Fire Island

Fire Island National Seashore protects a 26-mile section of Fire Island, an approximately 30-mile long and 0.5-mile wide barrier island separated from Long Island by the Great South Bay. The island has 17 private communities within the seashore including Saltaire, Fire Island Pines, and Ocean Beach. Only two bridges lead to Fire Island and the national seashore. There are no public roads within the seashore itself, and private cars are forbidden. The Robert Moses Causeway leads to Robert Moses State Park on the western end of Fire Island while the William Floyd Parkway leads to the eastern end of the island. The seashore can also be accessed by private boat or by ferry from the communities of Patchogue, Sayville, and Bay Shore on Long Island. The wilderness area of the island includes pine forests, sand dunes that serve as habitat for white-tailed deer, herons and migratory waterfowl and miles of unspoiled beaches which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and hiking. Visitors can also enjoy scenic views from the many nature trails or take a leisurely stroll through one of the quaint seaside villages.