Hundreds get early start on Labor Day Weekend in New Jersey, New York
POINT PLEASANT, N.J. -- This weekend is the last time a lot of people will get to take in the sun and sand this year. And by the size of the crowds, it seems people don't want summer to end.
Point Pleasant was packed throughout the day and didn't show signs of clearing out in the early evening, CBS2's Zinnia Maldonado reported Friday.
Hundreds of people kicked off Labor Day weekend at the Jersey Shore, playing in the sand and jumping in the waves.
"Doesn't matter what it is, as long as your down the shore it's always better," one person said.
"We're expecting a busy weekend," said Lisa Lightbody, marketing director for Jenkinson's Boardwalk. "The weather looks wonderful and everyone is always excited to come out for one last shot of summer."
Watch Zinnia Maldonado's report
The young, and young at heart were holding onto the last few days of summer.
"We've been coming down to this boardwalk since 1982," one person said.
Point Pleasant was full of folks playing games and eating boardwalk favorites.
"Saturday probably it'll pick up a little bit more. Sunday will be the busiest," said Christina Jones, a barista at Crepes & Coffee.
In New York, folks got an early start on the holiday weekend at Coney Island, where the activities are never-ending.
"If you're new to Coney Island, you'll have fun. It's worth spending the money," Tiffany Feliciano said.
There's something to do for everyone -- whether enjoying the view, the rides, the fireworks or delicious snacks and food.
"I do enjoy Coney Island. It's really fun. I love the food," Jazmin Martinez said.
Others decided to hit the pavement.
"We had to have one last hoorah down the shore," Orange County resident Dani Durkin said.
The Zulkowski family headed in the opposite direction, leaving Delaware on their way to Cape Cod. CBS2's Alecia Reid caught up with them on the Garden State Parkway.
"The kids are excited about the beach ... and we're all excited to see my family and just be home again," Amanda Zulkowski said.
Although there's a bit of traffic this holiday weekend, at least gas prices are heading in the right direction.
"They were, like, $4.30, and we were able to get gas today for $3.60, so that was decent," said Bryan Kotch, from Washington, D.C.
If you were stuck working Friday, don't worry. Saturday is going to be another picture-perfect day.
