While it is not actually an island, Coney Island is a great ocean front city. It's a bit like a gigantic fun house. If you are in the mood for ridiculousness, this is the pace to visit!
Summer kicks off with The Mermaid Parade. Bring your camera and enjoy the costumes from both participants and parade watchers, alike! Be warned, partial nudity is allowed. It is the event of the year for the arts community, but if you miss the parade there are other chances to enjoy the fun and frivolity.
Each year on the Fourth of July, Nathan's hosts its annual hot dog eating contest. I must admit, I was there the year the Joey Chestnut took the title from Kobayashi. It's so popular that there is a whole organization dedicated to competitive eating.
What goes better with hot dogs than baseball? Catch a game at the home of The Brooklyn Cyclones. The minor league team is affiliated with The NY Mets. And the ticket prices won't break the budget!
The baseball team took its name from the famous roller coaster. And since no beach is complete without an amusement park, they have that covered with Luna Park and Deno's Wonder Wheel. Yes, there are two.
The boardwalk is booming! You must stop into Tom's for an egg cream and some classic diner eats. If a hot day in the sun has you longing for a beer, pop into Ruby's for a cold one.
And don't let me forget to mention the beach. It's part of the NYC Parks System so there are no fees. And there is a long stretch of beach to enjoy!