Belle Terre, NY Homes for Rent

Belle Terre, a gated community marked by a historic French-inspired stone and iron gatehouse, is known for its exclusivity and scenic beauty. Located at the north end of Port Jefferson, this neighborhood has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century when real estate tycoon Dean Alvord developed the area. Today, Belle Terre is a strictly residential village with over 800 year-round residents. Homes here range from brick colonials to luxurious cliff-top mansions, with prices reflecting its high-end status. Public school students attend the highly rated Port Jefferson Union Free School District, including Port Jefferson Elementary School, Port Jefferson Middle School, and Port Jefferson High School, all of which receive top marks for academics and teacher performance. Belle Terre residents enjoy access to a private beach equipped with cabanas, showers, and kayak racks, as well as various community events and festivals. For dining and shopping, locals head to nearby Port Jefferson, known for its historic charm and diverse eateries like The Fifth Season and Slurp Ramen. The neighborhood is less than 1 square mile and features its own constabulary, ensuring a low crime risk compared to the national average. While most residents own cars, the Port Jefferson train station, just a 5-minute drive away, offers convenient access to Manhattan via the Long Island Rail Road. Belle Terre's unique character is further highlighted by its pop culture history, including the now-razed pink mansion from the 1989 film "She-Devil."