Long Island, New York Travel Guide

Discover Long Island, New York's Coastal Gem: Beaches, Vineyards, Historic Sites, and a Vibrant Cultural Scene Await

Home
Travel Guides
New York
Long Island

Long Island is a unique blend of serene beaches, charming towns, and vibrant culture. It stretches from the bustling neighborhoods of Queens and Brooklyn to the tranquil shores of Montauk, offering a diverse experience for every type of traveler. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an exciting culinary adventure, Long Island has something special to offer. The North Shore is known for its opulent estates and picturesque harbors, reminiscent of the Great Gatsby era. Historic sites such as the Vanderbilt Museum and Old Westbury Gardens provide a glimpse into the island's rich past. The South Shore, on the other hand, is famed for its pristine beaches and lively boardwalks. Jones Beach State Park and Fire Island are must-visit spots for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the Atlantic Ocean. Wine enthusiasts will find a haven in Long Island's wine country, located primarily in the North Fork. This region is home to numerous vineyards and wineries, offering tours and tastings of locally produced wines. The charming towns of Greenport and Sag Harbor are perfect for leisurely strolls, with their boutique shops, art galleries, and waterfront views. For those interested in the arts, Long Island boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The Nassau Coliseum and the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts host a range of events, from concerts to Broadway shows. Art lovers can explore the Parrish Art Museum and the Heckscher Museum of Art, both showcasing impressive collections of American art. Foodies will delight in Long Island's culinary offerings, which range from fresh seafood to farm-to-table cuisine. The local food scene is diverse and dynamic, with numerous restaurants, food festivals, and farmers' markets. Don't miss the chance to try a New York-style bagel or a freshly caught lobster roll while you're here.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Long Island.

Visit during the summer months to fully enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities.
Rent a car for easy access to various attractions spread across the island.
Take a ferry to Fire Island for a relaxing day trip.
Explore the North Fork for a day of wine tasting and scenic views.
Check local event calendars for festivals and concerts during your stay.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours in historic towns and sites.

Explore Long Island: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Long Island

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Jones Beach State Park

Experience the coastal charm of Jones Beach State Park, a top destination for sun, fun, and outdoor adventures on Long Island.

4.6

Gantry Plaza State Park

Discover Gantry Plaza State Park, a serene waterfront escape in Queens offering stunning views, recreational activities, and lush green spaces.

4.8

Robert Moses State Park - Long Island

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and tranquil beaches of Robert Moses State Park on Long Island, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and beachgoers.

4.7

Splish Splash Water Park

Experience the ultimate summer adventure at Splish Splash Water Park in Calverton, NY, featuring thrilling slides, relaxing pools, and fun for the whole family.

4.3

Best landmarks in Long Island

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum

Discover the Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum, a historic maritime landmark that blends rich history with stunning ocean views on Long Island.

4.6

Old Westbury Gardens

Discover the enchanting beauty of Old Westbury Gardens, a serene botanical paradise and historical landmark in New York that captivates every visitor.

4.7

Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park

Explore the breathtaking gardens and historical charm at Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park in Oyster Bay, New York.

4.8

Bayard Cutting Arboretum

Explore the beauty and tranquility of Bayard Cutting Arboretum, a botanical paradise in Great River, NY, perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.

4.8

Best restaurants in Long Island

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Maureen's Kitchen

Experience unique breakfast creations at Maureen's Kitchen in Smithtown - where every meal is a delightful journey of flavors.

4.7

Bahama Breeze

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Bahama Breeze in Lake Grove—your ultimate destination for tropical cuisine and cocktails.

4.3

Insignia Prime Steak & Sushi

Experience culinary luxury at Insignia Prime Steak & Sushi in Smithtown – where exquisite steaks meet masterfully crafted sushi.

4.5

Tango Argentinian Steakhouse

Experience authentic Argentinian cuisine at Tango Argentinian Steakhouse in Central Islip - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

4.4

Best bars in Long Island

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Lost in Paradise Rooftop

Discover Lost in Paradise Rooftop, an enchanting cocktail bar in Queens, offering breathtaking skyline views and expertly crafted drinks.

4.7

Dutch Kills

Experience the essence of New York nightlife at Dutch Kills, a cocktail bar in Long Island City known for its innovative drinks and speakeasy charm.

4.5

The Beast Next Door

Discover The Beast Next Door, a cocktail bar in Long Island City, Queens, known for its inventive drinks and inviting atmosphere, perfect for any night out.

4.6

LIC Bar

Experience vibrant nightlife at LIC Bar in Long Island City, where great drinks and lively dancing create unforgettable memories.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Long Island

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Doha Bar Lounge- Brunch, Nightclub & Restaurant

Discover Doha Bar Lounge in Queens - a vibrant blend of nightlife, delicious brunches, and Latin American flavors, perfect for every occasion.

4.2

Lizard Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lizard Lounge, Bohemia's premier night club featuring themed nights, cocktails, and live entertainment.

4.8

COCO BONGO LI LOUNGE

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Coco Bongo Li Lounge in Bethpage, New York, where entertainment and delicious cuisine come together.

3.9

Sugardaddy's Gentlemen's Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Sugardaddy's Gentlemen's Club in Queens, where entertainment meets elegance for a truly unforgettable experience.

3.9

Best shops in Long Island

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Tanger Outlets Riverhead

Discover unbeatable deals at Tanger Outlets Riverhead, New York's premier shopping destination with over 165 brand-name stores.

