As temperatures climb and daylight extends longer, people are becoming increasingly excited for summer. Every news and travel report covering the year’s first days of warm weather or the beginning of the summer season has shown that many are eager for the hotter months, as evidenced by swarms at beaches, parks, and other public places. Perhaps it’s the freedom of enjoying outdoor activities, such as volleyball, swimming, and hiking, without the added layers or concerns about the chilly water temperature that attract patrons. Or maybe it’s the feeling of breaking free from our homes’ confinement all winter long, shielding ourselves from the cold weather so that we can finally breathe the fresh air summer brings.
While we’re often itching to venture out at the first sign the summer has begun, not everyone is ambitiously booking their travel plans right away. Many prefer to wait until the season ends (in September after Labor Day Weekend), often referred to as “local summer,” to bask in the last moments of summer sans the crowds. This is why we consulted with numerous travel experts to identify the top beach towns to visit during local summer, the period after the high tourist season, when the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer out-of-towners, allowing locals to savor the beaches in a more relaxed environment.
These travel enthusiasts shared their takes on the most enjoyable coastal areas for the unofficial end of summer based on their own experiences and those of their clients. We also tailored our list to U.S. locations for those who want to plan a fun road trip or a quick nearby getaway at an affordable cost. We encourage you to read on before planning your local summer hideaway to ensure you’ve considered these top destinations for traveling this September.
Big Sur, California
You may have heard of Big Sur, California, as it’s a popular destination for road trips, hiking, and various outdoor activities, not to mention its stunning views. However, you may have been hesitant to visit during the summer, given it’s the area’s busy season (June to August). Traveling to the West Coast city in September, while still part of the peak season, would significantly lessen anxieties about crowded pathways because the area begins to quiet down.
Representatives at Eleven Eleven PR, a boutique public relations agency with a prominent interest in California tourism, echo that Big Sur is more attractive after summer’s end due to thinner crowds and the weather remains sunny and mild (daytime highs in the 70s and crisp, cool nights, they note). They also point out that coastal fog is less common, offering clearer views of the cliffs, redwoods, and ocean, and guests can enjoy surfing and swimming at the beach without the droves of beachgoers that are usually present in the weeks earlier.
This was further attested to in the USNews Travel Guide, which highlights that the comfortable temperatures and wildlife viewing in September are considerable selling points for travelers when contemplating Big Sur as their next vacation destination. Other worthwhile activities, as listed on the California town’s website, include camping, art galleries, and guided trails.
Pismo Beach, California
Another sought-after location for local summer is Pismo Beach, California, which Besa Sumovic, owner of the Beaches and Babies travel blog, praises as excellent for both families and adult-only trips. Sumovic vouches that the weather is delightful, with daytime highs typically in the 70s (per Weather Spark), though chilly evenings are common year-round along the coast, so bring a light jacket during later outings!
The smaller crowds and calmer vibes in September, compared to other touristy beach towns, are also a driving factor for visitors. For those looking for a jam-packed family trip, Sumovic notes the many all-ages activities available, such as Dinosaur Caves Park, the Monarch Butterfly Grove, and the Oceano Dunes, for fun outdoors. Inside attractions include nearby children’s museums such as San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum and the Exploration Discovery Center.
Interested specifically in the beach and boardwalk? Pismo Beach is spacious and enjoyable for every age group, especially with fewer beachgoers hogging the sand. The boardwalk, known as Pier Plaza, is also appealing for its mix of restaurants and shops and features a playground for the kids’ enjoyment. Additionally, the beachfront hotels offer easy access to the beach and a range of amenities that won’t break the bank.
Jacksonville Beach, Florida
For an East Coast beach experience, travel agents at Canopy of Stars Travel suggest visiting Jacksonville Beach, Florida, for a September getaway. While Jacksonville technically has two beaches (Jacksonville Beach and Neptune Beach), the experts note they are close enough to explore together: Jacksonville for the energetic music scene and Neptune for a more laid-back vibe.
Angie’s Subs, and a joint venture between V Pizza and Flask & Cannon in Jacksonville Beach, are recommended for their selections of tasty sandwiches, pizza, wings, and specialty rum and tiki drinks. But the pizza spot is particularly called out for being one of the most popular on the beach and for its generosity, as a portion of their proceeds go to the V for Victory foundation, which helps local families dealing with cancer, as explained on the eatery’s website.
Long Beach Island, New Jersey
Heading to the Jersey Shore in the summertime might be a big red flag for some as the area generally sees droves of tourists between Memorial and Labor Day. However, in September, it’s a much more pleasurable experience, according to Howard Waterman, Founder and CEO of The Waterman Group and LBI beach homeowner. Specifically, he advocates that Long Beach Island (LBI) in New Jersey is a favorable destination due to its pristine beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and countless activities.
