Things to do / Travel Guide
Be prepared to dig deep into your pockets for a summer weekend on Long Island. While Long Island is, in some ways, an extension of the costly greater New York City metropolis, visitors' pocketbooks can find a bit of relief on the Island. While expensive eateries and restaurants rival the Big Apple's prices, good quality yet down-to-earth restaurants can be found at a reasonable price. Entertainment is not cheap, but with a little bit of searching, good quality theater and concert tickets can be found for as little $25.
Renting on Long Island, New York
Renting a condo, villa, cottage, vacation home or mansion is a wonderful way to experience Long Island like a local. Rentals are generally centered around Long Island's east end both on the North Fork and the South Shore, as well as on Fire Island and Shelter Island. As can be expected, vacation rental prices depend on the size, number of bedrooms and baths, location of the property (ocean views and proximity to the beach raise the price considerably), and amenities. “Extras” such as outdoor and indoor swimming pools, saunas, Jacuzzis, and flat-screen TVs abound and are reflected in the higher-priced residences. Generally speaking, vacation rentals in the Hamptons are more expensive than their size and location equivalents in the North Fork, and on Fire and Shelter Island.
Nearly all rentals are available for a week, month, or season; some rental owners also allow nightly reservations with a two-night minimum (mid-week prices are often slightly cheaper). Monthly rentals can range anywhere from $2,500 to $50,000 per month, and weekly prices can range from hundreds of dollars to close to $12,000. The price difference between a per-night rental during the week versus on the weekend is usually between $25-$50. Peak season is from around June through September, and in October and early November vacation rental owners usually cut their prices by a third or half.
Hotels on Long Island, New York
Long Island's hotels are generally centered on the east end, South Shore in particular, and are less expensive than in nearby Manhattan. Middle range Long Island Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs) can provide a comfortable stay for between $150-$250 a night. Some of the most beautiful and well-equipped B&Bs and historic inns in the Hamptons and on Shelter Island start at $250 per night. A double room at a Long Island budget hotel or motel can be as low as $80 a night. The cost for a modern campsite with showers and bathrooms is about the same price as a large pizza.
Many local museums, art galleries, theaters, and historic sites offer occasional free programs, events, and lectures. It is always good to check museum websites as many offer a day or several hours each week free of admission charges. Some of the vineyards on Long Island offer complimentary wine tastings daily. Entrance to many of Long Island's beaches is free, though some, like Long Beach, may require that you buy a daily beach pass (under $10), and a vehicle or parking fee may apply. Admission to Long Island's lighthouses usually cost less than $10, visits to historic mansions cost about the same (tour generally included), state parks and wildlife preserves and refuges usually charge between $5-$10 vehicle parking fee during peak summer months and on weekends throughout the year, though some, like the Mashomack Preserve, on Shelter Island, simply request a donation. Entrance to Long Island botanical gardens usually cost between $5-$10.
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