About Fire Island Pines
Fire Island Pines (“the Pines”) is a small, car-free hamlet on Fire Island, a barrier island off Long Island, New York. Established in 1952 by the Home Guardian Company, it was originally envisioned as a Mid-Century family resort for World War II veterans (everything.explained.today ) (www.edgemedianetwork.com ). However, by the 1960s the Pines became widely known as one of America’s first gay and lesbian beach communities (everything.explained.today ) (www.edgemedianetwork.com ). It boasts about 600 houses plus a 100-unit condominium, and a summer population of roughly 2,500–3,000 seasonal residents and visitors (everything.explained.today ). A travel guide aptly describes it as “a small, car-free community…with a long history as a welcoming spot for LGBTQ+ travelers,” famed for its relaxed beach atmosphere and mid-century modern architecture (qlist.app ) (www.themillievintage.com ). Indeed, the Pines is unique on Fire Island: it is the only planned community among the 17 beach towns, built around boardwalks instead of roads (www.edgemedianetwork.com ) (www.sayvilleferry.com ). The Pines Harbor (marina area) lies at its center, with the beach, shops, grocery and bars all within a short walk (www.sayvilleferry.com ). In short, the Pines combines laid-back seaside charm (jokingly noted to make a “Speedo and trucker hat” seem formal attire (www.edgemedianetwork.com )) with a vital history as a welcoming enclave for the queer community. Over the years it has hosted famous parties and seen visits from celebrities like Anne Hathaway, Sarah Jessica Parker and Björk (www.fireislandnews.com ) (www.cbsnews.com ), but it remains a relatively low-key beach village by day, complete with Radio Flyer wagons for groceries and plenty of sunscreen.
Events and Programming
Fire Island Pines is a highly event-driven community, especially during the summer. The most famous event is the annual Pines Party in late July – a three-day beach dance festival that draws roughly 3,000 attendees from around the world (www.fippoa.org ). This charity weekend features themed all-night parties on the sand and has raised over $3.7 million for LGBTQ causes since 1999 (www.fippoa.org ). Another signature tradition is the July 4th Invasion of the Pines , when a flotilla of drag performers sails from Cherry Grove into the Pines harbor for a costumed boat parade and tea dance (www.fireislandnews.com ) (www.cbsnews.com ). Throughout June, the well-known Fire Island Bear Weekend (Bear Week) brings bear-community parties and pool events (mostly in Cherry Grove, but Pines visitors often join). Labor Day weekend and early fall see performances by the Fire Island Pines Arts Project (a concert/theater series of Broadway stars and singers) and the Fire Island Dance Festival – an acclaimed outdoor modern dance showcase on the beach (www.fippoa.org ). In addition, various nonprofits host fundraisers: for example, the Human Rights Campaign and Lambda Legal hold annual breakfast/pool parties in the Pines. The Pine’s social calendar also includes weekly and nightly gatherings. High Tea and Low Tea parties (daily afternoon DJ dance socials on the Plaza and yacht deck), Sunday Showtunes sing-alongs at the Pavilion, theme nights and drag shows are common. The Pavilion nightclub (recently rebuilt) and Sip·n·Twirl bar run parties nightly during season. Sip·n·Twirl advertises itself as the Pines’ “prime nightly lounge & club,” featuring a full bar, a sunlit “TWIRLdeck” for daytime dancing, and a major indoor dance floor with state-of-the-art sound and video equipment (www.fireislandfinder.com ). Local tradition even accepts a Speedo and ball cap as formalwear (www.edgemedianetwork.com ) – you’ll find any combination of clubwear and swimwear on the dance floor. In short, visiting the Pines means enjoying a festival atmosphere: beachside barbecues, all-day DJ sets, drag shows, art and dance performances, and community gatherings that run throughout the summer.
Tickets and Booking
Unlike a traditional single venue, Fire Island Pines has no box office or online portal – each event or party is run by a different organizer. General admission to the community is free, but many large events (like Pines Party, arts concerts, dance festival, or fundraisers) require advance tickets. These are typically sold through the specific event’s website or local organizers (for example, pinesparty.com for Pines Party, fireislanddancefestival.org for the dance fest, etc.). Smaller club nights at Sip·n·Twirl or the Pavilion often charge a door cover (commonly $10–$30 depending on the night and featured DJs or performers). Beach campaigns and party passes (for events like Pride In The Pines or charity brunches) also use official registration links. By contrast, ferry tickets and daily beach parties (like daily teas) can be paid for on-site. For example, Sayville Ferry tickets to the Pines sell for about $11 one-way for adults (www.sayvilleferry.com ), and you can purchase them at the ferry terminal (no advance reservation). Because some seasonal events sell out, a good strategy is to buy big-event tickets early in the year or keep an eye on community flyers. In all cases, avoid unauthorized ticket listings – trust only the officially announced sources or community websites. (There is no formal VIP seating: all events are general admission, although some balls or dinners may have reserved tables.)
