It is a great shot. Seems slightly underexposed, but it is hardly noticeable. I definitely do not think the rock takes away from anything, and as someone said before it could have been nicer to see you get a bit more of the rock or a jetty.
I also agree with what Ron said, the first edit someone did does not looks that good to me. It is obviously personal preference on what you think looks good, but it looks too artificial after that edit. Looks like the shadow was boosted way up thus the reason the rock is so dark and the sky lost that nice subtle pink shade.
Where in NJ are you from? Sea Bright and Monmouth Beach are very close to me.
Edit:
In your edit, at first, I had a hard time seeing any differences. Then I started looking a little harder, and it definitely does add to the image. Seems better exposed.