Post Hurricane Irene Beach Blues

This past week, in the wake of Hurricane Irene, has been a bit frustrating.
No, we didn't sustain any damage, but the beaches we frequent did.  State parks have struggled to get power and water back on, clean up park roadways of fallen tree limbs and mud.  Its hard to complain about the beaches being closed when so many people have been hit badly from Irene, but it was the last week of summer - the last week to hang by the water, soak up the sun and have some fun.  It was frustrating not being able to enjoy the great NYC area beaches.

Jones Beach, Long Island, NY

Thankfully, Jones Beach opened yesterday and we spent a full day enjoying the surf. Jones Beach usually has a strong set of waves that break on the shore but it seemed even stronger this visit.  It was a perfect day - 80F - with beautiful sunshine, and those waves made for great boogie boarding.

The local press came out to cover the re-opening of the beach, just in time for the long weekend. Our child was on camera talking about the benefits of the results of shifting sands left behind from Hurricane Irene - a little lagoon on beach area 4, just perfect for younger children to paddle about it.

Lake Welch, Harriman Park, NY

Lake Welch, Harriman Park, NY

More good news. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced last night that another family beach favorite - Lake Welch Beach in Harriman Park - will be open for the long weekend. Weather holding, that'll be Sunday or Monday's family trip.

Yeah!