At Fire Island National Seashore, the Wilderness Visitor Center is open year-round from 9 AM to 4 PM, except Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Fire Island Lighthouse Visitor Center is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM from April to December 15th, and weekends from 12 PM to 4 PM from December 15th to March 31st. The Watch Hill and Sailors Haven centers are open weekends from July 4th to Labor Day, typically from the first ferry until 3:30 PM.
There is no entrance fee to visit Fire Island National Seashore. However, you may need to pay for parking and transportation fees to access different areas.
From New York City, take I-495 to Exit 61 near Patchogue, then ferry to this coastal haven of rhythmic waves, high dunes, and historic landmarks.
There is no parking within Fire Island National Seashore. Use Robert Moses State Park or Smith Point County Park for parking, which includes fees. No overnight parking. Walk or take ferries to access the seashore.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Fire Island National Seashore, a slender barrier island off the coast of Long Island, New York, is a realm of unspoiled beauty and diverse ecosystems. This 26-mile stretch of golden shoreline, composed of white quartz sand, is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The landscape is dotted with historic sites, including the Fire Island Lighthouse, which stands tall and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Great South Bay, and on clear days, the New York City skyline.
The Sunken Forest in Sailor’s Haven is one of the few remaining maritime forests on the eastern seaboard, featuring ancient holly, bayberry, blueberry, sassafras, and shadblow trees twisted by constant salt spray. This forest is a haven for serious hikers, bird watchers, and ecologists. For those seeking adventure, hiking trails like those in the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness await, along with opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in the Great South Bay and salt marshes.
During the summer, lifeguards patrol the beaches, and guided tours of the lighthouse and forest are available. The island also hosts a small family tent campground at Watch Hill and backcountry camping options year-round. Special events include ranger-led nature walks and seasonal festivals that celebrate the island’s unique biodiversity.
Nearby, the charming towns of Sayville and Patchogue offer artisan shops and local eateries, providing a delightful contrast to the island’s natural splendor. For a truly immersive experience, visitors can take a ferry from Sayville or hire a private boat to explore the island’s midsection, including sites like Watch Hill and Talisman. Fire Island National Seashore is a place where nature’s beauty is combined with rich history and vibrant community, making it an irresistible destination for those seeking an authentic and luxurious outdoor experience.
- Area (mi²)
- 31
- Annual visitors
- 2 500 000
- Established year
- 1964
Top 3 Facts about Fire Island National Seashore
The Fire Island Lighthouse, built in 1858, is now 6 miles from the inlet due to the western terminus of the island steadily moving west, a result of natural erosion and changes in the shoreline.
This coastal haven is a tapestry of diverse habitats, hosting over 30 mammal species, including finback whales, dolphins, and seals. White-tailed deer and red fox roam the shores, while snowy owls scour the winter landscape for prey. Thousands of birds, including piping plovers and sandpipers, converge during migration, and monarchs rest and refuel on their southbound journey. The salt marshes thrive with herons, egrets, and salt-tolerant grasses, while ancient holly and sassafras trees shade the Sunken Forest. This ecosystem is a vibrant symphony of marine and terrestrial life, waiting to be explored.
Along the shores, the Atlantic Ocean meets the Great South Bay, creating a mosaic of coastal life. Here, you’ll find 200-year-old holly trees and sassafras with mitten-shaped leaves in the Sunken Forest, their canopies pruned by salt air and winds to the height of the primary dune. The water is a vibrant blue, with shallow waves perfect for all ages, and the sandy beaches are punctuated by ancient maritime forests and historic landmarks. The breach at Old Inlet, now stabilized, has enhanced water quality and repopulated the bay with fish and clams, a testament to nature’s resilience.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit from mid-May to September for warm weather and events like the Fire Island Lighthouse tours. Take the Long Island Railroad and ferry, and pack mosquito repellent. Plan for several days to explore trails and beaches on foot, as there are no paved roads. Bring meals and rest often.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for changing coastal weather, sturdy tents with rainfly, high SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit. Bring reusable water bottles, non-perishable food, and beach gear like umbrellas and chairs. Check the season for specific essentials.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the habitat: stay on boardwalks, avoid feeding wildlife, and keep a safe distance from nesting areas, especially during breeding seasons. Leave nothing behind but footprints.
Stay Informed
Check NOAA forecasts and park alerts for rip currents, storms, and weather changes. Swim at lifeguarded beaches, stay on designated trails, and contact park rangers for guidance. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 631-661-4870. Stay informed, stay safe.
Seasons
Spring brings chilly, unpredictable weather (40s-60s°F) but also National Park Week (April 19-27) and daily lighthouse tower tours. Dress in layers and enjoy school groups and education programs amidst blooming landscapes. Ferry services resume mid-May.
Summer brings warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and vibrant events. Enjoy daily lighthouse tower tours from April to May, and lively drag shows in Cherry Grove. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with biking, hiking, and surfing amidst mild summer weather. Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking lively summer festivities.
In the fall, as temperatures cool to the 50s and 60s, witness the annual migration of birds and monarch butterflies. Enjoy hiking and backcountry camping as mosquito and tick populations decline. Catch the vibrant red of poison ivy and the tranquility of the post-summer season.
Winter’s chill, from December to February, brings average highs of 39°F and lows of 25°F. Crisp air, potential snow, and serene landscapes make for a tranquil, less crowded experience, ideal for those seeking solitude and winter beauty.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Fire Island National Seashore has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
Popular sites include Fire Island Lighthouse, Sailors Haven’s Sunken Forest, and scenic beaches ideal for swimming and wildlife viewing.
-
Pets are restricted from lifeguarded beaches and wilderness areas but allowed elsewhere on leashes no longer than six feet.
-
Surf fishing and bay fishing are popular, with striped bass, bluefish, and fluke frequently caught. New York fishing licenses are required.
-
Ocean Beach, Cherry Grove, and Robert Moses State Park area provide dining, lodging, and supplies.
-
Built in 1858, it’s one of New York’s tallest lighthouses and offers panoramic views from the top.