The Ultimate Fire Island Travel Guide
PHOTO: Nik Knoppova
Fire Island is a stunning island located off the coast of Long Island, New York. It’s famous for its breathtaking beaches, vibrant LGBTQ+ community, and the friendliest atmosphere you’ll ever experience.
What made my experience extremely amazing was the happiness that surrounded everyone, and there was no judgment for who you were. It was truly a paradise.
I fell in love with Fire Island the first time I visited it a few years ago with my roommates. Now it's one of my favorite places to swim and relax. During each visit, I always encounter so many friendly people and make new friends.
I try to visit Fire Island at least once a year, especially when the warm weather starts creeping into New York. Anyways, I can’t wait to share with you a bit about Fire Island!
Get to Know Fire Island
Fire Island has a long and interesting history. Originally named Whaling Island, it was a hub for whaling goods and the first permanent resident was Jeremiah Smith, a notorious land pirate.
The Fire Island Lighthouse served as a landmark for transatlantic ships and still stands as both a landmark and a museum.
In the 1950s, real estate boomed and the island became a popular destination for visitors. Today, visitors can enjoy fishing, sailing, swimming, and hiking while learning about the island's fascinating history.
Fire Island Map
Getting There
Since Fire Island is known for not having cars around the island — yes, you read that right, no cars! Getting to Fire Island can be a bit of a challenge, but the journey is definitely worth it once you’re there!
Fire Island Ferry
From NYC 🗽
TRAIN » FERRY
This is a popular and convenient choice. Take the subway to Penn Station and transfer to the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) heading to Bay Shore, Sayville, or Patchogue. These stations connect directly to ferry terminals.
BUS » FERRY
The Bay Bus offers a direct route to the Sayville Ferry terminal. This is a good option if you prefer a single transfer or don't want to navigate the subway system.
RIDE SHARE » FERRY
No car? No problem! Use Uber or Lyft to get to the nearest ferry terminal convenient for your chosen departure point. Then, you can purchase your ferry ticket!
CAR » FERRY
If you have a car, you can drive to various ferry locations:
- Take the ferry from Bay Shore, Sayville, or Patchogue, where you can park your car at a designated lot and then hop on the ferry.
- Drive to Robert Moses State Park and park your car with a daily fee. From there, you can access Fire Island via water taxi, bike, or walk (depending on your destination).
While the ferries typically accept cash, you can skip the line and go contactless!
Download the "FI mTickets" app to purchase your ferry tickets conveniently and avoid trying to find cash when you arrive.
You can also use your FI mTickets app to request water taxi rides!
From out of state
FLY » TRAIN
Most major airlines fly into John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).
From your chosen airport, take a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to Penn Station in Manhattan.
TRAIN » FERRY
At Penn Station, hop on the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) heading to Bay Shore, Sayville, or Patchogue.
These stations connect directly to ferry terminals.
What to Bring
Kismet Beach
Beach essentials
Swimwear
Towels
Reef-safe sunscreen & aloe to cool off
Sunglasses & hat
Reusable water bottle — there are fountains available for you to fill up your water bottle
Snacks
Change of clothes
Cash
Optional (but also helpful)
Portable charger
Portable speaker (with caution) — check ahead of time with the beach you’re going to about the noise restrictions before packing a portable speaker
Mosquito spray — this can be helpful if you plan on considering going beyond the main beaches, especially near the Sunken Forest
Where to Explore
There are numerous activities to enjoy on Fire Island, including hiking, birdwatching, beachcombing, swimming, kayaking, and visiting local landmarks. Here are some that I highly recommend:
Fire Island Lighthouse
🎟️ $10 adults / $5 seniors & kids / free active military | ⏱️ ~30 min walk from Kismet | 🥾 comfy shoes required | 📍 Robert Moses State Park, Field 5
Standing at 168 feet, this is the tallest lighthouse on Long Island — and honestly, the history alone makes it worth the detour. The original 1858 structure was only 74 feet, which turned out to be way too short to actually warn ships away from the shoreline, so it was torn down, and its stones were repurposed to build the taller version standing here today.
The lighthouse originally ran on whale oil, then kerosene, then finally electricity in 1938, and even survived being decommissioned in 1973 thanks to a group of locals who fought to save it. It's still fully operational!
Climbing it is its own adventure. 182 steps up a winding spiral staircase, so wear real shoes with grip. The payoff at the top is frankly incredible: Fire Island's beaches stretching out, the open ocean, and on a clear day you can even spot the Manhattan skyline.
Just know pets aren't allowed inside, and restrooms are on-site if you need them beforehand.
Kismet Beach
A laid-back, family-friendly beach with fewer crowds and chill vibes.
Kismet Inn
Classic island bar with casual bites, live music, and strong drinks — right near the ferry!
Cherry Grove
This vibrant community is known for its LGBTQ+ scene and is home to many restaurants, bars, and shops.
Cherry Grove felt alive and the place to be at.
You can see many beautiful places and walk to the beach if you’re feeling too hot.
The Sunken Forest
This unique maritime ecosystem of stunted oak trees is a must-see attraction on the island and is at Sailors Haven.
Make sure to wear a TON of mosquito spray before entering if you easily get bit by mosquitoes!
Thank you to my girl, Nik for recommending us to explore the Sunken Forest!
FAQ
Cherry Grove
What is Fire Island known for?
Fire Island is a vibrant community renowned for its LGBTQ+ friendliness, stunning beaches, and unique car-free lifestyle. Each neighborhood is unique and charming, enjoy lively parties during Memorial Day Weekend, and soak up the sun on its pristine shores.
Which Fire Island beaches allow dogs?
Dogs are generally allowed on Kismet Beach, Cherry Grove, Water Island, and Fire Island Pines.
However, from March 15 to Labor Day, dogs are restricted due to nesting birds (Lighthouse, Sailors Haven, Watch Hill, Talisman, and within the Fire Island Wilderness). During this period, dogs must be leashed.
When does Fire Island open?
While parts of Fire Island are accessible year-round, the peak season for visitors is during the summer months when the weather is ideal for enjoying the beach.
Please note that transportation options may be limited during the off-season (October - April). Check with specific businesses or ferry services for their operating hours before heading to Fire Island during off-season.
When does Fire Island close for the season?
Fire Island remains open year-round, but transportation services and amenities may be limited during the off-season (October - April). Some visitor centers and attractions may have reduced hours or be closed altogether.
How much is the Fire Island ferry?
Ferry fares vary depending on whether you're purchasing a one-way or round-trip ticket. Here's a general breakdown:
| Who | One Way | Round Trip |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | $13 | $25 |
| Child (2 - 11) | $7 | $13 |
| Senior (valid Suffolk ID) | $12 | $24 |
| Handicapped (valid ID) | $12 | $24 |
| Military (veteran/active ID) | $12 | $24 |
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Fire Island Ferries: Fire Island Ferries Fares
National Park Service: Fire Island - Operating Hours & Seasons
National Park Service: Fire Island - Pets
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Last Updated: 09.14.2026
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