HAMPTON BEACH - The sun is finally shining down upon Hampton Beach just in time for the Fourth of July weekend! It's time to soak up some rays, listen to some tunes, play some games, watch some fireworks and get some good eats and tasty treats.

Owner Terry Sullivan and his friendly crew at five eatery locations on Hampton Beach can certainly help you in the taste buds department. From refreshing shaved ice, to famous fried chicken, to crispy salads, foot-long subs, lobster and steamers, or a tasty frozen drink, they have anything you may be in the mood for after a few hours in the sun.

Hailing originally from Hamilton, Massachusetts, Sullivan began his career in the food and beverage industry on Hampton Beach at the ripe old age of 14. He was managing a concession stand called the "Dog-Cart" at only 16, and after a period of study at Salem State in the area of Business Management, he was on his way.

Terry now owns Casino Fast Foods, Casino Ice Cream, Casino Foot Long Hot Dogs and Popcorn, the Cascade Seaside Restaurant and Deck, and Farr's Famous Chicken. Each eating-place holds its own unique charms, but one thing they all have in common is a clean, welcoming, upbeat atmosphere with a great variety of delicious offerings at reasonable prices.

The Hot Dog and Popcorn Stand, Casino Fast Foods and Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor are conveniently and centrally located together in the Casino building across from the Sea Shell stage amidst the midway games. It is a perfect location to grab a quick bite while at the beach, throwing some skeeball, or listening to a free concert outside. If you are strolling through the beach shops and feel like a rest and refreshment, they are one of the only locations on the strip with indoor seating.

The Hot Dog and Popcorn Stand, open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., also offers treats like candied apples and cotton candy. If you feel like more of a meal, turn right around and see the selection at Casino Fast Foods. Open from 10 a.m. to 12 a.m., they offer pizza, fried seafood, burgers, hot and cold subs like steak and cheese, chicken bombs, and Italians, as well as a wide selection of freshly made salads, chicken fingers, tacos and more. All is delicious, and low-carb friendly, if requested.

Ready for something sweet? Then stroll on back to Casino Ice Cream's old-fashioned ice cream parlor and create your own sundae with 24 flavors to choose from of Gifford's Famous Ice Cream from Maine -- a new addition and a crowd favorite. Even if you are watching your waistline, they also carry a variety of fat free frozen yogurts, low-carb ice cream, and fruit drinks. The bustling atmosphere alone is sure to keep you entertained as you enjoy your chosen delight.

The Cascade Seaside Restaurant and Deck, located at the Casino Water Slide, is a vibrant, fun place to sit down and relax either inside, or out on their recently extended deck overlooking the water slides. With access to the slides from the deck, it is a great location for parents to relax while watching their children have fun and cool off.

Open for breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and then serving their lunch and dinner menu until 10 p.m. seven days a week, the Cascade is always a great spot to drop in while at the beach. They offer an extensive menu with something for everyone featuring coastal staples such as fish and chips, steamed and baked seafood, Surf and Turf, 12 oz. sirloins, and a very popular "Buffalo Chicken Salad." However, they also have many intriguing pasta dish es as well as interesting salads and sandwiches to choose from.

They have just added a few new menu items such as the "Steak House Salad" and the "Shrimp and Scallop AJfredo," as well as a few new frozen drinks to their full bar. Manager Roger McDevit, who has been with the restaurant six years while putting himself through business school, claims to have "the Best Margarita on the Beach." The only way to find out is to try one yourself! Starting this week they will be having live music every Saturday and Sunday from 1-5 p.m., and their deck is the closest spot you can find to get a great view of the Wednesday night fireworks. Portsmouth Festival winners "Lonely Gus and the One Night Stand" are featured among many more. They can be reached at (603) 926-5988.

Last, but certainly not least, is Farr's Famous Chicken, Ribs and Foot Long Subs . With a reputation of excellence that precedes them, they have been and continue to be a favorite of both locals and tourists. Located at the corner of "C" Street and Ashworth Avenue, Farr's offers a variety of fried chicken and rib dinners as well as foot long subs, sandwiches, wraps, and an award winning clam chowder. Their mouth watering fried chicken, tender ribs, perfectlyseasoned jo-jo fries and delicious cole slaw are all offered in many combination platters big enough for the whole family and is a perfect option for take-out or eat-in after a long day at the beach. Manager Bill Quigley has been a chef there for more than a decade and should be proud of the consistent quality of their offered cuisine. Their customers certainly seem pleased. Summer hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and they can be reached at (603) 926-6497. Please call ahead for take out, and it will be ready for you when you walk in the door.

So when it's time to treat those tastebuds, make it a point to stop at your choice of any of these great Hampton Beach eateries, and make a day at the beach a tasty one to remember.