My nine-year-old niece and I live in Manhattan, and came to Marek and Grace's place for an end-of-summer beach getaway. Everything was perfect! Marek patiently answered my email questions, and graciously let us park at his house when we got there early on the arrival day. The apartment is well-stocked with everything one needs, plus beach supplies - beach chair, umbrella, beach bag. We loved the big fluffy beach towels! The apartment is spotless, pretty, and comfy, and the backyard is beautiful - we had breakfast there every morning.
The apartment is literally less than a block from the beach (which is beautiful and clean, and has a fun, casual food court with lots of tasty options), and also within easy walking distance of restaurants and the subway. Try Whit's End Pizza, just a block away on Rockaway Beach Boulevard.
Marek and Grace were very warm and welcoming, and helped us to have a great beach vacation. Even though we live in the same city, I really felt like we'd been away at an ocean resort!