NY beaches open for windy Memorial Day Weekend

New Yorkers experiencing cabin fever after two months of coronavirus quarantine received an unexpected reprieve when Gov. Andrew Cuomo eased the state's ban on gatherings in time for the Memorial Day weekend.

Cuomo signed an order late Friday allowing people to assemble in groups of as many as 10 as long as they stay at least six feet from other people and wear masks when they can't maintain that distance.

The surprise order came hours after the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) filed a lawsuit challenging earlier rules allowing gatherings only for religious services and Memorial Day commemorations.

The NYCLU argued the Constitution requires the same right be extended to people gathering for other reasons.

They can also head to New York City beaches this weekend, but they shouldn't expect to get in the water, and they'd better be wearing a mask.

While beaches elsewhere in the region will be open for swimming, Mayor Bill de Blasio has said swimming is not allowed at the city's beaches and may not be all summer.

While beaches on Long Island or in New Jersey are usually reached by driving, city residents typically take the subway to summertime destinations like Coney Island or Rockaway Beach.