Yep, clams are the key followed by mullet. If you notice that the beaches have clams and mussels all over the place with mullet, spearing and rain fish in that order in the wash.
I would try the pocket on the out going with this NE wind blowing. The bait will be pushed up on the beach being slammed by the blues.
I saw a good 7+ pound blue caught in Ortley on a clam.
The surf is snotty though 6+ to get out but if you want to hold bottom 8 and over.
Happy Catching
Paul