Just add water! Our picks for getting out on (or in) the water in summer’s heat

Swim with mermaids at the Long Island Aquarium

Beach fam or not, getting out on the water is a surefire way to cool off when the temps reach their highs. Let’s face it, no one (and we mean no one!) is on their best behavior when humidity is off the charts and summer’s heat reaches its peak index. Instead of retreating indoors, check out these picks for ways to combat soaring temps this season while still enjoying the outdoors.

Swim with mermaids at the Long Island Aquarium

Make your Little Mermaid-loving dreams come true with this unique, interactive water experience. Head to the Long Island Aquarium in downtown Riverhead on Mondays and Fridays through Labor Day with sessions at 11 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 2 and 3:15 p.m. to swim with real, live mermaids and tropical fish from all over the world. Participants must be out of diapers and accompanied by a paying adult if under the age of 7. Swimsuits are recommended however the aquarium will provide a wet suit should it be needed. Other gear such as masks, flippers, and mouthpieces are also provided. This experience takes place in Shark Reef Lagoon, but don’t worry, only mermaids and tropical fish swim in these waters. For complete details including ticket cost, reservations, and additional interactive aquarium experiences visit longislandaquarium.com.

Play seek-and-find lighthouses on a lighthouse tour

All aboard for a lighthouse tour! Departing from Orient Point, Cross Sound Cruises Lighthouse Tour is sure to delight the whole family. This kid-friendly, two-hour-long boat tour cruises through the waters of the Long Island Sound, New London Harbor, Fishers Island Sound, and Gardiners Bay and passes eight lighthouse landmarks such as Gardiners Point Lighthouse, Little Gull Light, New London Ledge Lighthouse, and more. The cruises depart most Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through mid-October with departure times at 2 p.m. and 10:30 a.m. depending on the day. View the complete schedule here. Cruises are narrated by knowledgeable tour guides and have snacks and drinks available for purchase. Lighthouse Tours cost $34/adult, $17/child ages 2-11, and free for children under the age of 2. Book your Lighthouse Cruise reservation here.

Paddle down the Peconic River under the moonlight 

On Saturday, August 17 from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. (and again on Sat., Sept. 14 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.,) Long Island Canoe Kayak Rentals will lead a group of paddlers down the Peconic River in downtown Riverhead as the sun sets and the moon rises and illuminates the sky. While this excursion is family-friendly, the adventure is best for experienced paddlers — kayakers or paddleboarders. The cost is $60/person and includes a stand-up paddleboard or kayak rental. Or if participants bring their own vessel the cost is $25/person. There is a two-person reservation minimum which can be booked here.

Learn about the Peconic Estuary while taking a tour of local waters

Curious about Long Island’s waterways? Learn all about the Peconic Estuary while aboard the 90-minute interactive and educational boat tour: the Atlantis Explorer. This family-friendly boat tour which departs from Long Island Aquarium — though aquarium admission is not required for the tour — sails participants down the Peconic River and into Flanders Bay while offering hands-on exploration, environmental awareness, and education. The tour sets sail daily through Labor Day at 1 and 3:30 p.m. For rates, including summer specials, additional details, and booking information, visit here.