Seating and Layout
Fire Island Pines has no fixed seating chart or reserved sections – it’s more like an open-air resort and collection of bars than a theater. Most events are general admission. Outdoor beach parties and dances mean people bring towels or folding chairs and stand or sit on the sand. Inside Sip·n·Twirl and the Pavilion you’ll find a casual layout: a standing-room dance floor and bar, with a few high-top tables and stools along the edges. The “TWIRLdeck” at Sip·n·Twirl is a covered outdoor platform for daytime mingling, and the Pavilion has a mezzanine terrace for relaxing between sets. There are no bad views, but for best sound stay near the DJ booth or speakers, and for conversation or people-watching, the peripheral bar areas or outdoor decks are ideal. On the beach or boardwalk, quieter spots can be found at the edges of the dunes or farther from the stage/speakers. If you’re attending a fundraising gala or FIPArts concert at Whyte Hall (the community center), those do have chairs – but most beach and club events do not. In general, be prepared to mingle on a dance floor or beach rather than rely on fixed seats; privacy is low but that’s part of the communal Pines experience.
Getting There and Parking
Fire Island Pines is accessible only by water – there are no roads or bridges. The two primary ferries are the Bay Shore ferry (Fire Island Ferries) and the Sayville ferry (Sayville Ferry Service). The Bay Shore ferry departs from 99 Maple Avenue in Bay Shore, NY (Suffolk County). From Bay Shore, ferries run frequently in summer (from late May through early Sept) to Cherry Grove Harbor. Parking at Bay Shore can be crowded: expect to pay around $15/day on weekdays and $25/day on weekends (fireislandferries.com ), or $75 for a full weekend pass. (The Town of Islip’s Bay Shore LIRR station is also nearby; many visitors take the train and shuttle bus.) Once you reach Cherry Grove by ferry, it’s about a 1–1.5 mile walk along the boardwalk to the Pines marina. Many people rent bikes or flag down a “beach taxi” cart for this stretch, or carry a collapsible wagon. By contrast, the Sayville ferry completely bypasses Cherry Grove – it departs from 41 River Road, Sayville (about 40 min east of Bay Shore by car or a shuttle bus) and lands directly at Fire Island Pines Harbor (www.sayvilleferry.com ) (www.sayvilleferry.com ). The Pines harbor terminal is literally at the center of town: “a short walk to the beach, restaurants, grocery store, bars, night clubs and shops” (www.sayvilleferry.com ). Parking near Sayville can be more limited and is usually paid/permitted by the ferry company. Many locals advise using public transit or a taxi/Uber to reach the ferry terminal if possible – even the ferry company warns that parking “fills up fast” on summer weekends (fireislandferries.com ). In all cases, plan to arrive early on holiday weekends. GPS will put you at either Bay Shore or Sayville ferry docks; there is no drop-off on the island itself. Once you arrive , remember that the Pines has no paved roads – the only transport on the island is by foot, wagon or electric cart (www.sayvilleferry.com ). So pack light or bring a beach wagon. Some visitors also arrive by private boat via Pines Harbor or by seaplane (the community marina can accommodate transient slips), but the ferries are the simplest option.
