If you've never experienced the Jersey Shore in September, you're missing out on one of its best-kept secrets. Warm ocean temperatures, refreshing sea breezes, sunny beach days, and smaller crowds make September one of the most beautiful times of year to visit. With children back in school and the summer rush behind us, you'll enjoy a more relaxed pace while still experiencing everything our coastal communities have to offer.
Things to do in September - Looking for inspiration? Browse our Events Calendar and Things to Do pages to discover festivals, outdoor adventures, shopping, dining, and family-friendly activities happening throughout September.
Outdoor Activities
If you love spending time outdoors, September is the perfect season to explore Cape May, Avalon, Stone Harbor and Sea Isle. You can rent bikes and explore the beautiful homes and parks local to our communities. Beachcombing becomes even more rewarding as changing tides, cooler nights, and lighter crowds create better opportunities to discover shells, sea glass, and other ocean treasures.
The nature trails at Cape May Point State Park are always relaxing and offer a plethora of views and the chance to see artists at work as they capture the beauty of the area. While you’re at the park check out the Cape May Lighthouse. Cape May Point is world-renowned for birdwatching, with more than 400 species recorded throughout the year. September begins the peak migration season for raptors, shorebirds, and songbirds. Toward the end of the month, visitors can also witness the incredible Monarch Butterfly migration as thousands prepare for their journey to Mexico.
Festivals and Street Fairs
September is packed with festivals throughout Cape May County.
- Tomato Festival in West Cape May
- Harbor Brew Fest in Cape May
- Oktoberfest in Cape May
- Fall Family Festival in Sea Isle City
- Savor September in Stone Harbor
You’ll find great food, music, vendors and more at these local events all while strolling along in September's alluring weather.
Shopping and Dining
If you enjoy shopping, September is one of the best times to score great bargains throughout our beach towns. Visit our Shopping Guide to discover local boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops. While Stone Harbor and Sea Isle City hold their sidewalk sales in late August, Cape May and Avalon hold theirs in September. The Washington Street Mall Fall Sidewalk Sale in Cape May is held over a 4 day weekend and the End of Summer Shop Hop in Avalon is a 3 day weekend event. Both events feature hundreds of discounted items, making it easy to bring home unique souvenirs and lasting memories.
Whether you’re looking for fine dining, casual dining or family fare you’ll find it in our scenic beach communities. The summer crowds have dissipated making dining at your favorite spots easier without having the typical summer wait times. Whether you're craving Italian, Mexican, Greek, French, fresh seafood, steak, farm-to-table cuisine, classic comfort food, or even gourmet hot dogs, you'll find something to satisfy every appetite. Some restaurants adjust their hours during the “off Season” so be sure to call ahead for their current hours.
Treat Yourself
Before heading home, treat yourself to one last indulgence. Spend the afternoon at a local spa, sample handcrafted chocolates from a specialty shop, enjoy a wine tasting at one of Cape May County's seven wineries, or cool off with homemade ice cream from one of the many beloved shops along the shore. No matter how you choose to spend your September getaway, you'll discover that the Jersey Shore offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and coastal charm. We'd love to help you experience it for yourself.
Browse our weekly and partial-week vacation rentals at TKSIR.com, or give us a call at 609-967-7950 to start planning your September escape. As the song says, "See you in September..." We hope to do just that.
