You finished or almost finished school, and now you're look for some amazing ways to make the best of this summer with your newfound time, and friends you haven't seen in a few months. Well, don't panic.

There's lots to do, especially if you live on or around Long Island! And not only is there lots to do, but you don't have to spend an arm and a leg to do them, sometimes it can be as easy as getting in the car and getting there, and you're set to have a great day! Even if you have to make time to work and do other things during your summer, there's things for you to do too.

Summer isn't endless, and you have to make the best of your time, so here are some cool ways to spice up the excitement in your summer:

1. Go to the beach

This is an obvious answer and a given that you will likely go to the beach this summer on Long Island, but take time to explore new beaches than the one you always go to. There are some beaches that allow dogs, like Montauk beaches and some Southampton beaches as well. You could also find some cute restaurants located near beaches, and you could try new foods while getting your tan on! (Basically, you don't have to always go to Smith point and have an unwanted high school reunion every time you go).

2. Try new restaurants

There's always new places popping up around the island, so you could take this summertime opportunity to explore the island and find those hidden places or popular gems that everyone talks about. You could try Wahlburgers in Port Jeff, or you could try Diner by the Sea in Long Beach if you're willing to make the drive. There's tons of restaurants and things to try, so don't always go to Applebees or McDonalds for dinner just because that's convenient.

3. Go to concerts

I know this sounds like an expensive and not plausible option, but there are tons of free concert series around the island that you would love to go to! Sure you may not be seeing Katy Perry or Justin Bieber on these concert nights, but you can definitely find some cheap entertainment for a fun night out of the house! Here's a list of free concerts that range all over the island! (And if that doesn't float your boat, you can always go to Jones Beach concerts and see great performers as well!)

4. Outdoor movies

This is an underrated option, because so many people don't even know things like this exist.There's actually tons of places that show movies this summer that let you bring your own camp chair or blanket and watch a movie under the stars! This is a list of different places showing outdoor movies this summer (or a simple google search can help you find some near you too).

5. Go to the aquarium

This could be a fun day with your squad, or a cute date idea with your summer love! It may seem a little childish, but you know you want to see the penguins and the butterfly exhibit just as much as that 5 year old running before you, so take the opportunity when it presents yourself. (Also the Long Island Aquarium in Riverhead has 50% admission after 4pm, just FYI!)

6. Riverhead Raceway

This is an odd suggestion I admit, but bear with me. I used to go to the raceway often with my dad when I was younger, and it was such a blast. Its super raw and loud, and the best nights are when they have demolition derbies, or anything where vehicles are willingly smashing into others. It's really fun and something different to try this summer! (Disclaimer: I am not a car girl, and don't pretend to care about race cars or anything, but this is still a fun time)

7. Go to the city

Yes the city can be hot, and I know it isn't technically a part of Long Island, but its so easy to get on a train and go see whatever your heart desires! You could get rush tickets at the door of your show that day, or you could go see museums or just walk around and try all the foods you see on Facebook all the time but never remember to go to! The city can be a great way to spend a day!

8. Fire Island Drag Show

This is something I actually haven't done yet, but would really like to at some point! There's shows at Cherry's On the Bay all the time and you get to enjoy the beach and boardwalk if drag shows aren't for you. Fire Island is a hidden gem, and it takes some planning to get there, but once you do you won't regret it!

This summer can be a great one if you do it right. These are just some suggestions, and of course you can always go mini golfing or go karting, or you can stop by the movies like you're used to, but consider trying some of these fun things too, it will make your summer worthwhile!