They say to collect experiences, not objects. The greatest joys in life come from the memories we have of the adventures we take, not the material things we acquire. Sure, we all want the newest iPhone or that new pair of shoes but just what will we remember in the years to come?

 

We list five great local experiential gifts you can give your loved one this holiday season.

 

The Cooking Lab -  Cooking classes for adults, teens and kids at their teaching space. Consists of eight (8) separate cooking stations that each accommodates up to two individuals. Location: 160 Main Street, Port Washington, (516) 570-0050.

 

Long Island Skydiving Center -  Soar above the Long Island Sound, taking in the picturesque Twin Forks, Westhampton Beach, the Atlantic Ocean, Smith Point County Park, and the Fire Island National Seashore. On clear days, you can even see all the way to Montauk and New York City. Location: 133 Dawn Drive, Shirley, (631) 351-5867.

 

Ginny Marie Schooner - The Ginny Marie is 50’ William Atkin Schooner operated daily for pleasure cruises from May until October. Long Islanders and tourists alike can set sail out of Port Jefferson for a vintage style sailing experience. Captain Brian Murphy masterfully pairs the old world marine elegance of a hand crafted, turn of the century, working wooden schooner, to the beautiful backdrop of the Long Island Sound. Location: Harborfront Park, Port Jefferson, (631) 223-9180.

 

Rusty Wallace Racing Experience - Make laps around historic Riverhead Raceway with the Rusty Wallace Racing Driving Experience or Ride Along Experience. Riverhead Raceway is a quarter-mile (400 m) oval race track with a Figure 8 course. It is the only auto racing venue on Long Island. Location: 1797 Old Country Road, Riverhead, (631) 842-7223.

 

Montauk Salt Cave - There are any number of spa, therapeutic, or exercise options at this wellness destination at The End of Long Island. Surround yourself in up to 13 tons of pink Himalayan salt for healing, rest and relaxation. Location: 552 W. Lake Drive, Montauk, (631) 668-7258.