Coney Island kicks off summer beach season ahead of holiday weekend

CONEY ISLAND (WABC) -- The calendar may say spring, but it's already summer on Coney Island. The city kicked off its beach season Thursday, just ahead of the Memorial Day holiday weekend.

So get your bathing suit and floaties ready, because it's officially beach season in Brooklyn.

"We expect to see more than 10 million visitors here in Coney Island," New York City Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver said.

With so many folks at the beach, there is undoubtedly an emphasis on making sure everyone's safe. The Coast Guard put on a practice drill to show their rescue skills, and lifeguards are also gearing up.

There is also big news for the pier at Coney Island.

"Beachgoers can enjoy the beautiful Steeplechase Pier," Silver said. "Which was redesigned in 2013 after the extensive damage from Hurricane Sandy and which offers breathtaking views."

Starting Saturday, lifeguards will be on duty at your favorite beaches daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

"If we stay within the rules of swimming and the rules of the water, we can be safe," Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams said.