Fire Island

To visit Fire Island just off the South Shore of Long Island is a journey to an unspoiled, pristine wilderness along 32-miles of dazzling white sand that features some of the most pristine beaches in New York State.

That wilderness, accessed primarily via ferries going from Long Island to Watch Hill and Sailors Haven, also happens to include several small communities that were established on this ¼ mile wide barrier island before it was designated as a National Park beach. So you’ll find some small bustling villages with restaurants, shops and and plenty of things to do on Fire Island. See our guide to the Fire Island National Seashore.

But don’t expect to find any cars or high rise hotels and condominiums when you visit Fire Island. There are no roads, only charming boardwalks where the locals, and visitors, easily cart their belongings in little red wagons available at the ferry terminals.

However, you can leave your car at points accessed by bridge at Robert Moses State Park and Smith Point County Park. From there you can walk or bike to the communities, the National Park beaches and the other fun things to do on Fire Island.

Regarding those communities, there are a range of different atmospheres to expect: From the bustling Ocean Bay Park and Ocean Beach communities and the quite quiet Lonelyville, to the vibrant gay communities of Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines. Visit Fire Island to experience a unique mix of wilderness and a charming community feel.