Visiting Fire Island

Fire Island is an iconic car-free beach haven located off the south shore of Long Island in New York. It is a 32 mile long and half a mile wide barrier island that is connected to the mainland by ferry. With 17 distinct communities, Fire Island is most famous for its tranquil and unspoiled beaches, centuries-old maritime forests, relaxed daytime atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and two very well known LGBTQ+ vacation towns: Cherry Grove and The Fire Island Pines. Visiting Fire Island is popular with New Yorkers in the summer, and I am fortunate to not just have visited, but also to have flown over it in a Cessna, which has given me an even better perspective of its unique location off mainland Long Island.

While Fire Island is popular as a day trip, the real charm of visiting Fire Island is to find a way to stay overnight or longer.  Hotel options are limited, and home rentals and shares are the norm, though these need to be planned ahead as even the options for home or room rentals are very limited. New Yorkers tend to return to the same home rentals, and often plan ahead a year in advance for their time in Fire Island.

Getting to Fire Island

Getting to Fire Island involves multiple forms of public transport, with the last leg being a ferry to get to the town/community which is your destination.  Within the island, residents and visitors traverse the communities by foot, bike, wagon, or golf cart, as cars are not allowed.

The final leg of the trip is a ferry ride, which offers stunning views of the Great South Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

Using Public Transportation

Public Transportation is the most popular way to get to Fire Island.  The trip to Fire Island begins with taking the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to a station based on where the Ferry to your destination within Fire Island operates from.  The price of the LIRR ticket depends on the distance you are traveling on the train, and whether it is during peak or non peak hours. You also have the option to purchase a vacation package, which covers the cost of the LIRR tickets, taxi to the ferry, and the ferry ride to Fire Island.

There are several ferry companies that operate between Long Island and Fire Island, including the Fire Island Ferries and the Sayville Ferry Service. The ferries run from early morning until late at night, and the ferry timings are synced with LIRR train timings to minimize wait time.  However, the ferry schedule varies throughout the year as ferries run more frequently during the peak season in the summer, making it easier to get to and from the island.

Fire Island Ferries 

Here’s a list of Fire Island Ferries and the towns they serve:

• Fire Island Ferries (Bayshore Station for LIRR) – serve the towns of Kismet, Saltaire, Fair Harbor, Atlantique, Dunewood, Ocean Beach, Seaview, and Ocean Bay Park
• Sayville Ferries (Sayville Station for LIRR) – serve the towns of Cherry Grove,  Fire Island Pines, Sailors Haven and Water Island
• Davis Park Ferris (Patchogue Station for LIRR) – serve the towns of Davis Park and Watch Hill

Fire Island Ferry Schedule

The Fire Island Ferry Schedule is an essential resource for anyone planning a visit to Fire Island, especially since ferry services are subject to change due to weather conditions, maintenance, or other factors. It is highly recommended to check the Fire Island Ferry Schedule before planning a trip to ensure the ferries are running on schedule. The schedules are available at –

• Fire Island Ferries
• Sayville Ferries
• Davis Park Ferris

There are buses that transfer passengers from the train station to the ferry harbor and back, and they operate frequently to make tight connections. For the Sayville ferries as an example, the buses charge $6 for a one way transfer from Sayville LIRR station, and they accept cash only.

By Private Boat

Visitors who have their own boats can also reach Fire Island by water. There are several marinas on the island where visitors can dock their boats, but each community has their own regulations about docking, so it is important to plan ahead.

By Water Taxis

Fire Island has private water taxis to go travel between its various towns and beaches.

By Car

To get to Fire Island by car, the only option is to take the Southern State Parkway to the Robert Moses Causeway, which leads to the Fire Island Lighthouse at the western tip of the Fire Island National Seashore. From there, visitors can take a water taxi to their desired destination on the island. It is important to note that parking spots are limited and it can be difficult to find parking, so plan accordingly.

Fire Island Map

When planning a visit to Fire Island, it really helps to have a good understanding of the layout of the island. Fire Island is a long, narrow barrier island located off the coast of Long Island, NY. The island stretches for 32 miles and is only a quarter-mile wide at its widest point. There are no roads on the island, so visitors must rely on footpaths and water taxis to get around.

