As the ferry takes you across the Great South Bay and the sea breezes fill the air, you will be transported to a world of quiet beauty and charm. Incorporated in 1919, Saltaire is the loveliest community on Fire Island. The wide wooden boardwalks that crisscross the town are perfect for jogging, exploring Saltaire's walks, biking, strolling, or picking wild blueberries. The area is lushly foliated with tall pines, maple, and ash trees that are home to the white-tail deer. The atmosphere is relaxed, casual and comfortable. The absence of cars on the island allows unsurpassed freedom for children and fresh air that you wish you could bottle. Nearly everyone is barefoot. Fire Island is untainted and far removed from the worries of city life.
You are never more than a five minute walk from the unspoiled Atlantic Ocean beach that travels the southern length of this primarily wild barrier island. Our wide, sandy beaches are never crowded. The Great South Bay to the north has a gentle beach with shallow water that is perfect for small children, lap swimming, jumping off the raft, sailing, windsurfing, or just watching the sunsets. Swimming and sailing lessons are given here, and certified lifeguards patrol both beaches.
The village centers around Broadway, the main walk, which runs from the bay to the ocean. There is a well-stocked grocery store, liquor store, library, post office, ball field, basketball court and playground. You can enjoy your morning coffee in the shade of the gazebo overlooking the water, watch the ferry arrive, and meet friends. At the bay front Saltaire Yacht Club, you can play tennis, take a sailing lesson, or an exercise class. Lunch, dinner and cocktails are served daily during the season. Memberships are available to all Saltaire residents.
Saltaire is the perfect place to indulge in your favorite hobby. Saltaire's residents take great pride in their spectacular gardens. These “secret gardens” and many of the twentieth century homes they grace, can been seen on the annual House and Garden tour in July. The harbor in summer is filled with boats of all sizes. Fishermen are seen both oceanside and dockside reeling in the day’s catch. If you like a long walk on the beach, you can hike the to the island’s eastern tip, or take a stroll west to the Lighthouse.
Saltaire has a professionally-staffed camp, medical office, and security force. Our award-winning volunteer Fire Department and paramedic/EMT team are among the best in the State.
Fire Island takes on a new life at night. After a day of tennis, swimming, jogging, sailing, or making sandcastles on the beach, you can take the family out for dinner in Fair Harbor or Kismet, both a fifteen minute walk from town. If you want to go out at night, hop on a water taxi for a short ride to Ocean Beach, the Pines or Cherry Grove, where you can shop, choose from several waterfront restaurants, dance the night away, or catch a movie. On the other hand, you can relax and enjoy the sunset from your deck with your family and friends.
Saltaire is the perfect place to spend your summer vacation. Many of our families have owned homes here for generations, creating a legacy for their children and grandchildren. This unique village draws people from around the world, who return summer after glorious summer. Truly, Saltaire is New York’s best kept secret.
