The end of summer is looming.  We'll be heading back to Bing in less than a month, and if you're anything like me, you're probably feeling like you didn't accomplish much this summer.  I had big plans, but either all work and no play, or no work and all sleep seemed to interfere with my quixotic dreams.  So for all of you fellow Long Islanders--and even you Jersey kids who are invited to swallow your pride and come join in on the festivities--I've compiled a list of the top 10 best summer spots on Long Island.  I considered what would be most appealing to the college-aged crowd. 

I divided the post in two parts.  Part I will contain 10-6.  These places are best visited during the day and are a bit more low key. 

Try and squeeze in a few of these places before fall.  Set up a play date with that old friend you've been meaning to "meet for coffee" all summer.

  10. Northport Village

       Okay, so this definitely isn't party central, but it's one of my personal favorites.  It's perfect for unwinding on a weekend morning. Get some coffee/breakfast/lunch from the Northport Gourmet Deli, sit along the benches that line the sound, read a book, watch the sailboats, and just relax.   Though there are some inconspicuous bars, don’t expect to get your crunk on here.

  9. Riverhead

     The final destination on the L.I.E is a bit more family oriented, with a handful of museums and  the Marine World Aquarium; but come on, who doesn’t love Splish Splash?  Does anybody really ever outgrow a water park? With the Tanger Outlets right around the corner, a trip to Riverhead has the potential to be a fun packed day.

8. North Fork

    It’s wine country people! So, if you’re among the more sophisticated college crowd (Can we say wine and cheese?) There’s some great restaurants, shopping, and vineyards to check out. It’s a great day date spot. Also included in North Fork is Greenport, Jamesport, and Mattituck.

7. Port Jefferson

  During the day, walk along the water, shop, grab some inexpensive, but delicious seafood at the Steam Room (may I recommend the seafood bisque in a bread bowl?) Night life is thriving too with live music, bars, and there’s even a village astrologer! The best part is that  there are three different ice cream places in a 2 block radius! Again, another great date spot.

6. Jones Beach

  Now, I hate to knock my roots, since this is where I've spent the majority of my summer days for as long as I can remember, but I wasn't sure if it should have made the cut.  In the end, I decided to use it.  Though, I must say during the summer season, the beaches are terribly over crowded.  Since this Town of Hempstead beach is the only one really available to the city folk, it tends to get overrun with tourists.  Though the concert venue, Nikon Theater, has some great shows--from Counting Crows and Maroon 5 to Journey--the rest of the beach is kind of shady.  If you are Town of Oyster Bay, or know someone who is, Tobay is the way to go (Same beach, but more exclusive).  However, there is a cute little mini golf course.  Also, construction of Trump's new establishment is underway.  So, beware; that will undoubtedly up the tourist flow.