Beachgoers soak in the 4th of July holiday sun at Robert Moses State Park
SUFFOLK COUNTY, Long Island (WABC) -- Beachgoers are soaking in the sun and looking to make new memories at Long Island's Robert Moses State Park as they celebrate the holiday weekend.
Captain Josh Friedman has been a lifeguard on Robert Moses Beach for 37 years. He's watched over swimmers at the state park on many a Fourth of July, but this year is different. It's a Saturday, during a heat wave, on America's 250thbirthday.
"Lot of us have been here for probably 30 plus years," Friedman said. "So to be here for this is pretty enjoyable... this is the place to cool off and have an enjoyable day."
Certainly, some patriotic beachgoers agree with that.
"250 years... that's a big birthday. So, being out and enjoying... cooler on the beach... big number to celebrate," said Lindenhurst resident Micheline Messler.
Robert Moses State Park boasts nearly five miles of shoreline, and is the western-most part of Fire Island. It was officially established in 1908, when the USA was a mere 132 years old.
It's popularity has withstood, and 50,000 people are expected to enjoy the beach each day this holiday weekend.
Eyewitness News spoke to two little friends, Harley and Hailey, and their dads.
"My favorite thing to do in the ocean is play with my friends," Harley said.
"My favorite thing to do in the ocean is jump," Hailey said.
"We come to the beach a lot over the summer, the girls love it, it's nice for them to be together," said a beachgoer named Alex.
As for Captain Friedman, he has some tips to make it a memorable, and safe, July 4th.
"You got to bring, you know, some type of shade, canopy, an umbrella," he said. "You got to bring water, you got to hydrate. You know, people come and they don't drink water and they're sitting in the sun, put on sunscreen and just swim near a lifeguard... those three safety tips. And you should have an enjoyable day."
The beach is open with extended hours this holiday weekend, with lifeguards on duty 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
So, as Long Islanders celebrate 250 years of American history, they will also be making some new memories as well.
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