Question 1

What is the Gay Neighborhood in Fire Island?

Accepted Answer

Fire Island has two iconic gay communities: Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines, both located on the western end of this car-free barrier island off Long Island's south shore. Cherry Grove, established as a gay haven since the 1930s, is the more diverse and laid-back of the two, while the Pines is an upscale gay male enclave known for its modern architecture and legendary party scene.

Question 2

What are the Best Gay Bars in Fire Island?

Accepted Answer

Fire Island's gay bars are split between Cherry Grove and the Pines. The Ice Palace in Cherry Grove is the island's legendary nightclub and drag venue, while Pavilion in the Pines is the premier dance club. Sip·n·Twirl and The Blue Whale round out the scene with tea dances and waterfront cocktails.

Question 3

When is Fire Island Pride?

Accepted Answer

Fire Island doesn't have a traditional Pride parade — the entire summer season is effectively a Pride celebration. The biggest annual event is the Invasion of the Pines on July 4th, when hundreds of drag queens ferry from Cherry Grove to the Pines in a spectacular flotilla. Fire Island Bear Weekend in mid-June often overlaps with Pride Month festivities.

Question 4

What Gay Events are Happening in Fire Island?

Accepted Answer

Fire Island's LGBTQ+ event calendar runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Major annual events include the Invasion of the Pines (July 4), the Pines Party (late July), Bear Weekend (June), and Leather Weekend (May). Weekly events include Tea Dance at The Blue Whale, drag shows at the Ice Palace, and Showtunes Sundays at Pavilion.

Question 5

Is Fire Island Gay Friendly?

Accepted Answer

Fire Island is one of the most gay-friendly destinations in the world. Cherry Grove and the Pines are majority-LGBTQ+ communities during summer, and have been welcoming queer visitors since the 1930s. New York State has comprehensive LGBTQ+ legal protections including anti-discrimination laws, marriage equality since 2011, and a ban on conversion therapy.

Question 6

What are the Gay Friendly Hotels in Fire Island?

Accepted Answer

Fire Island's accommodations are nearly all LGBTQ+-owned and operated. In the Pines, The Madison Fire Island Pines is the premier boutique hotel. Cherry Grove offers The Grove Hotel, Belvedere Guest House for Men (clothing-optional), Dune Point Guest House, and Froot Falls. Wisteria is a women-only guest house.

Question 7

Are There Lesbian Bars and Safe Spaces in Fire Island?

Accepted Answer

Cherry Grove has been a haven for queer women since the 1950s, making it one of the oldest lesbian communities in the United States. While there are no exclusively lesbian bars, Cherry Grove's entire social scene is welcoming to queer women. Wisteria is a women-only guest house, and the Arts Project of Cherry Grove regularly features queer women artists and performers.

Gay Fire Island Guide

Fire Island Venues

Sip·n·Twirl

Pavilion

Canteen

Cherry's On The Bay

The Blue Whale

Arts Project of Cherry Grove

Belvedere Guest House for Men

General Store by BASE

Pines Bistro

The Ice Palace

Froot Falls

Pines Pizza

Scroll the Map on the App

Things to Do in Fire Island

Full Day Port Blair Cellular Jail and Ross Island Tour

From the Blog

LGBTQ+ Guide to Fire Island 2026: Cherry Grove, The Pines, Events & More

Best Gay 4th of July Celebrations in the US (2026)

Invasion of the Pines 2026: Fire Island's July 4 Drag Tradition Turns 50

Do More with the App

Explore More Cities

Never Miss a Night Out

Havelock Coral Experience: Semi-Submarine and Radhanagar Beach

Taj Mahal 2 Days Tour From Delhi to Agra by Car

Explore Havelock Island From Port Blair

Overnight Taj Mahal & Agra Fort Tour From Delhi

Mangroves Kayaking At Havelock

4 Day Golden Triangle Delhi Agra Jaipur Tour

Private Transfer from Port Blair to Veer Savarkar (IXZ) Airport

The Best Gay Beaches in the US: A Coast-by-Coast Guide

Fire Island Pines Season Kickoff 2026: Leather Weekend Guide

When Does Fire Island Open for the Season? Memorial Day 2026 Guide

Frequently Asked Questions