Getting There

Robert Moses wanted to build a superhighway through the island, but fervent residents put up a fight; and we thank them for it. Now, ironically, you can drive to the eastern end of Robert Moses State Park and walk over. But unless you're a world-class swimmer, the ferry is your only other option for getting out here. Though some boats operate year-round, they mostly run from May to October a few times daily, with very frequent service in July and August. Take the Long Island Rail Road (tel. 516/822-LIRR) to one of three stops: Bay Shore, Sayville, or Patchogue. Van taxis will be waiting to whisk you to a ferry for $5 per person. If you're planning on spending only a day, purchase one of the LIRR's packages and you'll save some money. Fire Island Ferries (tel. 631/665-3600; www.fireislandferries.com) gets you from Bay Shore to Ocean Beach, Kismet, Ocean Bay Park, and a few other communities from the Fire Island Ferry Terminal; Sayville Ferry (tel. 631/589-8980; www.sayvilleferry.com) takes you from Sayville to Cherry Grove, The Pines, and Sunken Forest from the Sailors Haven Ferry Terminal; and Davis Park Ferry (tel. 631/475-1665; www.davisparkferry.com) gets you from Patchogue to Watch Hill from the Watch Hill Ferry Terminal. Most ferries are $7 to $10 for the 20- to 30-minute jaunt across the bay.

Getting Around

Cars are off-limits. You can walk from town to town, but distances are deceptively long, so consider calling Fire Island Water Taxi (tel. 631/665-8885; www.fireislandwatertaxi.com) and they'll come and collect you from any pier.

Besides expensive water taxis and hoofing it, bikes are the only way to get around. Rent them from Ocean Beach Hardware, 482 Bayberry Walk, Ocean Beach (tel. 631/583-5826), for $25 per day. (Note: On weekends, Ocean Beach forbids bike riding; just walk your bike to Seaview, and ride from there.)

Visitor Information

There's no tourist office here, but the Long Island Convention & Visitors Bureau (tel. 877/FUN-ON-LI) may provide some info.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.