fork.

Stay suggestion:
To be ideally located for these specialty runs, try the Diana Luxury Retreat Private. It gives a peaceful base from which to explore markets, vineyards, and hidden seasonal gems.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Market-Hopping

• Go early: freshest produce, best baked goods, and the best picks from vendors often disappear by mid-day.
• Check seasonal hours: many markets are seasonal; some shift indoors, some close during winter. The East End Food Market is year-round; Greenport’s market is seasonal. 
• Bring your gear: reusable bags, cooler for perishables (especially seafood), cash (though many accept cards).
• Mix market visits with scenery & wine: The North Fork has wineries, farm vistas, waterfronts—and many properties make for a lovely home base to spread out what you’ve gathered.

If you’re booking your next North Fork escape and want help choosing the perfect property near your favorite markets—we’re happy to help you plan!