August In Long Island: Must See Attractions And Events

With its famous beaches, boardwalks, mansions, film sites, lighthouses and artistic offerings, Long Island, New York is a summer magnet for both celebrities and vacationers, many of whom want to escape the sweltering heat of Manhattan’s “concrete jungle.”

Long Island bursts with activity throughout August. Known for farm stands offering seasonal foods and flowers as well as more than 60 vineyards, breweries and craft distilleries, the North Fork is a festive and fun destination year-round. Stop by Briermere Farms for a famed pie, pop in for a pint at Greenport Harbor Brewery, sip renowned wine at Palmer Vineyards or Lenz Winery, enjoy a luscious lobster roll on the waterfront at Claudio’s

A tiny island accessed only by ferry from either Greenport on the North Fork or North Haven on the South Fork, Shelter Island is known for its natural beauty, hiking, biking, birdwatching and some of the most breathtaking kayaking in Suffolk County. Greenport is a lovely town located on the North Fork with plenty to offer. Known for its abundance of restaurants, great shopping and attractions, Greenport is also home to many historic bed-and-breakfasts among miles of farmland and some of the most acclaimed vineyards in the world. At the tip of the island you’ll find a standout boutique with photo-ready vibrant art-deco décor that will transport you to South Beach. American Beech is a destination all on its own with American Beech Restaurant, Black Llama Bar, events space, boutique and outdoor patio.

The Gold Coast boasts stunning grand estates set against pristine gardens and shimmering coastlines. Tour the mansions of the Roaring Twenties where industry tycoons reigned supreme. Stay overnight at the luxurious OHEKA Castle, often serving as a set for major Hollywood productions. A few must-see mansions for the ultimate gilded age experience are Planting Fields, Coe Hall and Glen Cove Mansion.

Lighthouses have been guiding ships around the East Coast for centuries with the oldest being Montauk Point Lighthouse built in 1796. Built in 1826, the Fire Island Lighthouse and its 182-step climb to the top is a must see and don’t miss the scenic, six miles of hiking trails surrounding the historic structure. Huntington Harbor Lighthouse was established in 1857 and the current tower was first lit in 1912. The light was automated in 1949 and is still operational.

August concerts include a Jimmy Buffett concert Aug. 9 on world famous Jones Beach and the Goo Goo Dolls on Aug. 20. The UBS Arena in Elmont will feature Barry Manilow, Aug. 6, and Twenty-One Pilots on Aug. 24. Sam Hunt will be performing his classic hits with special guests Ryan Hurd and Lily Rose at the Long Island Community Hospital Amphitheater in Farmingville on Aug. 21.

The Dan’s Taste Summer Series culminates with Dan’s Taste Signature Weekend featuring two events on Aug. 5-6 including a cooking competition between East End chefs against Manhattan chefs. The Hamptons Classic Horse Show in Bridgehampton, Aug. 28 through Sept. 4, is one of the largest jumping contests in the U.S. and one of the final social bashes of the Hamptons’ season. It’s noted for high-end boutiques and a beautiful 60-acre showgrounds.

John and Patrick McEnroe will be joined by Bob and Mike Bryan, the all-time winningest ATP doubles team, at the 8th Annual Johnny Mac Tennis Project’s Pro Am on Saturday, Aug. 27, 2 p.m. at SPORTIME Amagansett, 320 Abrahams Path, East Hampton. Participants will compete in a round-robin tournament alongside former WTA and ATP Tour professionals, current and former Division I College players, and top John McEnroe Tennis Academy coaches. Player tickets start at $2,500. Following the Pro Am, there will be a separate after-party hosted at a local private residence featuring drinks, dinner, dancing and auction. Tickets to the after-party are $250.

A wide variety of accommodations can be found throughout the region from a stately castle to quaint B&Bs. The Roundtree, Amagansett is a stylish getaway in East Hampton offering personalized, unobtrusive service and featuring luxurious rooms, suites and cottages. The Roundtree and Baccarat Hotel New York have introduced the Sea to City Summer Escape through Sept. 5. that offers access to both properties in addition to other amenities and optional luxury transportation via ground or BLADE helicopter. The Bellport Inn, dating back to 1889, is nestled in a historic property of Bellport Village just steps to restaurants, boutiques and the Bellport Marina on the Great South Bay. Free Bandshell Summer Concerts are held every Friday throughout the summer in the Bellport Village Marina.

Being 118 miles long and 23 miles wide, Long Island is physically larger than the state of Rhode Island. With such a diverse range of geography to explore, activities to experience and attractions to see, visitors to one of the country’s most charming vacation destinations are sure to return time and time again.