Restrooms
Not AvailableNo
Food & Drinks
Not AvailableNo
Parking
Not AvailableLimited street parking (at Sayville Ferry terminal; ferry required to reach Cherry Grove)
Nudity Policy
NOT REQUIREDNudity not required but expected
The Good
- Easy access Fly into Islip, Uber to Sayville Ferry, then a 20-minute ride across the bay. Once there, everything is walkable so no cars, just a grid of boardwalks.
- Inclusive vibe Predominantly LGBTQ+ crowd, but heterosexual nudists, families, and kids fit right in. Nudity has been customary here for decades and is generally respected.
- Comfortable atmosphere Even with fewer people fully nude, topless sunbathing and mixed levels of clothing are normalized, with nobody appearing bothered.
- Beautiful setting Wide sandy beach, backed by Fire Island’s barrier dunes and forest, makes for a scenic and relaxed spot.
- Lively community Restaurants, bars, and clubs cluster near the dock so it’s perfect if you like nightlife (or easy to avoid if you stay farther away).
The Bad
- Not fully nude Less than half of beachgoers strip down, especially around central areas. You’ll find more nudity west of Sand Castle restaurant or between the Pines and Cherry Grove.
- Rowdy nights The dockside area gets loud after dark. So if you’re staying all night and you want peace and quiet, avoid staying right by the ferry.
- Complicated trip While not hard, the multi-step journey (train + ferry or car + ferry) can intimidate newcomers.
- Seasonal surf Rough waters at times; this summer waves reached up to the boardwalk.
- Adult activity nearby The Meatrack (between the Pines and Grove) is infamous for frisky encounters. Enter knowingly and practice caution.
The Naked Truth
Cherry Grove is one of the rare nude-tolerant beaches in New York State, and it’s layered with history. What sets it apart is the coexistence of nudists, LGBTQ+ locals, and families; everyone seems to respect each other’s space. It’s not an “official” nude beach, but nudity has been part of its culture for decades, making it a comfortable and safe choice for those curious to try.
Separated from its sister community, The Pines, by the forested stretch known as the Meatrack, Cherry Grove is kitschy, friendly, and come-as-you-are, while the Pines is sleek and overwhelmingly gay male. Together they form one of the last historic queer refuges in North America. All are welcome here, but newcomers are encouraged to come with humility and respect.
Insider Tip
For more nudity, head west of the Sand Castle restaurant toward the boardwalk marked East & Lewis
Who's Here
Mostly LGBTQ+ locals and visitors, but also families, straight couples, and curious first-timers.
Beach Surface
Soft sand with occasional rough surf; dunes and forest backdrop.
Access Difficulty
Moderate - simple once you know the steps, but ferry + boardwalks can feel intimidating for first-timers
Photos
Our Visit
Discover the beauty and freedom of Cherry Grove Beach, a stunning nude beach destination.
Discover the beauty and freedom of Cherry Grove Beach, a stunning nude beach destination.
Map
Getting There
Cherry Grove sits on Fire Island, just south of Long Island. Cars aren’t allowed, so everyone arrives by ferry or water taxi. Wooden boardwalks connect homes, shops, restaurants, and the beach. Everything is walkable.
By Car + Ferry:
Drive to Sayville on Long Island and park near the ferry terminal (short- and long-term lots are available). From there, take the Sayville Ferry Service to Cherry Grove. The crossing takes about 20 minutes.
By Train + Ferry:
Take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Sayville Station. From the station, hop on the summer shuttle van (Colonial Transportation) or grab a taxi to the ferry dock, it’s about a 5-minute ride. Then board the ferry to Cherry Grove.
Recommended Accommodation
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