Summer’s “Over”—But These U.S. Beaches Still Have Warm Water in September

Once September hits, a lot of us around the country are turning our attention to fall. The kids are going back to school. The Labor Day fun has wrapped up. Some of us (ahem, me) are putting up our Halloween decorations mid-month.

That said, while summer may be winding down and then “officially” over after that first long weekend of the month, don’t let that keep you from getting in one last beach vacay. There are still plenty of U.S. beaches where the water remains warm in September.

Here are a few favorite beach-y destinations to consider when you just have to hit the sands a final time.

Admittedly, San Diego is not known for its amazingly hot weather (a common misconception for those who’ve never really explored California all that much). That said, the ocean water temperatures reach their peak in August and September, meaning you can swim without a wetsuit—basically the only time of year that it’s actually possible. Expect surface temperatures around 70 degrees.

A favorite spot to head to, in particular, is La Jolla Cove. It’s a beautiful option for not just swimming, but also snorkeling and diving. The waters are extra-clear, and you’ve got a dramatic coastline to take in. Meanwhile, this marine reserve offers wildlife watching opportunities aplenty. Just make sure you don’t get too close to those seals or sea lions.

Even when you’re not actually out in the water, you’ll love strolling the bluffs. Try Ellen Browning Scripps Park.

You’ll quickly see why this spot is frequently referred to as San Diego’s “jewel,” as well as why it’s been named one of the top beaches in the country, via TripAdvisor.

Head across the country to check out Gulf Shores, Alabama, in September. Here, you’re going to be able to enjoy all the elements that draw folks from around the region to the destination, in the summer, but without all those pesky crowds, as things begin to thin out after Labor Day.

All the while, the temperatures are still remaining in the 80s, ideal for heading out for a beach day.

If you’ve never visited this part of the country’s shoreline before, there are multiple things you have to look forward to, even beyond the 30-plus miles of quartz-grain sand shoreline. There’s Gulf State Park, with its 6,000-plus acres of hiking, biking, and paddling opportunities. If that’s not enough nature-based adventure for you, you can also try the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. History buffs will want to make tracks for Fort Morgan State Historic Site. Meanwhile, foodies (and everyone in your group, really) are going to enjoy the abundance of local seafood.

Just note that, in September, this destination can catch the odd tropical storm or hurricane, so buy that travel insurance and keep an eye on the weather.

September is one of the best times to visit Rockport Beach, Texas, thanks to warm waters and sunny days that are perfect for swimming, paired with lower humidity that makes lounging on the sand far more enjoyable. Additionally, just as is the case in most beach destinations, September is a quieter, shoulder season, with fewer crowds.

One ultra-cool benefit of visiting Rockport Beach in September specifically? You can catch the annual Rockport-Fulton HummerBird Celebration. It just so happens that this beachy town lies on the migration path of thousands of ruby-throated hummingbirds, who are making their way across the Gulf of Mexico. You don’t have to be a birding enthusiast to appreciate that sight.

Additionally, Rockport Beach also boasts Texas’s first designated Blue Wave Beach. This means that the beach has been certified by the Clean Beaches Coalition, proving that the beach meets certain environmental, safety, and cleanliness standards. Blue Wave Beaches must maintain a certain level of water quality, with litter-free shores and regular beach raking, while also offering public facilities such as restrooms.

Visiting Florida in general in September is often a good idea, but if it’s a budget-savvy trip to Miami you’re after, this month is especially a great pick. 

You’re going to avoid crowds and, thanks to the lessened demand overall, you’re going to see some savings when it comes to your hotel rate. Plus, the air temps and water temps remain warm—even though you may see some afternoon showers (personally, I kind of like those; it gives you a little excuse to head inside for a quick nap before going out for the night). There is that pesky hurricane risk—but when did a hurricane risk ever slow down an avid traveler?

September in Miami also brings a bevy of great events. For one, there’s Miami Spice, which all the foodie travelers are going to want to know about. So you know how a lot of cities have restaurant weeks? Well, Miami takes that concept to an entirely new level. Instead of just a week of great dining deals, Miami Spice runs from the beginning of August and all the way through the end of September, during which you can enjoy three-course, prix-fixe menus at tons of amazing restaurants, including Michelin-rated eateries.

Other events include the Miami International Auto Show and Hispanic Heritage Month, plus the concerts, sporting events, and museum exhibits that you can always expect from this urban hub.

If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, head north. Yes, you’re not going to get the same hot temps, but you’ll still find that the ocean water remains in the high 70s and low 80s off the shores of North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Plus, again—fewer crowds. The big family destinations like Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills? The families have moved on from their vacation homes for the season, leaving you with plenty of room to stretch out.

Plus, a lot of travelers enjoy this spot on the East Coast in September due to the bird watching that’s possible, as well as the surf fishing and stargazing.

Of course, if it’s hot temps you’re after any time of year, you can rely on Hawaii to deliver. Grab a spot on the next flight out and enjoy the lesser prices and crowds that come post-Labor Day on Maui. The ocean temperatures are lukewarm and comfortable, while the air temperatures are actually not too bad either—you’re not going to be sweating your bum off while you head to the beach.

Make sure you check out the Aloha Festivals lineup as you’re planning out your trip. This is a statewide, multi-cultural festival that takes place throughout September, across all the Hawaiian islands. The events number more than a hundred and range from cultural displays to parades, parties to performances. Many of the events are free, but all celebrate the wonderful culture of Hawaii.

All of that said, you really can’t go wrong with any of the Hawaiian islands in September. Maui is just a good pick because, while it’s not the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit (that would be Oahu), it still does offer a great quality and that’s even amplified by September’s greater affordability.

This one comes with a caveat, but I can’t not include it because it really is a great place to visit in September. The caveat is this: For truly bearable water temps, you do want to visit during the early half of the month. However, if you can get there after Labor Day and before the temps begin to dip, you can enjoy a Cape Cod that’s devoid of all the summertime crowds and traffic (because Cape Cod is notorious for its traffic). You’ll be able to get around this famous beach locale with ease, the seasonal businesses are not yet shuttered, and you may even be able to get a better deal on accommodations!

It’s a win all around.

Back in Florida, Pensacola provides September water temperatures in the low to mid 80s, with air temps that reach up into the high 80s. As such, things are going to be perfectly, wonderfully comfortable for swimming well into the latter part of the month. 

Try to make the Pensacola Seafood Festival, which occurs in late September, for a taste of local seafood in the midst of the historic downtown. Additionally, Pensacola Beach’s Bands on the Beach live music series is still running, and the monthly Gallery Night, which is basically the city’s monthly art walk, is still going, too.

You’ll be able to spend your days sprawled out on the hot sand, with intermittent dips in the water, before heading out to enjoy some great eats, art, and local music. What’s not to love?