Moriches is a hamlet located in the Town of Brookhaven in Suffolk County, New York.
History
Moriches was originally settled by English colonists in the late 17th century. The name Moriches comes from Meritces, a Native American word for “place of the eel grass.” During the 19th century, Moriches became a center for shipbuilding and fishing. Today, the hamlet is largely a residential community with a mix of historic homes and newer developments.
Population
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Moriches is approximately 2,485 people. The racial makeup of the community is predominantly White, with smaller populations of Hispanic, Black, and Asian residents.
Education
Students in Moriches attend schools in the William Floyd School District, which serves several communities in the area. The district has six elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school. According to GreatSchools, a website that rates schools and student based on test scores and other factors, the schools in the William Floyd School District are generally rated as average.
Health
There are several healthcare facilities and hospitals located within a short drive of Moriches, including Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center in nearby Patchogue and Stony Brook University Hospital in Stony Brook. There are also several urgent care centers and primary care doctors located in the area ready to provide treatment.
Transport
Moriches is located on the southern shore of Long Island, approximately 70 miles east of New York City. The hamlet is accessible by car via the Sunrise Highway (Route 27) and the William Floyd Parkway. The nearest train station is the Mastic-Shirley station, which is located about 5 miles away and provides service on the Long Island Rail Road’s Montauk Branch. There is also a small airport, the Lufker Airport, located in nearby East Moriches.
Points of Interest
- Moriches Bay: Moriches Bay is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. The bay is home to several marinas and boat clubs, and there are several public beaches and parks located along its shores.
- Get Salty Adventures: Get Salty Adventures is a local tour company that offers guided boat tours, paddle boarding excursions, and other eco-tourism activities in Moriches Bay and the surrounding area.
- Smith Point County Park: Smith Point County Park is a large park located on the barrier island south of Moriches. The park features a beach, a campground, hiking trails, and other recreational facilities.
- Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge: The Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge is a 2,550-acre wildlife refuge located in nearby Shirley. The refuge is home to a variety of bird species, as well as other wildlife like deer and foxes.
There are several other parks, beaches, and nature preserves located in and around Moriches, as well as a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions.

