Fishers Island, New York
Located at the eastern entrance to Long Island Sound, Fishers Island is one of New York’s most unique and isolated communities. Although it is politically part of Suffolk County, New York, the island sits just off the coast of Connecticut and is geographically much closer to New England than to the rest of Long Island. Accessible primarily by ferry, Fishers Island offers a quiet, scenic environment characterized by rocky shorelines, pristine beaches, historic landmarks, maritime traditions, and a close-knit year-round population.
Stretching approximately nine miles long and one mile wide, Fishers Island occupies a strategic location between Long Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. For centuries, the island has served as a fishing ground, military outpost, farming community, and summer retreat. Today, it remains one of the least populated and most secluded destinations in New York State, attracting boaters, nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and seasonal residents seeking a peaceful escape from urban life.
History of Fishers Island
Fishers Island was originally inhabited by Native American peoples, including members of the Pequot tribe. The island received its name from John Winthrop Jr., who granted it in 1640 to Captain John Mason. Mason later transferred the property to Thomas Stanton, whose descendants maintained ownership for generations.
Throughout the colonial era, Fishers Island served as a strategic location controlling access to Long Island Sound. During the Revolutionary War and later conflicts, its position made it important for military observation and coastal defense.
The island remained largely agricultural through the 18th and 19th centuries. In the late 1800s, wealthy families from New York City and New England began building summer homes on the island, establishing the resort and seasonal community that continues today.
Geography and Location
Fishers Island lies approximately two miles off the southeastern coast of Connecticut and about eleven miles from Orient Point on Long Island’s North Fork.
Key Geographic Features
- Approximately 9 miles long
- Roughly 1 mile wide
- Covers about 9 square miles
- Surrounded by Long Island Sound, Fishers Island Sound, and the Atlantic Ocean
- Includes several smaller nearby islands and rocky outcroppings
- Home to numerous coves, harbors, beaches, and salt marshes
Because of its location, residents often travel to Connecticut for shopping, healthcare, and services despite being part of New York State.
Getting to Fishers Island
Unlike most Long Island communities, Fishers Island is not connected by bridges or roads.
Ferry Service
The primary connection to the mainland is the Fishers Island Ferry operating between Fishers Island and the city of New London. Passenger and vehicle ferries provide year-round transportation for residents, visitors, workers, and deliveries. Private boats also frequently access the island during the warmer months.
Things to Do on Fishers Island
Explore the Beaches
Fishers Island features numerous beaches and shoreline areas offering swimming, sunbathing, shell collecting, and scenic views.
Popular coastal areas include:
- South Beach
- Race Point
- Isabella Beach
- Hay Harbor
The island’s rocky coastlines and clear waters provide a distinctly New England coastal atmosphere.
Boating and Sailing
Given its location at the entrance to Long Island Sound, boating is deeply ingrained in island life.
Activities include:
- Sailing
- Kayaking
- Fishing
- Paddleboarding
- Harbor cruising
- Yacht racing
The surrounding waters are popular among recreational boaters throughout the Northeast.
Fishing
Fishing remains one of the island’s defining activities.
Local waters support:
- Striped bass
- Bluefish
- Fluke
- Black sea bass
- Scup
Surf fishing, charter fishing, and private boating opportunities are available throughout the season.
Fishers Island Club
Among the island’s most notable institutions is the prestigious Fishers Island Club.Founded in 1926, the club is widely recognized for its renowned golf course designed by legendary architect Seth Raynor. Frequently ranked among the finest golf courses in the United States, the course features dramatic views of Long Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. The club has helped shape the island’s reputation as a premier summer destination for generations.
Historic Fort H. G. Wright
One of Fishers Island’s most significant historic landmarks is Fort H. G. Wright. Constructed during the late 19th century, the fort was part of a network of coastal defenses designed to protect New York Harbor and Long Island Sound. During both World Wars, the installation played an important role in coastal security operations. Although portions of the former military complex are privately owned today, the site remains a fascinating reminder of the island’s strategic importance.
Nature and Wildlife
Fishers Island contains a variety of important coastal habitats.
Visitors may encounter:
- Osprey
- Herons
- Egrets
- Hawks
- Migratory songbirds
- Seals during certain seasons
The island’s relatively low level of development has helped preserve significant portions of its natural environment. Birdwatching is particularly popular during spring and fall migrations.
Community Life
Fishers Island maintains a small year-round population, though the number of residents increases substantially during the summer months.
The island features:
- A school
- Community center
- Library
- Churches
- Small businesses
- Marina facilities
- Volunteer organizations
Residents enjoy a strong sense of community and a lifestyle that is noticeably slower paced than mainland living.
Because of its remote location, many essential services require careful planning and coordination with mainland providers.
Seasonal Tourism
While Fishers Island does not attract the large crowds found in destinations such as Montauk or The Hamptons, visitors who make the trip often appreciate its tranquility and authenticity.
Summer visitors enjoy:
- Quiet beaches
- Scenic cycling
- Golf
- Sailing
- Fishing
- Historic exploration
- Nature observation
The island’s lack of commercial development contributes to its charm and exclusivity.
Why Visit Fishers Island?
Fishers Island offers a rare opportunity to experience a side of New York that many residents never see. With its maritime heritage, scenic landscapes, historic military sites, world-class golf, and peaceful atmosphere, the island feels more like a secluded New England coastal village than a typical Long Island destination. For travelers seeking natural beauty, history, boating, and a genuine island experience, Fishers Island remains one of the most distinctive and rewarding places to visit in the region.
Key Facts and Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Eastern entrance to Long Island Sound |
| County | Suffolk County, New York |
| Town | Southold |
| Length | Approximately 9 miles |
| Width | Approximately 1 mile |
| Area | About 9 square miles |
| Access | Ferry service from New London, Connecticut |
| Known For | Beaches, boating, fishing, golf, military history |
| Major Landmark | Fort H. G. Wright |
| Notable Golf Course | Fishers Island Club |
| Population | Small year-round community with larger seasonal population |
| Nearby Waterways | Long Island Sound, Fishers Island Sound, Atlantic Ocean |
Fishers Island remains one of the most remote and fascinating destinations associated with Long Island, offering visitors a unique combination of history, coastal scenery, outdoor recreation, and small-island charm that is difficult to find anywhere else in New York.
