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 SeashoreFerry pulls up to dock with train cars in background.
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Fire Island National Seashore
Traffic & Travel Tips
 

On sunny summer weekends, anticipate a high volume of traffic getting to beach parking areas and ferry terminals. If parking lots are filled, you may have to make alternate arrangements or reschedule your trip to the beach.

Be sure your vehicle is in good condition before attempting a road trip. You may want to carry bottled water and a light snack in case you get stuck in a traffic jam as you cross Long Island. Pack a hefty quantity of patience and enjoy the ride.   

Various State of New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority web cams are located at major portals to Long Island (see webcam.mta.info/mta3).

 
If you're uncomfortable driving through New York City to get to Long Island, you may be able to reach the island by taking the Bridgeport & Port Jefferson vehicle ferry from Bridgeport, Connecticut to Port Jefferson, NY. Route 112 then crosses Long Island to Patchogue, usually less than an hour's drive south. 

The Cross Sound Ferry links New London, CT with Orient Point, NY, on the easternmost end of Long Island. Allow at least 2 hours to drive from Orient Point to Patchogue or Sayville.
Visitors go through line at ferry terminal office to board boat to Watch Hill.
Getting Around on Fire Island Requires Planning
You may only get to some facilities on Fire Island by ferry or private boat.
more...

Ferries and Water Taxis
provide seasonal access to a number of locations on Fire Island.
more...
The uppermost level of a long bridge sloping down to the island is covered by a string of cars and vans.  

Did You Know?
You may drive to either end of Fire Island, and walk to Fire Island National Seashore from either Robert Moses State Park or Smith Point County Park. You should anticipate long lines of traffic on warm, sunny weekend days.
more...

Last Updated: September 19, 2006 at 09:15 EST