Sunken Forest (Sailors Haven)

Sunken Forest at Sailors Haven is one of Fire Island’s most distinctive natural highlights, offering a calm escape between the bay and the Atlantic dunes. The experience centers on a raised boardwalk that leads visitors through a rare maritime holly forest, where dense greenery, twisting branches, and salt-shaped vegetation create a landscape unlike a typical coastal walk.

The atmosphere is quiet, scenic, and slightly secluded, making it a strong choice for travelers who want both nature and a sense of discovery. Alongside the trail, Sailors Haven provides useful visitor amenities and easy access to the surrounding beach area, so the visit can combine a forest stroll with time by the water. Its appeal lies in the contrast: a shaded, protected habitat on one side and open sand and ocean air on the other. It is especially memorable for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone interested in unusual coastal ecosystems.