Kismet, New York, is the westernmost settlement on the picturesque Fire Island, a 30-mile-long barrier island off the southern coast of Long Island. With a history spanning hundreds of years, Kismet was originally inhabited by the native peoples of the region, followed by the Dutch. For over a century now, Kismet stands as a notable settlement on the western part of Fire Island.
A significant portion of Fire Island is managed by the National Park Service as part of the Fire Island National Seashore, making it a fantastic destination for those aiming to visit all NPS sites, just like me.
Kismet exudes the charm of a bygone era, combined with the allure of a hidden gem, even though it is well-known to locals. Accessing the island requires some effort since regular cars are not allowed unless you have a government permit, which only adds to its quaint appeal.
The island has a quaint New England coastal town vibe, with a bustling marina where fishing boats and recreational vessels come and go. One unique sight is the numerous wagons people use to shop and transport goods around the island, complete with ‘wagon parking’ areas near the settlement’s center.
I particularly enjoyed the beach cruiser bikes that are ubiquitous here, embodying the laid-back island lifestyle. It’s truly the ideal way to explore all that Kismet has to offer.
The beach stretches long and beautiful, and we experienced it in serene solitude by visiting after the peak season.
Getting to Kismet is an adventure in itself.
First, you can take a ferry from Bay Shore to various settlements on Fire Island. The ferry schedule is more frequent during the summer high season, but becomes sporadic in the off-season, so plan accordingly if you visit in the latter period.
Alternatively, while most of the island remains off-limits to cars, you can drive to Robert Moses State Park on the island’s western side and then walk to Kismet. The walk is a pleasant and short one, less than a mile from the parking area, and you can even stop by the lighthouse on the way.
Also, don’t miss out on getting your National Park cancellation stamp by visiting one of the visitor centers scattered across the island, as much of Fire Island is managed by the National Park Service as part of the Fire Island National Seashore.