After two years of pandemic restrictions and delays, Fire Island Pines is gearing up for its return to summer. The boutique hotel is taking reservations, the Pines Gym has been upgraded the Pines Bistro and The Canteen are revitalising their menus, The Pavilion nightclub is ready to open.

Joining the retail outlets in the commercial district this summer will be Ron Dorff, a menswear brand that combines Swedish functionality with French style.

“We are working full speed to make sure this is an amazing season on the Pines…” says PJ McAteer, Managing Partner of the Pines, adding that while mandates have been lifted, the island is proceeding cautiously, keeping a close eye on rising cases. He wants everyone to feel secure and free from danger when visiting Fire Island Pines — noting that Fire Island Pines built its reputation as being a completely safe space for the LGBTQ community.

Fire Island Pines first became a destination for gay men in 1952, when it was illegal for two men to dance together in public. With its lush foliage, white sandy beaches – to which additional sand has been added – beautiful modern architecture, and its miles of famous wooden plank boardwalks, the island served as a refuge for young gay men. Fire Island Pines also attracted numerous celebrities who purchases holiday homes or vacationed in the summer.

“The Pines continues to be a unique, magical place like no other on the planet,” says Kenny Sullivan, the Resort Director.

A trip from NYC is less than two-hours on the Long Island Railroad. From the Sayville train stop, travellers board busses to the Fire Island Pines ferry. There is also a nearby airport – MacArthur is ten minutes away, allowing guests from around the world to enjoy The Pines’ many attractions.

“We are secluded but remain very much in touch with what is going on in the world…” Sullivan continues. He says that when islanders learned Florida passed its Don’t Say Gay bill, it rang loud as a warning bell through the Pines. “To hear that any political party is causing us to regress back into closets and hide is shameful and disgusting. We have to fight this in every way possible because if we don’t, their next step will be repealing gay marriage!”

“Fire Island Pines rests on the shoulders of its LGBTQ forefathers and foremothers who fought tirelessly for the protections and rights that we enjoy today,” says McAteer… “We celebrate them. It is why every day on Fire Island Pines is gay Pride.”

If you’re planning a trip to Fire Island Pines this summer, getting your accommodation booked should be the priority. There are some rooms in the hotel – most houses on the island have already been rented for the season, but there will be cancellations if you’re keeping your finger on the pulse through local realtors.

For more information, visit https://pinesfi.com.

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