The First Timer's Guide to Fire Island 🔥

A First Timer’s Guide to, yep — Fire Island

We try to do off-the-beaten-path stuff, but this one is a cultural phenomenon and a must-do at least once in your life. That’s right: summer for the gays of New York City means only two words: Fire Island. The remote bustling beach community has long been a haven for the Queer community of the Big Apple, and has more recently become a gay mecca attracting men, women, and everything in between from around the world.

We’ve put together everything you need to know to make your own pilgrimage this summer—because the time to book is now (yes, houses are already filling up 🥴)!

The basics: Fire Island is a long barrier island off the southern coast of Long Island. Two neighborhoods on the Island are generally Queer: Cherry Grove and the Pines. There are other communities on Fire Island that cater to families and straight people, but when Queers talk about Fire Island, they mean Cherry Grove or the Pines. Both places are totally car-free, so be prepared to walk.

Cherry Grove is the more laid-back and diverse of the two communities, attracting a mixed Lesbian and Gay crowd. It's home to the iconic Ice Palace nightclub and generally offers more affordable accommodations than The Pines. The vibe here is casual and welcoming, with Cherry's on the Bay hosting legendary drag shows and Top of the Bay restaurant offering the perfect sunset cocktail spot.

The Pines, on the other hand, tends to attract a younger, more fit crowd, particularly from NYC's fashion and design scenes. Known for its stunning modern architecture, the Pines centers around the Pavilion nightclub and the essential ritual of Low Tea at Blue Whale everyday from 5 to 8 p.m. Between these two communities lies the infamous Meat Rack, a sandy, wooded path that connects the two historically known for cruising (the cruising today isn’t what it used to be thanks to the apps).

Where to stay: There are a few (but limited) hotel options on the Island, most notably the Belvedere in Cherry Grove. However, share houses are the most popular and authentic way to experience Fire Island. Running from May through September, they come in various arrangements: quarter shares (every 4th weekend) start from $2,000 per season, half shares (every other weekend) from $4,000, and full shares (every weekend) from $8,000.

Perhaps the easiest “in” for a single week is a Facebook groups like Boys of Fire Island (and yes, people are already listing stuff for this summer!).

When you’re there, the scene revolves around Low Tea, the weekly Underwear Party at the Ice Palace, High Tea at Sip n' Twirl, and various house parties. Eating options (especially in the Pines) are very limited, and most folks cook with their housemates.

Getting there: Be warned, getting there is a trek. From New York City you’ll either have to drive to the Sayville Ferry (about an hour and half, depending on traffic), or take the Long Island Railroad, then a shuttle or taxi, to the Ferry. But once you’re on the Ferry, it’s smooth sailing.

When to go: The season runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day (but shares can start before and end after that — some people love the tranquility of Fire Island in May and October). The calendar is punctuated by major events that shouldn't be missed: the massive Pines (circuit) Party in July, Grove Pride in June, the historic Invasion of the Pines on July 4th (a can't-miss Drag celebration), and the Ascension Party in August. Our number one tip: BOOK NOW.

Fire Island isn't just a destination; it's a unique cultural experience that every LGBTQ+ traveler should experience at least once. Whether you're dancing at the Ice Palace, lounging on the beach, or making new friends at Low Tea, you'll quickly understand why this car-free paradise has been captivating Queer hearts for generations.

Some *~Interesting~* Reads

News you may have missed on traveling, queers, and traveling queers 🗞️

• A new study shows Gay men are more likely to fly first class… but Bisexuals and Lesbians are not 🤔

• 'Transgender' references have been erased from the Stonewall National Monument website — prompting huge protests 

• Another US city has voted to become a trans sanctuary amid Trump attacks

• A TikTok remix of “Yakko’s World” reveals glaring marriage equality gaps

• WorldPride 2026 is heading to this chic city that will also be celebrating its 750th anniversary

• You’re never too old to meet the love of your life — and these gay first encounter stories prove it

• The fascinating, sticky history of gay bathhouses: From 15th century scandal to modern staple

• One of Paris’ most popular attractions is closing for 5 years. It’s about to be ‘reinvented’

• This Big Gay Super Bowl party scored hundreds of hot jocks — see the photos

• This city is trending as Japan’s emerging queer cultural hub

• Ranking Spain’s Gayest places by Gayness

• Does Puerto Vallarta have a gentrification problem?

• Why do Queer people love The White Lotus so much? Season three cast have their say… meanwhile, some more eye-popping nude scenes have been confirmed by the season’s male leads

• ICYMI: both Christiano Ronaldo and David Beckham sent thirsty fans into overdrive posting sexy showering videos

• And, last week a link was broken so we’ll just drop this here 🫣 Check out our full guide to Gay Puerto Rico 🇵🇷

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Q&A Time:

Last week we asked you to put years of debate to bed and pick: east coast or west coast? The results are in:

• “West has better coastline, no humidity and Mexican food.” 🥑

• “Hands down East coast is better by far. Nicer people great beaches excellent seafood” 🦞

• “In my experience while traveling, the West Coast communities are cleaner both environmentally and socially, and friendlier overall. Yes, there are exceptions on both sides… I look for the positive in each.” 👏👏👏

That new study about first class has us wondering: Do you fly first class?

This Week’s *~Best Deals~*

We’re always on the hunt for top-tier experiences that welcome all and won’t break the bank—here are this week’s faves ✨ 

• The world’s first LGBTQ+ hotel chain is offering 20% off its newest location

• Frontier is offering flights from $19 for Presidents' Day

• $699 for roundtrip flights AND 4 nights in Paris???

• Sail the Hawaiian Islands for 16 nights — for $1199

• Divi Resorts is offering up to 40% off on stays at their award-winning Caribbean resorts

• Rent out this entire, Netflix-featured private island with friends from only $98 per person per night 👀

• We are loving all these flight deals on Going.com — which helps you save 40% to 90% off flights from your home city. They have a free version and a (cheap) paid version we use, we think it’s worth it.

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