Over forty years ago, Vince and Michelle Farias started a beach rental business out of a small garage in Surf City, New Jersey. Teachers by profession, Vince and Michelle spent the summers on Long Beach Island and knew first-hand what vacationers and renters would need. They provided TVs, VCRs, cribs, cots, bikes, surfboards, beater boards, beach chairs and other beach essentials for rent.
Vince also worked as a lifeguard and bartended at the old Acme Hotel. Michelle expanded the business, adding custom t-shirts and popular clothing brands in addition to selling surfboards, beach sundries and bikes.
The Farias’ surf and beach shop business grew as fast as their family and roots on Long Beach Island. Their three children, Stacey, Brian and Christy, soon joined the family operation. In 1982, Farias Surf & Sport expanded to Ship Bottom, in the former Bylerley’s location. In 1994, the company opened a Beach Haven store in the old Taylor Avenue Grill spot. In 2015, Farias launched the new Bike and SUP Annex in Ship Bottom.