Traditionally thought of as a weekend getaway from NYC, Long Island is a great romantic destination on it's own. There's white sand beaches perfect for seaside strolls, and lots of activities, romantic inns and restaurants just right for a weekend day trip or getaway.

If a picnic for two in a vineyard followed by a refreshing walk by a lighthouse sounds good, welcome to Long Island!

Before tasting the salty air and exploring the inviting rural areas of the North and South Forks, let's get a better idea of some of the best Long Island romantic places and activities.

Romantic Things to Do on Long Island

Go Lighthouse Spotting - For a stroll or picnic on the sand, head to the Montauk Lighthouse. And at night, the crashing waves, the old beacon piercing the dark and even the odd shooting star guarantee this to be one of the most romantic spots on Long Island.

Westbury Gardens - wander around over 160 acres of manicured gardens, ponds and lakes.

The Hamptons - probably the most famous of Long Island's seaside resort playgounds, and you might spot a celebrity or two on a sunny afternoon. Easthampton is a charming village of Colonial architecture, trendy galleries, seafood and white sand beaches. Summer can get crowded, so the best time to visit the Hamptons would be fall and spring.

Picnic in a Vinyard - There are several Long Island wineries that offer wine tasting and tours. Palmer Vineyards in Northern Long Island is an excellent spot for couples to enjoy a tour and even a pre-packed picnic lunch. They even offer hayrides!

Long Island Beaches - Some of the best beaches on Long Island are along the south shore, and they include include East Hampton and Fire Island National Seashore.

If you're seeking a secluded Long Island Beach for a quiet afternoon of relaxing or beachcombing (or maybe even a place to propose on Long Island!), try the beach at Caumsett State Park, or some of the quiet spots around Montauk Point. The boardwalk at Long Beach is a good place for a romantic stroll around sunrise and sunset.

Long Island Accommodation

• Romantic Hotels on Long Island - Read up on travellers reviews and the best deals on East Hampton Resorts and Montauk Hotels.
  

• Romantic Long Island Spa Getaways - The Arbor View Bed and Breakfast is a very romantic B&B with luxury amenities and a full menu of spa services for couples.

This inn is a favorite with couples and includes canopy beds, waterfront views, and a delicious breakfast on the porch in the morning. The guestbook at this romantic Hamptons B&B is full of repeat guests looking forward to another visit...

Looking to splurge on an unforgettable romantic evening in New York State? - the Oheka Castle (631-659-1400) offers a pricey but perfect package for Long Island honeymoons, proposals or special anniversaries. It's called the Ultimate Romantic Evening, and this romance package includes:

• exclusive use of the Oheka Estate
• seven-course Grand Ballroom gourmet dinner w/champagne
• butler service
• your own string quartet!
• a deluxe suite w/breakfast in your room

Romantic Restaurants on Long Island

At the CoQueze Wine Bar & Restaurant (207 Main St, East Hampton, NY 631-324-5494) you can dine enjoying the breezes from the antique windows in the summer, or cozy up by the wood-burning stove in fall and winter. Tasting plates and wine pairings are the specialty in this romantic eatery located inside the historic Maidstone Arms Inn.

Travel to Long Island

The distance from New York City to Long Island (Hamptons) is about 80 miles (130km). You can travel to Long Island by car ( US 495 or hwy 27) from New York City. Driving time depends greatly on traffic, but can be done in a couple of hours.

More on Romantic Long Island, NY

Loving Long Island - A guide to Long Island vacations, beaches, wineries and more.

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