As the summer rush winds down, many popular beach destinations offer lower prices and fewer crowds, making it the perfect time to plan your dream beach retreat.
With a little research and flexibility, you can enjoy a memorable vacation without breaking the bank.
Get ready to pack your bags and soak up the sun without the high costs or the summer crowds. From the sunny shores of Florida to the rugged coastline of Oregon, these destinations offer a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and affordability.
1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a classic East Coast beach destination that really comes alive in the fall. As the summer crowds thin out, you’ll find miles of sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. The Grand Strand, a 60-mile stretch of beaches, offers endless opportunities for coastal exploration.
Golf enthusiasts will be in heaven here – Myrtle Beach boasts over 100 courses, many designed by legendary players like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus.
With greens fees dropping significantly after Labor Day, fall is the perfect time to work on your swing while enjoying ocean views.
2. South Padre Island, Texas
On the southernmost tip of Texas, South Padre Island is a hidden gem that remains warm and inviting well into November. This barrier island boasts 34 miles of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for a relaxing getaway.
Nature lovers won’t want to miss the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, where you can spot over 300 species of birds, including rare migratory species that pass through in the fall.
Rent a kayak and paddle through the lush wetlands of the Laguna Madre, keeping an eye out for dolphins frolicking offshore.
3. Cannon Beach, Oregon
For a beach retreat with a touch of rugged Pacific Northwest charm, head to Cannon Beach in Oregon. This picturesque town is known for its dramatic rock formations, including the iconic 235-foot Haystack Rock (ref) that towers over the shore.
Fall is the perfect time to explore the area’s numerous hiking trails, which wind through old-growth forests and offer stunning coastal vistas. Don’t miss the opportunity to go tidepooling – the rocky shores around Cannon Beach are home to a fascinating array of marine life, from colorful sea stars to elusive octopuses.
4. Sanibel Island, Florida
Located just off the coast of Fort Myers, Sanibel Island is a serene escape from the bustle of Florida’s more crowded beach towns. This unspoiled island is renowned for its shell-strewn beaches – in fact, the shelling here is so good that visitors often practice the “Sanibel Stoop,” a bent-over posture (ref) adopted while searching for treasures in the sand.
Beyond the beaches, Sanibel Island offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge covers nearly half the island and is home to a diverse array of birds, reptiles, and mammals.
Rent a bike and pedal through the refuge’s trails, stopping to marvel at the lush mangrove forests and tidal flats.
5. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Rehoboth Beach is a charming seaside town that’s been a favorite summer retreat for generations of East Coasters. But as the leaves start to turn, this Delaware gem really shines.
The beach crowds dissipate, leaving wide-open stretches of sand perfect for quiet contemplation or invigorating walks along the shore.
The town itself is a delight to explore, with a quaint boardwalk lined with old-fashioned arcades, candy shops, and seafood shacks. Be sure to sample some of the famous Thrasher’s French Fries – a Rehoboth Beach institution since 1929.
6. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Hilton Head Island is a beloved Lowcountry destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and upscale amenities. This 12-mile-long island boasts pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, and a network of scenic bike trails that wind through lush forests and marshlands.
Take a Gullah heritage tour to learn about this fascinating history and sample traditional Lowcountry cuisine like shrimp and grits or Hoppin’ John.
7. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Perched on California’s rugged central coast, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a storybook village that looks like it sprang from the pages of a fairy tale. This European-style enclave is known for its charming architecture, art galleries, and white sandy beach.
In the fall, Carmel’s famous fog lifts, revealing sun-drenched skies and mild temperatures that are perfect for outdoor exploration. Hike the scenic bluff path at nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, keeping an eye out for sea otters, harbor seals, and migrating whales.
8. Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May is a Victorian seaside gem that transports visitors back to a more genteel era. This historic town, located at the southernmost tip of New Jersey, boasts beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, including the famous “Painted Ladies” – colorful Victorian homes that line the streets.
Fall is a wonderful time to explore Cape May’s many cultural attractions, from the Cape May Lighthouse to the Emlen Physick Estate, a stunning example of American Stick Style architecture. Don’t miss the town’s famous horse-drawn carriage rides, which offer a romantic way to take in the sights.
9. St. Simons Island, Georgia
St. Simons Island is the largest of Georgia’s Golden Isles, a chain of barrier islands along the state’s Atlantic coast. This laidback island boasts miles of unspoiled beaches, ancient live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, and a rich history dating back to the colonial era.
Rent a bike and pedal along the island’s extensive network of trails, stopping to savor the crisp fall air and stunning coastal vistas.
10. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is a storied New England seaport that has been a favorite summer retreat for America’s wealthy elite since the Gilded Age. This coastal town is famous for its opulent mansions, including the Vanderbilt family’s jaw-dropping Breakers estate.
While Newport’s beaches may be too chilly for swimming in the fall, they offer a serene and picturesque setting for strolling, picnicking, or simply admiring the view. Be sure to walk the famous Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile path that winds along the rocky coastline, offering stunning views of the Atlantic and Newport’s grand mansions.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
