The 12 Most Magical Spots in Long Island You Can’t Miss

I’ll never forget my first sunset at Montauk Point Lighthouse, watching the waves crash against those massive rocks while surfers caught the last waves of the day. The whole sky turned this insane mix of purple and orange, and I just stood there, probably looking like a tourist with my mouth open. But honestly? Even the locals stop to watch this show every chance they get.

Let me share the most beautiful places in Long Island that made me fall in love with this slice of New York. From walking through the Gatsby-era Gold Coast mansions (Oheka Castle will make you feel like you’ve time traveled to the 1920s) to watching seals sunbathe at Cupsogue Beach in winter, this island packs more surprises than anyone gives it credit for. Here’s why you need to explore beyond the Hamptons.

Magical Spots to Visit in Long Island

Looking to explore Long Island’s most beautiful places? From the stunning beaches of Montauk to the charming streets of Port Jefferson, Long Island is packed with stunning scenery. Stroll through the historic Old Westbury Gardens, marvel at the art in the Parrish Art Museum, or explore the vibrant culture of Huntington Village. Discover the serene beauty of the Hamptons, the tranquil landscapes of Fire Island, or the breathtaking views from Orient Point. Whether you’re into beaches, history, or charming towns, here are 12 of Long Island’s most breathtaking spots!

1. Fire Island

• 📍 Location: Long Island, NY, about 1.5 hours east of New York City by car and ferry
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, nature enthusiasts 🌿, LGBTQ+ friendly getaways 🌈
• 📸 Top Experiences: Sunbathing on pristine beaches, exploring car-free communities, visiting Fire Island Lighthouse
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June-August) for peak season vibes, early September for fewer crowds but still warm weather 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Palms Hotel Fire Island – Charming beachfront accommodations in Ocean Beach

Fire Island beckons remote workers with its car-free boardwalks and pristine isolation, perfect for clearing your mind after endless Zoom calls. This 32-mile barrier island offers pristine beaches, rolling dunes, and maritime forests just a quick ferry ride from Long Island.

The iconic Fire Island Lighthouse provides panoramic views that I found absolutely breathtaking after climbing its 182 steps. Each village has its own personality, from family-friendly Ocean Beach to the lively LGBTQ+ scenes of Cherry Grove and The Pines.

Nature lovers should explore the rare 300-year-old Sunken Forest or spot wildlife in the Otis Pike Wilderness. The absence of cars creates a uniquely peaceful atmosphere where time slows down and your only responsibility is deciding which beach to visit next.

2. The Hamptons

• 📍 Location: Eastern Long Island, NY, approximately 2-3 hours from New York City
• 🏆 Best For: Luxury travelers 💎, beach enthusiasts 🏖️, art lovers 🎨
• 📸 Top Experiences: Lounging on pristine beaches, visiting high-end art galleries, exploring charming historic villages
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) for the full scene, September for fewer crowds but beautiful weather 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Topping Rose House – Elegant luxury hotel in Bridgehampton with farm-to-table dining

The Hamptons has that Instagram-worthy weekend escape where you can rub shoulders with celebrities while pretending you’re just there for the pristine beaches and craft cocktails. This string of villages combines old-world charm with modern luxury across Southampton, East Hampton, and Montauk.

The area’s beaches rank among the finest in the Northeast, with Cooper’s Beach and Main Beach consistently winning national awards. When I need creative inspiration, nothing beats exploring world-class institutions like the Parrish Art Museum or Guild Hall.

History buffs will appreciate Montauk Point Lighthouse, New York’s oldest, dating back to 1796. For a taste of authentic Hamptons, stroll through Sag Harbor’s historic district with its 18th-century homes. Wine enthusiasts should visit Wölffer Estate Vineyard for award-winning rosé in stunning settings.

• Read Next: Best Places to Visit on the East Coast

3. Jones Beach State Park

• 📍 Location: Wantagh, NY, about 30 miles east of Manhattan on the South Shore of Long Island
• 🏆 Best For: Beach-goers 🏖️, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, concert lovers 🎵
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming and sunbathing along 6.5 miles of beach, attending summer concerts, walking the 2-mile boardwalk
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Memorial Day through Labor Day for swimming and full amenities, off-season for peaceful walks 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Garden City Hotel – Upscale accommodation about 20 minutes from Jones Beach

Jones Beach combines epic summer concert vibes with 6.5 miles of sandy perfection, letting you catch your favorite bands and a suntan without blowing your vacation budget. This 2,400-acre marine park features pristine white-sand beaches along the Atlantic.