Fire Island Pines Map

A map of Fire Island Pines is a great way to understand how the town is structured with three main ‘walks’ running along its length, and all the houses situated off these. One side faces the ocean, and one the bay.

Fire Island Towns

Fire Island is made up of several small towns, each with its unique charm and character. The towns are listed from west to east, and the most popular ones are:

Kismet

Kismet, the westernmost town on Fire Island, is one of the most vacation-friendly towns on Fire Island, thanks to its proximity to Robert Moses State Park from which is easily accessible by foot, and many share houses line its five blocks. Kismet’s town center is situated along the bay and offers amenities such as a grocery store, two restaurants, a popular marina, a basketball court, public tennis courts, a playground, and a pizza shop on the dock.

It is a popular destination for singles, families with children, and visitors who come to enjoy the beach for the day. The beach, marina, and two restaurants, The Inn and Surf’s Out, are the heart of the town’s activities. Ferries depart from Bay Shore to reach Kismet, which is located just a short distance from the Lighthouse.

Accommodations in Kismet include Margarita Villas, Camelot Court, and The Boatel, offering rooms for rent. Numerous short-term and seasonal home rentals are available for families and groups.

Saltaire

Saltaire is a casual, friendly, and relaxed environment town that is a great fit for families. Saltaire’s streets are adorned with beautiful tree-lined wooden boardwalks.Established in 1917, Saltaire showcases a diverse range of architectural styles ranging from original 1940’s “Coffey” houses with their distinctive arched windows and screened front porches, to Thomas Moore’s sleek and modern homes, and the timeless and cozy beach cottages.

Saltaire is governed by strict zoning laws, resulting in a well-defined commercial district centered around Broadway near the ferry dock. Within this district, residents can find essential amenities such as a gourmet market, liquor store, doctor’s office, library, and firehouse. Share rentals are not permitted.

A prominent social hub in Saltaire is the members-only Saltaire Yacht Club, where residents come together for activities like tennis, dining, sailing, and community events. Sailing is a big deal as the community participates – and often wins – in regattas against other towns and across Long Island.

Tennis and baseball are popular sports that are played here often, and a highlight of the community’s social calendar is the fiercely competitive sandcastle building contest in August.

Saltaire has two churches, St. Andrews Episcopal on Broadway and Our Lady Star of the Sea Mission Catholic church on Pilot.

The unique shape of the land has formed the Clam Pond, a wildlife refuge where herons wade in search of clams.

Cherry Grove is renowned for its lively events, such as the annual Drag Queen Invasion of the Pines on the 4th of July and the esteemed Miss Fire Island Contest at the end of summer.

Fair Harbor

Fair Harbor is a bustling and informal community known as a “Barefoot Community” located around a picturesque harbor at its center. The architectural styles in the town with almost 400 homes are diverse and range from humble 1940’s cottages to spacious modern homes.

The harbor view from the dock is considered the best on the island, attracting residents for the evening “Sixish” gathering to raise a glass and toast to the setting sun.  

The town offers a range of amenities, including the highly regarded Le Dock restaurant, Pioneer Market for grocery shopping, and Unfriendly’s for ice cream cones.

Fair Harbor has a lifeguard-patrolled bay beach. The ocean beach, monitored by lifeguards, is wide, sandy, and impeccably clean, and it’s a rarity to spot someone wearing shoes in this town.

The Fair Harbor Community Association is active and sponsors the Annual Pine Walk Crafts Fair on the dock and the bay front during the 4th of July weekend, which has become a prominent platform for local artists to showcase their talents.

Dunewood

Dunewood is a meticulously maintained, serene, and exquisitely landscaped community. Comprising approximately 100 homes, it features newer constructions compared to its neighboring town of Saltaire.  Originally established in 1958 as a fully planned community, Dunewood offered 100 identical homes for sale. Over time, these homes have been replaced by more modern and larger residences while retaining their charming and inviting character.

Group rentals are not permitted in Dunewood. The zoning regulations strictly enforce residential use, resulting in the absence of stores or restaurants within the town. Residents conveniently access shopping and facilities in nearby Fair Harbor.

