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The North American Beach Escapes That Shine in Fall Shoulder Season

These North American beach towns hit their stride after summer, when the crowds thin, the water stays warm and the pace finally slows down.

Saying goodbye to summer is a bittersweet affair, but if you’re craving one more beach vacation before fall officially sets in, you’re not alone. Late September and early October may signal the end of summertime, but these transitional months also usher in some of the most idyllic weather across various beach towns in North America. The crowds begin to thin, summer’s oppressive heat starts to soften and the ocean temperatures, in parts of both the Atlantic and the Pacific, maintain a comfortable level of warmth. 

Rather than forcing you to fight for a patch of sand or book beachfront hotels at double the price, this sweet spot of shoulder season offers a slower pace for travelers who want to soak up a bit more sun and saltwater. And because the high-season frenzy has begun to subside, you can actually spend more time exploring beyond the shore, whether that be strolling through the storied streets of Key West or sipping a passion fruit mai tai at sunset in Maui. From Los Cabos in Mexico to Laguna Beach in California, these are the North American beach destinations worth visiting during the early days of fall.

Shoulder Season Beach Destinations

Laguna Beach, California

Catalina Island, California

Amelia Island, Florida

Laguna Beach, California

Laguna Beach is one of SoCal’s most sought-after summer destinations. Come September and October, the tourists clear out, and the locals reclaim ownership of their pristine beaches and gentle swells. A seasonal shift in wind and calmer waves makes the water clearer than ever, and if you decide to take an early morning dip, don’t be surprised if a small leopard shark drifts past you in the shallows. Though the best tide pooling experiences tend to happen during winter, Laguna’s rocky coves are still worth exploring in early fall, and you’ll likely run into a few sea slugs, hermit crabs, anemones and the occasional starfish. Spend your shoulder season days living like a local, exploring beaches like Treasure Island, Table Rock and Aliso, before sitting down for a Michelin-starred omakase at Rebel Omakase. Those wanting to take advantage of every oceanfront moment possible can also enjoy a sunset dinner while hovering over the shore at Splashes.Where to Stay:The final beach trip of the year calls for a hotel right on the water, and Surf & Sand Laguna Beach sits on a wide stretch of sand right along South Coast Highway. Casa Loma also offers easy beach access from its 70-room Mediterranean-inspired oasis, making it a great option for........

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