Long Island summers are known for their iconic attractions and a wide variety of interactive exhibits.
Locals and visitors alike look forward to activities such as boating, enjoying lobster rolls, attending outdoor concerts at Jones Beach, and attending lawn parties with plenty of rosé and other special events.
There are plenty of outdoor experiences, such as wine tasting shark diving, and observing marine life to enjoy in the region.
The below bucket list of worthy adventures includes a mix of iconic destinations, events, off-beat experiences, and hidden gems.
Explore the Sunken Forest on Fire Island
Off the South Shore of Long Island lies Fire Island, a car-free beach destination known for its natural beauty and hidden treasures on those hot summer days. The Sunken Forest in Sailor's Haven is one of the few remaining maritime forests on the eastern seaboard.
The 40-acre forest with meandering boardwalks creates a tranquil atmosphere that may give the sensation of being below sea level. The Sunken Forest Nature Trail offers a unique opportunity to view a globally rare collection of plants along a thin strip of forest, approximately ¼ mile wide and 1.5 miles long. Wildlife such as deer and foxes can be encountered on the trail.
Fighter Jets at Bethpage Air Show Jones Beach State Park
The Bethpage Air Show at Jones Beach State Park, held annually over Memorial Day Weekend, is a popular and large air show that marks the start of the summer season. The upcoming show features the United States Air Force Thunderbirds as the main attraction. The Thunderbirds are usually joined by the United States Army Golden Knights, the Skytypers, and other renowned performers.
Experience a Shark Encounter at Long Island Aquarium
The Long Island Aquarium in Riverhead offers a unique experience for thrill-seekers with the Shark Dive. Participants are placed in a cage in the Lost City of Atlantis Shark Habitat, surrounded by sharks and schools of fish. Visitors can gain knowledge about these fascinating creatures while being guided through their habitat by a professional diver. Visitors can enjoy the Sea Lion Show and interact with various animals such as penguins, sea lions, and coati at the aquarium.
Stargazing with Custer Institute at Beachfront
The Custer Institute, Long Island's oldest public observatory, is a must-visit for astrology enthusiasts looking to observe the celestial neighborhood from an intergalactic perspective.
The Custer Institute in Southold offers free observation every Saturday evening from 7 p.m. until midnight, providing a peaceful and romantic escape from city lights.
The visibility of planets and meteor showers is contingent on weather conditions. It is advised to arrive early at the institute to take in the scenic surroundings, as it is situated within an arboretum and wildflower fields.
Belmont Stakes
The Belmont Stakes is the final leg of the Triple Crown held at Belmont Park on Long Island. Known as the ‘Test of the Champion,' spectators come from all over to watch the race.
Activities at WildPlay, iFly.Trapeze, and Long Island Adventure Park
Long Island offers a variety of adventurous activities, such as rope courses and 700-foot ziplines at WildPlay in Jones Beach. The zipline is long and 40 feet high. Experience the thrill of bungee jumping with a view of white sand and crashing waves. The park offers three levels of obstacles, making it suitable for children and adults.
iFly.Trapeze in Eisenhower Park and Long Island Adventure Park in Wheatley Heights provide aerial activities and outdoor adventures for those seeking even more excitement.
Golf at a Well-known Long Island Course
Long Island, a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts, has played host to 23 major championships and continues to attract top players. The iconic Bethpage Black Course, home to prestigious events like the PGA Championship welcomes golfers of all levels to tee off on the same legendary grounds as golfing legends. And the best part? It's a public course, so anyone can experience the thrill of playing where the pros have made history.
Golf enthusiasts may also enjoy playing at Eisenhower Park's renowned courses as well as at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, which is the oldest incorporated golf club in the U.S. and one of the five founding member clubs of the USGA.
Try a Famous Long Island Lobster Roll
Lobster rolls are popular in Long Island during the summer, with highly recommended spots including Shinnecock Lobster Factory in Southampton and The Lobster Roll (lunch) in Amagansett, known for attracting famous guests like Bill Clinton and Jerry Seinfeld.
Or experience the timeless charm of Claudio's Waterfront, a legendary spot on North Fork's Greenport waterfront that has served up delectable seafood and iconic lobster rolls for more than 150 years.
Indulge in the freshest lobster on a warm buttered roll at Duryea's Lobster Deck & Seafood Market, while enjoying a picturesque sunset over Fort Pond Bay.
Don't miss the chance to savor a mouthwatering lobster roll at Mattituck's beloved landmark, Love Lane Kitchen, where quality meets reputation.
