Shelter Island Whale's Tale

Shelter Island Whale's Tale

Reviews Summary

The Whale's Tale is a popular family destination offering mini golf, ice cream, and arcade games. Most reviews praise the friendly staff, delicious ice cream (especially unique flavors), and fun atmosphere, though some note the mini golf course could use maintenance. While many highlight excellent service and nostalgic charm, a few mention high prices or dated facilities. Overall, it's considered a must-visit for families on Shelter Island, with minor critiques on value and upkeep.

About This Listing

Has Food
Good for kids
Wheelchair Accessible

Who Can Play?

Most arcades welcome all ages (some may have age restrictions for certain games)
Minors may need parent/guardian supervision (policies vary by location)
No gaming experience required - games range from beginner to expert level
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes recommended for safety
Valid ID may be required for certain attractions or age verification
Groups and parties welcome (advance booking may be required)

*Note: Age restrictions and policies may vary by arcade. Check with your local facility for specifics.*

First-Time Visitors

First-time visitors may need to sign a waiver or register for a game card. Staff are typically available to help explain games and provide tutorials. Some arcades offer newcomer specials or free play sessions to help you get started.

Common Restrictions:

Age-Based Some games may have height or age requirements for safety reasons
Capacity Popular games may have wait times during peak hours

*Note: Policies vary by arcade. Confirm with your local facility.*

What to Bring

Cash or card for tokens/credits (some arcades are cashless)
Valid ID for age verification or membership signup
Phone to capture high scores and memories (check photo policies)

*Note: Payment methods and requirements may differ by arcade.*

Preparing for Your Visit

Check arcade hours and peak times online before visiting
Eat beforehand or check if the arcade has food options
Bring friends for multiplayer games and competitions
Wear comfortable clothes you can move freely in
Avoid bringing valuable items that could be lost or damaged
Check for special events, tournaments, or discount days
Set a budget for games and stick to it
Stay hydrated, especially during long gaming sessions

*Note: Tips may vary by arcade type and location.*

How to Get Started

Most arcades accept walk-ins, but call ahead during busy periods or for large groups. Check for membership deals!

Other Helpful Info

Most visits last 1-3 hours depending on games and group size
Popular games may have longer wait times during weekends and evenings
Many arcades offer unlimited play packages or time-based pricing
Some locations host tournaments and special events regularly
Prize redemption available at many arcades - save your tickets!

*Note: Policies, pricing, and features differ by arcade. Contact your local facility for details.*

Features

Has Food
Good for kids
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

3 Ram Island Rd

Shelter Island, New York 11964

Hours

Monday 12:30-10:30PM
Tuesday 12:30-10:30PM
Wednesday 12:30-10:30PM
Thursday 12:30-10:30PM
Friday 12:30-10:30PM
Saturday 12:30-10:30PM
Sunday 12:30-10:30PM

Customer Reviews

This place is a hidden gem. It was a great day for a family of 4. Lemonade made to Order. ?????????? Great ice-cream. With vegan options. ?????????? Friendly service. Clean bathrooms. Treat your family to a terrific time & create memories that will last forever. ???? ??????????

?????????? Shelter Island Whale?s Tale is a fun, nostalgic spot that captures the spirit of summer on the East End. Whether you're grabbing ice cream after the beach, or just stopping by for a treat, or just enjoying the relaxed vibe, it's a favorite for all ages. As a local real estate professional, I love recommending Whale?s Tale to clients and friends looking to soak in the laid-back charm of Shelter Island. It's the kind of place that turns a simple afternoon into a lasting memory. ? Cassandra Leggio

Really friendly man at the front desk, they only take card or cash for the mini golf, but they do take apple pay for the food (ice cream, etc). It was a fun mini golf experience.

A whale?s tale is not just an ice cream place, it's also a mini golf and an arcade room. They sell Ice cream, coffee, pizza and drinks. From what I have seen the mini golf is nice, not big but for the kids just enough. They also organize birthdays. They have plenty of tables outside and few inside. I gave them 3 stars because we came there for ice cream and I have tried both soft and hard ice cream. It was mediocre. I have had better.

This place is totally awesome!! The people were very friendly and the ice cream was delicious; we will come back!

$100 for 2 adults and 3 kids under 10 to play mini golf is unacceptable. We left, will not be returning and would never recommend. There are plenty of other fun, family friendly and reasonably priced things to do for families on Shelter Island.

Great variety of delicious ice cream, great atmosphere with wonderfully nice people behind the counter. There's a small arcade in the back where kids and adults can enjoy playing new and old arcade games. The mini golf course has some awesome decor and is a blast. All in all it's an especially great place to take kids.

visited summer 2022 Although it's out of the way, this place is worth the visit if you're on the island. They have tons of ice cream flavors and combinations, and excellent cannolis too. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the inside and outside was clean. They also have minigolf, and a few other amusement features. Everything is a little old and dated, but looked functional. Would visit again.

This was a great little mini golf course. I played here with 4 other friends and we had a blast! I really loved the edition of these wheels that you have to spin, before three of the holes, that added extra challenges to that particular hole based on what you spun. They also had great cannoli's! Overall it was a very fun afternoon with friends.

Amazing place for kids and adults alike. Classic mini golf the way you remember, great ice cream, incredible t-shirts, and a full arcade. This is a must-visit vacation spot if you're on Shelter Island. Truly one of the Island's best features. Can't wait to come back.

We just love the music there ! Very fun and up lifting. Makes you want to dance while eating your ice cream. Masks are optional , so those of you who aren't brainwashed can go get some fresh air ! We will be back . Try the tacos they are the best ! ?? ???

