Perched on a bluff overlooking Hempstead Harbor, Sea Cliff is Nassau County's second oldest village. Its compact size, picturesque landscape and historic homes contribute to the village's charm and cohesive community spirit, many residents say.

"All the shop owners know your kids," said Terry Sciubba, a long- time resident and owner- broker of Sherlock Homes Realty Corp.

Several groups help bolster the sense of community, said Dan Maddock, the village administrator. "If you want to get involved in something that interests you, it's easy to do," he said.

The village recently named a street after Henry Hollman, a life-long resident and town historian now in his 80s.

While many professionals live in Sea Cliff, the village has traditionally attracted creative types - artists, writers and musicians, Sciubba said. "I call it SoHo in Sea Cliff."

The community's old-fashioned commercial district on Sea Cliff Avenue, dotted with street lamps, hanging baskets and American flags, features a blend of shops, pubs, eateries and services. Village Hall, Sea Cliff Museum and the adult library (the children's library is across the street) are housed here in a former Methodist church.

About 60 percent of the houses - many of them Victorians, including Queen Annes - were built before 1938 on tight lots along narrow, winding roads. There's also a smattering of Colonials, ranches, split-levels and capes.

Many visitors are attracted to the annual Sea Cliff Mini-Mart, a street fair featuring arts, crafts and music, held the first Sunday in October. Around Halloween, elementary students parade along Sea Cliff Avenue in costume. Summer activities include plays at the park and an outdoor movie night hosted by a resident.

-Lisa Doll Bruno (10/14/2004)