Seafood Festival
August 27-28
• Long Island Maritime Museum, 86 West Ave., West Sayville, New York, 631-HIS-TORY, limaritime.org
The fine folks at the Long Island Maritime Museum have been throwing this wonderfully quaint festival for some years now, and it continues to grow each year. The main draw, of course, is food, from lobster, shrimp, and roast corn to the ubiquitous hotdogs, hamburgers, and ice cream, but there's also folksy entertainment, crafts, and classic antique boats, too.
Where To Stay: Local budget accomodations include the EconoLodge in Bay Shore (631-666-6000) and the Sayville Motor Lodge (631-589-7000), which features mirrored rooms and waterbeds for those seeking a Poconos-style getaway. Plusher rooms and an 18-hole golf course can be had at the Hyatt Regency Wind Watch Hotel (631-232-9800).
Highlights: Nearby Blue Point is the namesake of the oyster, not to mention the Blue Point Brewing Company (631-475-6944) in Patchogue, which offers weekend tastings and tours. You can also catch the ferry to Fire Island from both Sayville and Patchogue. —C.S.