The focal point of activity in Dunewood is the Dunewood Yacht Club, which provides excellent sailing lessons on its fleet of sailboats, including professional-level training for racing. The Club has an impressive collection of trophies from the annual Fire Island sailing regatta, where they compete against other community yacht clubs. Additionally, the town features two tennis courts exclusively available to members of the Dunewood Property Owners Association. An annual end-of-summer tennis tournament is held, culminating in a trophy presentation and communal celebration.

Lonelyville

Lonelyville is one of the oldest pocket communities on Fire Island. Established in 1905 by the South Shore Realty Company, this secluded town is distinguished by its two distinct sections. On the Western side are charming original 1930s cottages nestled amidst narrow wooden boardwalks, shaded by the lush surrounding vegetation, where some remnants of the structures from Capt. Selah Clock’s fishing operations in the 1880s can still be discovered. On the Eastern side, homes that emerged during the 1960s line the more modern cement walkways. Despite their architectural differences, both sides share a common appreciation for privacy, relaxation, and a comfortable way of life, though long -time residents, who have had homes in Lonelyville for generations, happily coexist with adventurous renters and newcomers to the community. 

Lonelyville lacks the typical amenities found in neighboring towns, such as stores, restaurants, and bars. Groceries are typically obtained from Fair Harbor or the mainland and transported by foot or wagon.

Ferry service to Lonelyville is available from Bay Shore, utilizing the Dunewood ferry.

Atlantique

Atlantique is a small town renowned as a haven for boat owners seeking a place to dock and indulge in recreational activities. Visitors come for day trips or opt to stay longer aboard their boats in the expansive marina, which boasts over 150 slips.

The town comprises approximately 50 homes, including the headquarters of the Appalachian Mountain Club’s Fire Island chapter. The marina is a focal point of attraction, with amenities such as electrical and fresh water hook-ups, a pump-out station, 24-hour restrooms, hot showers, a playground, handball and basketball courts, and a BBQ area.  Both the bay and ocean beaches are equipped with lifeguards. It is important to note that pets are not permitted in the facilities as per the town’s policy.

At the heart of Atlantique lies The Shack, a popular gathering spot that serves as a snack bar during the day and transforms into a lively venue at night. It is particularly known for its renowned 5:00 Rocket Fuels, and live bands provide an energetic soundtrack as sun-kissed individuals dance the night away.

Ferries departing from Bay Shore make stops exclusively in Dunewood, facilitating access to Atlantique.

Robbins Rest

Robbins Rest is one of the smallest towns on Fire Island with approximately 40 residences where privacy is cherished. The absence of boardwalks gives this community its authentic barefoot atmosphere. Residents access the nearby Ocean Beach for shopping and dining options.

The town’s name pays tribute to its founder, Josiah Carpenter Robbins, a prominent veterinarian and entrepreneur from Bay Shore who established Robbins Rest in the early 1900s.

Reaching Robbins Rest requires taking a water taxi since there is no direct ferry service available. One can opt to take the Ocean Beach ferry and then walk westward to reach the town.

As there are no boardwalks in Robbins Rest, wagons and bicycles need to be walked into the town. Although it may involve a bit of a hike, this unique aspect contributes to the town’s special charm.

Fire Island Summer Club

F.I. Summer Club, located between Robbins Rest and Corneille Estates, is a private and quaint village that consists of just two streets known as East Walk and West Walk.

Originally the Coast Guard station at Blue Point, the clubhouse was relocated to F.I. Summer Club in the 1920s and now serves as the community clubhouse. Its historical significance adds to the charm of the area.  The landmark clubhouse building is distinguished by its red tiled roof and watchtower.

Ferry transportation, shopping, and essential services are conveniently available in the nearby town of Ocean Beach, providing residents with easy access to amenities beyond the club’s boundaries.

Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach, known as “The Metropolis of Fire Island,” is the largest village on the island and serves as its vibrant hub, and was once a fashionable destination for Hollywood and theater personalities such as Marilyn Monroe, the Gershwins, Fanny Brice, and Tommy Tune during the 1940s and 1950s. With a wide array of shops, restaurants, hotels, inns, nightlife venues, and services, Ocean Beach attracts a significant number of visitors who enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The town also hosts several events throughout the summer, including live music, festivals, and fireworks.

Incorporated in 1921, Ocean Beach boasts nearly 600 homes and a thriving town center. Ocean Beach is home to a diverse range of residents, including long-time homeowners, year-round residents, young families with children, group renters, and day-visitors.  The town offers several guesthouses for visitors. 

