Sand Between My Toes, and Thoughts Half a World Away

Stone Harbor is doing what it always does best—showing off just enough. A breeze that keeps the sun from feeling like an interrogation light. Waves that roll in with easy confidence. Umbrellas flapping. A Jesse Rice tune playing quietly from my Bose speaker. It’s all familiar, all comfortable, and it makes me wonder:

Will I feel the same way on a beach in Japan?

In less than a week, I’ll trade this Jersey shore sand for something far less familiar. We’re heading to Japan, where the beaches carry names I can’t pronounce yet and histories that stretch far beyond boardwalk fries and saltwater taffy.

I’ve done my research. Japan has its fair share of coastline magic—Okinawa’s turquoise waters, the dramatic cliffs of the Izu Peninsula, and tucked-away coves on islands like Naoshima and Miyajima. The water’s warmer. The beach snacks are grilled squid instead of boardwalk pizza. And I imagine the vibe will be…quieter? More serene? Or maybe just differently chaotic.

Will I miss the boisterous charm of the Jersey shore? Probably. But I’m also curious to feel the texture of new sand, to swim in unfamiliar tides, and maybe even sit back and watch a Japanese sunset with the same sense of awe I feel here.

It’s a reminder that no matter where I am, the beach always finds a way to make me slow down and reflect. Even when that reflection involves a pair of chopsticks instead of a slice of Manco and Manxo’s

pizza.

Stay tuned. I’ll let you know if the sand feels different underfoot—or if it’s just the same reminder that we’re all small in the best kind of way

Stone Harbor Beach