Mainers Enjoy a Summer-like Day on the Beach

(NECN: Marnie Maclean) - Mainers sometimes have to wait until July to get a great beach day - but on Thursday, in late March, Old Orchard Beach was packed with happy sunbathers.

Flip flops, suntan oil, sand castles and surf are not images of your typical Maine in March - but when Mother Nature delivers a gift like this, you take full advantage.

Some people were lucky to have the day off.

"This is the first time I've been in a bikini in March - and at the beach," said Arlee Netko of Brunswick, Maine.

Others have really nice bosses.

"My boss called and said, 'Enjoy the beach today, Shawn,'" said Shawn Curtis of Old Orchard Beach.

And then there were those who were supposed to be in economics class, but chose to spend the day at the beach.

"We are allowed to have a skip day as a senior, thought we would take advantage of it," said Chloe Elliott.

The seniors from Messalonskee High School in Oakland, Maine decided it was the perfect day to pull a Ferris Bueller and goof off at the beach.

They weren't alone, since seniors from across Maine skipped school, and Facebook helped them spread the word. They played football, frisbee and even went for a swim.

"I can't feel my legs, but it was refreshing," said one swimmer.

Apparently, the water temperature still feels like March, and a close look reveals most businesses are still closed. So are the rides and arcades, too - but there was sun, sand and most importantly, pier fries.

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