Inside the Venue
Think of Fire Island Pines itself as a casual open-air pub rather than a formal venue. There is no main entrance or security checkpoint to navigate for the town as a whole. When you arrive in the harbor area or walk the boardwalk, you’ll encounter various establishments – each of which may set its own door policy. Expect a relaxed yet festive atmosphere. If you are going to a nightclub (The Pavilion or Sip·n·Twirl), you may pay a cover or show an event wristband at a bouncer. Leave large bags at home: clubs sometimes do spot checks but most are fairly informal. Inside each bar or club, the vibe is beach-chic. Dress is casual beachwear (shirts are optional in many spots, just check signage at each venue). The community pride press notes it as “Chelsea with sand” (www.cbsnews.com ) – people mix vintage tees, leather, glitter and swimsuits. Most nights you can expect drag shows, DJ booths, neon lights and dancing well past midnight. By day, cafes and outdoor bars open (expect fewer indoor food options) – you might find burgers, sandwiches or salads at the Pavilion’s kitchen and upscale coastal cuisine at the Blue Whale waterfront restaurant (the Pines’ main sit-down eatery). The Pines Pantry is a small general store in the marina for snacks, ice, sunscreen and the like. Bars have cocktail and drink menus (even those on the beach serve mixed drinks) – one rule of thumb is everyone tips generously since service is behind the bar. There are restrooms in most bars/clubs and public restrooms by the docks or Whyte Hall, but no high-tech amenities (Wi-Fi is spotty on the island). Coat checks don’t exist in summer – if it’s off-season, Whyte Hall may have coat space for formal events. For merchandising, you’ll only find event T-shirts in pop-up stalls or gift shops in nearby Cherry Grove, as the Pines itself has no big retail stores. In short, inside the Pines is informal and social: come prepared to dance, chat and enjoy drinks in a sundrenched, boardwalk-lit environment.
Nearby Amenities
Fire Island Pines is a tiny village, so nearby amenities are limited to what’s on the island and a few places a short walk away. Within the Pines itself, the main amenities include the Blue Whale Restaurant & Bar (harborside dining), the Pines Pantry (mini-market/deli), a couple of small shops and the two nightclubs. For pre-show dinners or late-night eats, many visitors head next door to Cherry Grove (0.5 miles east): Cherry Grove has a few restaurants (the popular Pine Inn, Longview, Top of the Bay for seafood and cocktails) and bars like the High Tide and Belvedere Guest House rooftop. Linger longer and the nearby Village of Ocean Beach (3 miles west) offers a wider choice of hotels, motels and restaurants (including the Blue seas I etc). Hotels: the Pines itself has no hotels, just private rentals. Closest lodgings are guesthouses in Cherry Grove and small motels in Ocean Beach. If you arrive early, Sullivan’s or Jetty Park in Bay Shore can hold your car before bag check (if needed). Finally, on the Pine itself there is a volunteer community medical center (the Pines Care Center at Whyte Hall) for basic emergencies. In practice though, visitors plan to spend full days at the beach or clubs and may just walk or cart back to a Cherry Grove inn, yacht cabin or OB hotel at night. In all cases, plan on walking or taking the beach taxi for anything beyond the few island shops – the steps from ferry to amenities are short, but nothing is more than a 5-10 minute walk from the central harbor.
What Makes This Venue Special
Fire Island Pines is not just another beach town – it’s a cultural icon in the gay community and a unique resort environment. One hallmark is its blend of natural beauty and modernist design. Many homes in the Pines were designed by notable architects like Horace Gifford and Julio Kaufmann, and the village is known for its mid-century, open‐plan architecture (bright glass walls, decks facing the bay) (www.themillievintage.com ) (www.edgemedianetwork.com ). The resulting look (bright colors, clean lines on stilts through the dunes) has earned the Pines comparisons to a European seaside village – a columnist even likened it to “Capri or Portofino” (www.fireislandnews.com ). Its layout, all on boardwalks, lets nature and neighbors mingle: deer or wild birds are a common sight, and the bay offers calm water swimming with no currents or sharks to worry about. Community-wise, the Pines is legendary for its inclusive, party-ready culture. Decades ago it transformed (again) from the original family resort into a premier gay vacation spot. An Edge magazine writer captured the spirit: “Gay men here have long reveled in their splendid isolation,” going out bare-chested and dancing on the sand (www.edgemedianetwork.com ). Indeed, beachwear is flamboyant (often minimal), and the attitude is famously laissez-faire. Society’s most fashionable gay icons – from Andy Cohen to Madonna – have partied at the Pines, and even today “Chelsea with sand” is how news media describe its chic vibe (www.cbsnews.com ) (www.fireislandnews.com ). On top of culture, the Pines is special for its traditions and civic spirit. The annual drag parade, the fundraising Balls and dance festivals, and the communal bonfire parties on the beach create a festival atmosphere missing at most resorts. Many visitors return year after year simply for the feeling of community. It’s famously funded by locals as well: the Pines Party alone has raised millions for AIDS/HIV and LGBTQ charities (www.fippoa.org ). Finally, the sheer scale of a carefree summer lifestyle sets it apart. As one guide notes, with 600 homes and 3,000 part-time residents, a place this small has had “an outsized influence on gay history” – it’s practically a village that lives for the party (www.edgemedianetwork.com ). In short, the Pines matters as much for its history of acceptance and activism as for its sunsets: it’s a living landmark of gay culture, where each sunset beach dance or sunrise ferry ride feels infused with the community’s legacy. In the local lexicon, to visit the Pines is to step into a place where “the only rubber you burn is the soles of your shoes” – a reminder that here, the pace of life and dress code are both extra relaxed (www.sayvilleferry.com ) (www.edgemedianetwork.