Fire Island is a long, 10-plus-mile sandbank that features a variety of beachbreaks. The area is mostly uninterrupted by groins, providing plenty of space to find your perfect wave. Conditions can be a bit unpredictable due to shifting sandbars, meaning some days you might score good waves while other times you’re just waiting for the swell to kick in. While the island is known for its consistency, the lack of mobility can be frustrating for surfers looking for the best conditions. On a good day, though, you might find some uncrowded waves to ride.

The surf here generally handles swell sizes from about 3 feet (0.9 meters) to 10 feet (3 meters), with the best results coming from southeast swell. The waves break over sand and can provide both left and right rides, making it suitable for various skill levels from beginner to expert. The preferred wind directions are from the north, northeast, and northwest, while mid tide tends to work best for getting those fun waves. Do keep in mind that paddling can range from easy in summer to quite challenging in winter, depending on the conditions and sandbar shifts.

Accessing Fire Island can be a bit tricky, so be prepared for a little extra effort to get there. When it comes to crowds, you can expect a mellow vibe overall, with a light to moderate local presence. The environment is pretty clean, so you can enjoy the beach without too much hassle. Just keep an eye out for rip currents and the powerful surf, as they can catch you off guard if you're not careful.