If you’ve ever ended up in a spot that bored the kids aboard, you know that everyone has a better boating day when the kids are engaged. May we suggest these fun eastern Long Island kid-friendly destinations and anchorages for your boating entertainment?
Greenport
This quaint, bustling town is lined with shops, boats, yachts, and an antique carousel. When you’re hungry, try Lucharito’s for casual Mexican fare, Crazy Beans for breakfast, sandwiches, and flavored lattes, and Andy’s for relaxing local inspired dishes. Before or after, have fun at the indoor roller rink at the American Legion.
Meschutt Beach Hut on the Shinnecock Canal
Place your order at a counter, then await your lunch or dinner at a table on the expansive outside patio along with other boaters and beach lovers. Relax on the beach, swim in the bay, and sometimes even enjoy live music. Also check out the playground across the street.
Riverhead
Is anything more kid-centric than visiting McDonalds by boat? Cruise up the Peconic River to the very end and tie up to the Golden Arches. There is a cozy terrace with some tables under trees for shade, but as goose droppings abound, you may want to picnic on your boat. After the last fry is gone, move your vessel across the river and visit the nearby Long Island Aquarium or take a walk to the Railroad Museum and the Long Island Science Center.
Sag Harbor
Yachts, often from far away, provide plenty of eye-opening (and free) entertainment. The village’s gift shops, eateries, and galleries are set back slightly from the waterfront. Be sure to visit Kites of the Harbor for unique kites and creative games and toys.
Anchorages
Rather float than stroll? Drop anchor and take in the scenery in the bays between the twin forks. North of Robins Island is a picturesque cove in which to swim or paddle — the island is privately owned, so don’t venture onto the mainland. A stretch of sandbar cuts the Great Peconic Bay here so you can find a treasure trove of shells.
Cruising to Sunset Beach on Shelter Island, the bluffs in Hampton Bays, or the shore of Elizabeth A. Morton Wildlife Refuge in Noyack will soon find you relaxing and enjoying the delighted smiles of the youngest of boaters.
Maria Orlando Pietromonaco contributed to this story
Top photo by Jeff Goubeaud