Many families spending their summers in Ocean Beach and enroll their children in the Ocean Beach Youth Program, offering activities such as arts and crafts, sports, swimming and sailing lessons, and a drama program. Additionally, the town offers two tennis courts, two basketball courts, a bayfront playground, and a ball field. The large marina at Ocean Beach accommodates long-term visitors and provides docking for jet skis. Both ocean and bay beaches are patrolled by lifeguards.

Ocean Beach has very specific rules to maintain cleanliness and safety in the village. Vehicles, except for emergency and essential services, are not allowed. Bicycle riding in town is restricted during the peak season to ensure walkways are safe and walkable. Eating or drinking on public walkways outside the commercial district is prohibited to prevent broken glass and litter. Eating on the beach is also not permitted to keep it clean and hazard-free.

Seaview

Seaview is a family town with approximately 360 homes and a marina with mooring for around 60 boats used seasonally by residents. It has a strong sense of community with multiple generations of families making their homes there, which range from classic to modern styles.  One distinguishing feature of Seaview is its distinctive brickwork pattern on its paved streets.

The Synagogue is a central hub for religious and community events and gatherings. Recently celebrating its 65-year anniversary, the current synagogue building, designed by architect Abe Silverman, was opened in 1973 on Beachwold (“B” street) and Central Walk. The Synagogue is renowned for its egalitarian services, blending tradition and innovation with prayer, learning, and joyful music.

In addition to a children’s playground and wading pool, Seaview offers six tennis courts, a ball field, a community house, and Serber Memorial Park.

Ferries departing directly from Bay Shore connect residents and visitors to Seaview.

Ocean Bay Park

Ocean Bay Park, also known as “The Park,” is a laid-back and accepting town that attracts both Long Islanders and Fire Islanders. Ocean Bay Park encompasses ten streets, five of which are named after the Great Lakes (Ontario, Erie, Huron, Michigan, and Superior), while three streets bear the names of Native American nations (Cayuga, Seneca, and Oneida). The town center on Bay Walk offers various amenities, including a pizza shop, restaurants, a grocery store, bike rentals, and services.

The town boasts a diverse mix of families, artists, professionals, retirees, and partygoers who happily mingle together. The architectural styles reflect the vibrant personalities of the community, ranging from unique ship-shaped and kite-shaped Geller homes to charming beach bungalows lining the narrow pathways. In recent years, numerous new homes have been built or renovated, adding to the town’s appeal.

Visitors and residents alike gather at popular establishments like Flynn’s and Schooners Inn to enjoy live music.

Accommodations in Ocean Bay Park include The Inn Between on Bay Walk and the Fire Island Hotel, featuring Hurricanes Bar and Grill on Cayuga Walk. Additionally, there are numerous rental options available to cater to different preferences.

Point O’Woods

Point O’ Woods is Fire Island’s most private community situated between Ocean Bay Park on the west and a stretch of open National Seashore on the east. Private ferries provide access from Bay Shore. The village of Point O’ Woods holds the distinction of being the oldest and most secluded community on Fire Island. The community is gated to ensure that uninvited visitors do not intrude. Hosting gatherings at home is customary.

The number of homes has remained relatively constant at 128 since the original planning in the 1920s, though some of these architectural gems have been lost in storms. The wooden boardwalks are situated in lush foliage beneath the canopy of tall trees, partially concealing the classic Victorian homes with their cedar-shingled exteriors, nestled among wild roses.

A unique feature of Point O’ Woods is the original railroad, constructed by Captain Clock in the 1880s, which still transports residents from the ferry to the ocean.

The Point O’ Woods Yacht Squadron is the oldest yacht club on Fire Island and the oldest community organization, which participates in island-wide regattas, competing against Saltaire and Dunewood.

The Club, an architectural marvel showcasing the signature cedar-shingled style prevalent throughout the town, has tennis courts for the residents.  Other amenities include a grocery store, candy shop, nature center, post office, and a day camp catering to children. The ferry and parking lots in Bay Shore are private, with no public facilities available.

Point O’ Woods is a family-oriented community that requires residents to have children. Prospective homebuyers must receive recommendations from a club member and undergo an interview with the real estate committee. After a year of renting, they become eligible to purchase a home. The land is owned by the Association and leased to homeowners for 99 years. While residents are friendly, visitors are kindly requested to respect their privacy.

