There’s something magical about the unofficial start of summer—and this Memorial Day weekend was exactly that for us. As new members of the New York Beach Club, we couldn’t have asked for a better way to kick off the season. From opening up our cabana to soaking in salty ocean breezes, the entire weekend felt like a warm welcome into a new chapter of coastal living.
We started by opening up our cabana, which instantly felt like our summer home away from home. It’s amazing how quickly a space becomes yours when you fill it with snacks, laughter, and sandy flip-flops.
One of the best parts about having a cabana is making it feel like your own little beachside retreat. We had so much fun setting ours up with all the essentials (and a few extras!) to keep things cozy, convenient, and ready for anything.
We stocked it with shower supplies like shampoo, soap, and razors, added a mini fridge filled with cold water, and tucked away plenty of towels, extra blankets, and flip flops for comfort. We even created a little game corner with cards, UNO, and dominos for those laid-back afternoons.
To keep things running smoothly, we included cleaning supplies, napkins, plates, Band-Aids, and a few extra pairs of sunglasses—because someone always forgets theirs! Now it truly feels like our summer home base.
The pool was our next stop—crystal-clear and perfectly refreshing. It was the kind of swim that melts away every last trace of winter. The weather wasn’t necessarily on our side, but the pool was HEATED. So, the kids didn’t care!
One of my favorite moments of the weekend was sitting outside our cabana, playing cards with the ocean air swirling around us. Simple pleasures like that tend to become the most memorable. We also had the chance to eat dinner at the beach club’s outdoor restaurant. The view? Absolutely breathtaking.
With the ocean stretching endlessly in front of us and the sun setting in the distance, the food tasted even better. My daughter is actually working as a server at the club, and we were her very first table. It was so cute.
Lunch by the water was just as perfect. Sitting under umbrellas, feet in the sand, the sound of the waves in the background—it felt like a mini vacation without ever leaving Long Island. We met a few of our new neighbors, too, and it’s clear that the club is filled with friendly families who are looking to enjoy life and make the most of every beach day.
Overall, the weekend was everything we hoped it would be and more. It was relaxing, beautiful, and gave us a glimpse of the joy that awaits us this summer. Joining the New York Beach Club already feels like one of the best decisions we’ve made. Here’s to many more sunny weekends, salty hair, and sweet memories to come.