Pack a Picnic - Picnic tables and coal-burning BBQ stations are located directly behind the beach (some are even near the playgrounds for easy oversight of little ones playing nearby). Bring sandwiches or fire up the BBQ for some flame-grilled foods. But don't leave food unattended for even a second as brazen sea gulls will swoop in, steal and feast on your munchies nearby. If you forget the coal (or sunblock, first aid, etc.), a small beach store nearby sells it all. It's open through Columbus Day weekend.

Playground Fun - Orient Beach Park offers two playgrounds, one for ages 2-5 and another for ages 5-12. Both have a sea life theme, including an octopus seesaw and tugboat climber. A swing set is also on premise. Soft sand lines the ground, so kids can play sans shoes. Shaded benches nearby offer parents respite from the sun or double hanging swings overlook the bay near the playgrounds as well. 

Fun in the Sun - While only a short distance of swimming area is allowed at this beach,  you can walk all 45,000 feet of the shorefront. We recommend water shoes--the coastline is very rocky. There aren't too many waves, as the beach fronts Gardiners Bay and not the ocean. But the water is clear and much marine life can be viewed, so try to bring goggles, too. Lifeguards are not on duty after Labor Day, so swimming is at your own risk.

Start a Rock Collection - While the rocky shoreline might be rough on little feet, it makes for a great rock scavenger hunt. Have your kids arrange them in the sand to create their initial and collect some to take home as a souvenir. 

Water Sports - A kayak and canoe rental stand is open through October. Call Eagle's Neck at 631-765-3502 to reserve a guided tour.

Visit the Orient Beach State Park website for more information.