What if I told you there’s an island just a ferry ride away from New York City—where there are no cars, the beaches stretch for miles, and the sunsets glow like watercolor paintings? Fire Island completely took me by surprise.
I had heard whispers about its charm—quiet boardwalks, lively summer vibes, and inclusive communities—but I didn’t realize how freeing it would feel to disconnect and walk barefoot from one village to the next. Whether you’re escaping the city for a weekend or planning a longer beach retreat, Fire Island is a refreshingly simple kind of paradise. In this post, I’ll walk you through the best things to do, eat, and experience—plus a few insider tips from my time on the island.
🏖️ Spend a Lazy Afternoon at Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach is where I first stepped onto the island, and it immediately set the tone. The beach here is wide, sandy, and perfect for sunbathing or dipping into the Atlantic. What I loved most was the no-car policy—you hear only waves and footsteps.
- Tip: Grab an iced coffee from Rachel’s before you head to the beach. Their muffins are ridiculously good too.
🚲 Rent a Bike and Ride to the Lighthouse
One of my favorite things to do in Fire Island was rent a bike and follow the boardwalk trails to the historic Fire Island Lighthouse. It’s the tallest lighthouse in New York State, and the views from the top are worth every step.
- Highlight: If you’re into photography, the dunes and marshland here are stunning at golden hour.
🦢 Explore the Sunken Forest
Just west of Sailors Haven lies a hidden world: a maritime holly forest nestled behind the dunes. Walking the boardwalk trail through the Sunken Forest felt like entering a different ecosystem entirely.
- Why it stood out: I was amazed how quiet and lush it was—even in the peak of summer. Perfect if you’re craving shade and calm.
🌅 Watch the Sunset from Cherry Grove
Cherry Grove is one of Fire Island’s most iconic and inclusive communities. I ended my day here, cocktail in hand, watching the sky melt into the bay. The vibe is lively, welcoming, and full of character.
- Don’t miss: The Ice Palace bar if you’re staying late—it’s a local institution with a colorful history.
🌊 Go Paddleboarding in Watch Hill
For a more active afternoon, I tried paddleboarding in Watch Hill, a quieter stretch of the island near the National Seashore. The water here is calm, making it beginner-friendly even if you’ve never stood on a board before.
- What surprised me: I spotted a few ospreys while paddling! Nature here feels so close, even in the busy season.
🐚 Stroll Through Davis Park
Davis Park has a small-town beach feel, with friendly boardwalks, a family-owned general store, and one of the best seaside decks on the island.
- Favorite spot: Casino Cafe—grab a drink and enjoy views of the waves while the sun sets behind you.
🍽️ Where to Eat on Fire Island
You won’t find big chains here, which makes every meal feel a little more personal. These are a few of my favorites:
- The Hideaway (Ocean Beach): Great for fresh seafood and sunset views.
- Top of the Bay (Cherry Grove): Romantic waterfront dining.
- CJ’s (Ocean Beach): Their Rocket Fuel cocktail is legendary.
- Castaway (Ocean Beach): Casual burgers, perfect post-beach meal.
- Schooner Inn (Fair Harbor): A relaxed, welcoming spot for lunch.
🧭 Best Neighborhoods to Explore
Here are three areas I’d recommend checking out—each with its own personality:
- Ocean Beach: Great for first-timers. Lively but not overwhelming, with lots of dining options.
- Cherry Grove: LGBTQ+ friendly, colorful, and known for its nightlife and creative flair.
- Saltaire: Quiet, residential, and perfect for those seeking calm walks and birdwatching.
🎒 Fire Island Travel Tips
Here are a few things I wish I knew before my trip:
- Pack Light: You’ll be walking everywhere on boardwalks—wheeled suitcases aren’t ideal.
- Bring Cash: Some places are cash-only or have card minimums.
- Plan for No Cars: Ferries and foot traffic rule here. Know your ferry schedule in advance.
- No Street Lights: Bring a flashlight for nighttime walks.
- Bug Spray: Mosquitoes love the marshes, especially in the evening.
❓ FAQs about Visiting Fire Island
How do you get to Fire Island from NYC?
Take the LIRR to Bay Shore, Patchogue, or Sayville, then hop on a ferry to your village of choice.
Is Fire Island family-friendly?
Yes! While some areas like Cherry Grove are more adult-oriented, places like Ocean Beach and Saltaire are great for families.
When is the best time to visit Fire Island?
Late spring to early fall is ideal. July and August are peak season with lots of energy, but June and September offer quieter vibes.
Are there hotels on Fire Island?
There are no big chains, but you’ll find boutique inns, guesthouses, and vacation rentals throughout the island.
Can I bring my car to Fire Island?
No—cars aren’t allowed for visitors. It’s one of the island’s most unique and relaxing features!
🌺 Final Thoughts
Fire Island gave me something I didn’t know I needed—quiet mornings, beachy afternoons, and evenings filled with laughter and ferry horns in the distance. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, it’s the kind of place that gently insists you slow down.
If you’re planning your first trip, I hope this guide helps you make the most of it. And if you’ve already been, I’d love to hear what you discovered too.