East End

Family-Friendly Hotels in the Hamptons and North Fork

Submitted by James Smith on Sun, 07/21/2019 - 11:00am

If you’ve ever visited the Hamptons and North Fork on Long Island, you know there is lodging to meet just about every need. There are hotels near fishing resorts, country inns near golf courses and bed-and-breakfasts within walking distance of the North Fork’s celebrated wineries. Families visiting the East End have options, too, from chain hotels near kid-favorite attractions to mom-and-pop guesthouses with private beaches and pools. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite Hamptons and North Fork hotels, motels and guesthouses for families.

Top Beach Playgrounds on Long Island

Submitted by Thien August on Fri, 07/19/2019 - 11:30am

Long Island beaches offer the opportunity for memory-making experiences. Some of the best include time frolicking on the playground to the soundtrack of crashing summer waves. We've rounded up some of the best beach spots with playgrounds in Nassau, Suffolk, and the East End. So pack a lunch and plan to spend the day enjoying these destinations. Make sure to snap pictures of the smiles from a fun day in the sun.

Top 33 Rainy Day Activities in the Hamptons and North Fork

Submitted by James Smith on Sun, 07/14/2019 - 10:55am

Not every summer day is perfect on Long Island’s East End. In fact, there are those rainy days in July and August when Mother Nature just refuses to cooperate.

When those moments occur, parents have to get more creative in minding the little ones. The good news is that as the Hamptons and North Fork have become more year-round destinations, entertainment options for children have grown.

Southampton With Kids: Fun Things to Do in This Hamptons Beach Community

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Tue, 07/09/2019 - 2:15pm

Southampton Village sits along a stretch of shoreline on the South Fork of Long Island's East End. Nestled between Hampton Bays and Water Mill, sandy beaches and celebrity sightings are where it's at, especially in the summer. It's an ideal destination for a family day trip, and visiting on weekdays or getting an early-morning weekend start will save you hours in Hamptons traffic.

Read on for our family-friendly guide to what to do and see, which beaches to visit, and where to eat and play.

Candy Shops on Long Island Where You Can Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Submitted by Kimberly Chacon on Sun, 07/07/2019 - 12:46pm

Nothing is quite like a visit to a local candy shop on Long Island. Whether you are preparing to fill Easter baskets with goodies or just looking for a fun place to satisfy your sweet tooth, feasting your eyes on the vibrant colors, smelling the familiar scent of sugar, and anticipating the first bite of a sweet treat brings out the child in everyone.

A visit to one of these 20-plus Long Island destinations gives yours kids a chance to sample treats, take tours, or even a attend candy-making class. These shops offer everything from hand-dipped truffles to old-fashioned penny candies.

For more tasty treats, see our guide to old-fashioned Long Island ice cream parlors, destinations for decadent desserts, and even Long Island restaurants where kids can eat FREE.

Berry Farms on Long Island for Picking Your Own Blueberries, Blackberries, and More

Submitted by Thien August on Sun, 06/30/2019 - 9:00am

Summer is a great time for berry picking on Long Island. Bushes are low to the ground, and berries are small enough for little fingers to grasp. It's a great activity for kids of all ages, and, really, who can resist a bowl of fresh berries and cream?

Late July is peak season for blueberries and raspberries. Blackberries ripen in August. Be sure to call the farms before heading out to confirm picking hours and berry availability. Don't forget to check out our Pick Your Own Guide for more fruit-picking options in the tristate area.

50 Fun Summer Things to Do with Kids and Families in the Hamptons and North Fork

Submitted by James Smith on Sun, 06/23/2019 - 11:00am

So much to do, so little time. That’s a popular refrain on Long Island’s East End, where vacationers and residents alike struggle to pack as much adventure as possible into the 80-some days of summer. Which is where we come in, of course. Our Mommy Poppins experts have updated their list of the best fun things to do this summer with great family-friendly events in the Hamptons and North Fork. We’ve researched family beaches, state and county parks, pools, and even indoor options just in case Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate.

So if you're visiting the East End, have a look at this kid-friendly list of great summer activities. While you’re at it, check out our guide to this unique region, home to farms, museums, wineries, and even the trendy celebrity or two. Who knows: While you’re here, you might even scratch an item or two off our list of 100 must-do things with LI kids. Hurry, time’s a-wasting.

50 Free Things to Do With Long Island Kids This Summer

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Sun, 06/16/2019 - 12:45pm

Does the thought of a full summer vacation make you think of empty pockets?

In between camps, parties, sitters, and trips, the next two months can get costly. And for a family with more than one child, even a trip to the water park can add up. But summer doesn’t have to drain your wallet.

We've compiled a list of 50 FREE things families can do together. From outdoor concerts and movies, to museums, classes, and festivals, Long Island has something going on all summer long.

Check a few more things off your bucket list with our Summer Fun Guide. Feeling really ambitious? Here are 100 things to do with Long Island kids before they grow up. See our guide to FREE family activities on Long Island for even more inspiration.

Best Public Swimming Pools for LI Kids, with Water Slides, Spray Parks, and Playgrounds

Submitted by Thien August on Fri, 06/14/2019 - 11:30am

Long Island families often look to public swimming pools to cool off in summertime. But when the kids are bored with the municipal pool down the street, maybe it's time to check out a family-friendly pool or water park in another community.

We’ve done the research and put together a list of swimming pools, water playgrounds, splash pads, and kiddie pools that anyone can visit, even if you’re not a resident of that municipality. Fees to enter the pools are often higher for nonresidents, but it might be worth it as a once-in-a-while boredom buster.

If you’re exploring a different area of Long Island, use our guides to Nassau, Suffolk, and the East End to find more fun things to do and make an adventure of it all. And don't forget our guide to summer fun for all the best things to do on Long Island during the school break.

25 Great Father's Day Activities for Long Island Dads

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Sun, 06/02/2019 - 1:30pm

For all the wonderful things they do for their families, dads and grandads deserve some extra-special attention on Father’s Day. In case you haven’t made plans yet, we’ve put together a list of activities to do with dear old dad or grandpa that will let them know how much they're loved and appreciated.

So, whether he’s crazy for sports, loves to spend time outdoors, or enjoys creating things with his hands, we hope our roundup sparks some fun ideas to do on June 16. And for more family-friendly options this month, check out our JuneGoList and our Summer Fun Guide.

As always, check websites or call before heading out for potential weather-related cancellations. Happy Father's Day to all our dads and grandfathers.