I like to be a pathfinder, he says of his decision to open the first antiques shop in the village. It's a nice place, picturesque, peaceful. Around the corner is Selective Boutique, where shoppers can find gently used upscale fashions and shoes, as well as accessories such as scarves, hats and jewelry. Once you're done shopping, unwind at Bayville Amusement Park. Outdoor kiddie rides will tempt your toddlers.
Amateur athletes can practice in the batting cages or challenge the miniature golf course.
And if the fresh air and surrounding water don't quite make you feel one with nature, visit the Ayurveda Holistic Center, where you can find natural remedies for what ails you, or seek inner peace at its ashram. Pier 1 takes fresh to the limit. Pier 1's lobby features a bridge into the 550-seat dining room that crosses over tanks pumped full of saltwater from the Sound and stocked with live lobsters, crabs and fish. Owner Joseph Genova says diners who visit after the crush of the summer season will find a more ecletic menu than is offered in the summer. I like to bring a little more of a French accent to the menu, he says.