The Nature of Fire Island

When you live in a city, you get used to seeing concrete around trees or “pigeon-proofing” on statues and buildings. But the nature of Fire Island is just as beautiful, just as soothing, and just as, well, natural as it was when Fire Island was founded in 1653. When you rent a home for the summer on Fire Island, you can experience nature in a familiar but exciting way.

Fire Island nature preserves are among the lushest in the country. The white tailed deer makes its home on Fire Island, and its population has increased to between 300 and 500 within the last 50 years. You may also see Eastern cottontail rabbits or red foxes during your stay. Should you head out during the winter months, you may be lucky enough to see harbor seals basking on the shores.

Because of the more remote position of Fire Island, nature preserves here host a number of endangered species. The Piping Plover makes its nest on the Island, and residents have gone to great lengths to keep it safe. Even more incredibly, the nature of Fire Island has been known to include the migratory path of the fin, humpback and northern right whales.

For those looking to commune with the nature of Fire Island, there are multiple camp grounds and day-trips available. Watch Hill offers a view of Fire Island nature preserves, and the Sunken Forest can’t be beat for bird watching. Robert Moses State Park is perfect for families who want to surf or fish, as it has facilities within its grounds, and Sailors Haven offers a public beach, picnic areas and even a snack bar for the kids. So if you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation or a solitary walk along the shore, we know that the nature of Fire Island will keep you coming back for more.