The Ultimate Guide to 10 Must-Do Long Island Outdoor Activities for Adventure Junkies
If you’re looking for an exciting way to spend your summer in Long Island, look no further! This guide is designed to showcase the best outdoor activities that Long Island offers for adventure lovers. With a variety of options available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From hiking, biking, surfing, and kayaking, to fishing and camping, Long Island has it all.
1. Hiking in the Long Island Pine Barrens
Hiking in the Long Island Pine Barrens is a must-do activity for adventure junkies. The Pine Barrens is a 100,000-acre protected wilderness area that offers miles of hiking trails for all skill levels. The trails pass through diverse landscapes, including dense forests, freshwater wetlands, and rare plant species. The Pine Barrens is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and reptiles. Some popular hiking trails include the Paumanok Path, the Beaver Dam Loop Trail, and the Oakley Gull Island Trail.
2. Bike Riding Through Montauk State Park
Montauk State Park is a cyclist’s paradise. The park has over 5 miles of paved bike trails that wind through beautiful landscapes of fields, woods, and beaches. The trails are easy enough for beginners but challenging enough for seasoned cyclists. It’s also a great way to explore the stunning coastline of Long Island. The park rents bikes for those who don’t have one.
3. Surfing at Long Beach
Long Beach is one of the best surfing spots in the country, with waves that attract surfers of all levels from around the world. This 2.2-mile beach boasts several surfing schools and shops that offer lessons, rentals, and sales of surfing equipment. It’s also one of the few beaches that allow surfing year-round. If you’re a surfing newbie, Long Beach is the perfect place to learn how to catch a wave.
4. Kayaking in Napeague Bay
Kayaking in Napeague Bay is a unique adventure that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The bay is located on the eastern side of Long Island, with miles of protected coastline that’s perfect for kayaking. You can rent a kayak or bring your own. Napeague Bay is also an ideal spot for fishing, birdwatching, swimming, and picnicking.
5. Fishing in Montauk Point State Park
Montauk Point State Park is a prime fishing destination in Long Island. The park has many fishing spots, including the famous Montauk Lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the Atlantic and a chance to catch striped bass, bluefish and other species. If you’re not an experienced fisherman, you can hire a guide who knows where and when to catch the fish of your choice.
6. Beach Camping at Robert Moses State Park
Camping at Robert Moses State Park is a thrilling experience that combines stunning scenery with the allure of the ocean. The park is a prime spot for beach camping on Long Island, with over 20 miles of sandy beaches where visitors can camp. The park offers many amenities, such as restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and fire pits.
7. Sailing on Long Island Sound
Sailing on Long Island Sound is a peaceful yet exhilarating way to explore the coastline of Long Island. The Sound offers a unique sailing experience, with calm waters, gentle breezes, and stunning views of the shore. You can rent a sailboat or take sailing lessons if you’re a beginner.
8. Horseback Riding in Calverton
Horseback riding in Calverton is an adventure that lets you explore Long Island’s beauty on horseback. The area is home to several farms that offer horseback riding, lessons, and guided tours. Horseback riding is a great way to get away from the crowded beaches and enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature.
9. Paddleboarding at Orient Beach State Park
Paddleboarding at Orient Beach State Park is a unique way to explore the Long Island Sound. The beach offers calm waters that are perfect for paddleboarding, with stunning views of the lighthouse and Plum Island. If you’re not an experienced paddleboarder, the park offers lessons and rentals.
10. Hiking the Greenbelt Trail
Hiking the Greenbelt Trail is a great way to escape the city and enjoy a day in nature. The trail passes through woods and fields, offering breathtaking views of the Long Island countryside. The trail is 32 miles long, but you can choose to hike a shorter section if you prefer. The trail is easy to follow, and there are several parking areas along the way.
In Conclusion
Long Island is a haven for adventure lovers seeking outdoor activities. The above ten must-do activities offer a range of experiences for all skill levels. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, surfing, kayaking, fishing, camping, sailing, horseback riding, paddleboarding, or just exploring nature, Long Island offers endless adventures to enjoy. So, grab your gear and start planning your next adventure!