4.5

Smith Haven Mall

Explore Smith Haven Mall, a vibrant shopping haven in Lake Grove, NY, featuring diverse stores, delicious dining, and a welcoming atmosphere.

4.4

The Gallery At Westbury Plaza

Experience unparalleled shopping and dining at The Gallery at Westbury Plaza in Garden City, NY - a premier destination for all your retail needs.

4.4

Walt Whitman Shops

Discover a premier shopping experience at Walt Whitman Shops, featuring luxury brands, diverse dining, and entertainment in Huntington Station, NY.

4.3

Explore Long Island on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Long Island, mapped for you.

Long Island Essentials

Long Island is located in the state of New York, stretching eastward from New York City. The nearest major airports are John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA), both located in Queens, NY. For those driving, Long Island can be accessed via several major highways, including the Long Island Expressway (I-495) and the Southern State Parkway. Additionally, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides extensive train service from Manhattan and Brooklyn to various destinations across Long Island.
Long Island offers multiple transportation options. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) is a convenient way to travel between New York City and Long Island. Local buses operated by Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE) and Suffolk County Transit provide extensive routes across Nassau and Suffolk counties. For more flexibility, renting a car is advisable, especially for exploring the less accessible parts of the island. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.
The official currency in Long Island, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are readily available, and contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also commonly accepted.
Long Island is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's wise to stay informed about specific areas. Some neighborhoods in larger towns like Hempstead and certain parts of Suffolk County may experience higher crime rates. As a precaution, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, keep your belongings secure, and stay vigilant in crowded places. Always check the latest travel advisories and local news for updates.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Long Island has numerous hospitals and urgent care centers. Familiarize yourself with the nearest medical facilities to your accommodation. Carrying travel insurance that includes medical coverage is recommended. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues, and many offer 24-hour service.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing. Avoid wearing overly casual attire when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect diverse religious practices. Some areas may have a higher concentration of religious communities, so be considerate. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't play loud music or eat on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly hello or a handshake. Avoid overly familiar gestures with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood specialties and Long Island wines. Don't forget to tip service staff, typically 15-20% of the bill.
To experience Long Island like a local, visit the numerous farmer's markets for fresh produce and local goods. Engage with locals, who are often willing to share insights about the best places to visit. Don't miss out on the beautiful beaches, especially those in the Hamptons and Fire Island. For a unique experience, explore the North Fork's vineyards and wineries and take part in seasonal events and festivals.

When is the best time to visit Long Island?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Long Island

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Long Island. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey
  [Hey]
- GoodbyeLater
  [Lay-ter]
- YesYeah
  [Yeah]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/Nah, no problem
  [Please/Nah, no prob-lem]
- Thank youThanks
  [Thanks]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [Sorry]
- How are you?How you doin'?
  [How you doin'?]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [Good. You?]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [You speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the menu, please
  [Let me see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'll pay now, please
  [I'll pay now, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [Get lost!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust looking
  [Just looking]
- How much is it?How much?
  [How much?]
- That's too expensiveToo much
  [Too much]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [Can you do better?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Show me on the map?
  [Show me on the map?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)One ticket to ...
  [One ticket to ...]

History of Long Island

Before European settlers arrived, Long Island was inhabited by various Algonquian-speaking tribes. The Montaukett, Shinnecock, and Massapequa are among the most well-known. These tribes lived in harmony with the land, relying on fishing, hunting, and farming for their sustenance. Their rich culture and traditions still echo through the island today.
In the early 17th century, Dutch and English settlers began to establish colonies on Long Island. The Dutch initially claimed the western part of the island as part of New Netherland, while the English settled the eastern parts. This period saw the establishment of some of the island's oldest towns, such as Hempstead and Southampton.
Long Island played a crucial role during the American Revolution. The Battle of Long Island, also known as the Battle of Brooklyn, was one of the largest battles of the war, taking place in August 1776. Although it resulted in a British victory, the battle showcased the resilience and strategic acumen of the Continental Army. The island remained under British control for much of the war, serving as a base for their operations.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the whaling industry flourished on Long Island, particularly in Sag Harbor. Whaling brought prosperity to the island and established it as an important economic hub. The industry attracted a diverse workforce, including Native Americans and African Americans, and left a lasting impact on the island’s culture and architecture.
The early 20th century marked Long Island as a pivotal location in aviation history. Charles Lindbergh’s famous solo transatlantic flight in 1927 took off from Roosevelt Field, located in Garden City. The island was home to numerous airfields and aircraft manufacturers, playing a significant role in both World War I and World War II aviation advancements.
Following World War II, Long Island experienced a dramatic suburban boom. The development of Levittown in the late 1940s set the standard for suburban living in the United States. This period saw a surge in population growth, infrastructure development, and the rise of a commuter culture, as many residents began working in New York City.
Long Island has a rich cultural and artistic heritage. The Hamptons, located on the eastern end of the island, have long been a retreat for artists, writers, and celebrities. The island is also home to several renowned museums, such as the Parrish Art Museum and the Long Island Museum. These institutions celebrate the island’s artistic legacy and continue to inspire new generations.
In recent decades, Long Island has become a leader in environmental conservation. Efforts to preserve the island’s natural beauty have led to the establishment of numerous parks, nature reserves, and marine conservation areas. Organizations like the Long Island Pine Barrens Society work tirelessly to protect the island’s unique ecosystems and promote sustainable living.