Fire Island Gears Up For Summer Tourism After Successful 2015

FIRE ISLAND, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Tourism is booming on Fire Island.

According to a new report, visitors created $23 million in economic benefits for the Long Island vacation hot spot in 2015, WCBS 880's Sophia Hall reported.

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"The benefits for the communities -- not only on Fire Island but on the South Shore of Long Island -- is huge," Fire Island National Seashore superintendent Kelly Fellner said.

In 2015, there were about 450,000 visitors to Fire Island.

Fire Island's easy accessibility and close proximity to both urban and suburban areas makes the locale a central place for families tourists looking to spend a day -- or even a week -- on the shore. 

Travelers can access Fire Island by car by driving to the east or west ends of the coast along Long Island's South Shore. There is also ferry service available, with stations in Sayville, Bay Shore and Patchogue.

"When you come to Fire Island National Seashore, you're supporting our public land -- just as if you've taken that trip across the country," Fellner said.

Fire Island hosts many different types of activities for people of all ages. Adventurers can explore the local wildlife at the one of their preserves, or spend the night under the stars with beachfront camping. Vacationers can spend time out on the sand, and explore the Island's bars, restaurants and nightlife scene.

Visitors can also tour the historic Fire Island lighthouse, which is celebrating its 100th year this summer.

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