Sunken Forest/Sailor’s Haven

Hidden behind the interdune, in a valley that gives it a “sunken” appearance, is a primeval forest situated at sea level, which is veiled by a dense canopy of trees, allowing only slivers of sunlight to penetrate its depths. Elevated boardwalks meander along the nature trails, providing a ribbon-like pathway for exploration.

The diversity of flora within this forest is unparalleled on the entire island. 300-year-old American Holly trees command attention at 35 ft tall, and juneberry, sassafras, red cedar, post oak, tupelo, and shadbark thrive in abundance. Thick vines of poison ivy wrap themselves around the trunks of deceased trees. The marshy floor, damp and mossy, serves as a habitat for deer, raccoons, foxes, and a multitude of bird species.

Guided tours with a National Parks Service ranger are offered during the summer season. There are rest areas along the boardwalks, equipped with benches. It is important to remain on the designated walks and wear appropriate attire, including shoes, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts during mosquito season.

To reach this captivating destination, one can take the Sayville Ferry to Sailor’s Haven. Private boats, with advance reservations, can dock at the Sailor’s Haven marina, and inter-island water taxis make stops here as well. Amenities at Sailor’s Haven include a snack bar, souvenir shop, public phones, picnic tables, outdoor grills, restrooms, and showers.

Within Sailor’s Haven, the National Parks Service operates a visitor center that offers exhibits, information, special events, and lectures. From May to October, tours of the forest commence at this center.

Cherry Grove

Cherry Grove is known for its vibrant LGBTQ community and is often referred to as the “gay capital” of Fire Island. Cherry Grove is an extraordinary destination, with its dense foliage creating enchanting canopies over the winding boardwalks.  In the downtown area and along the bayfront, it has shops and restaurants, including one of the two oceanfront restaurants on Fire Island. 

The town is renowned for its fabulous venues and extravagant events, including The Belvedere Guest House and the iconic Community Theater.  The Belvedere Guest House, a private men-only establishment, embodies the Venetian fantasy envisioned by developer John Eberhardt. With its opulent design, featuring fountains, antiques, and statuary, this alluring retreat evokes the grandeur of a royal palace. Against the backdrop of the blue sky, the striking all-white exterior further enhances its extraordinary allure.

Cherry Grove’s Community Theater, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, holds great significance within the gay community. It has served as a creative sanctuary for Cherry Grove residents and their guests, and consistently delivers top-notch productions showcasing exceptional talent.

Fire Island Pines

Fire Island Pines proudly stands as the home of the gay community that is known for its lively nightlife and stunning beach.  Its wooden “roller coaster” boardwalks meander through the opulent and extravagant private homes that adorn the landscape, boasting more pools than any other town on the island.

Fire Island Pines town has a very unique culture that is embraced by residents and visitors alike, and room rentals are the norm to stay here within rental properties, which range from small cottages to large beachfront homes. These tend to get booked years in advance, and there is truly a community that has developed among everyone that visits Fire Island Pines over the years.

With one grocery store, one restaurant and one pizza shop, everyone tends to grab a sandwich for lunch, and cooking dinner at the home you are staying in is a big part of the day. Evenings are focused on ‘Tea’, which is a tradition that started in the 1960s, and has evolved into Little Tea, Middle Tea and Big Tea involving music and drinks at different venues right by the harbor every day. Fire Island Pines also has a lot of parties that are well attended by locals and visitors that come in for the day and often take the last ferry back to the mainland.

Davis Park

Davis Park is a secluded town located on the eastern end of Fire Island. The town is only accessible by ferry and is known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, surfing, and fishing. The town also has several restaurants and bars, making it a great destination for a relaxing getaway.

Watch Hill

Watch Hill at Fire Island, located in the heart of Fire Island across the Great South Bay from Patchogue, Long Island, can be accessed by private boat or seasonal ferry service from Patchogue.

The Watch Hill area offers a visitor center, a campground with 26 family campsites and one group campsite (reservations required by mail), permits for backcountry camping in the Fire Island Wilderness, ranger-led interpretive programs (including guided canoe trips), a 183-slip transient marina with water, electricity, and a pump-out station, a small convenience store, a snack bar, a self-guided nature trail, a picnic area, a lifeguarded beach during summer, restrooms, a bathhouse, and pay phones.

