Summer weather was made for a day at the beach. With more than 1,600 miles of shoreline, Long Island has choices to meet every beachgoer’s needs. So pack up your picnic basket, grab a towel or two and head to one of the area’s beaches to enjoy a day of sun and sand. Just be sure and do it safely.
Water Safety
Stay vigilant any time you are near the water. Swimming in a body of water such as an ocean, lake or river differs from swimming in a pool. There are currents, rip tides, marine life and uneven floors to contend with that are not a threat in the controlled environment of a pool. Use these tips from the American Red Cross to keep your summer beach time safe and healthy.
- Always swim in areas with a lifeguard on duty.
- Be mindful of weather and water conditions.
- Do not swim alone, even if you are an experienced swimmer with advanced skills.
- Enter shallow water feet first. Do not dive unless the water is at least 9 feet deep and is marked as safe for diving. Never dive head-first into the surf.
- Know your limits and respect your fitness and swimming capabilities.
Read more about how to keep children safe near water.
Beach Bag Essentials
Although sand toys and a good book can improve your beach experience, you need more than that in your bag to keep the day’s necessities at your fingertips. Use these tips to help ensure you include all the essentials you need.
Be sure to bring:
- First-aid kit. A simple kit should include all the basics, such as bug bite sticks, bandages and antibiotic ointment.
- National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) certified life jackets. If you plan to spend time in the water, outfit yourself with a life jacket when you are out in the waves.
- Sun-proof outerwear. Do not depend on sunscreen to completely shield you from the sun’s harmful rays. Use protective outerwear like long-sleeve shirts, rash guard swimwear and a hat to protect yourself well.
- Sunscreen. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and reapply it often throughout the day.
- Water. Stay hydrated all day by including plenty of water in your beach bag or picnic basket.
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Summer on Long Island
If the beach is not your scene, check out Long Island's wide range of activities that will get you outside to enjoy all that summer offers.
- Fairs and festivals. From arts and crafts to street fairs and festivals, you will find plenty of opportunities to shop, enjoy delicious food and celebrate summer’s bounty.
- Family-friendly events and destinations. Spend the day at a water park or take a quick day trip for a mini-vacation that keeps you close to home. The possibilities are endless.
- Miles of shoreline. Whether you are looking for a sandy beach, breathtaking waves or somewhere secluded to watch the sunset, Long Island has a beach for you.
Call 866-MY-LI-DOC (866-695-4362) to find a Catholic Health physician near you. Get more information about the services available at Catholic Health.