When you climb to the top of the Fire Island Lighthouse, you will be rewarded with stunning views. You can see Fire Island to the east, the NY skyline to the west, the great South Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day, of course.
It is the tallest, but not the oldest lighthouse on Long Island among more than 20 structures. At 168 feet, the Fire Island Lighthouse stands more than 50 feet taller than the one at Montauk.
Climb the 182 steps to the top where you can see 360-degrees in every direction from the gallery platform. The many landings along the way ease the climb and there are amazing views from the windows on the way up. The view from the top is worth it.
There is no restaurant here, so pack a lunch or walk east about a mile to Kismet.
It costs $8 ($4 for kids, seniors and veterans), which goes to the Lighthouse Preservation Society.
Events are held year-round, including evening tours and the tree lighting ceremony. You can get married here, but no receptions are permitted. See events here
The lighthouse and surroundings have appeared in films and TV, including The Following and Men in Black II.
The current lighthouse is not the first built on this site. In 1826, the first tower was built with Connecticut River blue split stone. The octagonal tower was 74 feet tall, and its light could be seen for about 10-14 nautical miles out to sea.
Today’s 184-foot lighthouse was completed in 1858. Its remarkable 16 foot tall revolving Fresnel Lens could be seen for 20 miles. It was replaced in 1932 with the electric light we have today. The beautiful original is on display here.
Call 631-661-4876
School groups are welcomed at the Fire Island Lighthouse weekday mornings during the school year. The program is designed to accommodate 4th grade Common Core Curriculum guidelines. Group size is limited to a maximum of 50 students.
There are 3 45-minute segments, including:
Trained volunteers conduct the tower tour and USLSS portions of the program. Find out more here
Special tours can be arranged for groups including sunset tours. Call 631-661-4876 to make arrangements.
Explore the nature trails, the bay and ocean that surround the Fire Island Lighthouse. Bring lunch and relax.
Learn about the demanding life of a Lighthouse Keeper and how the Lighthouse works in the exhibit area.
Support the upkeep of the Lighthouse and bring a meaningful gift home.
Fire Island Lighthouse
631-661-4876
Take the LIRR to Bay Shore. Take a waiting jitney to the Kismet ferry. Once in town, walk towards the ocean. Take a right on the Burma Road, then walk west about a mile. Or in season, take a water taxi from the dock.
