The Atlantic Ocean is more than a scenic backdrop for one Asbury Park entrepreneur. It's the foundation of her business.

Danielle Hickson, founder of Asbury Park Sea Salt, heads to the shoreline most mornings with a bucket in hand, collecting seawater that will eventually be transformed into jars of sea salt.

Hickson launched the business in 2024, combining her love of the ocean with her passion for fresh food and local markets.

"I feel so connected to the ocean. It's a really special place to me. It's where I've come to make all my big life decisions," Hickson said.

Collecting about 80 gallons of seawater is the first step in a process that produces roughly 100 jars of sea salt each week.

"I really loved going to the farmers market. I love fresh food, I love eating, and I also love the ocean. So it was really marrying two of my very favorite things," Hickson said.

Asbury Park Sea Salt is sold online and can also be found at farmers markets and storefront locations throughout the area.