Long Island is alive with activities in the summer and fall. It is a favorite place for many visitors to New York State to hang their hat. Those who want to spend their days in comfort opt for boutique hotels. Long Island has several from which to choose. Popular ones are found in Suffolk County which covers most of the eastern portion of the island. From here, they can make their way to many of the different events and attractions that brought them here.
Beaches
Long Island is home to many popular beaches. They are busy from late May to Labor Day – depending upon the weather. Among the most popular are:
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Jones Beach – tends to be crowded
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Fire Island – always moves at a frenetic pace but it quiet downs after Labor Day. In October hiking takes over from swimming
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Shelter Island – quieter and more circumspect
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Hamptons – posh and upscale – perfect for those already staying in boutique hotels in the area
Activities
For some, the holidays are all about simplicity. They prefer to bicycle around the area. They may hike in Mashomock Nature Preserve on Shelter Island or along the shorelines from East Hampton to Montauk. The Massapequa Preserve in Nassau County also is an excellent hike providing glimpses of different environments. Yet, perhaps one of the longest is Greenbelt Trail. This 32-mile stretch passes through both Suffolk and Nassau Counties through a very diverse landscape and environment including wetlands, marshes and a state park.
Some prefer a more sedate life. They enjoy quiet days on the beach or enjoy various cultural events. Long Island obliges them with a variety of museums, art galleries and cultural events that take part in various communities. Simply look at the guide, walk out of the door of your boutique hotels and head for any of the following attractions:
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Wine Trails – around Greenport
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Parrish Art Museum in Southampton
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Nassau County Museum of Arts – Roslyn Harbor
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Whaling museum – Sag Harbor or Cold Spring Harbor
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Live music at Stephen Talkhouse in Amagansett
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Galleries – South Fork, Southampton, Babylon
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LongHouse Reserve, East Hampton – walk in around 16 acres of gardens featuring 60 pieces of contemporary sculpture including works by Yoko Ono and Willem de Kooning
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Long Island Museum of American Art, History & Carriages – Stony Brook
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Islip Art Museum – contemporary art museum in East Islip
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Long Island Children’s Museum – Garden City
Whether you enjoy hiking, beach activities or museums, Long Island is able to satisfy these needs. Enjoy your stay in a comfortable boutique hotel on Long Island while you explore. Whatever your nature, the Island has much to offer you, especially in the summer time when so much comes alive.
