24 Best Things To Do in Sayville with Kids

Dance with the whole family at free concerts at Common Ground at the Rotary. Photo courtesy of The Sayville Common Ground at Rotary Park
Dance with the whole family at free concerts at Common Ground at the Rotary. Photo courtesy of The Sayville Common Ground at Rotary Park
6/23/25 - By Jaime Sumersille

Nestled comfortably on the South Shore between Nassau and the East End, Sayville makes a great day trip any time of the year. 

About five miles west of Patchogue, Sayville might be overlooked for the more popular central Suffolk destination. However, Sayville also has a booming downtown area full of restaurants and shops, as well as ferry service to central Fire Island. With delicious eateries, seasonal festivals, and play areas for kids, you can find something for every member of the family. 

We've rounded up all our favorite Sayville destinations for kids and families below. You'll find more fun local communities to explore in our Guide to Suffolk County, plus more fun expeditions in our Guide to Day Trips on Long Island.

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Top Things To Do in Sayville with Kids

1. Sayville Marina Park

Sayville boasts multiple parks, but you won't be disappointed in a trip to Sayville Marina Park. Upgraded in 2023, its unique pentagon shape allows for kids of multiple ages to explore. The marina is across the street from the playground and beach, so nautical-loving littles will have a great time watching the boats go in and out or drop a line from the fishing pier. 

2. Beaches

Corey Beach is a small bay beach with a playground right on the beach open to Brookhaven Town residents and tourists alike (just be mindful of any parking restrictions). With lifeguards (in season), concessions, fishing, and a gazebo for shade, it's worth a jaunt to neighboring Blue Point to soak up the sand and sun. 

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Fire Island Sunken MeadowL Things To Do in Sayville, Long Island, with Kids
Sunken Forest trail features a boardwalk next to Great South Bay. Photo by Theresa Vaccaro/Hiking Long Island

3. Gateway to Fire Island

For beach bums and nature buffs, Sayville is your family's direct connection to Fire Island, specifically Sailor's Haven and Sunken Forest. At Sailor's Haven, you'll find a pristine beach with all the amenities your family needs, including concessions and restrooms. Sunken Forest is just what it sounds like, a forest alongside the beach. It's a must-see for nature lovers. For fares and schedules, check the Sayville Ferry website. A one-way trip takes about 20 minutes.

4. The Common Ground

This peaceful, public oasis in the center of town includes a unique labyrinth path. Family Fridays, a Wednesday in the Park music series, and moon-watching labyrinth walks are all part of the free programming here.

5. KidStrong Sayville

This children's training and fitness center aims to boost confidence and character in your tiny, mighty kiddos. Each 45-minute class is designed for activities and exercises that are age-appropriate, from walkers to age 11.

6. Sayville Falls Miniature Golf

Sayville Falls Miniature Golf hit a hole-in-one with its year-round attractions. Not only do they claim to have the longest 18-hole mini course on Long Island, but the course features flowing waterfalls, as well as viewing platforms overlooking ponds filled with fish. With a beer garden, gazebos for rent, food trucks, lawn games, and more, you can easily spend an entire afternoon or evening here.

7. Holiday Light Show & Winter Garden

I mentioned Sayville Falls boasts year-round attractions, so don't skip the Holiday Light Show & Winter Garden. We visited in late November and had the best time. While you can't actually play on the course, it's transformed into a wonderland for a different experience. The igloos for rent, turf field for sports, bouncers, and more are sure to be a hit for your brood.

8. Sayville Theater

Movie lovers can take in a flick at Sayville Theater. A throwback to older theaters, you can find four to five movies playing here at a time. What it lacks in space, it makes up for in charm and price. Be sure to note the matinee deals. 

9. Long Island Maritime Museum

The Long Island Maritime Museum in nearby West Sayville is a great place to learn about Long Island's sailing roots. There is an exhibit dedicated solely to the history of boating, fishing, and maritime rescue on Long Island, as well as offshore wrecks. Kids will have fun firing off a cannon or sailing a virtual ship through treacherous waters. The museum hosts annual events, such as the Halloween Boat Burning and Summer Seafood Festival, as well as seasonal programming, including Story Time by the Bay.