The historic Jones Beach Boardwalk stretches 2 miles with spectacular ocean views and plenty of room for morning runs. Summer brings major musical acts to the Northwell Health Theater, where I’ve enjoyed unforgettable concerts under the stars.

Families appreciate the WildPlay Adventure Course with zip lines and obstacles. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center to learn about barrier island ecology. The park’s scale means finding your own space even on busy days. The central location makes it perfect for day trips from NYC without fighting Hamptons traffic.

4. Old Westbury Gardens

• 📍 Location: Old Westbury, NY, about 30 minutes east of Manhattan on Long Island’s North Shore
• 🏆 Best For: Garden enthusiasts 🌸, history buffs 🏛️, photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the 200-acre formal garden, exploring the Westbury House mansion, attending seasonal events
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring for tulips and flowering trees, summer for roses, fall for autumn colors 🍁
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Garden City Hotel – Elegant historic hotel about 15 minutes from the gardens

Old Westbury Gardens offers the ultimate bougie backdrop for your social feed, where Bridgerton fantasies come to life among 200 acres of meticulously manicured gardens and a mansion that screams #lifegoals. This spectacular Gold Coast estate centers around Westbury House, a Charles II-style mansion that looks transported directly from the English countryside.

The meticulously maintained gardens feature a stunning Rose Garden with over 100 varieties and the enchanting Ghost Walk lined with towering linden trees. My favorite spot remains the serene Walled Garden, where seasonal blooms create ever-changing displays.

Inside the mansion, rooms furnished with English antiques showcase the elite lifestyle of Long Island’s early 20th-century society. The estate hosts numerous events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and classic car shows. The proximity to Manhattan makes this a perfect cultural escape without a long drive.

5. Sag Harbor

• 📍 Location: Eastern Long Island, NY, nestled between Southampton and East Hampton on the South Fork
• 🏆 Best For: Maritime history buffs ⚓, shoppers 🛍️, foodies 🍽️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring historic Main Street, visiting the Whaling Museum, sailing on Peconic Bay
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) for peak season, September for fewer crowds but perfect weather 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The American Inn – Historic boutique hotel on Main Street with award-winning dining

Sag Harbor serves up Hamptons-adjacent cool without the scene, where millionaires in beat-up boats mix with creative professionals seeking authenticity with their oyster platters. This former whaling port feels more like a New England fishing village than a glitzy resort town.

The village’s seafaring past comes alive at the Sag Harbor Whaling Museum, housed in a Greek Revival mansion built by a whaling captain in 1845. Walking these streets, I always imagine Herman Melville gathering inspiration for “Moby-Dick” during his time at the Custom House.

Main Street offers independent boutiques and art galleries housed in historic buildings. Foodies will find everything from classic seafood shacks to upscale farm-to-table restaurants. Get out on the water with a sunset sail on Peconic Bay or relax at nearby Havens Beach for a quieter alternative to crowded shores.

6. North Fork Wineries

• 📍 Location: Eastern Long Island, NY, about 2 hours from New York City on the North Fork peninsula
• 🏆 Best For: Wine enthusiasts 🍷, foodies 🍽️, countryside explorers 🌾
• 📸 Top Experiences: Wine tasting tours, farm-to-table dining, exploring scenic agricultural landscapes
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September-November for harvest season and fall colors, spring for fewer crowds 🍇
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Harborfront Inn – Upscale accommodations in Greenport with vineyard tour packages

North Fork has the wine-tasting weekend your group chat has been planning for months, with 60+ vineyards where you can day-drink with sophistication while collecting stories for Monday’s lunch break. This agricultural haven offers a more authentic alternative to nearby glitz with vineyards spread across a bucolic peninsula.

The maritime climate creates ideal conditions for outstanding wines. Standout wineries include Bedell Cellars with its modern art-filled tasting room, Shinn Estate Vineyards with sustainable practices, and Sparkling Pointe, specializing in méthode champenoise bubbles. I’ve spent entire afternoons vineyard-hopping without encountering a single crowd.

Between tastings, explore charming maritime villages like Greenport with its historic carousel or Mattituck with lavender farms. Farm stands dot rural roads, offering just-picked produce and freshly baked pies. Restaurants embrace the farm-to-table philosophy with dishes paired perfectly with local wines.

