Marinas
With so many marinas dotting its shore, a boater could spend an entire summer bouncing from one to the next and probably never make it all the way around Long Island. From the floating mansions to the 15-foot skiffs, there's a home for nearly every type of vessel. The best part about these harbors is that you don't need a boat to enjoy their ammenities. Nearby shopping and restaurants as well as festivals and fishing tournaments allow even those who don't know their bow from their stern to mingle among the salty and enjoy the waterside:
Port Jefferson Town of Brookhaven Marina: With 167 slips, it's one of the largest on the north shore and one of the most charming. Boaters receive a warm view of Port Jefferson Village on the long approach to the dock from the inlet, and the quaint shops, restaurants and bars are just steps from the water. Town of Brookhaven residents get a discount on fees.
Star Island Yacht Club, Montauk: For sailing or sportfishing on the East End, it's an ideal setting. Everything is available within walking distance from marine equipment and repairs to bait and tackle to groceries. And the two big shark tournaments each summer draw hundreds of spectators who gawk at the monsters of the sea.
Montauk Marine Basin: Home to some of the most famous and successful fishing boats, the 150-slip marina offers recreational and commercial boaters a home base. Coming through the inlet into the harbor, the smells from Gosman's Dock will make anyone hungry for fresh seafood.
Good thing the restaurant is just a short walk down West Lake Drive.
Nassau County Wantagh Park Marina, Wantagh: A lottery is held each spring for Nassau County residents who wish to secure one of the 188 seasonal slips (six are left open for transient traffic). The park offers a wide variety of activities including a swimming pool and fishing opportunities from the docks and paths along the water.
Town of Hempstead Guy Lombardo Marina, Freeport: Most of the 250 slips are home to commercial and recreational fishing ships, but there are 10 transient spots for daytrippers. Several nautical-themed events and festivals take place in the marina, the biggest being the Freeport Hudson Anglers Shark Tournament traditionally held the Saturday before Father's Day in June.
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