Some other highly recommended restaurants include The Restaurant at Baron's Cove, The Clam Bar in Amagansett, The Lobster Roll Restaurant in Southampton, Jordan Lobster Farms in Island Park, Porter's on the Lane in Bellport, and The Halyard in Greenport.
Visit the Top of a Famous Lighthouse
Step back in time and embark on a journey of maritime history with Long Island's iconic lighthouses. From the historic Montauk Lighthouse, commissioned by none other than President George Washington himself, to the picturesque Fire Island Lighthouse, get ready to climb to the top for breathtaking views of crashing waves and stunning shorelines.
Experience the beauty and charm of these beacons of light as you soak in panoramic views of the ocean, Fire Island, and even the NYC skyline on a clear day.
Explore Giant Outdoor Art Installations
Don't miss out on Long Island's enchanting outdoor sculpture gardens, where art and nature collide in a stunning display. Spend a day wandering through floral paradises and art-filled parks, marveling under the summer sky.
Pack a picnic and embark on the perfect day trip adventure. Discover a treasure trove of art and culture on Long Island this summer, from internationally renowned collections to quirky local exhibits and serene outdoor installations. Dive into a world of creativity and inspiration!
Also, stop by the Parrish Art Museum has been showcasing the artistic legacy of Long Island's East End since the 1950s. It is considered one of America's significant creative centers, offering indoor and outdoor art exhibitions on its 14-acre property with more than 3,500 works of contemporary art.
Enjoy a Summer Concert Under the Stars
Attending concerts at the Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater is a popular summer tradition on Long Island, featuring a variety of bands and artists.
Other iconic live music venues in the area include Claudio's, The Surf Lodge, Flynn's Fire Island, and Bodhi's Beach Shack, where you can dance the night away.
Explore Long Island's Gold Coast
Known for its grand estates and beautiful gardens, take a tour of the mansions from the Roaring Twenties, once owned by wealthy tycoons like the Vanderbilts and Guggenheims. Stay at Oheka Castle, a luxurious hotel often featured in Hollywood movies.
Visit other historic mansions like Old Westbury Gardens, Sands Point Preserve, Coe Hall, The Mansion at Glen Cove, Chelsea Mansion, Marshall Field Estate, and Vanderbilt Museum for a glimpse into the Gilded Age.
Ride the Longest Bike Trail on Long Island
Embark on a cycling adventure along the Bethpage Bikeway, Long Island's longest traffic-free paved bike path stretching 13 miles.
Traverse through serene nature reserves like Massapequa Preserve, Bethpage State Park, and Trail View State Park, where you can spot wildlife in two wetland preserves. Visitors can enjoy a meal at Bethpage State Park and take in the scenery while sitting at one of their outdoor picnic tables.
A fishing rod would be useful at the Massapequa Reservoir, a local spot where you can find largemouth bass, trout, sunnies, carp, catfish, and pickerel.
Take a Gold Coast Yacht Charter or Dinner Cruise
Enjoy the usual summer staples like a sunset cruise in Gold Coast style aboard a private yacht charter from Long Island Boat Rentals. Its standard charters can accommodate up to six passengers, or opt for a custom-designed party yacht for up to 24 guests. Experience luxury yachting with views of waterfront mansions and the New York City Skyline.
Other boating experiences include sunset dinner cruises departing from Bay Shore Marina, riverboat tours around lighthouses, the Moon Chaser Cruise from Captree State Park, and water sports in Northport Harbor with Over the Top Water Sports.
As you can see there's plenty to see and do in New York from ziplining to visiting historic mansions. Don't forget Museum Row, water parks, Rosyln Harbor, Montauk Brewing Company, Harbes Family Farm, Central Park, hiking trails, and all of the rich history that NY has to offer.
Relocating to New York
There are so many exciting events for history buffs, too as well as those who prefer indoor activities instead of the Great outdoors.
If you're looking to relocate or visit Montauk, or New York in general, be sure to hire professional Realtors like Taleene and Ritchie Krug Jr. who can find you exactly what you're looking for in terms of the best home, house, condo, or townhome.
Lifelong residents of Long Island, they are part of a team with more than 40 years of combined real estate experience. They have a deep understanding of how real estate has evolved through the years which results in a team with unique dynamics and expert negotiating skills being put to work on your behalf.
With 20 offices spanning Brooklyn Queens and Long Island, nobody is better equipped to handle your real estate needs.
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