The end of the road, at least as far as two-wheel drivers are concerned. To the south lies a bird sanctuary, as well as a few mysto breaks, but you'll never know without a monster truck and an off-road permit. As for the jetty itself, it only works on a nor'easter, at which time a sloppy left peels into a little cove with occasional pushy section. Longboarders rule the roost, and watch out for sundry obstacles in the lineup. Anything from rocks to dune fences to old pizza carts aren't uncommon.

Any time you're hungry, The Chicken and the Egg (609-492-3695) will feed you. They're always open, and the food won't kill you. Chowder Hut (609-492-0427), despite its name, is not a Roman Vomitorium. The walk-up eatery offers, you guessed it, chowda,' and other vittles from the sea. For gourmet seafood, Tucker's (609-492-2300) offers the best on the island, not to mention a variety of pasta dishes. But hey, this is Jersey, and for a pie George's is the only way to go.

Rentals are the way to go, and most are done on a weekly basis (Bay Shore Agency 609-492-3100). Upscale digs can be found at the north end of the island, called Harvey Cedars. The Engleside (609-492-1251) and Seashell (609-492-4611) Motels, both in Beach Haven, are close to the action.

During the day, all you'll find is the typical cheesy tourist fare. "Thundering Surf" water slide, umpteen miniature golf courses, and the requisite "Fantasy Island" amusement park and arcade are classic Jersey to the max. At night, when the Griswold's retreat to their weekly rentals, the clubs light up. Catch live music at The Ketch, a real surfy joint, or for something more upscale, try to reel in a prize fish at The Marlin.

Faria's Surf and Sport, 823 North Bay Ave., Beach Haven, 609-492-0200.
Body Language, 291 Long Beach Blvd., Ship Bottom, 609-494-1977, surf report 609-494-7873.
Ric's Aloha Classics, 905 North bay Ave., Beach Haven, 609-492-8896.
Ron Jon's, 201 9th St., Ship Bottom, 609-494-8844.
Surf Unlimited, 1901 Long Beach Blvd., Ship Bottom, 609-494-3555.