“Fire Island” is one place to Long Island’s south, but there are many destinations on this 32-mile barrier island. They include resort communities, bay beaches, ocean beaches, an iconic lighthouse, and many natural wonders; a major part of the island falls within the U.S. National Park Service’s (NPS) protection as a national seashore.

Area boaters love to make the trip via the Great South Bay on summer weekends. Four favorite adventures follow, but please check current charts as well as rules and regulations for your destination. Some area waters are shallow, markers may have moved since an old chart was published, and jet skis are not allowed along the protected seashore. Get an early start and pack bug protection with your sunscreen.

Kismet is the westernmost town on Fire Island. It’s closest to the Fire Island Lighthouse (Long island’s tallest lighthouse) and has great access to both the bay and the ocean. Call the Kismet Inn and Marina for docking availability (631-583-5592). Visit www.nps.gov/fiis/planyourvisit/fireislandlighthouse.htm before your trip.

Sailors Haven offers both a beautiful beach and the chance to visit the Sunken Forest, a globally rare ecological community. The forest has a one-and-a-half-mile boardwalk trail, an NPS visitor center, and lifeguards during the summer. Check out https://www.nps.gov/fiis/planyourvisit/sailorshaven.htm for NPS activities and attractions; visit https://www.lovefins.com/ for marina availability and other amenities and enticements.

Watch Hill is on the western edge of the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness. There’s an NPS visitor center to answer questions and ranger-led programs. There is a convenience store, snack bar, boardwalk nature trail, picnic area, and a lifeguarded beach in summer. Watch Hill has tent camping as well as “glamping” (you’re on a platform, in a tent, with furniture). Visit https://www.nps.gov/fiis/planyourvisit/watchhill.htm for NPS activities and attractions; check out https://www.lovefins.com/ for marina availability and other amenities and enticements.

Ocean Beach is a place with little red wagons, bicycles, bare feet, and a relaxed attitude. Enjoy the beautiful ocean and bay beaches, restaurant, nightlife, and art shows. Call Ocean Beach Marina (631-583-5940) for transient availability. Area restaurants also offer docking while dining. More info: https://villageofoceanbeach.org/about