Curator’s statement
Looking for a quick weekend getaway? Fire Island is the perfect escape! Just hop on the LIRR from NYC, connect to the shuttle right outside the Bay Shore station, and catch the ferry over to Ocean Beach (or one of the other villages). In under two hours, you’ll arrive in the car-free beach town where you can relax on the sand, enjoy fresh seafood, and dance along to live music. It is the perfect New York weekend getaway with your friends or family.
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Where to stay in Ocean Beach
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Things to do in Ocean Beach
Sunset on the bay
Wander the village: Browse the cute boutiques, souvenir shops, and local art galleries.
Beach time: Head to the beach for a few hours to swim, tan, or take a long walk along the shoreline.
Rent bikes or wagons: The best way to get around since there are no cars.
Live music: Head to the bars to watch and sing along with the live bands (always happening on the weekends).
Grab ice cream at Scoops—it is amazing!
Places to eat & drink in Ocean Beach
The Sandbar
Rachel’s Bakery & Restaurant: Perfect for breakfast, pastries, and coffee. You must try the famous bran pancakes (they are famous for a reason)! Rachel’s is also open late for dinner.
Island Mermaid: A lively atmosphere with bay views. They have incredible fish tacos and strong cocktails. It is great for lunch or dinner!
Maguire’s Bayfront Restaurant: The perfect dinner spot for sunset! They have amazing seafood towers, and you can’t go to Fire Island without getting a lobster roll.
Matthew’s: With it’s bay views and amazing seafood and pasta dishes, this is another great spot to go to for lunch or dinner.
Albatross: The dive-bar energy and fun crowd make it a perfect chill dinner spot. Get the nachos!
Houser’s: A Fire Island nightlife classic with indoor and outdoor spaces. You must get the signature drink, the Zippy!
Sandbar: The best bar on the island with great live music and dancing. Order a Rocket Fuel!
Town Pizza: Amazing pizza slices. Ask to add cold cheese and boom boom sauce for the best slice!
Need to know
Day trip ideas
Ocean Bay Park: Check out Flynn’s, a great spot for food, drinks, and waterfront parties. Be sure to check the schedule to see who is performing.
Day boat trip: Rent a small boat or hop on a water taxi to explore nearby towns for the day.
Travel Advisor
Casey Stein
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