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Where to Stay in Staten Island

Where to Stay in Staten Island

Staten Island New York, USA Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Hotels & B&Bs

  • Branded Hotels:

    Budget-friendly motels to mid-range options often include parking, Wi-Fi, and breakfast.

  • Bed & Breakfasts:

    Charming B&Bs in historic neighborhoods offer personalized stays, often with breakfast.

  • Historic Homes:

    Beautifully restored homes deliver a local, intimate feel.

  • Upscale Options:

    Some upscale boutique or high-end chain hotels offer refined stays.

Rentals & Camping

  • Vacation Rentals:

    Private apartments, houses, or rooms suit families, groups, or those seeking home-like environments.

  • Homestays:

    Available through rental platforms, fostering cultural immersion and local insights.

  • Camping:

    No official public campgrounds on Staten Island. Look in surrounding areas.

  • Nature Stays:

    Consider alternatives for nature experiences outside the borough.

Neighborhood Guide

Each neighborhood on Staten Island has a distinct character.

St. George

Pros
  • Direct access to Manhattan via free ferry.
  • Walkable with direct access to attractions like Empire Outlets.
  • Lively atmosphere with St. George Theatre and Ballpark.
  • Close to National Lighthouse Museum and Historic District.
Cons
  • Can be busier and more urban with noise.
  • Accommodation options might be limited to hotels.
  • Fewer traditional residential options.
  • Urban setting may not suit all travelers.

Snug Harbor / Randall Manor

Pros
  • Quiet, historic, and features beautiful architecture.
  • Immediate proximity to the Snug Harbor Cultural Center.
  • Known for its quiet streets and historic homes.
  • With a deep cultural heritage environment.
Cons
  • A local bus or short taxi/ride-share to reach the St. George Ferry Terminal.
  • Fewer dining and shopping options directly outside the cultural center.
  • Less direct access to Manhattan commute.
  • May demand planning for evening activities.

South Shore e.g., Great Kills, Tottenville

Pros
  • More suburban and quieter, offering a relaxed pace.
  • Accommodation prices may be lower.
  • More vacation rental options.
  • Good for families seeking a residential feel.
Cons
  • A longer commute to Manhattan.
  • Typically, a lift on the Staten Island Railway or longer bus journey.
  • More reliant on personal vehicles.
  • Fewer nightlife and immediate entertainment options.

Considerations

Safety Considerations:

Staten Island is generally a safe borough. Standard urban precautions apply in all areas, particularly after dark. Remain aware of your surroundings, secure your belongings, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit or isolated locations late at night. Crime rates are lower than in some other NYC boroughs, but vigilance is always an useful practice.

Proximity & Ambiance:

St. George has the best proximity to the Staten Island Ferry and local transport. Staying there minimizes time it takes to get to Manhattan. Other areas demand more reliance on the SIR or bus network. St. George can be lively; other neighborhoods are usually quieter, with a suburban ambiance.

Booking Strategies

Plan your stay with these booking strategies.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (Summer, Nov-Dec holidays): Book 3-6 months out for best selection and prices.
  • Shoulder Season (Apr-May, Sep-Oct): Book 1-3 months out for good availability.
  • Low Season (Jan-Mar): More flexibility, 2-4 weeks usually works.
  • Popular properties can still fill up quickly regardless of season.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Major online travel agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia.
  • For vacation rentals, VRBO are popular. Also explore Airbnb.
  • Consider booking directly with hotels or B&Bs for exclusive rates.
  • For budget stays, Hostelworld is a resource.

Policies & Fluctuations

Deposit and Cancellation Policies:
  • Always review policies before confirming.
  • Vary by property and platform.
  • Many hotels offer free cancellation up to a certain point.
  • Adaptability is a valuable aspect.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations:
  • Prices are highest during high season.
  • Prices are lowest during low season.
  • Plan trip during shoulder or low seasons.
  • Find better value then.

Extra Tips

Read Reviews:

Before booking, read recent reviews. This offers insights into cleanliness, service, location, and overall guest experience.

Walk-In Rates:

Negotiation of walk-in rates is not common in U.S. Hotels or B&Bs; prices are generally fixed.

Alternative: House Sitting:

Explore TrustedHousesitters for unique stays, often in exchange for pet care.

Accommodation Recommendations

Find lodging designed for your travel needs.

Budget to Luxury

Budget Options

Look for local motels or chain hotels for good value in the NYC area.

  • Consider nearby Brooklyn or Manhattan hostels if cost is main.
  • Some chain hotels on Staten Island deliver value for money.
  • Motel options generally offer basic amenities.
  • Check for deals outside peak season.
Luxury Experience

Dedicated luxury hotels on Staten Island are limited. For a refined experience, consider high-end vacation rentals or charming boutique B&Bs.

  • Explore upscale vacation rental platforms.
  • Seek boutique B&Bs with premium amenities.
  • Manhattan has more luxury accommodation choices.
  • Look for unique, high-quality private accommodations.

Traveler Focus

Family-Friendly

Hotels with suites or kitchenettes deliver more space and convenience for families. Larger vacation homes provide multiple bedrooms and living areas.

  • Home2 Suites by Hilton One Of new york city's five boroughs
  • Vacation rentals (houses, apartments)
  • Kid-friendly amenities might be available.
  • Consider properties with separate living spaces.
Solo Travelers

Hotels near St. George present easy access to Manhattan and nearby attractions. B&Bs cultivate a welcoming atmosphere for individual guests.

  • St. George hotels for transportation ease.
  • Charming B&Bs for a warm stay.
  • Explore local guesthouses.
  • Safety and access to public transit are .

Extended Stays

  • Self-Catering:

    Extended-stay hotels with kitchenettes are ideal for extended stays.

  • Home-Like:

    Well-equipped vacation rentals allow for self-catering.

  • Local Living:

    Experience a more local living environment.

  • Amenities:

    Consider properties with laundry facilities for convenience.

Cultural Stays

  • Old Towns:

    B&Bs or vacation rentals in St. George Historic District provide stays in beautifully preserved historic homes.

  • Snug Harbor:

    Properties near Snug Harbor engage with cultural immersion.

  • Building Elements:

    Find unique architectural details that improve your experience.

  • Local Heritage:

    Explore local heritage through your accommodation choice.

General Advice

Check Recent Reviews

Before booking, read recent reviews to learn about a property's cleanliness, service, location, and overall guest experience.

Popular Mid-Range Examples

Hilton Garden Inn New York/Staten Island and Home2 Suites by Hilton One Of new york city's five boroughs are popular choices. They deliver reliable service and amenities.