(10/08/07) JONES BEACH STATE PARK ? The calendar may say October, but it was all about fun in the sun for many on Columbus Day.

The mercury reached a record 88 degrees on Monday, according to Brookhaven National Laboratory. Residents who had the day off from work canceled their pumpkin-picking plans and picked up a boogie board instead. Jones Beach State Park was packed with residents building sand castles and playing in the surf.

Lifeguards were on duty at the beaches, marking the latest date ever they?ve been called to watch over swimmers. New York State Parks Deputy Director George Gorman said about 75,000 people came out to the beaches and parks over the weekend.

Despite the joy of playing in the sun on Columbus Day, many know Monday most likely marked their last hurrah. Area temperatures are expected to only reach the mid-60s next weekend.

Related information: News 12 Long Island Weather