Flanders is one of the first neighborhoods on the East End past where Long Island begins to fork. Because of that location, Flanders affords convenience to the Hamptons’ southern shoreline while also enjoying proximity to the North Fork’s wineries and farm stands. And since residents prefer to stick around through the typical off-season in their humble cottages, ranches, and shingle-style homes, they retain the luxury of year-round access to those fabled, cherished aspects of life out east. Within Flanders itself, however, there is ample waterside and parkland scenery to get excited about. The hamlet sits below the Peconic River, resting against its eponymous bay, offering opportunities for fishing and boating. Hubbard County Park provides over 1,000 acres for freshwater fishing in Penny Pond, plus space for hiking, canoeing, and kayaking in an unspoiled natural setting. Did we mention the giant roadside duck?