SAN DIEGO (FOX 5\/KUSI) \u2014\u00a0Just in time for the unofficial end of summer, record-breaking heat is hitting the coastline of San Diego.<\/p>\n
And along with the record heat, were near-record crowds at the beach looking to chill out.<\/p>\n
“Oh, I love the heat and the humidity, but this is the best way to cool off,” said beachgoer Ashley Gonzales.<\/p>\n
While September is historically the second-hottest month of the year, next to August, this year is an extra treat for the thousands of people splashing in the ocean.<\/p>\n
Water temperatures reached 79 degrees at La Jolla Shores a few days ago. On Monday, water temperatures hovered around 72 degrees, which is considered warm, but not for everyone.<\/p>\n
“The water is pretty cold when you first get in, but then you get used to it. I like to body surf in it,” said 8-year-old Autumn Porter.<\/p>\n
These days, along with warm water and record heat, there is also an unusual amount of humidity.<\/p>\n
Tropical Storm Marie is bringing a lot of moisture to Southern California, along with some decent-sized waves that peaked over the weekend.<\/p>\n
“Perfect conditions out there today at Windansea. The water is warm, the waves are big, it’s perfect. I’m 76 years old, and this is my fountain of youth,” said Jack Valentine of La Jolla.<\/p>\n
According to lifeguards, this summer was extremely busy, with 19 million people visiting San Diego’s beaches and bays.<\/p>\n
Along with all those people comes a lot of rescues. More than 5,000 people were plucked out of the water for one reason or another this summer.<\/p>\n
But for many, this is the last hurrah, the last blast before life gets serious again.<\/p>\n
“I mean, it’s great. We’re back at school now, so this is one last day to hang out with my friends and have fun. The water is so warm that it’s just perfect,” said Azalia Beltran.<\/p>\n
While this is referred to as the ‘unofficial’ end of summer for many, it’s also the ‘unofficial’ beginning of what’s called “the locals’ summer.”<\/p>\n