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A heat wave is expected to extend into this weekend, with temperatures in the mid-90s, according to the National Weather Service. To help you beat the heat, GreaterMoriches has compiled a list of local places worth visiting to remain safe and cool.
1. Beach hours extended
The Town of Brookhaven has extended the hours of its beaches and pools for July 20 and July 21. Shirley Beach spray park, on Grandview Avenue in Shirley (beach is closed), and Webby’s Beach, on Laura Lee Drive in Center Moriches, will be open until 7 p.m. Great Gun, an ocean beach, will be open until 6 p.m. For more information, call (631) 451-TOWN or visit the Parks Department website.
Another option, of course, is Smith Point County Park in Shirley.
2. Brookhaven Aquatic Center
Located at 300 Mastic Beach Road, across from William Floyd High School, the Brookhaven Aquatic Center in Mastic Beach offers a large, heated indoor pool that is available for paying customers. The rate for local residents is under $10, and paid swimming lessons are available.
3. Carman’s River Canoe and Kayak
Located in 2979 Montauk Hwy, Carman’s River and Kayak in Brookhaven hamlet allows customers to rent canoe, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards through one of the four major rivers on Long Island, offering many picturesque views. Brookhaven residents can launch from the dock for free with proof of residence.
4. Public libraries
The Moriches Public Library, located at 235 Montauk Highway, offers a quiet and resource-rich area for residents that are looking to keep cool. With music programs, reading clubs, crafting classes, cooking classes and movie nights available, this library is great for stopping by and picking up some summer books. The Mastic-Moriches-Shirley Community Library, located at 407 William Floyd Pkwy. in Shirley, offers similar programming and some career-related services as well.
5. Recreation centers
The Mastic Recreation Center, located at 15 Herkimer St. in Mastic, invites residents to join in on their varied activities and classes. These include some popular favorites like quilting, oil painting and dancing. The Moriches Bay Recreation Center is also open, and offers ball fields, meeting rooms and youth programs.
6. Skydiving
One way to beat the heat is to dive right through it. The Long Island Skydiving Center in Shirley offers the experience of a lifetime for prices between $200 and $300. Make this a summer to remember by finally crossing this experience off of your bucket list.
