Fire Island may be just a half-hour by ferry from Long Island – but it’s oceans away from the Hamptons in spirit.
Is Fire Island a part of Long Island?
Fire Island lies on average 3.9 miles (6.2 km) off the South Shore of Long Island, but nearly touches it along the East End. It is separated from Long Island by the Great South Bay, which spans interconnected bays along Long Island: Patchogue Bay, Bellport Bay, Narrow Bay, and Moriches Bay.
Why Do They Call It Fire Island?
Fire Island Beach appeared on charts in the 1850s, and folklore suggests the name arose from land-based pirates, or “wreckers,” who built beach fires at night to lure cargo ships onto shore. Some say poison ivy gave Fire Island its name, either for its red leaves in autumn or its fiery itch.
What is special about Fire Island?
A popular summer resort, Fire Island is known for its pristine beaches, tranquil atmosphere, and laid back charm. The island is 31 miles long and 2 – 3 blocks wide and is comprised of 18 distinct communities, each with its own unique character and vibe.
Which island is known as Fire Island?
Fire Island, also called Great South Beach, elongated sandspit, 32 miles (51 km) long and 0.5 mile (1 km) across (at its widest point), Suffolk county, New York, U.S. It lies off the southern shore of Long Island and shelters Great South Bay and part of Moriches Bay from the Atlantic Ocean.
Can you drive to Fire Island from Long Island?
You can drive from Long Island onto Fire Island over bridges at either end to the Robert Moses State Park and Smith Point County Park. You cannot drive onto or through the majority of the island and can only access it on foot by taking a ferry.
Is Fire Island Cash only?
The only downside is that the bar is cash only (like most things on Fire Island). So, be sure to bring plenty of cash if you plan on getting drinks at the bar.
Does anyone live on Fire Island?
Yes. While the vast majority of homeowners are summer residents only, there is a growing year round community on Fire Island.
How much does it cost to go to Fire Island?
If you’re staying on Fire Island, a one-way ticket is $11 for adults, $6 for kids, and $10 for seniors and active or veteran military. If you’re only spending the day there then you’ll want a round-trip ticket, which is $21 for adults and $11 for kids.
Can you bring alcohol to Fire Island?
The National Park Service does not prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages in public areas within Fire Island National Seashore. However, where the Seashore boundaries overlap with town boundaries, town ordinances may be enforced by other agencies.
Is Fire Island worth visiting?
Fire Island is known for its beautiful, clean beaches that are great for both families and couples. There’s a laid-back atmosphere that lends itself well to getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You’ll find 18 distinct communities as you explore.
Are there cars in Fire Island?
Is it true that there are no cars allowed on the island? There are no paved roads on Fire Island, and only service and emergency vehicles are allowed on the island. Free of cars, traffic, pollution, and noise, Fire Island offers a peaceful getaway, unlike any other vacation destination.
Do families go to Fire Island?
Fire Island has it all: gorgeous beaches, quaint communities, outdoor dining and waterfront hotels, boating, camping and hiking, and even a historic lighthouse. It’s the perfect vacation destination for families, whether for a quick day trip, a weekend getaway, or an extended stay.
How long is the ferry ride to Fire Island?
30-minute
Fire Island Ferries provide transportation service from Bay Shore to Kismet, Saltaire, Fair Harbor, Atlantique, Dunewood, Ocean Beach, Seaview, and Ocean Bay Park, the seven western towns of Fire Island. It is a 30-minute ferry ride that has been running since 1948.
When should I go to Fire Island?
Welcome to Fire Island
From mid-May to mid-October, many visitors either drive or take the Long Island Railroad to Bay Shore, Sayville, and Patchogue on Long Island to access passenger ferries that service communities and National Park Service facilities on Fire Island.
How many towns are in Fire Island?
seventeen communities
There are seventeen communities on Fire Island. Each has its own unique personality which adds to the wonder of the island. Several of the communities are strictly residential while others have restaurants, shops, marinas, and playgrounds catering to both homeowners and visitors alike.
How do you get around on Fire Island?
There are no paved public roads within Fire Island National Seashore. Upon arrival, you may explore the park on foot or transfer to other park sites via water taxis. Fire Island Water Taxi is authorized to provide lateral ferry service between the Fire Island communities and other destination points on Fire Island.
Can you sleep on the beach in Fire Island?
First up, here’s the rule for going to Fire Island without a place to stay: if you’re comfortable sleeping on the beach as a last resort, then everything will be OK, but you shouldn’t have to.
What is the best part of Fire Island?
- Robert Moses State Park. 201. State Parks • Parks.
- Fire Island Lighthouse. 181. Lighthouses.
- The Sunken Forest. Forests. By TaraHeagele.
- Sailors Haven. Marinas • Nature & Wildlife Areas. By LollysLook.
- Ocean Beach. Beaches. By lorrainem406.
- Kismet Beach. Beaches.
- Davis Park Marina. Marinas.
- Fire Island Parasail. Parasailing & Paragliding.
Is a Fire Island house a good investment?
Given the potentially high rental income and comparatively low purchasing cost, Fire Island holds strong investment potential. After all, many island owners are able to cover their annual mortgage and tax payments by renting out their homes for just part of the summer.
What is it like living on Fire Island?
The lifestyle comes with a price. Residents are barred from driving during the high season, when the population swells to about 15,000. Driving permits are hard to come by. Permanent residents are used to rugged living, with four-wheel drive vehicles and boats.