5) Montauk Point State Park
Located at the very tip of eastern Long Island, Montauk Point State Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Its famous Lighthouse, which is adjacent to the park, is the oldest in New York State, having been completed in 1796. It’s the nation’s fourth oldest active lighthouse and today still serves as an aid to navigating marine vessels. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2012. Once up the 137 steps to the top of the lighthouse, visitors are treated to a 360-degree view of the surrounding Block Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean. The visitor center has a museum which exhibits an extensive collection of historical documents and maritime artifacts as well as a gift shop. If you prefer outdoor activities, Montauk offers plenty to do. There are miles of hiking trails and you can even climb along the cliffs around the base of the lighthouse. The white sandy beaches offer surfing, fishing, kayaking, scuba diving and whale watching. If you’re a horse enthusiast, you can take a 4-mile horseback ride along the magnificent shoreline.
