Great Escape: City By The Sea

It's not quite bikini weather, yet. But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the beach.

Long Beach in Nassau County is the perfect respite from city life.

White sandy beaches, a well maintained boardwalk and the soothing sounds of surf beating against the tide — what more could you want?

Long Beach island is surrounded by Reynolds Channel to the north, east and west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. Plus with parts of the barrier island less than half a mile wide you can walk from bay to ocean in literally minutes.

And while you're there don't forget to stroll down memory lane as you walk up the two mile long historic boardwalk — built in 1914 with the help of elephants.

So why not relax in a quiet beach atmosphere equipped with cozy burger shacks, lively surfer bars and a rich history that make Long Beach Island the gem on the south shore.