A few blocks in from the boardwalk in Spring Lake is a quiet sanctuary hidden off of the beaten path. I took a moment just to check it out and realized how lucky we are to not only live along the coast, but we also get to share our home with these inland bodies of water and the wildlife that reside in them.

This guy really stood out against the greenery and was very intent on getting something to eat. It looked like he had this lake all to himself. A hidden treasure with natural beauty that rivals the beachfront scenery.

This little spot offers what you don’t find at the beach: quiet. The water laps on the shore unlike the crashing waves a few blocks away. No seagulls screaming either. For a dose of tranquility, seek out the hidden gems along our Jersey Shore.