Knowledge Base

Whether you’re planning a visit, researching a community, looking for the best beaches, learning about Long Island’s history, or simply curious about life on the Island, the Long Island Knowledge Base brings together answers to hundreds of frequently asked questions in one place.
About Long Island
Learn about Long Island’s geography, history, counties, and communities.
- What is Long Island?
- Where is Long Island?
- Is Long Island part of New York City?
- Is Long Island really an island?
- Why is it called Long Island?
- How long is Long Island?
- How wide is Long Island?
- How many people live on Long Island?
- What counties make up Long Island?
- What towns are on Long Island?
- What cities are on Long Island?
- What is Long Island famous for?
- Who discovered Long Island?
- How was Long Island formed?
- What is the highest point on Long Island?
- Why is Brooklyn on Long Island?
- Why is Queens on Long Island?
- What is the East End?
- What is the North Shore?
- What is the South Shore?
- What is the Gold Coast?
- What is the Pine Barrens?
- What are the Hamptons?
- What is the difference between Nassau County and Suffolk County?
Beaches
Everything you want to know about Long Island’s beaches.
- What is the best beach on Long Island?
- Which beaches allow dogs?
- Which beaches have lifeguards?
- Which beaches have boardwalks?
- Which beaches have camping?
- Which beaches have surfing?
- Which beaches have fishing?
- Which beaches have free parking?
- Which beaches require permits?
- Which beaches are best for families?
- Which beaches are the least crowded?
- Which beaches are open year-round?
Things To Do
Find attractions, activities, and hidden gems.
- What are the best things to do on Long Island?
- What should I do this weekend?
- What are the hidden gems on Long Island?
- What attractions should I visit on Long Island?
- What are the best museums on Long Island?
- What are the best family attractions on Long Island?
- What are the best date ideas on Long Island?
- What are the best rainy-day activities on Long Island?
- What are the best scenic drives on Long Island?
- What are the best day trips on Long Island?
Towns & Communities
Learn about Long Island’s villages, hamlets, and towns.
- What are the safest towns?
- What are the richest towns?
- What are the cheapest towns?
- What towns have the best schools?
- What towns have the best downtowns?
- What towns are on the water?
- What towns are best for families?
- What towns are best for retirees?
- What towns are growing the fastest?
- What towns are the most walkable?
Food & Dining
- What food is Long Island famous for?
- Where are the best bagels?
- Where is the best pizza?
- Where are the best seafood restaurants?
- What are the best waterfront restaurants?
- What are the best diners?
- What are the best brunch restaurants?
- Where are the best bakeries?
- Where can I find the best lobster roll?