The best gay-friendly hotels on Fire Island

Sometimes referred to as “Chelsea with Sand” after NYC’s most prominent gay ‘hood, Fire Island is a pristine getaway onto which NYC’s harried, gay professionals descend all summer long. About 50 miles east of Manhattan, the only way to get to the barrier island is by ferry from Long Island. (On Friday afternoons, the Long Island Rail Road from Manhattan to the ferry looks like an issue of gay GQ that’s come to life).

While it’s wildly popular in the summer, Fire Island has managed to remain rustic and isolated since no cars are allowed on the island. Inhabitants pull their red Radio Flyer toy wagons full of groceries across the wooden walkways that take the place of sidewalks. Stick-built bungalow-style houses are the most common residences and bamboo grows prodigiously. The dunes are sublime and the sunsets are riotous.

Fire Island things to do include the beach, the beach, and the beach. Before the beach a slow, sumptuous breakfast. After the beach rituals include mid-afternoon Low Tea and High Tea at various drinking establishments. (Just follow the crowd.) The Friday night Underwear Party is both legendary and mandatory. The 4th of July is marked by the “Invasion” of 300 drag queens who kick off a mammoth party followed by fireworks on the bay. Later in July, some of the world’s best dance troupes descend for the Fire Island Dance Festival, an AIDS fundraiser. Pines Party is an all all-night dance soiree held each July on the beach that only ends when the sun rises over the Atlantic.

As far as accommodations go, most NYC denizens rent shares in houses for the summer, although doing the Airbnb thing is also popular. For those from out of town or who are exploring Fire Island for the first time, a hotel might make more sense since you will automatically be part of a community as soon as you check in, and the staff can give you all the pointers you need.

The Madison Fire Island Pines is for you if low-key yet glam is your style. This beach house turned guesthouse is sweetly and simply divine and done in a minimalist motif of whites and wooden floorboards. A short walk to the beach, with a great pool and roof deck, this pick is popular for a reason. Located in The Pines, Pines Bluff Overlook is the oldest bed and breakfast on the island, and the only oceanfront B&B, a chill place that visitors come back to for the homey feeling and service. It’s got a rooftop pool, a hot tub, and balconies with views of the ocean, bay, and the iconic Fire Island Light House. The rooms are simple and recently underwent renovations so they’ve got everything you need. Some rooms are pet-friendly.

If you’ve been in need of a gay retreat, try Fire Island Pines Retreat. The $25 a day meal plan makes this an appealing option for those on a budget. The suites are quirky and the panorama deck gives you a 360-degree view of the island’s beauty. It also has a saltwater pool and sauna deck. Secluded and serene yet close to town, Dune Point Fire Island in Cherry Grove is a straightforward apartment hotel with everything you need and a few extras including two gazebos with sitting areas and easy beach access.

Fire Island is truly a special place that has raised generations of gays and will continue to do so well into the future. If you’ve never been, try and get there this summer.