Pre-Trip Fun for Long Island, New York

"The Great Gatsby" -- F. Scott Fitzgerald's adult-leaning classic tragedy about high society in Long Island may appeal especially to older teens reading the book for school. (Teens)

Crab and Lobster-Stuffed Mushrooms -- Buy pre-cooked lump crab and lobster meat and make tasty appetizers for a pre-trip party.

Clam Bake -- The Hamptons are all about the summer BBQ. Save time by having your local fishmonger clean and debeard the mussels.

Ice Cream in a Bag -- Get them ready for the beach with this fun, easy soft-serve treat.

"Eloise Goes to the Beach" by Kay Thompson -- Fans of the famed Plaza resident will happily follow her to Long Island. Based on the art of illustrator (and Hamptons resident) Hilary Knight. (Ages 4 to 8)

"Flotsam" by David Weisner -- Take a magical journey when a boy finds an old camera filled with amazing sea-themed shots. (Ages 4 to 8)

"Action Jackson" by Jan Greenberg and Sandra Jordan -- Imagining how Jackson Pollack developed his paintings introduces kids to Long Island's king of abstract art. (Ages 4 to 12)

"The Castle Tower Lighthouse: Edgar Font's Hunt for a House to Haunt, Adventure One" by Patrick H.T. Doyle -- Give seaside sites a little intrigue with a good old-fashioned vacation ghost story. (Ages 9 to 12)

"Surfer Girl: A Guide to the Surfing Life" by Sanoe Lake and Steven Jarrett -- Start them out with a boogie board and some advice from the pros. (Ages 12 and Up)

"The Wreckers (The High Seas Trilogy)" by Iain Lawrence -- This 'Treasure Island'-style thriller makes even calm seas exciting. (Ages 12 to 14)

Lighthouse in a Bottle -- Montauk is known for its gorgeous lighthouses. Help kids make their own and use it as a nightlight.

Wooden Boat and Dock -- Aspiring sailors (and carpenters) especially will enjoy this pre-trip project with a little help from adults.