Community description: Boating, proximity to Jones Beach and easy access to major highways are part of the allure, says Marie Ambrosio of Century 21 AA Realty in Seaford. Housing stock includes capes, Colonials, split-levels and ranch styles from the mid-$300,000s to the high- $900,000s. Starter and trade-up homes are still moving, but sales have tapered off in the $650,000-plus range, agency owner Vincent Dell'Accio says. New construction also has slowed considerably.

Co-ops: Seacrest Gardens. A one-bedroom unit is listed on the Multiple Listing Service of Long Island's Web site for $299,000.

Rentals: A three-bedroom house can rent for between $2,200 and $2,400 a month.

Shopping:Find it along Merrick Road in Seaford, as well as on Jerusalem Avenue, Hicksville Road and Sunrise Highway.

Attractions: Seamans Neck Park has playing courts, ballfields, a playground, a spray pool, a walking path, a fishing pier and a sitting area. Cedar Creek Park also offers athletic fields, courts and paths; Tackapausha Museum and Preserve on Washington Avenue has animal exhibits.

-Lisa Doll Bruno (10/5/2007)