Are you looking for fun things to do in Long Island (or ‘on Long Island’ as us locals say)? Long Island is famous for its long hot summers, picturesque coastlines, and and fabulous food. The region is a stone’s throw away from New York City, easily accessible by the Long Island Rail Road. From exclusive shopping locations to wine tasting, beaches, and boardwalks, Long Island is a treasure trove of experiences. So, if you’re looking for inspiration for your next visit, I’ve curated a list of fun things to do on Long Island.
1. Go shopping in the Hamptons
If shopping comes to mind when you think of things to do in Long Island then visiting The Hamptons is essential. Renowned for its exclusive beachfront locations, upscale shopping, and fine dining experiences, the Hamptons are a Mecca for celebrities and the affluent. East Hampton’s picturesque Main Street and downtown area are bustling with luxury boutiques, chic designer stores, and unique independent shops. As you stroll down Main Street, keep an eye out for celebrity sightings. Indulge in some retail therapy at one of the many high-end boutiques or delight in the numerous outdoor dining areas East Hampton has to offer.
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2. Take a wine tasting tour
The Long Island wine region, located in the North Fork area, is quickly becoming one of the most up-and-coming wine regions in the US. And for good reason; Long Island wineries produce impressive, high-quality wines. With over 60 wineries and 38 tasting rooms offering tours and wine tasting experiences, visitors are truly spoiled for choice. Although they can get crowded during summer months, Spring and Autumn are quieter times to visit.
With so many high-end wineries to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to go. However, these three wineries consistently rank as visitor favorites:
- Macari Vineyards, a waterfront farm offering stunning views, a chic tasting room and, of course, a lot of wonderful wine.
- Wölffer Estate Vineyard, located in The Hamptons, offers a range of experiences, including walking tours and wine tastings accompanied by charcuterie boards.
- If you’re looking for something more intimate, Channing Daughters is a great option. Despite its small size, the vineyard offers a large variety of wines made in a traditional way. Keep in mind that due to their popularity, you need to book in advance to visit.
3. Go paddle boarding at sunset
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Long Island this is a must. Outdoor enthusiasts and water sports lovers will find plenty to do on Long Island, from kayaking and surfing to sailing. However, my personal favorite water sport is paddle boarding. With a variety of groups offering lessons and organized tours exploring the nearby bays and coves, visitors can experience Long Island from a unique perspective. Many outfitters even offer sunset paddle groups, creating a truly unforgettable experience. For more experienced paddle boarders on the south shore, tours across the bay to nearby Fire Island are available.
A great place to go paddle boarding is Long Island SUP, located in Patchogue on the south shore who run amazing sunset paddle boarding tours around the local area.
4. Stroll down the boardwalk at Long Beach
Long Beach is a must-visit destination on Long Island, and only 35 miles from New York City. Known as the ‘City by the Sea’ because of its proximity to stunning white sandy beaches and an iconic boardwalk, Long Beach boasts a vibrant atmosphere with superb shopping, restaurants, bars, music, and beach activities like surfing and volleyball. It’s also one of the few beaches you can visit by train making it very convenient and accessible. Whether you’re looking to relax in the sun or get some exercise, Long Beach has it all. Head out for a day of adventure in this lively seaside city!
5. Tour the picturesque South Shore on Long Island Railroad
The Long Island Railroad on the south shore stretches all the way from Penn Station in Manhattan to Montauk on the east end of Long Island. The railroad makes stops at various towns along the way, providing you access to some of the most picturesque and charming down-towns along Long Island South Shore. Among these are Long Beach, the Hamptons, and Montauk, to name a few.
6. Book a VIP hop room at Jamesport Farm Brewery
Long Island’s serene east end is home to many breweries, and Jamesport Farm Brewery is a standout. Set on a picturesque farm in Riverhead – a town recently listed in Forbes’ “50 Best Places to Visit in 2023” – this farm-to-pint establishment offers a unique drinking experience. Year-round events include live music, comedy and private parties. The bar, housed in a charming farmhouse, exudes cozy warmth, while the VIP hop rooms make for an Instagrammable moment.
7. Unwind at Jones Beach
Famous around the world, Jones Beach is a breathtaking 6-mile stretch of white sandy beaches on Long Island’s south shore, New York. In addition to swimming and sunbathing on the pristine shoreline, Jones Beach State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. From beach-side bars and restaurants to enchanting boardwalks, the park caters to all ages and interests. For added fun, try mini-golf or catch a concert at the outdoor theater during the summer months.
8. Spend the day in the Village of Babylon
Babylon Village is known for its charming downtown area filled with excellent dining and drinking establishments, as well as a shopping district full of unique boutiques and stores. Coupled with stunning beaches and exciting entertainment make it a great place to visit.
9. Enjoy the nightlife on Nautical Mile
The Nautical Mile is a vibrant stretch of open-air bars, restaurants, and shops that line the scenic Woodcleft Canal in Freeport’s bustling fishing and boating community. Many of these establishments offer both indoor and outdoor seating with stunning views of boats navigating the canal. Live music adds to the festive atmosphere, making the Nautical Mile a popular destination for locals and visitors alike seeking a fun-filled evening out.
10. Take a ferry to Fire Island
Jump on a ferry to Fire Island and immerse yourself in a unique island community boasting stunning wilderness, landscapes, and beaches. The island is home to one of the last remaining maritime forests on the eastern seaboard, known as the Sunken Forest. You can hire a bike to explore the various communities nestled among the sands. Or visit the historic lighthouse, and unwind at one of the many beach-side bars. For more in-depth information check out my favorite things to do on Fire Island. Also keep an eye out for the island’s resident deer population! Just be sure to follow guidelines and avoid walking on the dunes to prevent tick bites.
11. Explore Long Island’s Culinary Delights
No trip to Long Island would be complete without sampling some of our many wonderful restaurants, diners, delis, and pizzerias. Whether you’re in search of the best bagels in New York or looking for restaurants with the best brunch on Long Island, you are truly spoiled for choice.
12. Go to the theater for a more low-key experience
Long Island boasts a vibrant arts scene with large theaters and smaller arts centers set amongst charming village communities. As the region is in close proximity to Broadway, it’s no surprise that theaters on Long Island offer world-class performances. From comedies to dramas, a night at a Long Island theater means avoiding the crowds and high prices of its famous neighbor while enjoying some the best the arts have to offer.
13.Visit one of Long Islands bustling farmers markets
Long Island’s farmers markets are bustling with activity from Spring to late Fall, offering visitors a wide variety of locally grown produce including fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, jams, and flowers. However, these markets serve a greater purpose beyond providing delicious and healthy options for shoppers. By supporting farmers markets on Long Island, individuals also contribute to promoting sustainability and supporting local communities.
14. Go Whale watching near Montauk Point Lighthouse
A list of things to do in Long Island would not be complete without whale watching off the coast of Long Island. During the summer months, the Coastal Research and Education Society of Long Island operate whale watching fleets. These tours, led by marine biologists, provide an unforgettable experience as visitors coast past the iconic Montauk Lighthouse in search of whales, dolphins, and turtles in the Atlantic Ocean.
Conclusion
Long Island is a great place to spend time with plenty of fun things to do. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural attractions or cocktails and dining, there’s something for everyone on this vibrant island.