The post–Labor Day season offers, even more to love down the Shore, including less crowded beaches, more pleasant temperatures and plenty of things to do all along our coastline. Plan a perfect weekend getaway with our insider tips for enjoying this September on the Shore.
Beachfront Hotels
Stay mere steps from the sand and surf at one of the Jersey Shore’s many beachfront hotels. This is the ideal time to check in to boutique accommodations at Hotel LBI in Ship Bottom and watch the sunset from its chic rooftop bar. The Asbury Hotel is a hip property with a rock-and-roll vibe, where you can enjoy Salvation, its premier nightlife destination offering sweeping views of Asbury Park and the ocean. Although it’s not directly on the beach, the quaint Scarborough Inn puts you in the heart of everything the family-friendly destination of Ocean City has to offer. Or revel in Victorian glamour when you stay at Cape May’s grand Congress Hall, the country’s oldest seaside resort.
Patio Restaurants
There’s nothing like basking in the September sunshine on an outdoor patio. Dine alfresco at Blue Water Café in Beach Haven, where The Café’s Down East Lobster Roll and Blue Crab Burger are two must-try dishes. At Beach Creek Oyster Bar & Grill in Wildwood, sit on the waterfront deck to pair fresh-shucked raw oysters, peel-and-eat shrimp and local sea scallops with marina views. Or sit under an umbrella as you overlook the harbor and nosh on shrimp cocktail, crab cakes and fish tacos at The Shrimp Box in Point Pleasant Beach.
Get Outdoors
Make the most of the season’s final days on Atlantic City’s free beaches (no badges required) or stroll along the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk to take in the sights and sounds. Bike the multi-use pathway at Gateway National Recreation Area in Sandy Hook, enjoying oceanfront panoramas. While you’re there, go birding at the Horseshoe Cove salt marsh and see the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, the oldest continuously operating lighthouse in the nation. At Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, stroll the Maritime Forest Trail and drop in a fishing line in Barnegat Inlet (accessible from the park’s picnic area). In Manasquan or Seaside Heights, catch a wave—or watch surfers in action while you relax on the shore.
Fall Festivals
Cooler September weather brings plenty of outdoor festivals and special events to the Jersey Shore. Enjoy a variety of food, art, craft, music and cultural festivals popping up in beach towns all along the coast. It’s a great time to rake in colorful fall décor, do some early holiday shopping, and of course, spend time with the family. Fall festivals are fun for everyone at every age.
Discover additional last-minute beach getaways in New Jersey this month. As always, we highly recommend checking out the official website or social media of the destinations, restaurants and events you plan to visit before your stay, so it’s shore to be a September you’ll remember fondly!