Attractions on Fire Island

Fire Island is a beautiful barrier island located off the south shore of Long Island, New York. In addition to its stunning beaches, it offers unique attractions that make it a go to destination for more reasons than one.

Fire Island Beaches

Fire Island’s appeal lies in its pristine beaches and laid-back beachside ambiance. It offers a variety of beaches with and without amenities, and it is important to research these in the context of what you are looking for before visiting.

Atlantique Beach

Atlantique Beach, which lies between the Atlantique and Lonelyville communities, occupies a strip of land spanning 875 feet between the bay and the ocean. This beach offers several amenities, including a public marina with over 150 slips, equipped with electricity, fresh water hookup, and a pump out station. Additionally, there are handball and basketball courts, 24-hour hot showers and restrooms, lifeguard protection on both ocean and bay beaches, children’s playgrounds, BBQ areas, and a snack bar.

Barrett Beach Park

Barrett Beach Park, located centrally on Fire Island between Fire Island Pines and Water Island, is a haven for boating enthusiasts. Previously considered the “jewel” of Long Island, the Barrett Beach/Talisman area was donated to the Fire Island National Seashore in 1998.

Barrett Beach Park offers magnificent waterside views on a beach that was restored and renovated in 2003.  Barrett Beach offers a secluded experience primarily focused on the beach itself, and has picnic and playground areas, and docking facilities for private boating.

Currently, the park is accessible on foot, by private boat, or via the charter ferry service from Patchogue or Sayville.

Fair Harbor Beach

Fair Harbor Beach, nestled between the Saltaire and Dunewood communities, provides a tranquil and family-friendly atmosphere.  The beach features lifeguards on the bay side, along with a few shopping and dining options. It is situated on the ocean side and is ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Fire Island National Seashore

Fire Island National Seashore, which is one of 10 United States National Seashores, encompasses 26 miles of Fire Island.  It is home to 17 vibrant communities, each with a distinct character as well as amenities and policies for visitors.

The Fire Island National Seashore’s pristine beaches offer a habitat for delicate flora and fauna, as well as for New Yorkers and visitors that flock to it in the summer by ferry or private boat, as there are no paved roads connecting them. The absence of traditional roads has actually helped these communities retain their original charm and character, and homeowners are fiercely protective of maintaining this. Some communities accommodate guests and tourists, while others are strictly residential. A small number of year-round residents endure the challenges of island life to safeguard and maintain these unique communities until the lively summer season arrives.

The Fire Island National Seashore is accessible by ferry from Patchogue and Sayville.

Kismet Beach

Kismet Beach, located west of Saltaire, is another family-friendly area that offers a more relaxed environment. Alongside its beautiful beach, Kismet Beach provides a playground for children and tennis courts in close proximity. The nightlife in Kismet is sustained by two popular bayside bar and grill establishments, namely The Inn and Surf’s Out. Kismet also features a bustling 100-slip commercial marina. This community exudes a charming, countryside ambiance, offering a sanctuary from the more densely populated beaches and towns to the east.

Visitors can reach Kismet via the Kismet ferry line departing from Bayshore, NY. However, being the westernmost Fire Island community, Kismet does not require a ferry for access. Many visitors choose to park in Field 5 at Robert Moses State Park and walk eastward to Kismet.

Sailors Haven/Sunken Forest

Sailors Haven/Sunken Forest, situated near the center of Fire Island across the Great South Bay from Sayville, New York, is home to one of the island’s renowned areas—the Sunken Forest, a maritime holly forest located behind the sand dunes. Accessible by Sayville Ferry, private boat, or on foot, Sailors Haven offers a one-and-a-half-mile-long boardwalk trail through the Sunken Forest.

The Sunken Forest is a 40-acre maritime holly forest located on Fire Island. It is one of the few remaining holly forests in the northeastern United States and is home to a variety of rare plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the forest on a boardwalk trail that winds through the trees and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, or take a guided tour in the summer.

