Moving from North Shore to South Shore - Seeking Advice (Islip: condos, houses)

[Collee]

I was born and raised in Huntington. Currently own a home in Northport. I love the quaintness and community feel. I recently went through some life changes. Now single, mid 40's, no kids at home and interested in downsizing (house and property).

Although I have never lived on the South Shore, I have friends who live there and always thought it has such a unique, laid back, friendly vibe. A lot of cute towns that are in very close proximity to one another. Being that I want a change, I think the Shore Shore might be a great decision. I considered purchasing a condo but after factoring in similar pricing as home in my range (400 - 550k) + taxes and HOA, a condo may not make financial sense. Not to mention the lack of privacy in a condo.

Anyway, seeking advice on the following areas, Bay Shore (Brightwaters) or south of Main St, Islip, East Islip, Sayville, Oakdale, Bayport or Blue Point. I know, a long list. Just trying to get a feel for the various towns. Yes, I have visited these towns (socially), driven around and have gone to open houses but personal experience from those that live or intimately familiar with the areas is priceless insight. If you were in my shoes (single female, mid 40s, looking for an area with a close proximity to the water, restaurants, bars and a friendly community feel) which of these towns would you move to and why?

Saw 2 open houses today in Brightwaters. Beautiful area but too much house for my needs. Going to visit 2 condos tomorrow in Bay Shore, a home in Sayville on Johnson Avenue and this cute little bungalow in Blue Point tomorrow.
https://www.redfin.com/NY/Blue-Point.../home/21117847

I work remotely so commute is not a factor. However, all family is in Northport and Huntington. Friends are scattered about.

Now that you have a feel for my current situation and my future needs and wants, please help guide me.

Thank you so much!

ETA: sorry for the broken link above. first post on this site. forgive the newbie

[Elke Mariotti]

It's a bit further west, but would you consider Babylon? Especially south of Montauk? It's kind of a mini Huntington, but more laid back... Lived there for 15 years and it has only gotten better over the years.

[Collee]

I have a very close friend in Babylon. Great town to visit but like Huntington Village, way too much traffic. I actually avoid Huntington Village now. I preferred the quiet and quaint feel it had 15-20ys years ago.

[isles08]

Before I got too far into your post...when I saw north shore Huntington/Northport and that you wanted to go south shore now, I immediately thought...Brightwaters. Quaint community and a story book feel...can't go wrong.

[Clarke of Mastic]

Sayville, Patchogue, or Bellport.

[Clarke of Mastic]

If not too far east, you also have Center Moriches.

[hotkarl]

Traffic can get bananas during the summer in Bayshore, Islip, etc...Same with Patchogue.
Sayville, Oakdale, Bayport, Blue Point, less so.