Most people don’t think of islands when they picture New York, but after exploring the state for years, I’ve discovered some of its coolest escapes are surrounded by water. From the wild beauty of the Thousand Islands on the St. Lawrence River to the hidden gems of the Hudson Valley and the iconic stretches off Long Island, these spots deliver way more than just pretty views. I’ve visited each of these islands myself, and whether you’re after adventure, history, or pure relaxation, these seven New York islands deserve a spot on your travel list.
1. Fire Island
Fire Island is honestly the ultimate summer escape that most New Yorkers don’t even know about. I’ve been coming here for years, and it never gets old – 32 miles of pristine beaches with zero cars allowed. Ferry tickets cost $20 round-trip, and you can catch boats from Bay Shore or Sayville depending on which community you’re hitting.
The ferry to Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines runs every 30 minutes during summer, and honestly, Ocean Beach is where most day-trippers go for the boardwalk scene. I love that you can walk between Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines in about 20 minutes – two completely different vibes. Fire Island Lighthouse climbs are worth the effort, and the Sunken Forest in Sailors Haven is this wild maritime forest that’s basically untouched.
What makes Fire Island special isn’t just the beaches – it’s the community feel. Everyone gets around by bike or walking, though bikes aren’t allowed on some ferry services. Davis Park on the eastern end is quieter, and Watch Hill has camping if you want to stay overnight. I always pack a cooler since restaurants can be pricey, and the last ferry back is usually around midnight on weekends.
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2. Rock Island
Rock Island in the Thousand Islands region is pure wilderness vibes with that iconic lighthouse everyone’s always posting on Instagram. The Rock Island Lighthouse State Park sits right on the Saint Lawrence River, and honestly, it’s worth the boat ride just for the views.
Getting there requires either your own boat or booking a Thousand Islands tour from Alexandria Bay or Clayton. I’ve done the Uncle Sam Boat Tours route, which runs about $25 for adults and includes stops at multiple islands. The lighthouse itself is this gorgeous stone structure from the 1800s, and you can actually climb to the top when it’s open seasonally.
What I love about Rock Island is how untouched it feels. There’s no tourist infrastructure, so bring everything you need – water, snacks, sunscreen. The hiking trails wind through dense forest, and if you’re into fishing or kayaking, the waters around here are pristine. I spent an afternoon here last summer and saw maybe 20 other people total. Alexandria Bay nearby has all the accommodations and restaurants you need for a base.
3. Governors Island
Governors Island is hands down the best deal in NYC – $5 round-trip ferry gets you to this 172-acre playground that feels completely separate from Manhattan chaos. Ferries run daily from Battery Maritime Building, with weekend Brooklyn service from Pier 6 and Red Hook.
Free ferry rides before 11am on weekends is the hack everyone should know. I always hit Slide Hill first – NYC’s longest slide at 57 feet is genuinely fun for adults too. The Hills give you incredible views of Manhattan and Brooklyn, and Hammock Grove is perfect for afternoon naps.
The island’s year-round now, with extended summer hours from 7am-10pm Sunday-Thursday and 7am-11pm Friday-Saturday. QC NY spa offers 3-hour stays starting at $89 if you want luxury, or just pack a picnic and use the free grills. Fort Jay and Castle Williams offer history buffs plenty to explore, and the weekend farmers market and Yard playground keep families busy. I’ve never had a bad day here.
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4. Heart Island
Heart Island and Boldt Castle are pure romance and tragedy rolled into one incredible destination. Adult admission is $16.50 for both castle and yacht house, $13.50 for castle only, and honestly, it’s worth every penny for the story alone.
Uncle Sam Boat Tours runs shuttles every 30 minutes starting at 10:30am from Alexandria Bay, or you can combine it with a Two Nation Tour for the full Thousand Islands experience. The castle itself is this massive 120-room structure that George Boldt built for his wife Louise until she died suddenly in 1904 and he stopped all construction.
What gets me every time is walking through rooms that were 70% finished when the workers just dropped their tools and left. The restoration work since 1977 is incredible – the first floor is fully furnished to show what it would have looked like. There’s an elevator and wheelchair access, and the grounds with Italian gardens and outbuildings are stunning. Plan at least 2 hours to see everything properly, including the Boldt Yacht House on Wellesley Island.