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan for no cars. Once you arrive, everything is on foot or wagon. Bring a beach wagon or collapsible cart for luggage and groceries – you’ll rely on Findlay Market-style utility wagons or Radio Flyer wagons to schlep items from docks to houses. (A Florida saying goes that the only rubber burned here is on the soles of shoes (www.sayvilleferry.com ).)Pack wisely. Beach conditions can be intense: bring strong sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. During the high season (June–Sept), insect repellent is wise for evenings near the boardwalk. Evenings can get cool near the bay, so a light sweater or wrap is handy for outdoor events after sunset. Cash is king on Fire Island – many beach bars, small shops and the ferry all prefer cash (some clubs take card, but expect a service fee). ATMs on the Pines are very rare, so plan accordingly. Accessibility. The island has made some improvements: the Sayville ferry and main boardwalks have ramps, and venues like Whyte Hall and Blue Whale have wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms. However, sand and uneven wood paths remain challenging. If you have mobility issues, contact the Pines Foundation or local services; Fire Island National Seashore offers a beach wheelchair at Sailors Haven (Cherry Grove) by advance reservation. Keep in mind there are no automobiles to use and transportation is by foot or ferry only, which may limit some accessibility. Weather and sea. The Atlantic surf (southern side) is great for waves but Pine’s bay is calmer. There is lifeguard coverage at Fire Island Pines in peak summer (July–Aug) on the public bay beach, but always be cautious if you swim far out. Dogs are not allowed on most beaches (and minors are generally discouraged on the clothing-optional sections). Visiting the National Seashore’s bay beach west of the Pines is a quiet option with lifeguards and no entrance fee (no private checkpoints on island beaches, but Suffolk Police sometimes enforce decency laws).Bring layers for indoor venues. Many club nights blast cold air-conditioning to offset hot crowds, so a light jacket won’t be out of place. Long cover-ups or sarongs work well for changing beach-to-bar. The local dress code is casual-meets-glam, so anything from cut-off shorts and a tank to a sequined cocktail outfit is fine – just respect any theme nights if attending (Drag brunches, Halloween events, etc.). Generally, Bermuda-style shorts over swim-briefs are common even for evening wear. Children and age. In practice, the Pines does not cater to kids; it’s often described as an adults-only retreat. Officially, New York State bans non-employed minors under 18 from dancing on boardwalks or beaches in Cherry Grove and Pines because of the clothing-optional tradition. Most clubs are 18+ or 21+, so parents usually do not bring children here. Etiquette. The culture prizes openness and friendliness, but also personal boundaries. Tipping bartenders generously (20% or more) is expected. Asking permission before taking someone’s photo is common courtesy. No smoking is allowed inside venues (all bars have outdoor smoking areas), and same with vaping. Loud music extends late – plan your return boat. Plan arrival times. Ferries from Bay Shore and Sayville have fixed schedules; during the high season they run roughly 30–60 minutes apart from mid-morning to evening. You should check each ferry company’s website for exact summer schedules (they vary between weekdays and weekends). Aim to reach the ferry 15–30 minutes early in summer, as the Bay Shore lots often queue and you may have to wait in line to park. Once on the island, most events do not have doors – you simply show up. The community center (Whyte Hall) and bars may open around lunchtime and continue into late night, but during the off-season (spring/fall weekends) hours are limited. Emergency services. The Fire Island Pines Fire Department is volunteer-based; call 911 in an emergency (phone coverage is usually available, but if not, locals use marine VHF in the harbor). The Pines Care Center in Whyte Hall provides summer medical aid (with donated doctors) for minor issues. For any urgent care beyond basic first aid, visitors usually boat or walk to hospitals on the mainland. Enjoy the community. Finally, remember why the Pines is special: it’s an inclusive, permission-giving place. Respect the fact that many people come here to be themselves. Mean harness etiquette, be friendly to residents, and have genuine fun. Bring a sense of adventure – embracing the boardwalk lifestyle (wheels, wagons, sunscreen) is all part of it. With these tips in mind, you’ll likely find your visit uniquely unforgettable.
