Skip to SearchSkip to NavigationSkip to BodySkip to Footer
National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Fire Island National SeashoreFire Island Lighthouse as seen from beach.
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly

Come Prepared for Late Season Mosquitoes in Wilderness Area

Until weather turns cooler, you may expect to be found by recently hatched mosquitoes at certain times of the day.
more...

Dynamic, Diverse, Enchanting Collage of Coastal Life and History

Rhythmic waves, high dunes, ancient maritime forests, historic landmarks and glimpses of wildlife—Fire Island has been a special place for diverse plants, animals and people for centuries. Far from the sounds and pressures of nearby big-city life, Fire Island National Seashore’s dynamic barrier island beaches offer solitude and camaraderie, and spiritual renewal to civilization-weary people.

 
Fire Island National Seashore logo shows tern flying over boardwalk and beach, in front of tall black-and-white banded lighthouse.

Things To Do

Upcoming Events and Programs

Save the Date:
Fire Island Lighthouse 150th Anniversary is November 1, 2008

    Join us for the Celebration!
    • Saturday, November 1, 2008
      Day of Celebration
      10 am - 5 pm
    • Sunday, November 2, 2008
      "Path To Discovery" Junior Ranger Activities
      Noon - 4 pm
      • William Floyd Estate
        Open for the season, with special programs throughout the year. 
        Call 631-399-2030. 
      • Watch Hill
        • Marina open for season
          631-597-3109

          Shoulder season weekday discounts available September 7 - November 1
        • The Pier at Watch Hill restaurant open for dinner Friday & Saturday through September
          Reservations 631-597-9060
        • Watch Hill Campground:
          631-597-6664
          reservations filled for weekends through September 13, but weekdays still open.
           
           
        • Visitor Center
          631-597-6455

          now open weekends through October 13   
        • Watch Hill Ferry
          631-475-1665
          Late Fall schedule Sept. 27 - Oct. 13
          (leaves Patchogue Weekends and holiday Monday at 10:20 am, 12:15pm* and 3:30 pm )
          * Mid-day ferries run on a weather- permitting basis


      • Sailors Haven 
        • Marina open for season
          631-597-6171

          Shoulder season weekday discounts available September 7 - November 1
        • Visitor Center
          631-597-6183
          now open weekends through October 13
        • Sailors Haven Ferry
          631-589-8980
          Fall schedule Sept. 14 - Oct. 13 (Weekends and holiday Monday: leaves Sayville at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm )
          * These ferries run on a weather- permitting basis
          After September 5, weekday ferries are on a charter basis only, but additional passengers can usually be accommodated with groups. Call 631-589-8980 for availability.

      • Wilderness Visitor Center
        Open Wednesday - Sunday.
        Call 631-281-3010.
      • Fire Island Lighthouse Interpretive Programs
        Open daily: Fall hours 9:30 am - 5 pm
        Call 631-661-4876 for reservations.
        • 7th Annual "Cruise to the Light" Auto Show, Sunday, September 28, 10 am - 3 pm
          Fundraiser at Robert Moses State Park Field #4
        • Fall Migration Bird Walk 
          Tuesday, September 30, 9 am Free program; meet at Robert Moses State Park Field #5 
        • Columbus Day Hike
          Monday, October 13, 11 am
        • Ghost Stories & Legends of Fire Island
          Saturday, October 25, 7 pm
        • Lighthouse Keepers Behind the Scenes Tour
          Saturday, November 15, 9 am
          Fee for tour; reservations required
        • And More!

      Full Calendar of Events and Activities

       
      more...

       
      Woman on trail.

      Enjoy Fall Hikes, But Watch For Ticks. Explore Safely!

      As the weather cools, it's a great time to get out and explore Fire Island. However, lone star tick larvae may emerge in densely vegetated areas of Long Island and on parts of Fire Island. While these pin-point sized larvae are not likely to carry Lyme disease, their bites are quite irritating. Deer ticks, which are known to transmit Lyme disease, are also active until winter. 

      Always dress appropriately to avoid encounters with ticks and mosquitoes. 
      more...

       
      Three people observe and discuss exhibit panels.

      Get Involved: New General Management Plan for Fire Island

      The National Park Service has begun working on a new General Management Plan (GMP) for Fire Island National Seashore. Public scoping meetings were conducted in 2006, and foundation workshops have begun. You can sign up for the park's E-Newsletter to get periodic updates of GMP progress and other current park news. 

      Share your ideas and opinions about the future management of the park and its programs as GMP planning continues.
      more...

       
      Park employee sits at desk under green lamp, working on open mail and paperwork while talking on the phone.

      Permits

      Special use permits are required for certain activities to monitor and regulate use, while still protecting the park's resources. Fire Island National Seashore accommodates requests for special use permits when and where possible.
      more...
       

      Write to

      Fire Island National Seashore
      120 Laurel Street
      Patchogue, NY 11772-3596

      E-mail Us

      Phone

      Park Headquarters
      (631) 687-4750

      William Floyd Estate
      (631) 399-2030

      Fax

      (631) 289-4898

      Climate

      Fire Island has a temperate climate. The park's air temperature may be slightly cooler in summer or warmer in winter than on the mainland of Long Island. Layered clothing is always recommended. Check the predicted weather conditions before coming to Fire Island. Ferry schedules may change and some programs may be canceled or postponed in poor weather conditions.
      more...
      Skip to SearchSkip to NavigationSkip to BodySkip to Footer
      Fiery orange-red sun sets over rippled water, which relects the golden clouds above.  

      Did You Know?
      The origin of the name "Fire Island" has not been officially documented, and several theories exist. What do you think?
      more...

      Last Updated: September 30, 2008 at 13:37 EST