Mulcahy’s , Wantagh

Chances are you’ve heard of this one, as it’s been in business for over 40 years in one incarnation or another; yet it remains one of Long Island’s hottest destinations. Mulachy’s is just really one giant sportsbar, but it also features DJ nights, cover bands and B+ big acts alike. The crowd is blessedly clubhead-free, drawing collegiate and post-collegiate patrons who miss the old KTU. Come for an easy shot-and-beer night out, and don’t worry about stumbling home from the sticks: it’s right across the street from the Wantagh LIRR station. Ocean Beach, Fire Island (Ferries run from Bay Shore) http://www.ocean-beach.com/ While Fire Island is the classic summer stop for hundreds of gay and lesbian beach lovers, there are plenty of other communities besides Cherry Grove. During the summer months, many party people of all ages jump on the ferry from Bay Shore and take it across to Ocean Beach, where a slew of seasonal bars magnetize monstrous crowds. Bay Shore itself happens to be a growing town, and its Main St. features several fun restos and bars (for food, do Smokin’ Al’s; for drinks and wild bar action hit The Nutty Irishman) to keep you occupied. The Mermaid Inn gets positively awash with revelers on weekends, so feel free to walk into any of the many watering holes and grab a frozen drink. *Note: just make sure and get on that last ferry, because water taxis can cost 2-4 times as much and the wait can be brutal.