How do I buy ferry tickets and how much do they cost?
Ferry tickets can be purchased on board at the dock (cash or card). For example, Sayville Ferry’s one-way fare to the Pines is about $11 for adults (
www.sayvilleferry.com ). There’s no need to book in advance – just buy at the ferry terminal when you arrive. On summer weekends, arrive early to avoid lines.
Where can I park if I’m driving to the ferry?
The main parking is at the Bay Shore ferry terminal. Rates are typically around $15 per weekday and $25 per day on weekends (
fireislandferries.com ) (or $75 for a full weekend). These lots fill up early in summer. You can also park at Sayville ferry (smaller lot) or use the Bay Shore LIRR lot and shuttle. Parking apps and local buses are available, or use a taxi/uber from the train. Plan extra time for parking, especially on holiday weekends.
Is there general admission seating or VIP areas in the clubs?
All of Fire Island Pines’ nightlife venues are general admission. There are no assigned seats or numbered tables. Sip·n·Twirl and The Pavilion have open dance floors and some bar stools, but most guests stand or move around. VIP areas or bottle service are generally not offered in the casual Pines clubs. If you want a specific spot, arrive early and stake out a table or bench at the edge of the room or on the outdoor deck.
Are under-18 children allowed at Fire Island Pines?
In practice, no. The Pines is an adults-only resort. By local custom and state law, minors are effectively banned from the clothing-optional beaches and most clubs. The community is known for its gay-oriented nightlife, and businesses typically do not admit children under 18. Families should consider nearby Ocean Beach, which is much more kid-friendly, if visiting with children.
What should I wear to Fire Island Pines?
Dress code is informal and often beach-chic. By day, swimwear, shorts and tank tops are common (sun protection is advised). By night, anything from casual shorts to party outfits works. The Pines is famous for its laissez-faire style – one local quip is that a Speedo and baseball cap is considered formal attire (
www.edgemedianetwork.com ). However, bring a cover-up or light jacket for air-conditioned venues. The only firm rules are to follow event themes if given, and remember that some parties are costume or formal-themed, so check beforehand.
Can I bring a pet or bicycle on the ferry?
Yes, most ferries allow bicycles and pets. Bicycles can be carried on board (often for no extra fee), which can help you get around once there. Dogs are permitted on Fire Island ferries for a small fee (around $4) and are welcome on the public beaches and boardwalks, so long as they are leashed. Note that most bars and restaurants allow service dogs only, and you’ll need to care for your pet appropriately on the boat and island (water/Kiddie pools are commonly used for dog breaks).
What food and drink options are available inside the Pines?
Dining options are limited locally. The primary restaurant in the Pines is the Blue Whale, which serves dinner with a bay view (reservations recommended). Sip·n·Twirl has appetizers and a bar menu when open at night. The Pines Pantry offers groceries, sandwiches, snacks and basics. Beyond that, most people eat at bars (meet friends at the club for burgers or pizza) or walk to Cherry Grove (across the dunes) for more choices. Bars in the Pines (and nearby CG) serve full drink menus, including cocktails, beer and wine. Remember to carry cash – small eateries and snack bars sometimes don’t take cards.
Are there restrooms and changing facilities?
Yes. Virtually every bar, club and restaurant has restrooms for customers. There are also public restrooms by the Pines ferry docks and near the community center (Whyte Hall). Beachgoers can change at their houses if renting, or at private facilities. There are no standalone public changing stalls on the beach, so many people use the restroom changing rooms or use towels for quick dry-off. In summary: plan to use the facilities inside businesses or private homes, or carry a poncho for beach-side changing.
Is Fire Island Pines wheelchair accessible?
Partially. Sayville Ferry has ramps and accessible bathrooms at the dock. The Pines’ main boardwalks are wooden and have ramps where they connect to restaurants or Whyte Hall. Whyte Hall (the community center) and the Blue Whale restaurant are ADA-accessible. However, sand sections, narrow walkways, and older boardwalks can be difficult for wheelchairs. The National Seashore can loan beach wheelchairs, but otherwise help may be needed. In general, the island is friendly but not fully barrier-free – contact a rental or the town office in advance to arrange assistance if required.