A substantial allure for visitors is the 18-mile stretch of beaches, the area’s primary attraction that offers sufficient space for fun and relaxation. Waterman also stresses that the environment is at a much slower pace than other Jersey Shore spots, making it particularly captivating for those with young kids. However, there’s something to do for all ages, including fishing, boating, shopping, dining, and exploring places like The Barnegat Lighthouse and Fantasy Island Amusement Park.
While LBI is considerably attractive from June to August, there’s a lot to enjoy in September as well. With the weather still warm and the ocean at its peak temperature, guests can take advantage of the beach with less traffic and fewer tourists in the way. Another benefit is that you can avoid the costly entry fees that most New Jersey beaches require during the summer.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
California is full of enticing beaches and coastal towns to explore, and September is the perfect time to do so, boasts Deepak Shukla, CEO of Pearl Lemon Adventures travel agency. As we’ve said, it’s a time when many popular areas become less crowded, and Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is no exception. Shukla suggests checking out this quaint town for its remarkable beaches, gorgeous scenery, and local artsy culture.
While the streets are typically packed in the summer, the mobs taper off after Labor Day, making it a more appealing destination for smaller families and couples searching for a romantic vacation spot. The expert points out that Carmel-by-the-Sea is ideal this time of year for long walks, thanks to its cooler temperatures, and offers a tranquil and peaceful vibe for those looking to explore the sights.
Ocean City, New Jersey
Not to be mistaken for Ocean City, Maryland (also a popular beach destination), the coastal town in New Jersey has been highly suggested by numerous experts, including Mac Steer, owner and director of Simify, a travel SIM company. Although many summer attractions like the amusements and boardwalk food vendors usually pack up post-Labor Day, the laid-back, end-of-summer mood are hard to pass up.
Steer notes the environment is very relaxed and serene in September, allowing for extended beach walks, unbothered by droves of tourists that recently flooded the area. Guests can also take in the breathtaking sunsets and admire the charming Victorian homes and beach cottages that align the town. Steer personally visits after the summer rush clears, taking advantage of the warm weather and quiet activities like swimming, reading on the beach, and strolls along the vintage boardwalk.
Lincoln City, Oregon
We previously shouted out Lincoln City, Oregon, in an earlier article for its many attractions, and several travel experts agree that September is the prime time to visit. Explore Lincoln City tourism gave a nod to the coastal town for its family fun and adventure, located just two hours from bustling Portland.
They suggest out-of-towners stay at one of the area’s cozy lodgings like the Anchor Inn, The Coho Oceanfront Lodge, and Starfish Manor, known for their warm hospitality and easy beach access. They also point out that September is an attractive time to visit, as the crowds have subsided with the kids back in school, leaving more vacancies and open reservations at local restaurants. It’s also when they host the annual Fall Kite Festival (this year occurring from September 20 to 21, 2025), offering two days of kite-flying activities and other fun events.
New Shoreham, Rhode Island
If Rhode Island wasn’t on your radar before, it should be now. The state’s tourism team insists that New Shoreham is an enticing coastal area to visit in September for several reasons. For one, the town is blissfully calm, making it the perfect location to escape the bustle of the summer.
Guests can take in the Crescent with its soft sand, gentle waves, and sweeping ocean views stretching along both State Beach and Scotch Beach, most used for swimming and lounging in the sunshine. It’s also recommended to check out Block Island’s Mohegan Bluffs, a 150-foot clay cliff on the Southern Shore that promises an unforgettable experience and incredible scenery.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, isn’t just a beach town for some but an annual destination. A place they look forward to gathering with their families each year, making memories in the sand, indulging in decadent meals, and the fun attractions along the shore. That’s what business travel and thought leader Justin Goldsberry recalls when thinking of the Southeast U.S. spot, which he frequently ventures to for a family getaway.
He notes that Myrtle Beach locals call September after Labor Day the “Second Summer,” as it allows them to enjoy the area without the tourists. One of Goldberry’s go-to spots is Cape Fear Seafood Company, which originated in Wildwood, New Jersey, before expanding to multiple locations, including North Myrtle Beach, for its oysters, crab legs, and Southern hospitality. He also mentions classic attractions like the Boardwalk, the SkyWheel, Ripley’s Aquarium, Broadway at the Beach, and Family Kingdom Amusement Park, to name a few.
But it’s not just the activities and beaches that draw people in. Myrtle Beach also attracts a friendly, diverse crowd from “all walks of life,” says Goldsberry, and they host many thrilling events throughout the year, like Myrtle Beach Bike Week Fall Rally, which this year takes place from September 29 to October 5, 2025. The event brings motorcyclists together for fun, energy, rides, and gatherings around town, creating an exciting week that also supports local businesses.
End-of-Summer Getaway
Waiting until September to go on a beach vacation might not have crossed your mind when deciphering where this year’s getaway should be, but it’s a suitable option if you want to escape the crowds. Many people crave a summer trip, but it could be an even better experience if you hold off until after Labor Day when the area is less busy and the weather is still nice to enjoy.