Heat wave sends people down the Jersey Shore

LONG BRANCH, N.J. (PIX11) -- Pier Village in Long Branch was bustling Tuesday with people seeking relief from the heat. Many enjoyed the ocean breeze and water, while others stayed cool in air-conditioned stores and restaurants.

“Lunch inside, shopping inside, everything inside,” said Jayla Devino, who came to eat and shop near the beach.

A group of lifeguards from a local summer camp came to enjoy a few hours off, while campers were away on a trip. They are used to spending all day in the heat.

“All the counselors ask us how we do it,” said lifeguard Hindy Chase. “This is our job. We like it. It’s what we do.”

“I honestly love it,” said lifeguard Nechama Newmark. “The heat makes me feel alive. It’s great.”

For those who prefer air conditioning over hot sun, ice cream shops in Long Branch were ready for business. The recent heat wave was, predictably, very good for their bottom line.

“When it’s super hot out, business is always booming,” said Mia Shea, who works at Coney Waffle Ice Cream and Sweet Shop. “The line is always out the door. It’s super nice to have people coming in from the beach, people walking on the boardwalk, always around.”