Surf: General: Here, you'll find several beachbreak alternatives to the big-name, big-crowd locations to the north. Each is highly dependent upon the sandbar at any given time. Tony Giordano's Ocean Hut Surf Shop is the locals' choice. Mantoloking, with its beach badges, parking issues and unwelcome residents, make just getting to the water a chore. Tides: Low-mid generally best Size: Waist high-overhead Wind: W Swell: S, SSE, SE Bottom: Sand Paddling: Mellow most of the time. Spot Rating: Fun on the right day, and low-key. Access: Not that easy in the summer, otherwise usually wide open Crowds: Crowd Factor: Plenty of room to find your own spot, even in Summer. Local Vibe: Chill for most areas on most swells. Environment: Pretty clean overall. Hazards: Shallow bottom, rip currents. Season: September through March