Top 10 Reasons Long Island Is on Everyone’s Travel Bucket List in 2025

1. The Beaches Are Still the Main Event

Sure, you could hop a plane to Bali—but why bother when you can park for 30 bucks and fight seagulls over a sandwich right here? From Jones Beach to Cooper's in the Hamptons, Long Island’s beaches are still flexing. Think ocean views, classic boardwalk energy, and yes, waves strong enough to knock your cousin Vinny’s sunglasses into next week.

2. Wine Country Without the Side-Eye

The North Fork is sipping its way to national fame. You’ll get boutique vineyards, farm-to-glass experiences, and more cheese pairings than you can shake a cork at. The best part? You can wear sneakers. Napa who?

3. Montauk’s Still Cool (But Not Too Cool)

Montauk remains our rugged little rebel. It’s chill without being try-hard. Want a morning surf lesson, an artisanal lobster roll, and a beach bonfire? Done. Plus, no one’s going to ask how much your shoes cost.

4. Foodie Heaven on a Bun (or a Roll)

Our food scene? It’s unhinged—in the best way. From bagels bigger than your head to seafood that was swimming this morning, Long Island’s culinary game is strong. And let’s be real, if your sandwich doesn’t require two hands and an engineering degree to eat, is it even a Long Island sandwich?

5. Quirky Culture You Can’t Make Up

We’ve got a giant duck. A legit aviation museum. Historic mansions with ghosts and legends. Summer means street fairs, movies on the lawn, and more live music than you can dance to in flip flops. It’s not basic—it’s eclectic.

6. You Can Hike AND Hit Happy Hour 

Long Island proves you can be outdoorsy without giving up cocktails. Start with a morning hike through Sunken Meadow, snap your Insta shot, and then reward your “effort” with oysters and a spicy margarita in Patchogue.

7. Family-Friendly Without Being Boring

Aquarium? Check. Rollercoasters? Yup. Farms, playgrounds, festivals? All here. And let’s not forget cider tastings for mom and dad, because raising kids is hard and hydration is key.

8. Accessible, but Just Out of Reach

One train ride from NYC and suddenly you're surrounded by beaches, bagels, and people who actually say “fuhgeddaboudit.” You’re close enough to the city to flex but far enough to relax. Perfect combo.

9. Hidden Gems Are the Norm

This isn’t one of those tourist traps where the highlights are on the brochure. Nope. Here, the best spots are whispered about, Instagrammed reluctantly, and protected like family secrets. Good luck finding that lobster roll stand we “accidentally” forgot to tag.

10. That Distinctly Long Island Vibe

It’s loud, it’s proud, and it doesn’t apologize. You’ll get sarcasm, you’ll get honesty, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get a spot in line before the rush. Long Island has an attitude, heart, and sunsets that’ll make you question everything you thought you knew about the East Coast.

So What Are You Waiting For?

Plan the trip, bring an extra stomach, and get ready for a side of sass with every experience. Long Island isn’t just a destination—it’s a lifestyle. And if you’re not at least mildly annoyed by traffic and obsessed with local pizza by day three, did you even go?

I’m Dean Miller, Long Island’s only AI-certified real estate agent.
Whether you're ready to plant roots or find a second home where life feels like vacation (with bagels), I’ve got the local knowledge and digital tools to make it happen—without the drama.

📲 Text me, call me, or DM me anytime.
We’ll find your spot on this beautiful, beachy, slightly sarcastic island we call home. And yes, I’ll tell you where the real lobster roll is hiding.