It would be great if we could all pack up our bags and head to the Caribbean islands for the summer months. Doesn’t the idea of lounging around at an all-inclusive resort in Antigua sound incredible? Unfortunately, due to finances, work obligations, and family responsibilities, that isn’t practical for a lot of people. Lucky for you, there are plenty of great spots where you can feel like you’re in a Caribbean paradise – all of these amazing beaches in New York ought to do the trick. 

1. Skaneateles Lake
Skaneateles Lake, New York, USA
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Skaneateles Lake is located in the central part of the state and is a summer paradise in New York. It's both the highest and the cleanest of the Finger Lakes. Tucked in between ridges, the scenery around Skaneateles is stunning. There's a ton to do in the area, but we'll forgive you if you decide to lounge out by the water all day. The area is popular with swimmers, fishermen, and boaters. It's no wonder why people call Skaneateles Lake the most beautiful lake in the country!
2. Lake Ontario
Lake Ontario, Lake Ontario
James Schwartz/Flickr
"Ontarí'io" means "great lake" in the Huron language, and that is certainly a designation we can agree with! This will be one of your new favorite beaches in New York. The Lake Ontario region has a massive biodiversity of plants and animals. It also offers a diverse array of options for recreation. Whether you prefer fishing, kayaking, swimming, or just relaxing, you can do it here. There are so many beaches along Lake Ontario's shore that are worth checking out.

We can't get enough of this gorgeous birds-eye view of Lake Ontario in glorious 4K:

3. Splish Splash Water Park (Calverton)
Splish Splash Water Park, 2549 Splish Splash Dr, Calverton, NY 11933, USA
Splish Splash/Facebook
What would summer be without a visit to a water park? Splish Splash Water Park in Calverton has been delighting New Yorkers for more than 30 years. The 90-acre park has nearly 20 water slides, two wave pools, and a 1,300-foot lazy river. This is definitely one of the best places in Long Island to enjoy a hot summer day! Check out Splish Splash's website for more information.

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4. Stony Brook State Park (Dansville)
Stony Brook State Park, Dansville, NY 14437, USA
Yuxuan Sun/Google Maps
There's something really magical about swimming near a waterfall. There aren't too many places where one can do it safely, but Stony Brook State Park in Dansville offers that opportunity. The temperatures in the pool vary throughout the summer, so test with your feet before jumping in! The park boasts fantastic trails and camping areas, making it a true paradise in New York. Stony Brook State Park is a swimming hole in New York like no other.
5. Robert H. Tremen State Park (Tompkins County)
Robert H. Treman State Park, 105 Enfield Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
Gustavo Garcia Castro/Google Maps
Another park on our list of Caribbean paradises in New York is Robert H. Treman State Park. This stunning park offers miles of hiking trails, camp sites, and 12 waterfalls. There's even a stream-fed swimming hole to play in in the summer. You'll want to check the New York Parks website before heading out to see if swimming is open, as it occasionally shuts down when water conditions are poor.
6. Peekamoose Blue Hole (Denning)
Peekamoose Blue Hole, Peekamoose Rd, Sundown, NY 12740, USA
Abir Mutthakin/Google Maps
This is such a stunning area! It looks like a forest straight out of a fairytale. With water so clear you can see straight to the bottom, it's easy to see why it's called a "blue hole." You'll feel like you entered the Garden of Eden here. Read more about Peekamoose Blue Hole.

Join the fun at the Peekamoose Blue Hole in this awesome video!

Of course, when visiting any natural space or beaches in New York (or elsewhere!), always make sure to practice the Leave No Trace principle. It’s important that pristine areas stay pristine, not only for the wildlife that resides there but so future generations can enjoy the areas as well.

Have you visited any of these beautiful destinations in New York? What’s your pick for the “most Caribbean paradise” place in New York? Share your experiences in the comments!

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