Round Beach, White Plains, VA

Round Beach Neighborhood Overview

Overview

Round Beach is a distinctive and historic waterfront neighborhood located in the southeastern corner of White Plains, NY, bordering the Town of Harrison and the scenic Kensico Reservoir. Its name derives from its unique geography—a small peninsula that juts into the reservoir, creating a rounded, beach-like shoreline. This area has a rich history, originally developed in the early 20th century as a summer colony with quaint bungalows, offering a rustic retreat from city life. Over the decades, it has transformed into a highly sought-after, year-round residential enclave known for its serene, village-like atmosphere within the bustling county seat.

The neighborhood's character is defined by its intimate connection to the water and its tight-knit community feel. Streets are quiet, winding, and often end in cul-de-sacs or waterfront vistas, emphasizing privacy and a sense of removal. While just minutes from downtown White Plains' skyscrapers, major highways, and the Metro-North train station, Round Beach feels like a secluded haven. Residents enjoy a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience, all anchored by the stunning, protected views of the Kensico Reservoir, a critical part of New York City's water supply system.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Round Beach is a charming mix of original, renovated bungalows from its summer colony days and larger, modern custom-built homes that maximize water views. Architectural styles are eclectic, ranging from traditional Cape Cods and Colonials to contemporary designs. Due to its prime waterfront location and limited inventory, Round Beach is one of the most exclusive and expensive neighborhoods in White Plains. Home prices typically start well above the city's average, often reaching into the multi-million dollar range for properties with direct reservoir frontage or panoramic water views.

Ownership dominates the neighborhood, with very few rental properties available. The real estate market is highly competitive, with homes selling quickly due to high demand and low turnover. Recent trends show a continued preference for renovating and expanding original structures, though teardowns and rebuilds are not uncommon. The value proposition is clear: a premium is paid for the unique combination of land, water access (though swimming and boating are restricted on the reservoir), privacy, and proximity to urban amenities that Round Beach uniquely offers within Westchester County.

Schools & Education

Round Beach is part of the highly regarded White Plains City School District. Children in the neighborhood typically attend Ridgeway Elementary School, which is known for its strong academic programs and diverse student body. For middle school, students progress to Highlands Middle School, and then to White Plains Senior High School. The high school offers a comprehensive curriculum, including numerous Advanced Placement (AP) courses, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and a wide array of extracurricular activities in the arts, athletics, and clubs.

In addition to the public schools, families in Round Beach have access to several prestigious private and parochial school options in the surrounding area, including The School of the Holy Child in Rye and various academies in nearby Scarsdale and Greenwich. For higher education, the neighborhood is conveniently located near several colleges, including Pace University's White Plains campus (graduate programs) and Westchester Community College in Valhalla, adding to the area's strong educational ecosystem.

Parks & Recreation

The defining recreational feature of Round Beach is, unsurprisingly, its access to the Kensico Reservoir and the surrounding parkland. While active recreation on the water itself is prohibited to protect the water supply, the neighborhood is encircled by the Kensico Dam Plaza and the extensive Westchester County park system. The iconic Kensico Dam offers a majestic setting for walking, jogging, and picnicking with breathtaking views. The nearby Bronx River Parkway Reservation provides miles of paved trails for biking, running, and walking through scenic woodlands.

Within White Plains, residents have easy access to the city's recreational facilities, including the expansive Tibbits Park downtown, the White Plains Recreation Center with its indoor pool and fitness facilities, and the Saxon Woods Pool and golf course. The neighborhood's own quiet, tree-lined streets are perfect for leisurely strolls and neighborly interaction, fostering an active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle despite its proximity to the urban core.

Local Dining & Shopping

Round Beach itself is a quiet residential zone with no commercial corridors, which preserves its peaceful character. However, its central location places a wealth of dining and shopping options just a short drive away. Downtown White Plains, a mere five-minute drive, offers a vibrant mix of restaurants ranging from casual eateries and ethnic cuisines to upscale dining establishments. The nearby "Platinum Mile" along Westchester Avenue and the The Westchester shopping mall provide high-end retail therapy with stores like Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and Apple.

For daily conveniences, residents frequent the ShopRite on Main Street or the Whole Foods Market in nearby Harrison. The charming village of Scarsdale, with its boutique shops and cafes, is also easily accessible. For a more local, neighborhood feel, many Round Beach residents patronize the small businesses and markets in the adjacent Gedney Farms and Fisher Hill areas, enjoying a balance between major retail convenience and community-oriented commerce.

Who Lives Here

Round Beach attracts a discerning demographic of professionals, executives, and established families who value privacy, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community. Residents often include commuters to Manhattan who appreciate the easy access to the White Plains Metro-North station, as well as professionals working in the corporate hubs of Westchester County and Fairfield County, CT. The neighborhood tends

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