Imagine a place where the rules of the mainland don’t apply, where drag queens strut in heels down sandy boardwalks, and shirtless boys swap sunscreen with strangers like it’s currency. That place? Fire Island, honey. A shimmering oasis off the coast of New York, where the sun hits just right and the soundtrack is a mix of laughter, pop divas, and the clink of cocktail glasses.
But Fire Island isn’t just a dreamy getaway—it’s a queer sanctuary soaked in history. Every dune holds a story, every beach path echoes with the voices of trailblazing queers who came before us. This isn’t just a summer escape. It’s a living, breathing tribute to LGBTQ+ joy, resilience, and fabulousness. Covered in glitter and pride, Fire Island invites you not just to visit—but to belong.
Why Men’s Swim Briefs Are a Fire Island Essential
Pack the essentials—and that means swim briefs. These snug, stylish essentials aren’t just for comfort; they’re the unofficial uniform of the island. Practical for sun and sport, they also scream confidence and style.
Enter Aberbeach. At www.aberbeach.com, you’ll find Brazilian-made men’s swim briefs—called “sungas”—designed with high-quality stitching and elanca elastic. They offer comfort, flexibility, and standout style.
Aberbeach isn’t just swimwear—it’s a vibe. From the beach to the boardwalk, their briefs help you feel confident, sexy, and completely Fire Island ready.
The Origins: Seclusion, Sass, and Safety
Fire Island started serving fierce long before hashtags or Grindr. Back in the 1930s, Cherry Grove began attracting artists, writers, and bold queers looking for a place to be themselves—far away from the judgmental gaze of the city. Its remote nature made it a safe zone for queer expression before “safe space” was even a term.
Cherry Grove vs. The Pines: The Ultimate Gay Rivalry
In the 1960s, the nearby Pines blossomed into its own queer playground, drawing in the ripped and rich crowd. While Cherry Grove was fun, funky, and fabulous, The Pines turned up the glamour with sculpted abs and private parties. The tension between the two? Delicious. But it birthed one of the best traditions ever: The Invasion of the Pines, where drag queens from Cherry Grove sail over every July 4th to serve looks and remind the Pines who really runs the island.
Through the AIDS Crisis: Heartache and Hope
During the 1980s and ’90s, Fire Island wasn’t just a party—it was a lifeline. As the AIDS crisis devastated the queer community, the island transformed into a haven for healing, fundraising, and memorial. Friends gathered to mourn, dance, and remember those lost. It was both sanctuary and battlefield—but always full of love.
Why It Still Matters
Fire Island continues to be a place where LGBTQ+ people come to breathe easy, connect, and celebrate. It’s where history walks in speedos, and pride lives in every corner. Whether you’re a party queen or just here for the sunsets, you’re part of the legacy now, darling.
Throw on those swim briefs and join the parade—Fire Island is calling.
🌈 Fire Island: A Glitter-Soaked Guide to New York’s Queer Paradise 🌈
Welcome to Fire Island, the sandy slice of freedom off Long Island where drag queens strut boardwalks in six-inch heels and shirtless boys swap sunscreen like business cards. It’s not just a beach—it’s a state of mind. So whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned sunbather, this guide is your passport to gay joy, queer history, and sparkly chaos.
1. 📍 Where Is Fire Island, New York?
Fire Island is a narrow barrier island located about 60 miles east of Manhattan. It lies just south of Long Island, separated by the Great South Bay and kissed by the Atlantic Ocean on the other side.
2. 🏖️ What Is Fire Island?
This dreamy 32-mile-long island is famous for being car-free, gay-friendly, and brimming with charm. With wooden boardwalks, classic beach houses, and endless sky, Fire Island is a peaceful escape with 17 hamlets—including two queer havens: Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines.
3. 🌟 What Is Fire Island Known For?
Fire Island is known for its queer culture, vibrant parties, and historic significance. Cherry Grove was one of the first LGBTQ+ safe spaces in the U.S., attracting artists, performers, and freedom seekers since the 1940s.
Fire Island Pines followed, giving rise to a more glamorous gay crowd—think circuit parties, muscle beach games, and Sunday tea dances. It’s also known for its annual Invasion of the Pines—a drag parade tradition dating back to 1976.
Besides its party vibe, the island also holds deep cultural weight, especially during the AIDS crisis when it became a sanctuary for healing and remembrance.
