Bright flight

Jeff Benson

Maybe it’s nature, maybe it’s ritual, but something about the sun

inspires countless Californians to flock to Newport Beach and take

most of their clothes off.

Monday was a good indicator of that, as beachcombers sidestepped

the 100-degree temperatures in the valleys to enjoy the breezy

79-degree air at Orange County’s beaches.

Newport Beach lifeguard Sean Murphy said that this past weekend

was the most crowded he’s seen the beach since the Fourth of July

weekend.

“We’re all impressed on how many have come down,” he said.

“There’s been really calm surf, and the water is a moderate

temperature. It’s just very good conditions in terms of safety, and

the water is nice and refreshing.”

Michelle Graikowski said she came to Newport to beat the heat at

her Ontario home.

“I think it’s about 105 degrees where I live,” Graikowski said.

“So I just got up and said, ‘I’m going to the beach today.’”

A Riverside resident who would only be identified as Alan said he

brought his niece, Annalise, and her two friends because they’d never

been to the beach before. He said the four of them were so impressed

by the cool beach temperatures that they planned on visiting other

beaches this week.

“It’s always a nice break, coming out here and cooling off a bit,”

he said. “Every time you get those breezes, you have to wonder what

that means, especially after seeing the movie ‘The Day After

Tomorrow.’”

Unlike the movie, the beach wasn’t struck with massive waves,

flash floods or tornados. But the breeze did bother some. Lifeguard

Matt Meyer said he didn’t think the weather’s been as nice as many

have said.

“A couple weeks ago it was awesome,” Meyer said. “This week has

been overcast and windy. It makes the water cold. There were no super

clear skies or anything.”

Looking around, Meyer added, “But it’s definitely not hurting the

crowds.”