7. Lavender By The Bay

• 📍 Location: East Marion, NY, on the North Fork of Long Island, about 2 hours from NYC
• 🏆 Best For: Photography enthusiasts 📸, nature lovers 🌱, relaxation seekers 🧘
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking through blooming lavender fields, picking your own lavender, shopping lavender products
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Mid-June through July for peak English lavender bloom, September for French lavender 💜
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The North Fork Table & Inn – Charming lodging with farm-to-table dining nearby

Need the perfect Instagram escape that will make your followers swoon? Lavender By The Bay creates a purple paradise with over 80,000 plants across this family-owned farm. The gentle fragrance fills the air as endless rows of vibrant blooms stretch toward the horizon.

I’ve never found a more peaceful spot to reset from city life than among these aromatic fields. Morning visits offer smaller crowds and ideal lighting for photos. Their shop features handcrafted lavender products, from essential oils to culinary dried lavender. When available, participate in U-Pick sessions to gather your own fresh stems.

East Marion serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the North Fork’s renowned wineries and farm stands. Plan at least an hour here to breathe deeply and capture memories in what many consider Long Island’s most tranquil attraction.

8. Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

• 📍 Location: Oyster Bay, NY, on Long Island’s North Shore, about 35 miles east of Manhattan
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏛️, architecture fans 🏠, nature enthusiasts 🌳
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Theodore Roosevelt’s home, exploring nature trails, visiting the Old Orchard Museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for comfortable temperatures and beautiful grounds 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Roslyn Hotel – Elegant accommodations in nearby Roslyn with easy access to Sagamore Hill

Step into presidential history where you can actually touch the furniture at Sagamore Hill, Theodore Roosevelt’s beloved “Summer White House” nestled on Long Island’s Gold Coast. This stately Victorian mansion sits on 83 acres of forest, meadows, and salt marsh that preserved his legacy and natural vision.

The guided tour reveals original furnishings, hunting trophies, and personal items that tell the story of America’s conservation-minded president. Trust me, nothing beats seeing the actual rooms where global decisions were made over a century ago. After the house tour, wander nature trails through wooded areas Roosevelt himself walked, down to the beaches of Cold Spring Harbor.

The Old Orchard Museum houses interactive exhibits in the former home of TR’s son. Plan for at least 3 hours to fully appreciate this authentic slice of American history in beautiful Oyster Bay.

9. Oheka Castle

• 📍 Location: Huntington, NY, on Long Island’s Gold Coast, about 35 miles east of NYC
• 🏆 Best For: Architecture enthusiasts 🏰, history lovers 🕰️, romantic getaway seekers ❤️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Taking a guided history tour, strolling the formal gardens, enjoying high tea or Sunday brunch
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall to fully appreciate the manicured gardens and grounds 🌷
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Oheka Castle Hotel – Stay in a genuine historic castle with luxury accommodations

Live your royal fantasy weekend at Oheka Castle, the magnificent French-style chateau that stands as the second-largest private home in America. Built in 1919 by financier Otto Hermann Kahn, this 127-room masterpiece has been meticulously restored to its original Gilded Age splendor.

Walking through grand hallways and formal rooms felt like stepping into a period drama with an unlimited budget. The 23-acre grounds feature immaculate gardens inspired by Versailles, complete with reflecting pools and perfect symmetry. Movie lovers might recognize Oheka from films like “Citizen Kane” and Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space” music video.

For the ultimate experience, book a stay in one of the castle’s luxurious rooms in Huntington. Tours must be reserved in advance, so plan ahead for this unparalleled glimpse into Long Island’s opulent past, where you can live like American royalty for a day.

10. Planting Fields Arboretum

• 📍 Location: Oyster Bay, NY, on Long Island’s North Shore, about 40 miles from Manhattan
• 🏆 Best For: Garden enthusiasts 🌸, architecture admirers 🏛️, peaceful strollers 🚶‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Coe Hall mansion, visiting the enormous greenhouses, wandering themed gardens
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-October for outdoor gardens, year-round for greenhouse collections 🌺
• 🏨 Where to Stay: East Norwich Inn – Convenient accommodations close to the arboretum

Escape the digital world for a day of plant therapy at Planting Fields Arboretum, where 409 acres of immaculate landscape showcase one of the finest remaining Gold Coast estates. The centerpiece, Coe Hall, rises as a 65-room Tudor Revival mansion filled with original furnishings and stained glass.

My favorite spot remains the Main Greenhouse with its towering palms and changing seasonal displays. Plant lovers will discover specialized collections across themed spaces like the Italian Blue Pool Garden, Rose Garden, and Heather Garden, each with a distinct character. The ancient specimens in the Camellia Greenhouse have thrived for over 80 years.

11. Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium

• 📍 Location: Centerport, NY, on Long Island’s North Shore, about 40 miles east of NYC
• 🏆 Best For: Science enthusiasts 🔭, architecture buffs 🏛️, history lovers 🏰
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the mansion’s curiosities, catching a planetarium show, wandering the Spanish gardens
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round for the museum and planetarium, spring and summer for full enjoyment of the grounds 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Oheka Castle Hotel – Luxurious historic chateau with formal gardens and upscale amenities

Feed your inner explorer and cosmic curiosity at the Vanderbilt Museum, where a Spanish Revival mansion meets one of the most advanced planetariums in the United States. Built by William K. Vanderbilt II, this 43-acre estate overlooking Northport Harbor showcases one man’s global adventures and collecting passion.

The mansion functions as a time capsule filled with artifacts from Vanderbilt’s expeditions. Egyptian mummies rest near shrunken heads within one of the world’s most extensive private natural history collections. I was particularly impressed by the marine specimens gathered during his ocean voyages.

The state-of-the-art Reichert Planetarium offers immersive space shows on its 60-foot dome. Before leaving Centerport, wander the meticulously maintained Mediterranean-inspired gardens surrounding the mansion. Plan for 3-4 hours to experience both a mansion tour and planetarium show in this unique Long Island treasure.

12. Montauk Point Lighthouse

• 📍 Location: Montauk, NY, at the easternmost tip of Long Island, about 120 miles from NYC
• 🏆 Best For: Maritime history enthusiasts ⚓, photographers 📸, nature lovers 🌊
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing the lighthouse tower, exploring the keeper’s house museum, hiking surrounding trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through October for best weather, September-October for smaller crowds and fall colors 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Montauk Manor – Historic hotel with panoramic views just minutes from the lighthouse

Stand at the edge of New York State at Montauk Point Lighthouse, where land meets ocean and your worries disappear into the Atlantic horizon. Since 1796, this iconic structure commissioned by George Washington has guided sailors safely along this treacherous coastline.

Climbing 137 iron steps rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views that stretch toward Connecticut on clear days. The keeper’s house museum displays fascinating artifacts, shipwreck tales, and the original 1903 Fresnel lens that once beamed 19 miles out to sea.

I recommend timing your visit for sunrise or sunset, when golden light transforms the lighthouse into a photographer’s dream. Surrounding Montauk Point State Park offers stunning hiking trails along dramatic bluffs. Winter visitors might spot seals lounging on rocks below. Allow 2 hours to properly explore this historic landmark at Long Island’s easternmost point.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Long Island

Looking to expand your knowledge about the most scenic spots in Long Island? Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best Long Island attractions and activities.

What is the prettiest beach on Long Island?

Long Island is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in New York State, each offering its own unique charm and scenic beauty. Whether you’re looking for white sandy shores or rugged landscapes, here are some of the prettiest beaches you shouldn’t miss:

• Coopers Beach: Located in Southampton, Coopers Beach is often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches on Long Island. With its pristine white sand, clear blue waters, and dunes covered in American beach grass, it’s a favorite among both locals and tourists.
• Jones Beach State Park: Known for its 6.5 miles of white-sand beach. This is one of the most popular and scenic beaches in New York.
• Fire Island: This car-free island offers some of the most unspoiled beaches in the region. This makes it a great escape for those looking for natural beauty.
• Montauk’s Beaches: Particularly Ditch Plains Beach, known for its surfing, offers a different, more rugged kind of beauty with its cliffs and waves.
• Robert Moses State Park: Located on the western part of Fire Island, this beach is known for its 5 miles of soft, sandy beaches. It has all the amenities you could need for a day at the beach.

Among these, Coopers Beach often tops the list for its sheer beauty and pristine conditions.

What is the nicest place in Long Island?

Long Island boasts numerous beautiful spots, each with its unique charm. While it’s subjective to pinpoint the “nicest” place, destinations like The Hamptons, Montauk Point Lighthouse, and Fire Island are often regarded as some of the top attractions. However, every corner of Long Island offers something special, and the nicest place often depends on individual preferences. Here are some of the most highly regarded areas of Long Island at a high-level:

• The Hamptons: Known for its luxury homes, beautiful beaches, and celebrity sightings, the Hamptons is often considered one of the nicest and most exclusive areas on Long Island.
• Montauk: Located at the eastern tip of Long Island, Montauk is famous for its rugged coastline, lighthouses, and laid-back atmosphere, offering a different vibe from the Hamptons.
• North Fork: This area is known for its wineries, farm-to-table dining, and scenic beauty, offering a quieter, more rural experience compared to the South Fork.
• Oyster Bay: Rich in history and natural beauty, Oyster Bay is a charming town with beautiful architecture, parks, and marinas.
• Manhasset: Known for its upscale shopping and beautiful homes, Manhasset is a wealthy and well-maintained community.

