Why the name ‘Le Garage’?

Any garage of someone who tinkers, fixes things, or makes things they’re stoked about is a place of gathering, getting a little dirty, and making something special. With every garage there is a potential to make something awesome. Our shop is partially named Le Garage to point out that there is a powerful beauty in weathered but strong things. That making something that lasts, works well, and looks beautiful has far more value than buying something cheap off the shelf.

‘Le Garage’ also pays homage to the ‘discotheque au go go’ that thrived during the 1960’s and 70’s inside a garage in North Beach Haven on LBI. Started by three lifeguards and an investor, the discotheque was all about music. Without alcohol being sold at the dance club, the focus was on dancing, having a good time, and jamming with friends. My dad worked the door at the discotheque in the height of its popularity (when Bruce Springsteen played there). It seemed fitting to honor the closed dance hall that many people in our community loved by naming the workshop after it.

The shop is located on the bay side of Coral Street in Beach Haven. Our building was used as an auto repair shop for the past 75 years and is now retrofitted as a surfboard factory and woodworking shop where people can come see how these things are made in an immersive way. You can watch surfboards being made, take a class, learn to surf, or do some surf training all at Le Garage.