October 1, 2007 - Joys of the Fall Season - 6 local getaways for relaxing, family fun and more.  A DIFFERENT KIND OF BEACH DAY,  by Louise Kramer.   Low key by the sea...is the vibe at Spring Lake, NJ in the Fall.  Take in the fresh salt air along this quaint spot's two-mile boardwalk, which is remarkably free of the taffy shops and souvenir emporiums that are so common in other towns "down the shore".  While finding an oceanfront parking spot is tough during the summer, it's not a problem in October.  And getting there on New Jersey Transit takes just an hour and 15 minutes from Penn Station.

Filled with Victorian-era inns and bed and breakfasts, Spring Lake provides a cozy spot for quiet pleasures like cycling - most hotels offer bikes gratis - or reading a book in a wicker rocker on the porch.  The leaves will soon be turning on the tree-lined streets, and if the ocean isn't enough, there is indeed a lake in the center of town complete with foot bridges and edged with weeping willows.

Warning: Spring Lake wears a lot of chintz, and it shuts down early.  For dinner, try Island Palm Grill on Third Avenue, the main commercial street.  It's BYOB and the chef is a veteran of Bobby Flay's Mesa Grill in Manhattan.  Visit: www.historicinnsofspringlake.com which offers 11 lovely lodging selections, including Ocean House, where room rates start at $143.75.