The Madison Fire Island Pines

The Madison is close to everything, less than a five-minute walk to either the beach or harbor. Zack and Mike were the perfect hosts, professional and friendly, there when needed and invisible when we didn’t. Breakfast was surprisingly good. Our first-floor room was near the pool, with no stairs, a comfortable bed, and enough space for two. The big pool deck offered both sun and shade, and the water was crystal clear and a comfortable temperature. We used the Madison’s beach chairs, umbrella, and towels for two days at the beach, though the ocean was too cold for us to swim. One afternoon we walked to Cherry Grove for dinner and back. Another night we bought dinner at the pantry/grocery store on the harbor and ate in. WiFi worked great, though cell service for Consumer Cellular and ATT was weak or nonexistent. We’d happily stay again and highly recommend it.

I’ve been to the Madison several times and love it. It has the best reputation among guest houses in the Pines, has been there for years, and feels like the gold standard. The outdoor spaces are wonderful, and inside is cool, comfortable, attractive, with plenty of places to lounge. It’s gorgeous, modern, and professionally run, with a terrific staff and really friendly managers. Most other places in the Pines don’t have staff, so if you book an Airbnb you’re left to fend for yourself among strangers. I highly recommend the Madison.

When the Pines gets fun and a little crazy on weekends, it’s nice to have somewhere peaceful to come back to. This boutique guest house is beautiful and upscale, with a friendly feel and a large, relaxed pool deck. The rooms are bright and have modern bathrooms. Everything looks clean and well maintained, and it’s clearly professionally run. At night, the lighting makes the place feel romantic. A wonderful spot to stay on the island.

The Madison is one minute from the harbor and one minute from the beach and the places to shop and eat. I booked a short midweek stay and had a small room by the pool since I was traveling alone. The bed was comfortable, the linens were clean and fresh, the bathroom was clean, and the towels were fresh too. There was a small fridge and a TV, everything I needed. The full-size pool was clean and reasonably warm. The shared-space setup may be new to some visitors, but I’ve known this sandbar for two decades, and The Madison gets it right. It works like a B&B, with shared spaces and a private room. You don’t come to The Pines to sit in your room. You come for the pool, beach, cocktails, and dinner. People new to Fire Island might expect a regular beach hotel, but this is a great Pines B&B share, with friendly people and clean rooms. Come relaxed and open to a different way of life. That’s what The Pines is known for. I thought it was worth the money, especially with free morning coffee and continental breakfast, which usually isn’t included here. I’ll stay again. Thanks, boys!