The summertime living is easy - and fun

Like the song says, it's summer time and the living is easy - and there's no better place for families to enjoy the sun, water and recreation than in the Greater Newburyport area.

The sparkling blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the white, sandy beaches of Salisbury Beach or Plum Island are idyllic locations for swimming, surfcasting, sand volleyball, picnicking or simply relaxing.

Fireworks at Salisbury Beach offer a brilliant pyrotechnic display over the ocean. And Saturday nights come alive on the beachfront with sock hops and displays of classic cars. Call the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce for information, 465-3581.

Anglers can test their skills during a deep sea fishing excursion on board the 100-foot Captain Red at Hilton's Dock in Newburyport or on board a number of other charter boats. For information call Hilton's, 465-7165.

For the competitive angler, several tournaments take place throughout the summer and information is available at most local bait and tackle shops.

Landlubbers can take to the open seas in quest of the gentle giants that live in the waters of the Gulf of Maine. Whale-watch tours from Hilton's Dock provide marine biologists on board for insightful and educational tours. Pack your sunscreen, binoculars and enjoy the finback, right and humpback whales as they offer nature's most spectacular show.

For those who prefer to keep land in sight, narrated harbor cruises along the Merrimack River are available aboard the Yankee Clipper departing from the Newburyport waterfront. Call 948-2375. Or try a sunset cruise with dinner and dancing aboard the Captain Red at Hilton's, 465-9885.

The whole family can cool off at Water Country just three miles south of the Portsmouth traffic circle on Route 1. New England's largest water park boasts a huge wave pool, the quarter-mile Adventure River, and 13 giant water slides. Call (603) 436-3556.

If the peace and serenity of gentle, flowing waters in a pristine landscape appeals to you, rent a canoe from Rowley Canoes and Caps for an afternoon and canoe the Ipswich River. Call 948-2515.

Nature lovers, bird watchers, botanists, herbalists and just about anyone else who enjoys wildlife observation and horticulture can take advantage of the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge on Plum Island. Trails and an observation tower provide spectacular views of the marsh, ocean and dunes. Surf fishing and shellfishing are also permitted on the refuge. Whether you drive, walk or bicycle, the beauty of the refuge and the abundant wildlife make the trip worthwhile. The entrance fee is $5 per car or $2 for walk-ins. Call 465-5753 for information.

Seabrook Greyhound Park on Route 107 offers a fast-paced diversion from the ordinary. Watch the greyhounds take off at lightning speed around the track. Have dinner or enjoy an ice cream cone while watching the races. For information call (603) 474-3065.

The excitement of the races can also be found in a motorized version at Lee USA Speedway on Route 125 in Lee, N.H. Only a half-hour from Newburyport, the speedway features Super Modified races and special racing events on Fridays at 7 p.m. Admission is $12 or $20 for special events. Children under 12 are free. Call the racing hotline, 462-4252.