You can get to Fire Island National Seashore from a number of entry points and by various modes of transportation. Remember to allow enough time for Long Island traffic conditions. Always be aware of current seasonal ferry schedules if you plan to come or go by water.
See Park Maps and Traffic and Travel Tips if you're planning to come by car.
Getting To Long Island and Portals to Fire Island
By Plane
The closest commercial airport on Long Island is the (ISP). You can also fly into (LGA) or (JFK) Airports closer to New York City. Rental cars, taxis, van shuttles or trains can get you to the ferry terminal providing access to your destination in the park. From JFK, the links directly to the LIRR at Jamaica Station.
By Train
(LIRR) stations are near the three mainland ferry terminals for Fire Island. From Penn Station in New York City, you may take the Montauk Branch of the LIRR to get to Bay Shore, Sayville, and Patchogue. You may easily walk from the Patchogue station to the Watch Hill ferry terminal, but a taxi or van may be welcomed for the longer distance between the other trains and ferries. Contact the LIRR for train schedules.
Ferries to Fire Island depart from the following locations: Patchogue, Sayville, and Bay Shore. Special are available for Watch Hill and Sailors Haven during the summer.
By Bus
Bus routes operated by provide access to the park's gateway communities of Mastic Beach and Smith Point County Park, Patchogue, Sayville and Bay Shore, New York. You may have to walk or take a taxi to get from the bus stop to the ferry terminal providing access to your destination in the park.
By Bicycle
Long Island bicycle routes are being developed and improved, but all portals to Fire Island National Seashore are not currently accessible by bike.
By Private Boat
Fire Island can be reached by some private vessels. The Great South Bay is fairly shallow. Marinas are located on the bay side of Fire Island, between Moriches Inlet and Fire Island Inlet.