One-Day Getaways Around Long Island
/North Shore Picks
Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park – Oyster Bay, NY
Address: 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay, NY 11771
In addition to all that you can enjoy daily at the Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park, they've got a big late-summer event that's perfect for a family escape close to Oyster Bay homes for sale. The Great Nature Play Day Festival takes place August 29-30, 2026, with several kid-friendly activities in a beautiful natural setting that parents love, too.
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve – Lloyd Harbor, NY
Address: 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington, NY 11743
Looking for a scenic place to explore the outdoors, around the corner from Lloyd Harbor homes for sale? The expansive Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve offers plenty of outdoor activities for late-summer fun, including hiking, biking, equestrian trails, fishing, permitted scuba diving, and more. You can also visit the Caumsett Cafe and Lloyd Harbor Equestrian Center on the premises.
Northport Village Park – Northport, NY
Address: 1 Bayview Ave., Northport, NY 11768
One of Long Island's most dog-friendly parks, the popular Northport Village Park is abuzz with activity all summer long at a beautiful waterfront location near Northport homes for sale. It's the perfect place to take the dog for a walk, savor a waterfront sunset, and spend time with the kids at the playground with a pleasant sea breeze in the air.
South Shore Picks
Marine Nature Study Area – Oceanside, NY
Address: 500 Slice Drive, Oceanside, NY 11572
Oceanside homes for sale put you close to nature, including scenic, vibrant nature preserves like the Marine Nature Study Area. This 52-acre nature preserve is home to a wide range of wildlife, including 287 bird species recorded in the area. It also has an interpretive center where you can learn more about marine animals and see them up close. The preserve is closed Sundays, Mondays, and holidays, so check the schedule before planning your visit.
Argyle Park – Babylon, NY
Address: West Main Street, Babylon, NY 11702
If you're in the mood for a picturesque place to relax the day away close to Babylon homes for sale, then Argyle Park is the perfect place for a late-summer visit. The small but scenic park looks like it was plucked from a painting, with a lake that's ideal for fishing and nature walks alike. This is also a dog-friendly park, popular for taking walks.
Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk – Rockaway Beach, NY
Address: Beach 94th Street and Shore Front Parkway, Rockaway Beach, NY 11693
A family favorite for generations, Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk continues to be a popular place for making summer memories near Rockaway Beach homes for sale. Spend relaxing days on the beach, ride the waves at New York City's only legal surfing beaches, and make family memories on the boardwalk in the evening. It's the quintessential beach town experience.
How Can You Plan a One-Day Escape on Long Island?
Which side of Long Island is best for a scenic day trip?
Both offer plenty of scenery, but the experience is different. The North Shore is known for harbors, historic estates, and wooded preserves, while the South Shore offers beaches, marshes, and waterfront recreation.
Where can families spend a day outdoors on Long Island?
Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park, Northport Village Park, and the Marine Nature Study Area all offer outdoor settings with activities or features that families can enjoy together.
Where can you enjoy waterfront views on a Long Island day trip?
Northport Village Park offers harbor views on the North Shore, while Argyle Park and Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk provide scenic waterfront settings on the South Shore.
Accomplish Your Late-Summer Real Estate Goals
Searching for a Long Island home as summer winds down, or planning to shop this fall? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes in your favorite Long Island communities.
