What to Expect in Fire Island Pines This Summer
This is our 26th consecutive summer in the Pines, our 23rd as homeowners and Ralph's 50th as a visitor (he was VERY young). Many friends and clients have been asking us what it's like in response to Covid. We thought you might appreciate this quick rundown:
Masks To help ensure the health and peace of mind of the residents, visitors, business owners, and workers, masks are required at the ferry terminal, on the boat, in the harbor and whenever six feet of social distancing isn't possible, like the boardwalks. Residents and visitors are, on the whole, taking this quite seriously. And boy, mask-wise, we are seeing some lewks! Time to get out your Bedazzler.
Sayville Ferry is operating on a limited schedule and no more than 50% capacity. Most ferries are triangles, meaning that they stop at both the Pines and the Grove. Passengers are allowed to carry on two bags each. The rest must be handed off to the crew for for loading, and there is a charge per item. BUT the ferry company is severely limiting the items that will be on-loaded, including non-perishable grocery items. The rest will need to go on the new freight ferry - see just below.
You know all the packages you have Amazon send to the ferry or pile on the counter from your Uber? Now most of these items must be brought to the Pines on a new daily freight boat that arrives around 5 PM Monday-Friday. Bring cash if you haven't already given them a credit card number by phone. Exact change will make your life a little easier.
Arrive to meet the boat around 4:30. Many days the socially-distanced wagon line stretches past Black Duck. We strongly suggest that you check the website for more details. And by the way, the new freight ferry has weight/size limitations. Items heavier than 50 pounds must be sent to Coastline Freight to be brought over on the daily freight barge. Confused yet? Email us and we'll try to help. Life on an island does have its complications!
The Pines Pantry is open, but you can't actually shop there. All orders must be placed via email to orders@pinespantry.com and either picked up outside the side entrance or delivered (for a $10 charge, half of which is a tip for the delivery person)
. The website lists available items, hours, and more. But be aware, the cut-off for orders is about 2:30! Plan ahead. Oh, and breakfast or lunch sandwich orders should be placed directly with the deli by phone: 631-597-6200 x 8.
There's no Tea - Low or High - so far. Carry out drinks are available at The Blue Whale Thurs.-Tues., 2-8 PM. The Pizza Parlor is open for takeout only - no slices, just full pies. Canteen is also open for takeout. Go to pinesfi.com for updates on these and the other commercial properties.
Since you asked, the Pines Liquor Shop is open seven days a week for takeout or delivery through the window. Pinesliquorshop.com.
For medical issues, the Pines Care Center has a doctor in residence, but they're not taking drop-ins. Call first for an appointment. If you have an emergency, dial 911. Otherwise the number is 631-597-6160. They may determine that a virtual visit will be sufficient. So far Covid testing isn't available. The center is funded by donations, so please give if you can. Pinescarecenter.org
As for the beach, the recent replenishment project has left it wider and more beautiful than it's been in decades, so there's plenty of room to spread out. The park rangers have agreed to not interfere with reasonably large groups or enforce the mask rule, but as with everything else these days, it's subject to revision if abused.
Last, everything is constantly evolving and changing so make sure to check ahead of time. And while this summer may be different, we still can't think of a more beautiful, relaxing spot to ride out the storm.
Feel free to forward this to anyone you know who might find it useful. Let us know if you have any questions, and when you're coming out. We'd love to see you.
Bill & Ralph
