FAMILY FUN: A WEEKEND GETAWAY TO FIRE ISLAND!
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We escaped the hustle and bustle of city life and opt for a family-friendly getaway to Fire Island this past weekend. Discover Long Island helped us find the perfect retreat for our family, and Fire Island exceeded all our expectations, making it a trip to remember. Let me share with you some of the unforgettable experiences we had on this beautiful and relaxing island.
Nestled along the coast, Fire Island beckons with its pristine beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and charming communities. Stretching 31 miles long and 2-3 blocks wide, the island comprises 18 communities, each offering its own unique ambiance. With the Great South Bay to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the south, Fire Island boasts world-renowned beaches that rival any luxury resort destination. Just a short ferry ride away from Manhattan, Fire Island provides a serene setting without the crowds and pretentiousness of other popular summer spots, like the Hamptons.
Getting to Fire Island was a breeze with the guidance from Discover Long Island. We avoided the traffic by opting for a relaxing train journey on the Long Island Railroad from Manhattan followed by a picturesque ferry ride from Bay Shore. The Fire Island Ferry Service treated us to stunning views of the Great South Bay, setting the stage for a weekend filled with excitement. Exploring the charming downtown area of Bay Shore, with its boutique shops and cozy restaurants just a short walk from the ferry to Fire Island, added to the delightful experience.
Our accommodation at the Blue Waters Hotel, arranged by Discover Long Island was so convenient and the staff was wonderful. The complimentary bikes provided by the hotel allowed us to explore the island at our own pace, taking in the beautiful scenery and creating lasting memories as a family. Witnessing residents using wagons to transport items around the island and spotting wild deer roaming freely added to the unique charm of Fire Island.
Dining at Island Mermaid on our first night was a culinary delight, with delectable dishes, a breathtaking sunset backdrop, and generous portions that left us fully satisfied. The warm hospitality of this family-run restaurant enhanced our dining experience, creating a sense of welcoming that made us feel right at home.
The following morning, we enjoyed breakfast under the sunny skies on the rooftop of the hotel, followed by a delightful lunch at Rachel's after a fun day at the beach. The bakery treats at Rachel's were perfect for munching throughout the day, and our kids had a blast sampling the ice cream from the local shops. They even got matching t-shirts from one of the boutiques in town.
As evening approached, we savored a delicious dinner at Matthews Seafood House, a charming family-run spot with bay views and fresh seafood. Securing a table by the water for the sunset was truly special, and we managed to capture a precious family photo against the backdrop of the breathtaking view.
Discover Long Island not only enriched our trip with insights into Fire Island's history and charm but also provided educational elements that enhanced our family adventure. For those looking to explore more of Long Island, Discover Long Island offers captivating itineraries featuring museums, local delicacies, and outdoor excursions suitable for everyone in the family.
With Discover Long Island by your side, embark on a magical journey to Fire Island and create cherished memories with your loved ones. Immerse yourselves in the island's natural beauty, enjoy quality time together, and relish the enchanting getaway that Fire Island offers. We can't wait for our next adventure to this wonderful oasis!
