Glen Cove earned its place in yachting history at the turn of the last century. The beautiful countryside, large harbor and short boat ride to New York City made it an ideal location in the past and still does in the present. The history of Glen Cove, like many other settlements on the North Shore of Long Island, is closely associated with the history of its waterfront. For 250 years Glen Cove was part of the Town of Oyster Bay. But as the population grew to over 10,000 residents it became evident that the existing machinery of government was no longer adequate. On June 8, 1917 the Governor signed into law a bill proclaiming Glen Cove to be a City.

In the beginning of the 20th Century, Glen Cove began to see an influx of wealthy industrialists, bankers and business people who built lavish estates, many along the waterfront. Many of these estates are still standing and are in use today as schools, houses of worship and executive retreats.

Surrounded by water on three sides, Glen Cove presently has over ten miles of waterfront including: three public beaches, two nature preserves, a public golf course and a public park.