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5. Roosevelt Island
Roosevelt Island gives you the best skyline views in the city for the price of a subway ride. The Roosevelt Island Tramway costs $2.75 each way – same as the subway – and the 4-minute ride takes you 250 feet above the East River.
Trams run every 7.5-15 minutes depending on time of day, and honestly, the best time to go is mid-afternoon for photos, then return around sunset for those golden hour shots of Manhattan. I always tell people to take the F train there and tram back for the best experience. Four Freedoms Park at the southern tip is this gorgeous Louis Kahn-designed space with unobstructed views.
The island itself has this weird mix of residential buildings and historical ruins. Renwick Ruin – the old smallpox hospital – is hauntingly beautiful, and the Lighthouse Park on the north end gives you wide-angle views of the city. Best viewing times are 10am-4pm to avoid rush hour commuters. The red bus is free and hits all the major spots if you don’t want to walk the whole island.
6. Wellesley Island
Wellesley Island is the largest in the Thousand Islands region and honestly feels like a completely different world from NYC. The Thousand Islands Bridge connects New York to Canada right here, so you’re literally crossing international borders.
Wellesley Island State Park has some of the best hiking trails in the region, with paths that wind through old-growth forest down to hidden coves perfect for picnicking. The golf courses here are seriously impressive – Thousand Islands Golf Club has been around since 1893 and offers views of the Saint Lawrence River from most holes.
What I love is how you can camp right on the water or stay in one of the cabins. The fishing here is world-class – Northern Pike, Bass, and Walleye are common catches. Minna Anthony Common Nature Center offers educational programs and has trails that connect to the broader island network. It’s about a 3-hour drive from NYC, but the change of pace makes it worth the trip, especially if you’re into outdoor activities that actually feel wild.
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7. Little Island
Little Island at Pier 55 is NYC‘s newest floating park and it’s absolutely wild how different it feels from the rest of Manhattan. The park is free and open daily from 6am-midnight, designed by Thomas Heatherwick with those distinctive tulip-shaped concrete columns.
2025 season brings over 100 performances, with many shows free and others just $25. The 687-seat amphitheater hosts major productions while the Glade offers intimate free performances. I caught a Suzan-Lori Parks show last summer and the setting with the Hudson River backdrop was incredible.
The park itself takes maybe 15 minutes to explore fully – it’s only 2.4 acres. I love the rolling hills and how the pathways create different viewpoints of the city. Food trucks in the Playground area are decent, but Chelsea Market is right there if you want better options. The performances from May 29 to September 28 range from opera to dance to comedy, and honestly, the quality rivals anything you’d pay $100+ for Broadway. Just book tickets early because the good shows sell out fast.
FAQs about the nicest islands in New York
Ready to learn more about all the different islands in NY? Here are some popular questions and answers about the top islands of New York.
What is the best time to visit New York’s islands?
From my experience, late spring through early fall is the sweet spot. Summer is amazing for swimming, boating, and beach days, but it also means bigger crowds. I’ve gone in September and found it quieter while still warm enough to enjoy the outdoors.
Do I need a car to explore these islands?
For most of them, yes. I’ve rented cars to reach places like the Thousand Islands and Fire Island. Public transport works for some (like Roosevelt Island in NYC), but having a car makes it easier to see more in a single trip.
Can you stay overnight on these islands?
Definitely. I’ve stayed in cozy B&Bs in the Thousand Islands and beach houses on Long Island. Some are more day-trip friendly, like Governors Island, but many others have great lodging options if you want to make it a weekend getaway.
Are these islands family-friendly?
Absolutely. I’ve brought friends and family along and found there’s something for everyone. Kids love the beaches and boat rides, while adults enjoy the hiking trails, history, and wineries. Places like Fire Island and Shelter Island are especially good for families.
Which New York island is best for outdoor adventure?
For me, the Thousand Islands take the crown. Kayaking there is unreal, and I’ve hiked trails with views that stretch for miles. If you’re into beaches and biking, Fire Island is also a great choice.
Are there hidden gem islands that most tourists miss?
Yes, and they’re some of my favorites. Roosevelt Island is often overlooked even though it’s right in NYC, and Shelter Island feels worlds away despite being just a short ferry from Long Island. I love how peaceful and under-the-radar they are compared to the big-name spots.
