There's no better summer than a summer spent on Long Island. Long Islanders are truly blessed by the beauty surrounding them. Each town within our island has its own unique style and qualities. Here are some ideas that are close by to check off your summer bucket list:
1. Fire Island
Of course. Everyone has their own preference of which town to visit on Fire Island. My family and I grew to adore Davis Park and Ocean Bay Park; however, I'm sure every other town is just as great. The feeling of being in a whole separate world while visiting these towns is incredible. Most towns include several grills/restaurants, adorable boutiques and other little shops. Whether it be a day trip or a week-long rental in one of the welcoming beach houses, this visit is definitely a must for your summer.
2. Swimming with sharks
You have to try it. The Long Island Aquarium located in Riverhead, New York offers a shark dive experience to its guests. Riverhead is also loaded with many restaurants on the water, providing the perfect experience all in one day.
3. Crazy Beans
Crazy Beans is an interesting, tasteful cafe on Long Island. There are two locations: Miller Place and Stony Brook. I would definitely recommend coming here to hang out with your best friend or get some work done while enjoying delicious food and drinks. The coffee will not let you down.
4. Avalon Park and Preserve
This park is one of my favorite adventure spots on Long Island. It is located in the gorgeous, historical town of Stony Brook (conveniently located right near Crazy Beans). The tone of the park is so calm and peaceful—an ideal location to head to right after your work shift ends for the day. The best part is the crochet art wrapped around the trees within the trails and the Labyrinth in the center of the park!
5. Connetquot River State Park Preserve
If you're also a fan of historic locations, this is yet another interesting place to explore. The many acres of land and water hold diverse species of plants and animals. There are also many events that take place at this preserve.
6. Quogue Wildlife Refuge
This non-profit preserve has been my go-to for years now. Here they care for many permanently injured animals who are natives of New York. The trails include alluring nature scenes and small bodies of water. The entire village of Quogue has many other remarkable sights and shops that you need to visit while in the area.
7. Country Fair Entertainment Park
Perfect place to go to with your best friends or a date night. The Country Fair has go karts, mini golf, laser tag, batting cages and an arcade. Clearly, this place is fun for all ages.
8. Attend a concert at Jones Beach
Barbecuing all day long on the beach then heading over to the theater as the sun goes down to watch one of your favorite artists perform...what could be better?
9. Flyboarding
Flyboard L.I may be more on the pricier side, but this experience is definitely worth the extra shift you picked up at work. This newly popular water sport has gained a lot of attention within the year and is now finally on Long Island.
10. Montauk
This well-known hamlet is famous for its lighthouse (that is rumored to be haunted). The beaches, bars, restaurants and boutiques never fail to attract more and more visitors each year. You need to make sure you travel here at least once during the summer to explore this fun-spirited area.
The end.