Patrons swarm to beaches for Fourth of July festivities

MILFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — State beaches were busy on the Fourth of July as thousands of people enjoyed a wide range of outdoor activities along the shoreline.

Surf, sand, sun and cookouts had folks fired up for the ‘Fourth.

“[We have] hot dogs, hamburgers, ribs, chicken, pasta salad,” said Wanda Kelly, of New Haven.

Other holiday festivities included board games, volleyball, kayaking and playing cards.

Eight-year-old Logan said he had a blast at the beach at Silver Sands State Park in Milford.

“This is the first time we’ve been to the beach this year,” Logan said. “It’s not the most packed I’ve seen a beach.”

News 8 found folks at Silver Sands and New Haven’s Lighthouse Point Park, where beachgoers got some rest and relaxation.

Monae Spell of New Haven said she was keeping the holiday lowkey because she’s expecting a baby in November.

“It’s just us [relaxing],” Spell said. “We get the peace and quiet before the baby comes.”

Leaders want visitors to have fun, but be safe. DEEP reminds swimmers to only be in the water while lifeguards are on duty.

Lifeguards are on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.

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