Fire Island Bar Hop
By Tegan Smith
Wrecked from the trials and tribulations of the Ocean Beach nightlife? It happens to the best of us, but you’re in luck. Here’s your go to bar hop, so you can avoid fist pumping your way through the wrong scene. Party like a local… Start your night right at home. Get your drink on at your place or a buddy’s share house. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. As the dinner crowd dwindles, you will be sufficiently buzzed to bear the boozing.
Albatross 320 Bay Walk, Ocean Beach This watering hole’s hull of a ship ambiance is fitting for the island feel. Cozy booths close to the bar are conducive to chilling out. Dim lantern lights dangle above the bar and set the mood in this hangout. As the night progresses and the tips add up, the lanterns start to spin (the bar’s trademark) and so does your head. Albatross is a safe bet whether you’re looking to start the night or stay the night.
Matthew’s 935 Bay Walk, Ocean Beach This locals haven is conveniently tucked in a nook at the edge of town. The place is fairly small in size, but makes up for it in personality. Take a swig of your drink out on the deck and watch the boaters pull up on the dock. This no fuss, low-key crowd is all aboard for a good time. Matthew’s is the ideal setting to ease into a big night out.
Houser’s 785 Bay Walk, Ocean Beach Once a best kept secret, Houser’s is well deserved of its title and hype. The music selection is an orchestrated summer blend of classics from The Pixies, Led Zeppelin, and Toots and the Maytals. It is sure to get the body moving. Escape to the “beach” a backyard retreat of sand and night breezes perfect for unwinding. The scene is friendly, but tends to attract a crowd. The contagious energy will have you sucking back a few drinks in no time. Bottom line: the people, character, and vibe will keep you coming back.
CJ’s 479 Bay Walk, Ocean Beach CJ’s is the stomping ground for locals, offseason, but in the heat of the summer this favorite haunt preys on experienced Fire Islanders. Get lit on rocket fuel, the house drink, and the guarantor of a good time. The close quarters adds to the appeal for these partygoers. Get rowdy and you might find yourself bump n’ grindin’ to the DJs selection.
Maguire’s 1 Bay Walk, Ocean Beach. A traditional spot among Fire Islanders, Maguire’s is a staple in the scene and the inevitable end to the evening. Retreat to this hotspot at the first sign that the night might close out. Bust a move on the dance floor or grab a nightcap and head out onto the deck to soak in the sea air. Maguire’s reels in the late night crowd and provides everything you need to retire the night right.
