A Walk Outside: Ruth Wales du Pont Sanctuary

James Lane Post highlights a different spot to explore outdoors on the East End in our series “A Walk Outside.” This week: Ruth Wales du Pont Sanctuary.

Tucked away at the very end of Captains Neck Lane in Southampton Village, the Ruth Wales du Pont Sanctuary is a hidden gem. Perfect for a short hike to view a beautiful scene.

The property was donated to The Nature Conservancy in 1961 by Henry and Ruth Wales du Pont. Surrounded by upland woods, the salt marsh is vital in sustaining the ecology of Shinnecock Bay.

“Salt marsh serves as a natural buffer protecting upland areas against storms and tidal action, as a filter reducing runoff and pollution into the water, and as a nursery from much of the life in the bay and ocean,” read a sign from The Nature Conservancy.

Once you enter the Sanctuary, there is a winding path down to the water. Take in the scenes along the way. It can be muddy, so wear proper shoes.

Jessica Mackin-Cipro

Co-Publisher/Editor

Jessica Mackin-Cipro is an editor and lifestyle writer from the East End of Long Island. She was previously the Executive Editor of The Independent Newspaper and co-founded James Lane Post in 2020. She has won multiple NYPA and PCLI awards for journalism, design, and social media, including the Stuart C. Dorman Award for Editorial Excellence. In 2023, she was a recipient of the President's Volunteer Service Award at the United Nations 67th Annual Commission on the Status of Women. She aims to share the stories of inspirational people and places on the East End and beyond.