Fire Island Beach Getaways

Fire Island National Seashore is a 32-mile-long stretch of barrier island on the southern shore of Long Island. A diverse group of land forms and historic properties give this site an interesting blend of recreation, natural and cultural resources. The seashore contains natural features such as the Otis Pike Wilderness Area, the only federal wilderness in New York, and the Sunken Forest, a 300-year-old holly forest, as well as ocean-washed beaches, dunes, the Fire Island Lighthouse and the nearby estate of William Floyd, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Activities available for visitors to Fire Island vary with interests and ability levels. Some of the most popular activities include sightseeing, hiking, wildlife viewing, walking, camping, canoeing, boating, swimming and fishing. Structures within the seashore include the Fire Island Light Station, which has exhibits, a nature trail and ranger-led interpretive programs. Sailors Haven Visitor Center includes interpretive programs and temporary exhibits, a boardwalk nature trail through Sunken Forest, bathhouses, a marina and a seasonally lifeguard protected ocean beach.

The Watch Hill facilities and services include a nature trail, visitor center and a guarded beach (summer only). A campground is located in this area of the park. The Fire Island Wilderness Visitor Center (at Smith Point) provides a facility for sport fishing, a visitor contact station (seasonal interpretive programs), nature trail and ocean beach. The William Floyd Estate provides guided house tours and other interpretive programs.