September is a fantastic month for a beach vacation in the U.S. The summer crowds have thinned out, but the weather in many coastal areas is still warm and sunny, making it an ideal time for swimming and sunbathing. The water temperatures, particularly in the Gulf and Atlantic, are often at their warmest of the year after a full summer of heating up.
Here are some of the best U.S. beaches for September travel, categorized by region.
The Gulf Coast
The Gulf Coast is a prime destination in September. The hurricane season is active, so it’s wise to check weather forecasts, but you’ll often find perfect, sunny weather with warm, clear water.
- Gulf Shores, Alabama: With its sugar-white sand and calm, warm waters, Gulf Shores is a popular choice. The summer crowds are gone, and the weather is still perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood.
- Clearwater Beach, Florida: Known for its powdery, white sand and gentle waters, Clearwater Beach is a great family-friendly option. The average high temperatures in the Tampa area in September are in the high 80s to low 90s, making it excellent for a beach day.
- Destin, Florida: Part of the “Emerald Coast,” Destin offers stunning turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. The weather is still hot, but the summer rush has subsided, offering a more peaceful experience.
- Padre Island National Seashore, Texas: For a more natural and undeveloped beach experience, Padre Island offers miles of coastline on the Gulf of Mexico. The weather is still very warm, and it’s a great spot for bird watching and shell collecting.
The East Coast
September on the East Coast offers a “second summer” feel, with warm ocean temperatures and pleasant air.
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: While a popular summer destination, September is an excellent time to visit Myrtle Beach. The weather remains warm, and the crowds are significantly smaller. Many locals consider September their favorite month for the beach.
- Outer Banks, North Carolina: This string of barrier islands is a favorite for fall beach travel. The mild temperatures are perfect for long walks on the beach, and the ocean is still warm enough for a swim. You’ll find a more relaxed, less-crowded atmosphere.
- Virginia Beach, Virginia: Virginia Beach is a great option with its wide, groomed shoreline and lively boardwalk. The daily high temperatures are in the mid-70s to low 80s, and the ocean is comfortable for a dip.
- Cape May, New Jersey: The Jersey Shore is delightful in September. The water is often still warm, and the peak summer crowds have left. The charming Victorian town of Cape May is a perfect spot to enjoy the beach and explore the historic downtown.
- Amelia Island, Florida: Located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, Amelia Island is a less-crowded gem with 13 miles of pristine beaches. The fall weather is often perfect for both sunbathing and exploring the island’s historic charm.
The West Coast & Hawaii
The Pacific Ocean is notoriously colder than the Atlantic and Gulf, but the California coast in September is known for its mild, sunny weather. Hawaii, on the other hand, is warm year-round.
- San Diego, California: San Diego offers a fantastic year-round climate, but September is arguably the best time to visit. The “local summer” phenomenon means the weather is at its warmest and sunniest, but the summer crowds have dispersed. Beaches like Coronado and La Jolla are perfect for a day of sunbathing.
- Santa Barbara, California: With its Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara is an excellent September choice. The weather is warm enough for swimming and beach days, but the crowds are fewer, and you can enjoy the laid-back coastal vibe.
- Maui, Hawaii: While a year-round destination, September is one of the best times to visit Maui. The summer rush is over, and the island experiences less rainfall. The ocean is still incredibly warm, perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing on its famous beaches like Ka’anapali and Wailea.
- Oahu, Hawaii: Waikiki Beach is famous for a reason, and September is a great time to visit. The average high temperatures are in the high 80s, and with fewer crowds, you can enjoy the clear waters and vibrant atmosphere more easily.
