Bohemia, NY
County: Suffolk
History

Bohemia is a hamlet located on Long Island, New York, within the town of Islip. The area has a rich history dating back several centuries.
Bohemia was originally inhabited by the Secatogue Native American tribe. They were part of the larger Algonquin-speaking Native American group and occupied the region for generations. European settlers began arriving in the area in the mid-17th century, leading to conflicts with the Secatogue people. The settlers eventually drove the Native Americans away, and the land was divided among the settlers as farmlands.
In the 18th and early 19th centuries, the area remained predominantly rural and agricultural. The arrival of the Long Island Rail Road in the 1840s made transportation more accessible, leading to increased development and population growth. The hamlet was initially called "Bohemia Station" after a popular resort in the area, which itself was named after Bohemia, a region in what is now the Czech Republic.
Bohemia played a significant role during World War II. The U.S. Army established an airfield in the hamlet known as the "Bohemia Army Airfield" or "Camp Upton." It served as a training facility for thousands of soldiers before they were deployed overseas. After the war, the airfield was repurposed as the Veterans Administration Hospital, which provided care for veterans until it closed in 2002.
Over the years, Bohemia has transformed from predominantly farming and military activities to a residential suburb. Many of the farms were converted into residential communities, leading to a steady increase in population. Today, Bohemia is a thriving community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. It is known for its proximity to major transportation routes and its strong community spirit.
In terms of attractions, Bohemia has a few notable sites. The Connetquot River State Park Preserve offers walking trails, fishing opportunities, and beautiful natural scenery. The Bohemia Historical Society provides information and preserves the area's history. Additionally, the hamlet is situated near the Great South Bay, providing residents with access to various water activities.
Overall, Bohemia, NY, has a diverse and historically rich background, evolving from its Native American roots to a vibrant suburban community.
Attractions

Connetquot River State Park Preserve
A beautiful nature preserve offering hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas.
Robert Moses State Park
A popular beach park with swimming areas, sports facilities, and scenic views of the Fire Island Lighthouse.
Bohemia County Park
A local park with playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails.
Smithaven Mall
A large shopping mall with a wide variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Hauppauge Industrial Park
One of the largest industrial parks in the country, featuring various businesses, manufacturing facilities, and office spaces.
Great River Golf Club
A scenic golf course with well-maintained fairways and challenging holes.
South Shore Nature Center
A nature preserve with walking trails, educational exhibits, and a variety of wildlife.
Bohemia Bagel Company
A popular local eatery offering delicious bagels, sandwiches, and coffee.
Long Island MacArthur Airport
Located in Bohemia, it serves as a regional airport with domestic flights and convenient travel options.
Bohemia Historical Society
A small museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of the local area.
Climate
Bohemia, New York, has a humid subtropical climate, which means it experiences four distinct seasons. Summers in Bohemia are warm and humid, with average high temperatures in the 80s Fahrenheit (around 27-32 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can occasionally reach into the 90s (32-37 degrees Celsius) during heatwaves. Winters are cold and can be quite snowy, with average temperatures ranging from the high 20s to the low 40s Fahrenheit (-2 to 5 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common, with an average of about 30-35 inches (76-89 cm) annually.
Spring and fall in Bohemia are transitional seasons, with mild temperatures ranging from the high 40s to the low 70s Fahrenheit (8-23 degrees Celsius). These seasons experience rainfall relatively evenly distributed throughout the year.
Overall, Bohemia experiences a typical Northeastern United States climate, with hot summers, cold winters, and moderate precipitation throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Bohemia is a small hamlet located in Suffolk County, New York, situated on Long Island. It is known for its suburban ambiance and proximity to various amenities, making it an attractive place to live for many people. Although Bohemia is not subdivided into distinct neighborhoods, there are a few notable areas within the hamlet. Here are some of the different sections or developments in Bohemia:
Connetquot
This section refers to the Connetquot area, located in the northern part of Bohemia. It is home to the Connetquot State Park, a large and beautiful park known for its preserved natural landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as bird-watching, fishing, and horseback riding. The Connetquot River flows through this area, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Oakdale Estates
Situated on the southern side of Bohemia, Oakdale Estates is a residential development known for its spacious properties and beautiful homes. This neighborhood is characterized by tree-lined streets, manicured lawns, and a serene atmosphere that provides a peaceful living environment.
Sayville Border
On the eastern side of Bohemia, close to the neighboring town of Sayville, you will find a residential area that forms the border between the two hamlets. This area features a mix of single-family homes and some small commercial establishments, providing residents with easy access to local businesses and amenities.
Ronkonkoma Border
Located in the western part of Bohemia, the area near the hamlet's border with Ronkonkoma is primarily residential, consisting of various single-family houses and some apartment complexes. This section benefits from its proximity to the Ronkonkoma train station, which offers convenient commuting options for residents.
Bohemia Manor
Bohemia Manor is a small development located towards the southern part of the hamlet. It is known for its cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, with a close-knit community feel. The area is dotted with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, offering a range of housing options for residents.
Overall, Bohemia boasts a predominantly suburban character with pockets of natural beauty and a variety of housing options. The hamlet offers a peaceful and family-oriented environment while ensuring residents have easy access to amenities and convenient transportation options.