10. Loughlin Vineyard

Loughlin Vineyard is open weekend afternoons year round with live music most summer Saturdays. Admission is free. They sell cheese and charcuterie boards, but limited supply so you can bring your own food or pick up supplies at SAY Cheese in Sayville. Pets and children are allowed. Check out our visit here

Family-Friendly Sayville Restaurants

11. Cafe Joelle

Cafe Joelle offers a mix of American, German, and Italian food, making it a good stop for families with differing tastes.

12. Five Points Cafe

Boasting a robust burgers, handhelds, salads, and taco menu, Five Points Cafe is a sure-fire crowd pleaser. 

13. Off the Block Kitchen & Meats 

This spot specializes in high-quality meat dishes, brunch, and locally grown produce. There is also a butcher counter, where you can take some of their juicy meats home to prepare yourself. 

14. Fritzsche's Bakery

This old-school French bakery is a long-standing staple in Sayville. While their confectionary concoctions include cakes, cookies, and muffins, locals claim the Boston Creme donuts are among the best they've ever tasted.

15. Sayville Chocolatier

This decadent Main Street sweet spot makes for a sweet ending to your Sayville day trip. From assorted chocolates and truffles to dipped fruits, nuts, pretzels, and more, The Sayville Chocolatier has been around for more than 40 years.

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 L.I. Salty Kids Cove: Things To Do in Sayville, Long Island, with Kids
L.I. Salty Kids Cove is a beach-themed indoor play space. Photo courtesy L.I. Salty Kids Cove

16. L.I. Salty Kids Cove

During rainy or cold days, kids younger than 5 will love L.I. Salty Kids Cove, an indoor beachy-themed playground with daily open play and membership options. With themed play areas, a pretend play gym, and unique birthday party options, this play space is worth a pop-in. 

Family-Friendly Annual Events in Sayville

17. Spring Fest

The vibrant Chamber of Commerce hosts seasonal downtown celebrations, highlighting local businesses while offering family-friendly entertainment in the form of music, magicians, and more. The Spring Fest also includes an Easter parade.

18. Sayville Summerfest

At this annual affair held in early August, folks can enjoy rides, live musical performances, art exhibits, vendors, a car show, an international food fair, and more, 

19. Seafood Festival at the Long Island Maritime Museum

Normally held in late August, this Seafood Festival at the Long Island Maritime Museum boasts live music, an arts and crafts market, children's activities, and more. Enjoy food for landlubbers and seafood lovers alike, and check out the 1888 Oyster Sloop Pricilla, a National Historic Landmark.

20. Fall Fest

This autumn festival highlights live music, vendors, face painting, and more. The festival includes a costume parade.

21. Halloween Boat Burning

Each year, someone donates an old boat, and the Long Island Maritime Museum facilitates a safe burning in the harbor. This intriguing Halloween weekend tradition is quite the sight.

22. Miracle on Main Street

This annual holiday celebration transforms Main Street into a winter wonderland ahead of the holiday season each year. Be sure to check out the impressive Gingerbread Competition here as well. 

Savyille, NY, Hotels

23. Land's End Motel & Marina

Normally reserved for post-wedding stay, this motel facing the Great South Bay is within walking distance of the Fire Island ferries. With 14 king-size rooms, a newly renovated two-bedroom suite, and a waterfront cottage, this spot is ideal for families of all sizes. 

24. Come As You Are Inn

This circa 1870s period, all-inclusive bed and breakfast boasts three guestrooms, each with a private bath. The garden, pool, and grounds are an added wow factor for this quaint abode. Note that pets are not allowed on the premises.

Getting to Sayville, NY

Sayville is roughly an hour and 15 minutes from Manhattan by car if there's no traffic. Take Exit 50 of the Sunrise Highway and travel south on Lakeland Avenue. Alternatively, take the Long Island Expressway to Exit 59 South and head south on Lakeland Avenue. Parking is available along the streets or in several municipal metered lots. Sayville is on the Long Island Rail Road's Montauk branch. If coming from the west, you will likely need to transfer at Babylon. Main Street is less than a half-mile south of the Sayville station. 

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About the Author

Jaime Sumersille
Jaime Sumersille, a mom of two boys in Bellmore, has been writing for Mommy Poppins for over a decade. She’s always exploring Long Island’s beaches, parks, and new attractions, and loves sharing those experiences on the site. Jaime enjoys adding her family’s perspective to Mommy Poppins’ mission.