Known as "The Gateway to Jones Beach," the South Shore hamlet of Wantagh is a festive, close-knit community also popular for its award-winning school district.

The Wantagh district is the first in the state to have all its five schools recognized with both the New York State and U.S. Department of Education's "Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence" designation.

"This town is very conscientious about education," said Tony Smith, a resident and owner of SAS Real Estate. Marion Romeo, president of the Chamber of Commerce, echoes the sentiment. "We have a great partnership with the school district," she said, referring to joint programs such as career fairs. Romeo, who owns CL Romeo Realty with her husband, adds, "We [local businesses] open our doors to students so they can see what skills are necessary for different jobs."

Wantagh also boasts historic landmarks, parks, a preserve, boating, fishing, houses of worship and civic organizations.

Shops, restaurants and services are scattered throughout the community. Carol Friedman, the chamber's treasurer, said she has lived in Wantagh for more than 20 years and "it has just gotten better over time."

The many neighborhoods include Wantagh Woods, Forest Lake, Brookside Estates, Holiday Park, Sunrise Park and Mandalay.

Residents can fish at the 58-acre Twin Lakes Preserve on Old Mill Road, which features five freshwater ponds as well as woodlands and trails.

Wantagh Park offers pier fishing, a boat launch, marina, a three-pool swimming complex, playground, athletic fields, court games, 2-mile jogging track and picnic areas.

The Wantagh Museum, maintained by the Wantagh Preservation Society, occupies three structures: The Station, the "Jamaica" railroad car and the original Wantagh post office.

Residents can also enjoy several annual events such as the Wantagh Festival and the Fourth of July parade, one of the biggest on the Island, according to chamber members.

For more about it, visit www.wantaghmall.org.

-Lisa Doll Bruno(4/1/2005)