For some naysayers it might be hard to see that our seaside community is a vast playground for water toys and related activities. Although we do not have a lot of commerce along the waterfront like areas such as Greenport or Port Jefferson, a huge part of our local culture and economy is still made of seaside activities. Here is a list of 10 water-related things to explore in our community this summer.

1. You can take a cruise on the Cristeen oyster sloop out of The Waterfront Center. There are public sails scheduled through the fall. The cost is $25 per person.

2. Even if you do not own a boat you can still fish off the pier near the marina at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park or the Town pier located on the Western Waterfront.

3. Create your own kayaking expedition through Mill Neck Creek or explore the shore areas around the perimeter of Oyster Bay Harbor.

4. Have a picnic near the water.

5. There are times during the summer when the beach at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park gets crowded, but Beekman Beach and Centre Island Beach are oftentimes more remote areas to sunbathe.

6. Enjoy a few moments passing time on a park bench to people-watch or gaze at the waterscapes, boating activity and natural beauty of our local environment.

7. In the hamlet there are no restaurants on the water, but you do not have to wait until The Oyster Festival to get oysters. You could eat oysters at local establishments like Fiddleheads, Canterbury Ales, or The Clam Bar. You can also head over the bridge to Bayville and stop at the clam shack at Bridge Marine or continue on to the restaurants on the water in Bayville. Or perhaps try to get some shellfish through local clammers and create your own tasty meal at home.

8. There is no better way to experience the waterways than to go out on a boat. If you do not have a boat (or have a friend who has a boat), then you could try renting one for a day. The Waterfront Center rents sailboats in four-hour timeframes and Bridge Marine rents powerboats.

9. Take a romantic or relaxing stroll along the paved paths throughout the Western Waterfront and Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park.

10. Join the party at the annual Friends of the Bay Race on Saturday, June 16 at Sagamore Yacht Club. This event is open to the community. You do not have to be a sailor to go to the after-party from 3-7 p.m. The party features the band Crooked Foot, raffles, and great food. Entry to the party is $30 for adults and $10 for children. For more information about attending the party you can contact Jerry Lalonde at 922-3126.

For more information about boating, environmental matters, and other water-related activities throughout the Oyster Bay area you can email the author at Jaime.VanDyke@gmail.com or reach her at 946-9464.