Photos: Life's A Beach in Smithtown

Smithtown residents packed all four town beaches Thursday in the calm before storm Hurricane Earl and the Labor Day rush.

Callahans, Short Beach, Schuberts Beach (also known as Little Africa) and Long Beach are cherished by many Smithtown residents. The Town of Smithtown does not charge a fee to enter any of them, so a day at the town beach is recession friendly. Food is afforadble - hotdogs are $2, French fries are $3.50 and ice cream prices range from $1 - $3.  

"On a nice weekend, I might sell 100 pieces of ice-cream," said Phil, who runs the concession stand at Short Beach.

Short Beach has a playground and a new sprinkler system where children can cool off.  There is also a perfectly situated gazebo where parents or grandparents can watch their little ones while catching a view of the Nissequogue River on one side and Smithtown Bay on the other.

Callahans in Fort Salonga also has a modern playground.  Schuberts is the least utilized beach but its covered pavillian and dozens of barbeques and tables make it perfect for large parties.

Considered the crowning jewels of Smithtown by many, historically the town beaches have been well-maintained with fresh coats of paint, flower beds and updated signs. Large lighthouse replicas have recently been put at the Kings Park Bluff on Old Dock and as you enter the parking lots of Short Beach, Long Beach, Schubert's Beach and the Town Marina.

Residents can camp at either Short Beach or Callahans for $20 a night - permits are available at the Parks Department. Up to 20 campers are permitted on the sites and permits are first come first serve.  The prime beach-front spots on Short Beach go to those who arrive earliest.