Fore! August is National Golf Month and nowhere is that more apparent than on the many public courses Nassau County has to offer. Eisenhower Park alone boasts three 18-hole nationally-recognized courses, and four other nine-hole courses provide easy, quick access throughout the year.

The crown jewel of the Nassau County Parks system is the Red Course at Eisenhower Park. Host of the Commerce Bank Championship every summer, the Red Course is consistently ranked among the top public courses on Long Island. With its varied holes and long distances, the Red Course is a true test of a golfer's skill and determination.

The White and Blue Courses at Eisenhower Park offer a slightly less severe, but still daunting, challenge to even the most talented golfer. Along with the park's massive driving range and miniature golf course, East Meadow's Eisenhower Park is a haven for golfers young and old, no matter the skill level.

If you're not looking for a full 18-hole journey, there are four 9-hole courses for you to test your mettle. Bay Park in East Rockaway offers beautiful views of the South Shore bays as well as a top-notch course. Cantiague Park in Hicksville offers 9 holes alongside playgrounds, ballfields and a water park. Christopher Morley Park in Roslyn-North Hills and North Woodmere Park ensure that no matter where you live in Nassau County, a quality course is right around the corner.

If golf is not your game, however, the Nassau County Parks system has more than enough to keep you occupied. Eisenhower Park is packed with tennis and basketball courts, baseball and softball fields, the massive Aquatic Center, and a newly installed 2-mile exercise trail for the adventurous (and fit). Don't worry, though. There are plenty of shade trees and benches for those who just want to sit and watch.

Nickerson Beach in Lido provides a new skateboard park, playgrounds, and campgrounds along Lido's white sandy beaches and the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. Swim, surf or simply sit and tan.

Nearing the end of August, the first day of school and cooler temperatures are on the horizon, so now is the time to take advantage of Nassau County's many parks and activities. Because these summer days will be gone before you know it.