Memorial Day is one week away, and at the shore, it's almost time for the unofficial kickoff to summer.

Local stores and restaurants are gearing up for the holiday weekend, including some that have been around for decades, like The Ark Pub & Eatery.

Since the 1970s, the Point Pleasant Beach spot has served up the favorites. It is counting down the days for visitors and staff to be back.

"Getting ready for a big summer rush and beach days," said Micha Ballou, of The Ark Pub & Eatery.

The restaurant is setting up for a busy summer season with local seafood - as it anticipates the return of its patrons from Bayhead, Mantoloking and Point Pleasant Beach.

Down Route 35, over on the boardwalk, restaurants know the drill and can't wait for the rush.

"I've been doing this a long time, it's our 75th year on boardwalk, I pretty much have it down to a science," said Domenic A. Maruca, of Maruca's Tomato Pies.

Maruca's Tomato Pies will have longer hours for the weekend. They are communicating with distributors to have plenty of ingredients.

"I'm looking forward to everything, as long as we get the weather, the big uncontrollable factor," said Maruca.

On a beautiful Monday, customers already were out enjoying the sun, the beach and the food. At the Beachcomber Bar & Grill, it's just the start.

"The weathers been beautiful lately we're looking forward to good weather this weekend," said Michael Carbone, of Beachcomber Bar & Grill.

It is set with extra staffing and great entertainment.

"It's the highlight of our season, it's like the world series the big start, kickoff," said Carbone.