 The area also features a visitor center, a snack bar, convenience store, and gift shop, picnic tables and grills, a lifeguarded beach (during summer), a 45-slip public marina equipped with electricity, water, and a free boat pump-out station, as well as restrooms and showers. Ferry service is available from mid-May to mid-October, with connections to Fire Island Pines and Cherry Grove communities.

Watch Hill

Watch Hill is located across the Great South Bay from Patchogue, Long Island, and offers a visitor center, a campground with 26 family campsites and one group campsite (reservations required by mail), permits for backcountry camping in the Fire Island Wilderness, ranger-led interpretive programs (including guided canoe trips), a 183-slip transient marina with water, electricity, and a pump-out station, a small convenience store, a snack bar, a self-guided nature trail, a picnic area, a lifeguarded beach during summer, restrooms, a bathhouse, and pay phones.

Fire Island Lighthouse

The Fire Island Lighthouse is a historic landmark located on the western end of Fire Island, approximately a mile west of Kismet. It was first lit in 1858 and has been guiding ships through the treacherous waters off the coast of Long Island ever since. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse also houses a museum that tells the story of its construction and the history of the island.

For those willing to ascend its 182 steps on a clear day, the lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of Fire Island that stretch for miles. Additionally, visitors can explore exhibits, delve into the history, view artifacts, and take tours of the structure at the visitor center.

Robert Moses State Park

Robert Moses State Park is a popular destination for beachgoers on Fire Island. It features five miles of pristine white sand beaches, as well as a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, surfing, fishing, and boating. The park also offers picnic areas, nature trails, and a playground for children. Visitors can access the park via the Robert Moses Causeway, which connects Fire Island to the mainland.

The park offers an 18 hole pitch and putt golf course, which is set among native vegetation. It is open from April through November, and offers equipment rental.

Weather in Fire Island

Fire Island is a popular summer vacation destination given its pristine beaches.  It has mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine during the summer months, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities and beach-going. 

According to the Fire Island National Seashore website, seasonal temperatures historically range from below zero during December, January, and February to over 100 degrees in August. However, average temperatures are more moderate. During the summer months, averages range from 68°F to 74°F, and there are plenty of beautiful sunny beach days.

However, the weather can be unpredictable and can vary widely from the weather of mainland Long Island, so it is important to check before visiting as in addition to warm temperatures, occasional rain showers are common during the summer months.

Best Time to Visit Fire Island

Fire Island is a popular summer destination, and the best time to visit is between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day when the island is bustling with activity with the perfect beach going weather.

However, if you prefer a quieter, more secluded experience, the weeks before and after Memorial Day and Labor Day are a great time to visit as the crowds are smaller and it makes for a quieter experience.

You must keep in mind that Fire Island is only accessible by ferry, and ferry schedules vary greatly between peak and off peak season, with more ferries running during the summer. It is advisable to check the ferry schedules before planning any trips.

Fire Island Tide Chart

Fire Island is a popular destination for beachgoers, surfers, and fishermen. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and diverse wildlife. However, visitors to Fire Island should be aware of the tides, as they can impact the safety and enjoyment of their visit.

The tides can vary significantly from day to day, and can impact the safety of visitors to Fire Island. During high tide, the beach can become narrow and crowded, making it difficult to find a spot to relax or fish. Additionally, the strong currents and waves during high tide can make swimming and surfing dangerous. It is important to posted signs and warnings.

On the other hand, low tide provides opportunities for beachcombing, exploring tide pools, and fishing as there is more beach to enjoy

Closing Thoughts

Visiting Fire Island is a unique experience that requires some planning and preparation. The island’s relative isolation and preservation regulations keep it a pristine destination, but it also means that visitors need to be aware of the rules and regulations, as well as options to stay for longer visits.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when visiting Fire Island is to respect the environment and wildlife. Visitors should be mindful of the Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash. It is also important to stay on designated trails and boardwalks to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems.

Another consideration for visitors is transportation. As there are no cars allowed on the island, visitors will need to rely on ferries or private boats to get around. It is important to plan ahead and check ferry schedules to avoid any delays or missed trips.

Accommodations on Fire Island range from campsites to vacation rentals, with options to suit all budgets and preferences. Visitors should book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.

In conclusion, Fire Island offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those who take the time to plan and prepare for their visit. By respecting the environment, being mindful of transportation options, and booking accommodations in advance, visitors can make the most of their time on the island and create lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions