Long time since I've checked this thread. I have actually decided to look for a 4wd vehicle, a 2wd pre-runner could probably go most of the places that I plan to go, however it would require speed, and lots of tire spinning both of which are frowned up on the beach.
I am going to save up some $$ and purchase one of the following
FJ60 1st or 2nd Gen 4Runner Samurai hardtop

