If you find yourself on Long Island during the summer, a trip to Fire Island is a recommended activity that you should try. To truly experience the best that Fire Island has to offer, you need to visit the ocean communities that are only accessed through the Bay Shore Ferry also referred to as the Fire Island Ferry.
In this guide, we will walk you through the history of the Bay Shore Ferry, the destinations it serves, and other important information you need to have a successful trip to Fire Island.
History of Fire Island and The Bay Shore Ferry
A Brief Overview of Fire Island
Fire Island is a barrier island on the southern shore of Long Island.
It starts in the town of Babylon near Robert Moses State Park and stretches eastward about 31 miles ending in the most eastern portion of Smiths Point County Park in the Town of Brookhaven.
What makes Fire Island unique is that there are virtually no cars or drivable roads.
There is no influx of population, unlike the mainland of Long Island.
There are small towns located throughout Fire Island with pristine ocean beaches making it a very popular tourist destination in the summer.
Details About The Bay Shore Ferry (Fire Island Ferry)
Because there is no access by car to Fire Island, there is a need for a ferry to bring supplies and people to these ocean communities.
In 1947, the Fire Island Ferry was created by Elmer Patterson, Bill White, and Ed Davis.
They quickly put together a fleet of boats that varied from rumrunner boats to old yachts to fulfill their ability to provide service to its one destination at the time, which was Ocean Beach.
Today, the Fire Island Ferry operates out of its main terminal building located in Bay Shore Marina, Bay Shore, New York.
As of 2019, the ferry operates 11 boats that provide daily service to 8 destinations throughout Fire Island. It is responsible for transporting millions of passengers to and from Fire Island every year.
What Fire Island Towns Does the Bay Shore Ferry Bring You To?
The Bay Shore Ferry provides service to 8 ocean towns found towards the western end of Fire Island. The following towns are:
Atlantique
A hidden gem on Fire Island, Atlantique offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
With its picturesque shoreline and charming beach houses, this seaside town is perfect for nature enthusiasts and relaxation seekers.
Enjoy long walks along the sandy beach, take a dip in the refreshing ocean waters, or simply unwind with a book while listening to the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore.
Atlantique truly embodies the essence of a peaceful coastal retreat.
Dunewood
Nestled amidst lush greenery and towering dunes, Dunewood is a nature lover’s paradise. This quaint town offers a serene ambiance and a strong sense of community.
Explore the winding trails that lead through the enchanting forest, or embark on a birdwatching adventure to catch a glimpse of the island’s vibrant avian residents.
With its unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Dunewood is a destination that encourages a deep connection with nature.
Fair Harbor
Fair Harbor is a charming seaside village that exudes a laid-back, family-friendly vibe.
Known for its picturesque cottages and welcoming community, this town is ideal for those seeking a relaxed beach getaway.
Enjoy leisurely bike rides along tree-lined streets, indulge in delicious seafood at local eateries, or spend quality time with loved ones on the beautiful sandy shores.
Fair Harbor strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and fun, making it an idyllic destination for all.
Kismet
For those in search of vibrant energy and lively entertainment, Kismet is the place to be on Fire Island.
This vibrant town is a popular destination for beachgoers and party enthusiasts alike.
From beachfront bars to live music festivals, Kismet offers a thriving nightlife scene that keeps visitors entertained until the early hours.
Whether you’re dancing under the stars or soaking up the sun during the day, Kismet promises an unforgettable and exciting experience for every visitor.
Ocean Bay Park
Ocean Bay Park effortlessly combines the tranquility of a beachside retreat with the excitement of a thriving social scene.
With its vibrant nightlife and trendy beach bars, this town attracts a diverse crowd of vacationers looking for both relaxation and entertainment.
During the day, bask in the sun on the wide sandy beach or partake in a game of volleyball with friends.
As the sun sets, prepare for an evening filled with live music, laughter, and unforgettable memories in Ocean Bay Park.
Ocean Beach
As the commercial center of Fire Island, Ocean Beach offers a lively and bustling atmosphere that appeals to both families and young adults.
This vibrant town boasts a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, ensuring there is never a dull moment.
Relax on the pristine beach, browse the boutique stores for unique finds, and savor delicious meals at waterfront restaurants.
Ocean Beach is a vibrant hub where the fun never stops, making it a must-visit destination on Fire Island.
Saltaire
Saltaire captures the essence of a peaceful and exclusive seaside community.
This upscale town is known for its stunning architecture and elegant vacation homes.
Immerse yourself in the serenity of the sandy beaches or explore the charming streets lined with beautifully landscaped gardens.
Saltaire offers a refined and sophisticated experience for discerning travelers seeking a luxurious escape.
Seaview
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Fire Island, Seaview offers a tranquil and family-friendly atmosphere.
This idyllic town is a haven for those seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Stroll along the boardwalk, admire the charming cottages, and enjoy the pristine beaches. With its relaxed ambiance and pristine beauty,
Seaview is the perfect destination for a rejuvenating vacation away from the noise and crowds of everyday life.
How Long is The Bay Shore Ferry Ride?
The distance to Fire Island using the Bay Shore Ferry is about a 5-mile trip at its longest.
Trips aboard the Bay Shore Ferry should take about 30 minutes to complete depending on the weather conditions.
Ferries depart for each of the Fire Island communities about once every hour.
You can use the links below to find the schedule of when each ferry departs for your desired destination.
- Bay Shore to Atlantique
- Bay Shore to Dunewood
- Bay Shore to Fair Harbor
- Bay Shore to Kismit
- Bay Shore to Ocean Bay Park
- Bay Shore to Ocean Beach
- Bay Shore to Saltaire
- Bay Shore to Seaview
How Much Does It Cost to Ride the Bay Shore Ferry?
The Bay Shore Ferry charges differently based on several ticket fare options.
You can book a one-way trip ticket or a round-trip ticket, and for those who plan on visiting Fire Island frequently, a 40-trip book.
If you’re visiting Fire Island for a weekend, you will most likely need to purchase a round-trip ticket. A round-trip ticket will cost you $25.
If you have children or are bringing a pet friend along, round-trip tickets for them will be $13.
You can purchase your tickets at the main terminal building in Bay Shore or at any of the Fire Island communities served by the ferry.
There is also an option to buy tickets in advance using the Fire Island Ferries mobile phone app that can be downloaded for both IOS and Android.
All you need to do is sign up with active credit, purchase your ticket, and activate the ticket before you head on the boat.
Another thing to keep in mind before hopping on the ferry is there are luggage restrictions.
You can bring only 2 bags per person under 25 pounds and must fit underneath a seat.
Any oversized luggage like carts, wagons, and small coolers will be charged a small fee to bring on the ferry. Bikes are prohibited.
Be sure to visit the Fire Island Ferry website for more details about luggage.
Conclusion
The Fire Island Ferry makes traveling to some of the best ocean communities in the Northeast United States very easy. It’s a very nominal price you need to pay and a short amount of time before you will be having the best time exploring everything that Fire Island offers.
We hope you found this guide very helpful!
Sources
https://www.newsday.com/long-island/suffolk/fire-island-ferries-p01512
https://fireislandferries.com/
