Created in the late 1940's by residents of High Hill Beach who were displaced by the creation of Jones Beach State Park. Some of the original houses were moved by barge to the new community. Since then the Gilgo Beach Association has grown to approximately 80 houses. Originally almost entirely a summer community, many houses are now winterized. There is a mix of full time and second home residents.

The land is not owned by the residents, but is on long term lease from the Town of Babylon. In the early 1990's, there was litigation by the state to not extend the lease. After much negotiation, the lease was renewed, with a ramp up in costs.