Long Island residents looking to beat the heat with a trip to the beach will have extra incentive in the coming days.

In light of soaring temperatures, Governor Pataki (R-NY) has decided to open up all state beaches for free on Tuesday and Wednesday. This means no fees will be collected at Jones Beach, Robert Moses, Hither Hills, Sunken Meadow, Heckscher, Orient Beach and Wildwood state parks.

Lifeguard captain Joe Donoghue says the beach is an excellent way to relax during a heat wave. He says the beach is the coolest place around, a fact supported by the large crowds he says have turned out in recent days.