What is Long Island most famous for?

Long Island is renowned for its picturesque beaches, upscale communities like The Hamptons, historical landmarks such as Sagamore Hill, and its vibrant wine country in the North Fork. Additionally, it’s famous for its maritime heritage, diverse ecosystems, and as the setting for novels like “The Great Gatsby.”

What is cool about Long Island?

Long Island is a diverse and vibrant destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions. From its stunning beaches to its charming small towns, there’s something for everyone. Here are some cool aspects that make Long Island a must-visit:

• Beaches: Long Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S. This includes the Hamptons and Fire Island.
• Wine Country: The North Fork is known for its vineyards and wineries. It offers a Napa Valley-like experience on the East Coast.
• Cultural Attractions: Museums like the Nassau County Museum of Art and the Parrish Art Museum offer a dose of culture.
• Outdoor Activities: From hiking in the many state parks to sailing and fishing, Long Island offers a plethora of outdoor activities.
• Historic Sites: The island is rich in history, with landmarks like the Sagamore Hill National Historic Site. This was President Theodore Roosevelt’s summer home.
• Food Scene: Known for its fresh seafood, Long Island also offers a variety of other culinary delights, including international cuisines.
• Proximity to NYC: Just a short train ride from Manhattan, Long Island offers a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

How long does it take to explore Long Island?

The time it takes to explore Long Island depends on what you want to see and do. A weekend getaway might cover a few key attractions. However, to truly experience the breadth of what Long Island offers, a week or more is recommended.

What is the rich area of Long Island?

Long Island is known for its diverse communities, ranging from quaint villages to bustling towns. However, when it comes to affluence, certain areas stand out for their luxurious homes, upscale amenities, and high-end lifestyle. Here are some of the wealthiest areas on Long Island:

• The Hamptons: Synonymous with wealth and luxury, the Hamptons is a collection of seaside communities that attract celebrities, business moguls, and socialites.
• Old Westbury: Known for its grand estates and private colleges, Old Westbury is a village that exudes affluence.
• Sands Point: Located on the North Shore, this area is famous for its waterfront mansions and has been an inspiration for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby.”
• Brookville: This village is home to several higher education institutions and boasts large, opulent homes.
• Manhasset: Often referred to as the “Gold Coast,” Manhasset is known for its luxury shopping and beautiful homes.
• Roslyn Harbor: This small village offers a mix of historic homes and modern mansions, often set on large, well-manicured lots.
• Cold Spring Harbor: Known for its excellent schools and scenic views, Cold Spring Harbor attracts a well-to-do population.
• Centre Island: This tiny village is almost entirely residential. It’s home to some of the most expensive real estate on Long Island.
• Lattingtown: This North Shore village is known for its secluded estates and private beaches.
• Lloyd Harbor: Another North Shore gem, Lloyd Harbor offers a mix of old-world charm and modern luxury. Many homes having private docks for yachts.

Is Long Island a good family destination?

Absolutely! Long Island offers a range of family-friendly activities, from beach outings and nature trails to museums and historical sites. There’s something for everyone, making it a perfect family getaway.

When is the best time to visit Long Island?

Long Island is a year-round destination. Summer is popular for beachgoers, while fall offers beautiful foliage, especially in the North Fork. Spring is a great time for gardens and outdoor activities, and winter has its own charm, especially in the quaint towns.

Are there any guided tours available on Long Island?

Yes, many attractions on Long Island offer guided tours, especially historical sites and wineries. There are also various tour operators that provide themed tours. This includes food and wine tours, historical tours, and nature excursions.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Long Island

Long Island, with its rich tapestry of history, nature, and culture, is a destination that beckons travelers from all walks of life. From its pristine beaches to its lush vineyards, every corner of this island tells a story. It’s a place where the past meets the present. It is where the hustle of city life fades into the tranquil sounds of waves crashing and leaves rustling. As we’ve journeyed through some of its most iconic spots, it’s evident that Long Island is not just a place to visit, but an experience to be cherished.

So, as you plan your next adventure, let the diverse landscapes and vibrant communities of Long Island be your guide. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, exploration, or a bit of both, this island promises memories that will last a lifetime. Here’s to the adventures that await and the stories yet to be told on this enchanting slice of New York!