If you are in the mood for some delicious ice cream and maybe even a game of mini golf then the Whale's Tale is the best spot for you ! The ice cream is delicious and the mini golf is fun for all ages ! $4.50 for one scoop and $10 per person for mini golf not cheap but not too overpriced.

Went to shelter island last weekend for the day. Pulled into the parking lot of ?whaletale? but the door was locked. When I got back into my car the owner came from the back of the store and told me they weren't open yet but let us in anyway. I ordered a salted caramel ice cream with hot fudge which was the best ice cream I ever had The owner was a doll. We asked for a place for brunch and he called around to get us a reservation. Unfortunately most places were closed because it was the end of the season. W

I came here as a kid ten years ago, and it only gets better! I brought some friends, and we had a blast. A very competitive game followed with some excellent treats. I would recommend this place to anyone who wants to have a great afternoon of fun.

It was a great mini golf course. I recommend to everyone! Some difficult holes for adults (the volcano hole...), But also fun for kids. The ice cream was an awesome bonus too.

We stopped because we had to time to waste before our ferry ride to New London, I'm so glad we did! Very friendly great customer service, great ice cream, great music, I would love to have this in Massachusetts! #support-small-businesses.

The ice cream was an outstanding treat while riding our bikes, and we were RESCUED after some bolts were loose on our bikes. Fantastic treats and even better people! Thank you guys!!

We had an event at the Whale's Tale, and it was absolutely perfect! Erich was so accommodating of all our needs, and our guests had the best time.

Had amazing time with my family! Thank ice cream man for making it such a fun trip. Amazing food and ice cream and time of stuff to do for the kids. Highly recommend it!!

Visiting from out of town, Jonathan was so helpful and got us just what we needed! Thanks for a perfect end to our trip!!

Lots of fun. Basically what you would expect from an old time mini golf. My kids loved it and ask to go back every day. Ice cream good too.

It is a little pricey though. At $16 per person for golf, my wife and I decided to step back and just let the kids play

Terrible customer service! Will never return? Was asked to take masks off as it is a joke to have them on and was told we could be asked to leave if we we choose not to take the masks off. Perhaps, consider lowering the music next time so you can hear the order properly. Grouchy customer service!

My wife and I love playing miniature golf every summer here at the Whale?s Tale, but noticed this summer the turf on most holes were ripped directly in the path of the hole and the cups for the holes had many dents which caused the golf ball to deflect and not go in. May I request the above wear items be replaced for all to enjoy miniature golf. Thank you,

Solid ice cream, only mini golf on the island more importantly, and good hospitality. Left my sunglasses behind by accident and they had them there waiting for me the next day.

Fantastic ice cream. They have this combo flavor, cookies and cream and salted caramel which are two of my favorites.

Fun, nice staff, will go again

What a great place for fun and awesome ice cream. Definitely try the Only 8 soft served!!

The owner harassed a friend of mine and her kids for wanting to protect themselves and wear masks. For years, Whale's Tail has been a regular stop on Shelter Island. No more.

Cute little spot, authentic ice cream and very warm staff members. Amazing for kids!!

A little outdated but such a cute and fun place for kids. Offers mini golf, tennis, and other sweet treats.

Nothing fancy but really, really great ice cream.

The Shelter Island Wale?s Tale has Mini Golf, Ice Cream, and great refreshments

A truly wonderful experience with best ice cream and extremely friendly staff.

Great ice cream and service! Worth the road trip from Utah!

Great family mini golf and delicious ice cream!

Ridiculously overpriced, but fun nonetheless.

Friendly owner, tennis courts and miniature golf available. Cheerfully decorated

Fun mini golf, fantastic ice cream.

Great place for the entire family!

OK mini golf but quite pricey

So much fun for kids. Definitely recommend!!

Really good ice cream and egg creams!

Friendly! Great ice cream.

Nice throwback spot. Slight disrepair but part of the charm.

Great selection and plenty of fun!!!

Busy and a bit pricey, but a welcome respite.

Only one taste for ice cream???

(Translated by Google) Beautiful place. (Original) Bello lugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s it like visiting an arcade today?

It’s a mix of nostalgia and high-energy fun! Many arcades blend retro classics like Pac-Man and pinball with modern VR games, racing simulators, and rhythm challenges — often with music, lights, and a social vibe.

Is it better to go alone or with friends?

Both can be great! Solo visits let you focus on your favorite games, while going with friends adds competition, teamwork, and laughs. Many people plan arcade meetups as a casual hangout or even date spot.

What should I bring to an arcade?

Usually just yourself and a way to pay (some arcades still use coins, others use cards or apps). If you're competitive, bring your A-game. If you're social, bring friends or meet new ones over multiplayer games.

What’s the best time to visit an arcade?

Weekdays or early afternoons are usually less crowded — perfect for focused play. Evenings and weekends bring the buzz, especially at barcades or venues with DJs, tournaments, or themed nights.

Can I meet new people at arcades?

Absolutely! Arcades attract a mix of casual players and serious gamers. Whether you're jumping into a four-player co-op or chatting between rounds, it's a fun, low-pressure way to connect over shared interests.

Are arcades still just for kids?

Not at all. While many arcades are family-friendly, there are also adult-oriented ones with full bars, 18+ nights, or vintage nostalgia themes. Arcades today cater to everyone — from first-timers to lifelong gamers.

Are there events or tournaments I can join?

Yes! Many arcades host regular competitions, retro nights, cosplay parties, and more. Whether you're into high scores or just want to watch and vibe, events add an extra layer to the experience.

What if I’m not great at arcade games?

No worries — arcades are about having fun, not being perfect. Try a variety of games, ask others for tips, and remember: the vibe is more “let’s play” than “let’s win.”