Fire Island 

Originally a whaling station in 1653, Fire Island is now known as one of the premier summer retreats! Fire Island is a barrier island right across from the south shore of Long Island that is home to some of the most unique natural attractions. Prepare to take in the sights and sounds on foot or by boat on the carless island!

If hiking, swimming, and bicycling are your cup of tea or you’re looking for a new challenge in fitness, then one of your first stops has to be the Sunken Forest on Fire Island, which was given its name for the low meadowland that separates the narrow sandy beach from the uplands. Located in the forest are also golf facilities with three nine-hole golf courses, a pro shop, and driving range. Don’t forget to pack a lunch for the plush and spacious picnic area! Along with a manmade dam and tall glacier bluffs are three miles of tranquil and breathtaking beach.

Want to see all of Fire Island in one view? This is possible at the Fire Island Lighthouse. The lighthouse is a 180-foot tower on the western end of Fire Island. Guests are able to see a panoramic view of Fire Island from up here. In addition to the view, the lighthouse area has a nature trail, a museum detailing the history of the lighthouse, and guided tours.

Watch Hill is another stop you should make on your staycation on Fire Island. More than 300 species of birds have been recorded on this Island, and around one-third of all the birds found in North America have been seen here! Watch Hill provides a variety of outdoor activities, including back-country hiking, bird-watching and ocean swimming! The park also contains a nature trail, marina, and beaches. More than 26 sand sites cover the campground area.

From shell decorating to surfing, Fire Island a perfect staycation destination for the whole family.

Shelter Island 

A part of the original Plymouth Company land grant made possible by James I in 1620, Shelter Island is now an ideal spring and summer retreat.

Mashomack Preserve is a natural area covering almost 2,100 acres of land. On this preserve, there are many species of plants and animals that make their home here. Hiking is a wonderful way to truly experience the beauty of the preserve. Mashomack also provides nature programs and guided hikes. Be sure to see the 10 miles of white coastline that edge the preserve. 

Kayak tours are popular on Shelter Island as tourists are able to explore the unique and tranquil scenery of Shelter Island’s harbors and creeks.

You are able to see both Southhold and Greenport from Crescent Beach. More than a half mile long, this beach is the island's most frequented beach. Crescent Beach offers a wonderful view of the sunset!

Shelter Island is a scenic sanctuary that you and your family will experience and remember as a great staycation!

The Hamptons

The Hamptons are known for posh and exclusive summer and spring events and activities. While many of these events and activities are not kid-friendly, there are attractions on the Hamptons designed with kids in mind.

Goat on a Boat is a popular theater in Sag Harbor that provides families with puppet shows, family workshops, and puppet play groups. Vegetables' Destiny, Puppets of the High Seas and The Chicken Show are just some of wonderful and hilarious puppet shows at Goat on a Boat.

America’s oldest cattle ranch is located here in the Hamptons. Deep Hollow Ranch is located on preserved acres of coastal land and is the known as the birthplace of the American cowboy. On the ranch, you can take part in riding the trails and boarding as well as experiencing the Living History Tours.

Wildlife activity and ecological treasures can be found at the East Hampton Nature Trails. You can enjoy all there is to see on the trails and sanctuary by either bicycling, hiking, or even riding on horseback. Guided tours are available.

And of course the Hamptons are home to many of the nation's top beaches, worthy as one of your primary stops during spring break.