While summer on Long Island looks a bit different this year, there are still plenty of things you can do to get outside, enjoy the gorgeous summer weather, and make memories with your family safely. We’ve compiled a list of sixteen of our favorite Long Island summer activities that you can still do while New York moves forward with reopening.
Hit the Beach
Beat the heat and spend some time in the sun by planning a trip to one of the many wonderful beaches on Long Island! Kids can swim in the waves, build sandcastles on the beach, and make memories for a lifetime. Arrive early to stake out a spot and consider visiting a less popular beach to ensure you can maintain adequate social distance from other people. Check out this list of the 25 best beaches for families on Long Island.
Go Berry Picking at Lewin Farms
Berry picking is a Long Island tradition! Spend the day exploring the berry fields and picking plump, ripe blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and more. We recommend visiting Lewin Farms in Calverton, Long Island’s first pick-your-own farm, but there are many other berry farms open now. You’ll want to call ahead to find out what fruit is in season and to ask about their current COVID-19 guidelines.
Have a Picnic
While you might have had plans for an epic summer vacation this year, you can still enjoy a little change of scenery close to home! Bring a picnic lunch, a blanket, and some sunblock to enjoy a day outside with the family at one of Long Island’s many picturesque neighborhood and state parks. Need some inspiration or want to visit a new-to-you park? Check out this list of the top picnic spots on Long Island.
Sea Kayak at Levy Park
Want to head out on an adventure? Plan a day of sea kayaking! Levy Park in the town of Hempstead is a popular place to kayak. There’s a launch area at the park, which is ideal for those who already have their own kayaks. Tours are also offered with Levy Park Rangers. Learn more about kayaking at Levy Park here.
Take a Trip to Fire Island
No Long Island summer is complete without a trip to Fire Island! One of the most beautiful places on the Atlantic coast, take the ferry over to the island and go sailing, bike riding, beachcombing, hiking, and more. While the Fire Island Lighthouse is still closed, you can explore the grounds around the lighthouse and visit the gift shop! To plan your visit to Fire Island and see what’s open, click here.
Explore Old Westbury Gardens
With over 200 acres to explore, Old Westbury Gardens is the perfect place to take the family and allow the kids to run off some of their energy. While the Westbury House is still closed for renovation, there’s plenty to see and explore at the site. Both members and general admission will need to buy tickets in advance – click here to learn more.
Enjoy Waterfront Dining Outdoors
Plan a date night or special family outing at a waterfront restaurant with patio seating! Take the night off of cooking and relax with views of the water. It’s the perfect way to end a day spent exploring a new beachside town or to refuel after a hike.
Visit Montauk
With most overseas or out of state trips cancelled the summer, use your time at home to explore all of Long Island! We recommend driving out to the Hamptons and visiting beautiful Montauk. Spend the day at the beach or explore this historic seaside town. Montauk’s iconic lighthouse tower is temporarily closed, but you can still explore the museum and grounds. Make sure to take a family photo in front of the lighthouse!
Catch a Movie at the Drive-In
With movie theatres closed, drive-in movies are popping up all over Long Island! Many of these pop-up events are staging just a movie or two though some have plans to run a longer series. Watch a movie from the comfort of your own car and spend time with your family this summer doing something different and unique. Click here to find a pop up drive-in theatre location near you.
Book a Staycation
Sometimes the best vacation is one that doesn’t require you to travel. Book a staycation rental in your town or just clear your schedule and vacation at home! Staycations are a great way to give yourself a little R&R while ensuring you’re staying safe and minimizing your risk for COVID-19.
Take a Drive-Thru Farm Tour
Do your kids love animals? Take them to a drive-thru farm tour on Long Island! In response to the pandemic, both Spirit’s Promise and North Shore Horse Rescue have added a unique way for visitors to see their facilities and support these non-profits. Ticket sales support food and medication for the rescue animals and also go towards the organization’s equine therapy programs. Click here to learn more and buy tickets.
Go Boating on the Great South Bay
Love to sail? Take a boat out on the Great South Bay! With calm waters and panoramic views, it’s the ideal place to enjoy some water recreation and relax under the sun.
Visit the Long Island Aquarium
The Long Island Aquarium is open for summer with new COVID-19 regulations in place. Take the family for an educational day exploring the indoor and outdoor exhibits at the aquarium. While many of the more interactive offerings are on hold due to the virus, you can still book a ride on the Atlantis Explorer Tour Boat. Click here to purchase tickets to the aquarium and see what’s open now.
Go Camping in Your Own Backyard
Want to get the camping experience this summer without leaving home? Pitch a tent in your own backyard or just roll out the sleeping bags to spend the night under the stars. Make s’mores in the oven, play outdoor games, tell scary stories around a backyard fire pit, and make it a night to remember!
Hike or Bike the Long Island Trails
Make sure your family is getting their exercise by planning regular walks, hikes, or bike rides this summer around Long Island! With miles of winding trails, there’s something for every skill level. Discover a new trail by checking out this list of some of Long Island’s best hiking trails.
Take the Kids to a Petting Zoo
Is there anything cuter than kids and farm animals? Luckily, many Long Island petting zoos and farms are open this summer! Make sure to call your local farm to verify their hours and COVID-19 regulations, but planning a day on the farm is sure to be a blast for the whole family. Find a farm near you here.
If all this time at home has left you dreaming of making a move, we’re here to help! Browse the latest homes for sale on Long Island or contact us to get started with the buying or selling process.
The Pesce & Lanzillotta Team, at BHHS Laffey International Realty
Office: 516-888-9711
Email: info@pl-team.com
