We're lucky that staying cool at the Beaches can be fun, easy, and free or almost free

It's been hot here at the Jacksonville Beaches, but that's not a surprise to anyone since we're in Florida and it's summer time. But as I went around this week taking pictures of people staying cool by staying wet, I realized how lucky we are here that we have so many fun and free or almost free options. We have our pick of beaches and can enjoy the cool Atlantic Ocean waves for free. Just have to walk, bike there, or drive and find a parking spot. The Wimpy Sutton Pool at Fletcher High School is also free every afternoon to the public courtesy of the city of Jacksonville, which staffs it with lifeguards. Kids can even join a free swim team there. It doesn't even matter what county you live in, people from St. Johns County can use the pool too. And up in Hanna Park, off Mayport Road, we have access, for the price of a $3 admission per car, to wonderful beaches, wooded picnic spots, and Splash Park, designed for little kids. The Splash Park also cools off the adults who go there with their kids and grandkids. Looks like fun. See my story and photos in the Saturday, June 27 Shorelines editions. Also, check out my 'Keeping Cool" photo gallery here at Shorelines.com.