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Summer Fun Book 2026: The best of Long Island's family fun, food and experiences

Updated June 30, 2026

See inside the 2026 Fun Book with guides to water excursions, state parks, seafood experiences and plenty more.

Critics' picks: Best lobster rolls on LI

Newsday's food critics have found the best takes on the summer-favorite dish.

Get ready for sun and fun with NewsdayTV's summer FunBook special!

From celebrating America's 250th birthday to a new ride at Adventureland, NewsdayTV's Elisa DiStefano and Newsday lifestyle editor Meghan Giannotta have your inside look at Newsday's summer FunBook.

Make a splash at these public pools on LI

Find locations, hours, fees and lifeguard information to take a cool dip this summer.

See inside Newsday's 2026 summer Fun Book

Let the fun begin.

Summer street festivals on LI, from Alive After Five to Music on Main

Long Island's downtowns buzz with summer events, featuring music, vendors and outdoor dining.

Where to go camping (or glamping) on LI

Take a hike, sleep under the stars and commune with nature at these parks.

Dance the night away at these summer outdoor concerts

Put on your dancing shoes and head to these live music events at parks, beaches and local venues.

Surf's up: The ultimate guide to 90+ LI beaches

Find fees, lifeguard status, amenities and more so you can swim, sunbathe or build sandcastles at one of Long Island's many beaches.

Outdoor drop-in fitness classes to try this summer

Forget sweating it out at the gym. Take an outdoor workout class under the sun.

Best LI restaurants on the water

Enjoy an elevated meal — and the scenery — at these standout eateries on the North and South shores.

Libraries with free outdoor play spaces for kids

Libraries transform grounds into playful, educational spaces for children and families.

4 new sweet spots to try this summer

Summer and sweets just go together.

LI's hidden gem nature preserves

Explore Long Island's serene nature preserves, featuring trails, wildlife and scenic landscapes.

This summer's concerts at Jones Beach are here. See our updated list.

Dave Matthews Band, Ashanti and Pitbull are among the performers coming to Wantagh this year.

Here's the scoop: LI's best homemade ice cream

These independent shops make their own classic and creative flavors on site.

U-pick strawberry farms to visit this June

Enjoy u-pick experiences and delicious treats at these Long Island farms.

Pools, daybeds and more: LI hotels that offer day passes to access amenities

Enjoy a mini vacation with day passes at Long Island's top luxury hotels.

Toast to summer: Ultimate guide to LI's 40+ wineries

Plan a relaxing day at Long Island's wineries, with private wine tours, outdoor tastings, live music and picnics.

This charming seaport city is only a ferry trip from LI

Discover a walkable Connecticut city with rich history, arts, and culture, perfect for a day trip by ferry this summer.

Guide to lavender festivals and u-pick fields on LI

Eastern Long Island hosts vibrant lavender festivals throughout June, celebrating the fragrant purple blooms.

Live music at LI wineries this summer

Pair your glass of rosé with live music this season as some Long Island wineries are hosting indoor and outdoor entertainment.

Camp in style: Reserve a cabin or tent at these LI parks

Why rough it when you can get a furnished spot with bathrooms, hot water and heat.

Can't-miss LI summer fairs and festivals: The ultimate guide

Find live music, food, rides, fun, games and more at these events, from May to Labor Day.

Summer guide to Montauk: Beaches, dining and outdoor adventures

Plan your Montauk summer vacation with our essential tips. From scenic hikes to local dining, make the most of your Long Island adventure.

Take a nostalgic station-hopping train trip with LIRR's Day Pass

Explore Long Island's history with the Day Pass, offering unlimited travel and multi-stop station hops on the Long Island Rail Road.

Crabbing and clamming on LI: Where to go

Before you set out, knowing the best spots to visit and permits to gather will help ensure a fruitful experience.

Guide to LI car shows and cruise nights

Experience the charm of vintage automobiles at Long Island's summer car shows.

Guide to LI boardwalks: Long Beach, Jones Beach and more

Stroll in the sun, ride bikes, jog or sit to admire the scenery on an iconic boardwalk.

Cherished getaways: 3 summer destinations LIers love

Explore the Poconos, Catskills, and Lake George for a perfect summer getaway.

Running on LI: 5K, 10K, marathons, walks and more

On your marks, get set and go to these races all over Long Island.

LI village hosting 4 summer concerts, plus 1st Oktoberfest

The popular Thursday-night series typically draws up to 10,000 people.

Where to rent a boat, Jet Ski and more

Here's where to rent sailboats, kayaks, and Jet Skis for an unforgettable water adventure.

Scenic LI bike trails for a summer joyride

Explore the Island on two wheels on these picturesque paths, including Belmont Lake State Park, Jones Beach Bikeway and Cathedral Pines County Park.

Paddle pubs and sunset sailing: LI's best boat parties

Explore themed boat cruises on Long Island waters. Enjoy drinks music, and stunning views on an aquatic adventure.

Main Street staycation: Explore Northport's restaurants, shops and more

Spend a day — or a weekend — in this postcard-perfect LI maritime village.

Tee off: Where to play mini golf

Bring the family to these miniature golf courses in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

New LI restaurants coming this summer

Summer is around the corner and new restaurants are opening on the East End.

All aboard: Cruises departing from NYC this summer

Board closer to home on Long Island with these voyages leaving from Manhattan Cruise Terminal.

LI spots packed to the gills with freshwater fish

For freshwater fishing, all you need is a basic, well-made fishing rod and appropriate bait.

LI playgrounds worth the drive

Explore themed playgrounds that go beyond everyday parks, where kids can climb a pirate ship, fire truck and more.

Spend a dog-friendly day in Greenport village

Enjoy the North Fork destination with your furry friend, from seaside strolls to pet-friendly patios and shopping.

Stroller, wheelchair-friendly trails to explore

Find accessible walking paths in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

New hotels opening on LI this summer

From a beach club hotel to village properties, these design-driven spots offer food and gathering spaces to draw in both overnight guests and locals.

5 scenic LI communities for kayak drop-in trips

These picturesque locations boast paddle-worthy scenery, historic sights and abundant wildlife.

From mountain to shore: East Coast camping & glamping destinations

From upstate New York to Maine, here are six spots to experience a night outdoors with basic or luxe accommodations.

Stroll LI's botanical gardens and arboretums

Enjoy a visit to Long Island's botanical gardens, where nature's beauty unfolds across acres of lush greenery and vibrant blooms.

Top LI hiking, walking trails for spring

Explore the best bets for hiking trails in Nassau and Suffolk counties, offering thousands of miles through woods, fields and sand.

Mother-daughter team create a place to play mah-jongg