Why Long Island Stands Out as New York’s Premier Summer Getaway Destination

Bridgehampton | Clay LeConey

Long Island, located along the Atlantic Ocean and the Long Island Sound, is one of New York’s most popular destinations for a summer visit. This picturesque island has charming cities and towns, an array of sandy beaches to explore, and incredible dining options, only a short journey from significant cities such as New York City, Philadelphia, and Boston. In addition to the Hamptons, described below, here are a few towns in Long Island worth visiting: 

Eastport: Eastport is a charming hamlet on the South Shore near Moriches Bay with quaint shops and restaurants. Its quiet and calm atmosphere makes it perfect for a tranquil coastal getaway.

Port Jefferson: Port Jefferson is a pleasant and historical community settled in the 17th century. Today, it is a charming village with busy marinas and parks.

Mill Neck: Mill Neck is a tiny community on the North Shore situated in Nassau County. It is known for its high-end and expansive residential properties.

Hampton Bays: A scenic city with famous beaches and a laid-back environment, this is a small hamlet popular among boaters, thanks to the waterways that connect it to many areas of the island.

Williston Park: Williston Park is a small village in Nassau County that also has busy commercial areas with hundreds of shops and eateries.

Uniondale: Uniondale is a small suburban community in Long Island home to Hofstra University. It has top-notch museums, pleasant parks, nearby golf courses, and a college-town atmosphere.

Hampton Bays | Jeffrey Blum

The Hamptons

Situated on the South Fork on East Long Island, the Hamptons, a coastal community with sandy shores, quaint communities, high-end real estate, and a reputation for luxury, has a long-standing status as one of the East Coast’s premier summer getaway hotspots. At the Hamptons, you’ll find some of the best beaches in New York, and many have purchased private waterfront properties for their own slice of seaside paradise.

The Hamptons are composed of several smaller communities, including Southampton, East Hampton, Sagaponack, Westhampton, Bridgehampton, Shinnecock Hills, and more. These communities are charming seaside hubs attractive for their laid-back atmosphere, beautiful settings, and endless summer activities. In the warmer seasons, these towns’ populations swell as throngs of visitors arrive.

East Hampton | Clay LeConey