Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
The ferry from Sayville deposits you onto a car-free island where wooden walkways thread through a maze of weathered cottages, each one propped on stilts above the sand. You'll hear the ocean before you see it—a persistent shush beyond the dunes—and when you crest that final rise, the beach unfolds in a wide ribbon of tan sand that stretches toward the Pines to the west and Ocean Beach to the east. Gulls wheel overhead, their cries mixing with laughter from the clusters of umbrellas and towels dotting the shore. By midday, the scene pulses with energy. Speakers thump from beach setups where groups sprawl on blankets, coolers wedged into the sand, while others bodysurf the modest waves or walk the waterline with iced coffee in hand. The Grove Pavilion anchors the social scene just off the beach, its deck crowded with sun-drenched revelers who spill down toward the sand as afternoon bleeds into evening. Sunset here feels ceremonial. The western sky ignites in shades of tangerine and rose, silhouetting the distant water tower as the day's heat finally breaks. You'll watch from the shore as the light softens, the party tempo shifts from day-bright to something warmer, and Fire Island reminds you why certain beaches become more than just coastline—they become refuge.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Cherry Grove Beach.
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Cherry Grove Beach offers generally safe swimming conditions during summer months, with lifeguards on duty from late May through early September. The Fire Island National Seashore monitors water quality regularly. Ocean conditions can vary, so always check posted flags and follow lifeguard instructions. Currents can be stronger during storms or high tide. The beach has a gradual slope, making it accessible for various skill levels. Avoid swimming when lifeguards are off duty, and never swim alone or under the influence of alcohol.
The peak season runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, when ferries operate frequently, businesses are fully open, and the community is most vibrant. July and August offer warmest water temperatures and the liveliest nightlife scene. However, September and early October provide beautiful weather with fewer crowds and stunning sunsets. Winter visits are possible but most amenities close, and ferry schedules are extremely limited. Weekends, especially holiday weekends, attract the largest crowds and most entertainment options.
Cherry Grove is car-free and accessible only by ferry or water taxi. Take the Fire Island Ferries from Sayville, Long Island (about 25 minutes). Park at the Sayville Ferry Terminal parking lots; fees typically range from $15-20 per day during peak season. Advance ferry reservations are recommended for summer weekends. You can also reach Cherry Grove via private boat or water taxi from nearby communities. Once there, travel is by foot or bicycle only, as no cars are permitted on this section of Fire Island.
Cherry Grove has several restaurants, bars, and a small grocery store for essentials. Popular dining spots include waterfront restaurants and casual cafes, though options are more limited than mainland destinations. Lodging ranges from guesthouse rentals to private home shares; book well in advance for summer weekends as capacity is limited. Many visitors rent seasonal or weekly homes. The community has public restrooms near the ferry dock. Most establishments operate seasonally, primarily May through September, with some venues open only on weekends during shoulder seasons.
Cherry Grove is one of America's oldest LGBTQ+ beach communities, established in the 1930s and flourishing since the 1940s. It remains a welcoming, predominantly gay and lesbian resort town with a rich cultural history. The community hosts iconic events like the annual Invasion of the Pines and features legendary nightlife venues. The atmosphere is relaxed and inclusive, with rainbow flags flying throughout. Cherry Grove offers a unique combination of beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a strong sense of community that has made it a significant LGBTQ+ cultural landmark.
