The Calm Before the Storm

There were a few hardy surfers in wet suits who braved the cold ocean waters today and some stalwart men and women fishing on White Sands Beach in South Seaside Park.

But for the most part, the beach was empty. Don't get used to it. The Memorial Day weekend and the summer season is upon us. And things aren't going to look this tranquil again until the day after Labor Day.

Township-owned White Sands Beach officially opens on June 18, when lifeguards go on duty. The beach covers only four blocks. There is no boardwalk, no concessions, no entertainment, no honky-tonks.

But you won't need that. Take a ride out to South Seaside Park or nearby Island Beach State Park and savor the Atlantic Ocean, which was a sparkling cobalt blue today. The bayside off 24th Avenue was practically deserted, except for a few kayakers and a mallard couple paddling in the waters off the boat ramp.

Enjoy the photos!