As the warm spring weather arrives in West Islip, New York, and the cold days of winter become a fading memory, it’s a pleasure to be able to take part in some fun water-based activities. Here are three activities that you can enjoy. 
- Swimming
Looking over Great South Bay, the West Islip Marina Park offers access to a beautiful, quiet little beach with 50 yards of waterfront. If you’re considering going in the water, there is a roped-off swimming area, but you can only use it when the lifeguards are on duty. The beachfront has restrooms and outdoor showers. Entry to the park is free for residents with a recreation card; non-residents pay a daily car fee.
If you prefer a swimming pool, Casamento Park Pool is a clean and well-maintained facility in Anthony Casamento Park on Muncey Road in West Islip. This pool is often less crowded than others in the area and features a main pool and a wading pool for kids. Tables and chairs are available to rent so you can enjoy the poolside for as long as you want.
- Boating
For those who have a boat, the marina in West Islip Marina has docking facilities for residents, boat slips, and a launch ramp with trailer access. The Y.M.C.A. runs a sailing program from the marina during the summer for a fee. Residents need a recreation card for free entry to the park.
Located in North Babylon is the 463-acre Belmont Lake State Park with its stunning lake. When the boat dock is open, you can take to the water by canoe or kayak. In the summer, rowboats, pedal boats, and kayaks are available to rent. From the water, you might spot ospreys diving for fish in the spring.
- Fishing
If you relish the challenge of catching fish, Southards Pond Park, which is close to Babylon Village. features a large, well-stocked pond that is part of the Carlls River system. The naturally reproducing fish include yellow perch, carp, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, pumpkinseed, brown bullhead, and bluegill. The pond is also stocked with rainbow trout and brown trout.
The lake in Belmont Lake State Park offers similar species of fish to Southards Pond. In April, Belmont Lake hosts the Spring Family Freshwater Fishing Festival, which gives you the ideal chance to introduce your family to the sport. Bait and loaner rods are available and you don’t need a fishing license to take part.
Alternatively, cast your line from one of the area’s beaches for the plentiful striped bass, flounder, fluke, and weakfish. For some deep-sea fishing action, one of the many charter boats will take you in search of yellowfin, bluefin, and bigeye tuna, marlin, mahi-mahi, and even mako and thresher sharks if you choose.
These are just a few of the activities you can enjoy around West Islip as we head into spring. Of course, you could just sit by the water and relax in the serenity that the ocean or a lake offers.
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