Fire Island National Seashore is a federally protected seashore located in Suffolk County. It consists of 26 miles of beautiful seashore that is maintained by the National Park Service. If you’re planning a trip to the Fire Island National Seashore, here are some things to check out and know before your visit.
Know the Hours of Operation
Fire Island National Seashore is open all year. However, certain areas do close in the late fall and winter months. The Fire Island Lighthouse and the Wilderness Visitor Center are open year round if you travel by car. If you plan to travel by boat or passenger ferry to Sailors Haven or Watch Hill, these activities are closed from October to May.
Camp at Watch Hill
If you enjoy camping, there are quite a few options to choose from on Watch Hill or the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness, depending on what time of year you visit. If you have a boat, you can stay overnight in one of the marinas located at Watch Hill and Sailors Haven from May to October. Camping rates start at $25 per night. If you plan to participate in backcountry camping at the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness, you need to make a reservation.
Explore Nature
There are so many ways to explore nature at Fire Island National Seashore. From swimming at a beach with a professional lifeguard to hiking through a stunning estate, there is something for everyone in your family to enjoy. While more attractions are open from May to October, you can still try out some winter-friendly activities during the off-season.
Grab Some Lunch or Dinner
The National Park Service operates some seasonal snack bars near its sites from May to October. However, there are some fantastic seaside restaurants located in the 17 communities located on Fire Island. Along with seafood restaurants, you’ll also find bakeries and bars. Many of these eateries feature stunning waterfront views and comfortable outdoor lounges. Some of the restaurants are open seasonally, while others are open all year. You’ll need to check with the specific restaurant to find out about any closings.
Visit William Floyd Estate
The William Floyd Estate is one of the sites operated by the National Park Service on Fire Island. It is a 250-year-old home that was formerly the home of William Floyd, one of the delegates who signed the Declaration of Independence. The historical site is open from Memorial Day to Veterans Day on Friday through Sunday each week. You can explore the Old Mastic House nestled on the estate’s 613 acres. It is a 25-room house surrounded by 12 outbuildings and a cemetery. Tours are available, and special events occasionally take place here throughout the year.
A trip to the Fire Island National Seashore can be a lot of fun for the whole family. With delicious restaurants to try and interesting attractions to visit, it’s possible that you’ll want to visit more than once. It’s easy to see why it’s a national treasure.
“Fire Island Sunset – 27 April 001” via Flickr by american_rugbier. Used with permission via CC BY-SA 2.0 / cropped from original
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