Incorporated in 1921, the village of Ocean Beach has nearly 600 homes and a bustling town center. The island is at its widest here and lushly foliated.
Bayfront restaurants, shops, boutiques, art galleries, food markets, pizzarias, cafes, bakeries, and a movie theater line the main street, Bay Walk.
There are several guesthouses, many realtors, and more services here than anywhere else on the island.
The nightlife here is legendary, with bars and dancing plentiful and lively. Many day-trippers come to play on the beach by day and party into the night.
There are a few rules here to keep the village clean and safe:
Although it is busy downtown, the residents enjoy the same tranquility as other Fire Islanders once you leave the town center.
Ocean Beach Street Map
The notorious 1938 hurricane destroyed many of Fire Island’s homes but left Ocean Beach relatively intact. They didn’t bulldoze the dunes as they did in other towns, which kept them from severe damage. Many original early 20th century homes are lived in and pampered, with well-tended gardens on quiet, tree-lined walks.
During the 40’s and 50’s, O.B. was fashionable with the Hollywood and theater crowd. Regular visitors included Marilyn Monroe, the Gershwins, Fanny Brice, and Tommy Tune, giving it a reputation as an artsy town.
Lucky families spending their summers here can send their children to the Ocean Beach Youth Program (day camp). Arts and crafts, sports, swimming and sailing lessons and a drama program keep the kids happy. Camp helps them meet new friends.
There are 2 tennis courts, 2 basketball courts, a bayfront playground and a ball field.
The large marina has long term, visitors and jet ski docking. Ocean and bay beaches are patrolled by lifeguards. There is a first-rate volunteer fire department and the only police department on the island outside of the Suffolk County Police. The post office is open year-round, and there is a Doctor on call.
There are strong community ties in the village. The Ocean Beach Association sponsors events such as The Sandpiper Run, a 6-mile oceanfront race attracting over 500 runners, and is liaison to the village in official matters.
The Ocean Beach Community Fund sponsors the annual Art Show in August showcasing local artists, benefits for the Fire Department and raises funds for village improvements.
They sponsor a kid’s art show, cookout in the ball field, free movie night, outdoor concerts and the “Warrior Project.”
Everyone loves a parade and the whole town takes part in it and the Pancake Breakfast afterwards.
The Ocean Beach Historical Society next to the Community House is a great way to learn more about the island’s history.
Ocean Beach has a wide range of residents, from long time homeowners, salty year-rounders, young families with children, group renters, and “day-trippers.” Together they make up Fire Island’s most exciting and enterprising community.
