Leaving Chapel Hill for the summer is always a bittersweet thing for me because there is nothing quite like the "southern part of heaven." However, there are some summer experiences on Long Island that you simply cannot find anywhere else.
1. The Beach!
How could I talk about summer on Long Island without starting with the beach? It is, after all, an island! Whether your weapon of choice be Robert Moses, Jones Beach or something else, Long Island has an amazing assortment of (yes, sometimes very crowded, but very awesome) white-sand beaches!
2. An Outing to Fire Island
While the two beaches listed above actually are found on Fire Island, taking the ferry over and spending the day (or weekend) at Ocean Beach is a very different experience than a beach getaway because the secluded village there is just so cute.
3. State Parks
The Planting Fields Arboretum State Park (pictured above) is just one beautiful example of the many places you can go to get your green on on Long Island. Other beautiful state parks include Sunken Meadow State Park, Caumsett State Park, Connetquot River State Park Reserve and many many more.
4. Adventureland
Yes, it's what the movie is based off of (not where the movie was actually filmed, though). If you're looking for a wholesome day on some mediocre theme park rides, look no further. Adventureland is the campy upgraded-fair experience of your dreams.
5. Splish Splash
How can you forget the slightly classier version of Adventureland? Its sister water park has tons to offer to help you cool off on a hot summer day, whether it be the Lazy River or the Wave Pool.
6. The Hamptons
If you're looking for a classier experience consisting of tons of things you cannot afford, the Hamptons is your destination. Honestly, I've never been to the Hamptons (I know, I know, bad Long Islander), but it is 100 percent the place to be if you want to ~put on the ritz~.
7. Go into the City
And by the city I of course mean New York City, the only city, really, to any Long Islander. The classic Long Islander move is to take the train into the city, go to the one place they know using google maps and complain about all the tourists there. But seriously, one of the best parts about being on Long Island for the summer is having the option to explore the greatest city in the world!
8. Go to a Baseball Game
New Yorkers of all kinds feel very passionate about their baseball. Mets and Yankees fans alike flock to the stadiums during the summer to see their team win (a very uncommon affair for Mets fans, I'm afraid).
9. The Wineries
While this trip is a bit less exciting for those under 21, wine-tasting at the wineries on Long Island can be an extremely fun day that includes live music, cheese trays and walks through the vineyards.
10. Food, Food, Food
While food on Long Island is not something you can only experience during the summer, it is definitely the highlight of the island for me. There is nothing that rivals Long Island Italian food, trust me.