4. 🚁 How to Get to Fire Island
Getting to this queer utopia is part of the adventure:
- 🚢 Ferry: The most iconic way. Head to Fire Island Ferries (Bay Shore), Sayville Ferry, or Davis Park Ferry (Patchogue).
- 🚆 Train + Taxi + Ferry: Ride the LIRR from NYC to Sayville or Patchogue, then a cab or shuttle to the terminal.
- 🚤 Private Boat: Channel your inner yacht daddy and dock at the Pines or Grove marina.
- 🚁 Helicopter: Want to slay the skies? Charter a helicopter with Blade or NYC Helicopter Charters. Get there in 20 minutes—hair perfectly tousled by the ocean wind.
5. 🚗 Can You Drive to Fire Island?
Not exactly.
You can drive to the mainland ferry ports or state park areas like Robert Moses, but cars are not allowed in the gayborhoods (The Pines and Cherry Grove). Once you arrive, it’s walking, biking, or being fabulously wheeled around in wagons.
6. ⛴️ Fire Island Ferry Info
Ferries leave from multiple Long Island locations. Find your community’s route:
Round trip? About $20–$25. Worth every glittery cent.
7. 🛣️ Directions From NYC
From Manhattan:
- By Car: Take I-495 E (Long Island Expressway), then south on Nicolls Rd or Route 112 depending on the ferry terminal.
- By Train: LIRR to Sayville (for Grove) or Patchogue (for Davis Park). Cabs/shuttles are lined up for ferry connections.
- By Helicopter: Book via Blade from Manhattan directly to Fire Island in about 20–30 minutes.
8. 🏳️🌈 Is Fire Island Gay?
Is Beyoncé fierce? Is glitter fabulous? YES, Fire Island is gay—proudly so. From drag shows in Cherry Grove to sun-kissed abs in The Pines, it’s a queer wonderland.
Cherry Grove: Campy, historic, and inclusive. Think Judy Garland karaoke and drag bingo.
The Pines: Sleek, shirtless, and upscale. Think circuit DJs, fashion statements, and beach workouts.
Whatever your flavor, Fire Island celebrates it. Be you, loudly.
9. 👙 Fire Island Gay Beach
The stretch between Cherry Grove and The Pines is the unofficial gay beach runway. Bring your hottest swim briefs (Aberbeach, obviously), a towel, and a flirty attitude.
How to Get There:
- Walk 20–30 mins between towns via the beach path.
- Or take the water taxi for scenic sea cruising.
10. 🍸 Fire Island Gay Bars (Top 3 Musts)
- 🍹 Ice Palace
- Address: 1 Main Walk, Cherry Grove
- Site: grovehotel.com
- Vibe: Legendary drag shows, pool parties, and late-night debauchery.
- 🪩 Sip-N-Twirl
- Address: Fire Island Blvd, The Pines
- Site: sipntwirl.com
- Vibe: Lights, beats, and boys. Expect nonstop dance floor magic.
- 🐋 Blue Whale
- Address: Harbor Walk, The Pines
- Vibe: Chill by day, tea dance by sunset.
11. 🏨 Fire Island Gay Hotels (3 Top Picks)
- Belvedere Guest House
- Address: 79 Grove Walk, Cherry Grove
- Website: belvederefireisland.com
- Vibe: Men-only, clothing-optional, elegant with a touch of naughty.
- The Grove Hotel
- Address: 1 Main Walk, Cherry Grove
- Website: grovehotel.com
- Vibe: Iconic, affordable, and steps from nightlife.
- Pines Bluff Overlook
- Location: Fire Island Pines
- Vibe: Boutique hideaway with gorgeous sunset views.
12. 🌅 Final Thoughts
Fire Island is more than a destination—it’s a queer pilgrimage. It’s where history meets hedonism, where every sunset feels like a hug, and where every body is welcome.
Pack your Aberbeach swim briefs (because duh), bring sunscreen, and let the island do the rest. Fire Island isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a place that lives in your glittery heart forever. 💖
Let the waves crash, the beats drop, and your best gay self shine. 🏳️🌈
🛍️ Get Pool-Party Ready: Aberbeach Men’s Swim Briefs – www.aberbeach.com – Brazilian design meets European flair.
🚁 Fly Like a Queen: Book your heli-ride at Blade or Fly Victor.