The Perks of Fire Island Rentals in the Winter

Many people who vacation to Fire Island see the island as a summertime destination, which makes perfect sense.  After all, a major appeal of Fire Island is the concept of island life: sun, sand, ocean and a fruity drink with an umbrella.  However, after more careful thought, winter can be an equally appealing time to consider a Fire Island rental property. Winter offers a quieter, more peaceful scene on Fire Island, as most people, other than Fire Island’s year-round residents, return to mainland Long Island after Labor Day.  However, because of, and despite of, winter’s quiet nature on Fire Island, there is beauty and fun to be had by renting a property on Fire Island in the winter.  

First and foremost, the nature that occupies much of Fire Island’s communities is serene and beautiful. Occasionally lined with glistening snowfall, the beaches offer a perfect place to view sunrises and sunsets, and take strolls, if you are cold-tolerant.  The views of the ocean off the snow-lined shores of Fire Island cannot be beaten in the winter. In addition, the wildlife on Fire Island in the winter is abundant.  Seals are often spotted basking in the winter sun in the cold months on Fire Island.  Snowy owls are occasionally spotted in trees and shrubbery along the beaches.  And, white tailed deer can be seen galloping along the shores.  If you are so inclined, you can take guided tours and hikes, even in the winter months.

Furthermore, the beautiful and historic lighthouse offers events year-round, including as host of the annual tree trimming festivities and wintertime tours.  Unlike the massive, crowded and over the top New York City tree lighting, the Fire Island tree trimming offers small town charm in a community driven environment.  For many New Yorker’s, whether stemming from the city or mainland Long Island, the thought of “small town charm” is relegated to television shows, or somewhere is mid-America.  However, Fire Island shows that sense of community year-round and more specifically, when the entire community gathers at the Fire Island lighthouse with a handmade ornament to decorate the tree.

Another perk for those looking for a holiday (or holiday stress relief) getaway, is that prices significantly drop in the winter for rentals on Fire Island.  Because crowds significantly dwindle as the seasons move into winter, the prices of Fire Island home rentals and hotels also see a decline.  Taking this perk in combination with some others, this allows for a peaceful, beautiful and budget-friendly getaway.  Although laying on the beach may not be an option in the cold months, visitors certainly get a “bang for their buck” considering the beautiful landscape and wildlife  they can take in during their winter vacation on Fire Island.

The picturesque scene in winter on Fire Island is almost something out of a fairytale: quiet snow-covered beaches, beautiful animals in their nature habitat, a true sense of community and peace.  This winter may be just the perfect time to find a good book, put on a kettle of hot chocolate and curl up in a chair at a Fire Island beach rental property; you will not be remotely disappointed with your peaceful stay.