The celebration also marks the 50th anniversary of Lucy being designated as a National historic landmark.
Fire officials said high humidity and limited aerial access complicated firefighting efforts.
For some visitors, the holiday was also an opportunity to reflect on the milestone anniversary and what Independence Day means to them.
America's birthday weekend began with a bang, with spectators dressed in red, white and blue gathering for a pre-fireworks concert in Stone Harbor.
The beaches in Sea Isle City were crowded as families and groups settled in for a holiday weekend that coincides with the nation's 250th birthday celebration.
Firefighters arrived to find the 20-year-old victim already out of the pool.