Fire Island: Otis Pike Wilderness

If departing from NYC, catch the early LIRR train from Penn Station (or Atlantic Terminal) towards Patchogue. You may have to transfer at both Jamaica & Babylon, but it's an easy hop across the platform. Trip will take approximately an hour and a half and cost around $15, Off Peak, each way. Make sure to bring breakfast for the journey, there is very little food for the rest of the trip! O...

Starting on the banks of Nissequogue River State Park, this 6 mile journey makes you feel like you’re cruising down river in the south, when you’re really on Long Island. I really suggest going as high tide is rolling in as there can be some shallow sections along this trip. Head out into the open water (which is still technically the Long Island Sound) while keeping toward the middle/right sid...

While there are many ways to access the Peconic Bay, I have found the best direction to explore is north west after launching and during the sunset. If you head to the public beach on Towd Point Rd. you can launch from there and make your way out toward Robins Island. Like most places the water is calmest while the sun is setting and gets to be so calm that is looks like a sheet of glass. The c...

Parking is at the end of Barnum Road in the Seaside Park.  Though the lighthouse grounds are accessible the tower itself is not open to the public.  To access the island you must walk across the breakwater.  Please use caution as it is uneven footing and at times can be slippery.  From the island you can also see Penfield Reef Lighthouse. 

Just a short ferry ride from the Hamptons, South Ferry Road is exactly where it sounds; very close to the South Ferry of Shelter Island. The parking lot of Mashomack Preserve is marked by a large sign. When you walk in, you'll see a large nature center. Sign in at a clipboard at the table out front. The suggested donation is $2 for children and $3 for adults, but please leave more if you can (W...

This trail is accessible year round and features water views of the Long Island Sound with beach access. The trail is a popular spot for walking, biking, fishing, and even bird watching. But if you’re not quite in the mood to get your steps in, you can use the small beach to sit and chat with a friend or get lost in a book. It’s also a great location to catch the sunset. The path is paved and...