I would just count yourself lucky its not a required court appearance. Fines suck and like everything else are just getting more expensive. My last speeding ticket from 3 years ago cost me over 200 so I'm not surprised a misdemeanor is at least 400.

I would take it as a lesson learned that Jersey Shore towns do not F around with minor offenses. A lot of towns are a bit heavy handed in the interest of trying to keep it family friendly. Just cause you see coolers on every other blanket doesn't mean you won't be the poor SOB who gets a ticket when they go around checking.