Over 45% of Americans say autumn is their favorite season of the year, which is nearly 2x more than summer, at 24%. While beach season is generally considered summer, going to the beach in the fall/autumn can be a really enjoyable experience. Fall brings cooler weather, smaller crowds, and beautiful scenery.
Here’s Why Going to The Beach in Fall/Autumn Should Be Your Next Getaway
1. Less crowded beaches
Fall brings a welcome respite from packed shorelines. You’ll find more space to relax without feeling cramped. Visitor numbers drop significantly, giving beachgoers room to breathe.
| Season | Out of 129 Million Visitors |
| Summer | 53% |
| Fall | 18% |
With fewer people around, you can spread out comfortably. No more squeezing between umbrella poles or dodging frisbees. Enjoy the sound of waves without constant chatter nearby.
- Set up blankets and chairs with ample space
- Find secluded spots for reading or napping
- Play beach games without disrupting others
2. Fall weather
Autumn brings milder temperatures, making beach days more pleasant. You won’t sweat through your sunscreen or burn your feet on hot sand.
| Weather Factor | Fall vs. Summer |
| Average High Temp | 15-20°F cooler |
| Wind | Early Northeasterly, drier |
Cooler water temperatures create a refreshing experience. You can swim in without gasping from the cold or feeling like you’re in a bathtub. The crisp air invigorates your senses, making walks along the shore more enjoyable.
- Pack a light jacket for evening strolls
- Enjoy beach bonfires without overheating
- Try fall surfing with less crowded waves
3. Wildlife viewing
Fall transforms beaches into wildlife hotspots. Migrating animals use shorelines as pit stops, offering unique viewing opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled for fascinating creatures.
Offshore, lucky visitors might spot humpback or minke whales breaching. Their massive forms create unforgettable silhouettes against the horizon. Bring binoculars for a closer look at these gentle giants.
Shorebirds flock to beaches in fall, preparing for southern journeys. Watch for:
- Sandpipers scurrying along the water’s edge
- Plovers probing wet sand for tasty morsels
- Majestic herons and egrets stalking the shallows
Marine mammals also make appearances. Seals often lounge on rocks, basking in the autumn sun. Their playful antics provide endless entertainment for beachgoers.
For a truly special sight, look for sea turtles. Green and loggerhead turtles sometimes visit beaches for nesting surveys. Witnessing these ancient creatures up close is awe-inspiring.
4. Foraging
Autumn storms uncover treasures for beachcombers to discover. Low tides reveal hidden gems waiting to be found. Visitors can collect natural souvenirs to remember their trip.
Common finds include:
- Olive shells: Smooth, elongated shells in various colors
- Moon snails: Large, round shells with a distinctive hole
- Sand dollars: Flat, round skeletons of sea urchins
- Pen shells: Fan-shaped shells with pointed ends
Sea glass hunting has become a popular pastime. Waves polish discarded glass into smooth, frosted pieces, which range in color from common white to rare red.
| Sea Glass Color | Rarity |
| White, Green, Brown | Common |
| Blue, Purple, Red | Rare |
Driftwood offers artistic possibilities for creative beachgoers. Storms wash ashore unique pieces shaped by nature. These make great decorations or craft materials.
5. Photography
Fall’s changing light creates ideal conditions for beach photography. Lower sun angles produce softer, more flattering illumination, and long shadows add depth to landscape shots.
Tips for autumn beach photography:
- Use golden hour light for warm, rich tones
- Experiment with long exposures to blur water movement
- Capture silhouettes against colorful sunset skies
- Look for reflections in tidal pools
Subjects to consider photographing:
- Migratory birds in flight or feeding
- Wave patterns in wet sand
- Beachgoers bundled up against autumn breezes
- Moody seascapes with stormy skies
6. Camping
Fall camping offers a peaceful beach experience. Many parks extend their season through early November, allowing visitors to enjoy nature without summer’s crowds and heat.
| Campsite Type | Average Cost |
| Basic Tent Site | $40-55 per night |
| RV Site with Hookups | $55-60 per night |
Benefits of autumn beach camping:
- Cooler temperatures for comfortable sleeping
- Fewer insects than in the summer months
- Better chances of securing first-come, first-served sites
- Opportunity to see fall migrations
Evening activities create a cozy atmosphere. Campfires ward off autumn chills. S’mores taste even better with a hint of sea salt. Stargazing improves with clearer fall skies.
Camping provides a chance to unplug and recharge. The rhythmic sound of waves lulls campers to sleep. Days spent exploring tidal zones and hiking dunes invigorate the spirit.
7. Seafood
Fall brings a bounty of fresh seafood to coastal areas. Cooler waters yield flavourful catches for seafood lovers. Local restaurants showcase seasonal specialties on their menus.
| Seafood | Peak Season |
| Crab | August – November |
| Clams | September – November |
| Oysters | September – April |
| Lobster | September – November |
New England and Mid-Atlantic regions shine for fall seafood. Visitors can enjoy fresh-caught delicacies before winter sets in, and coastal towns often host seafood festivals during this time.
Popular fall seafood dishes include:
- Steamed blue crabs with Old Bay seasoning
- Creamy New England clam chowder
- Raw oysters on the half-shell
- Butter-poached lobster rolls
Many species go “off-season” in winter. Fall offers a last chance to savor peak flavors, and diners can taste the difference in just-caught seafood.
What Fall-Autumn Activities to Enjoy at the Beach?
Autumn transforms beaches into playgrounds for diverse activities. Cooler weather and smaller crowds create ideal conditions, and visitors find new ways to appreciate coastal environments.
Popular fall beach activities include:
- Beachcombing for shells and sea glass
- Birdwatching for migratory shorebirds
- Whale watching from coastal bluffs
- Exploring tidal pools at low tide
- Flying kites in brisk autumn breezes
- Painting coastal landscapes en plein air
- Picnicking with scenic ocean views
- Playing frisbee on open stretches of sand
Evening activities take on a cozy atmosphere. Beach bonfires become popular gathering spots. Visitors roast marshmallows and sip warm drinks. The sound of waves provides a soothing backdrop.
Nighttime offers its own autumn beach experiences. Stargazing improves with darker skies and less haze. Amateur astronomers can spot constellations and planets.
| Time of Day | Fall Beach Activities |
| Morning | Sunrise walks, yoga, shell collecting |
| Afternoon | Kite flying, painting, wildlife watching |
| Evening | Bonfires, sunset picnics, stargazing |
Fall beaches cater to various interests. Nature lovers observe migrating wildlife. Artists capture moody coastal scenes. Families enjoy the outdoor time before winter arrives. The changing season brings new perspectives to familiar shorelines.
5 Important Items to Take to The Beach For Fall Picnic Plans
Autumn beach outings need different gear than summer visits. Cooler weather and changing conditions demand careful preparation. These items ensure a cozy and pleasant experience.
1. Turkish beach towels
Turkish beach towels outperform standard bath towels for fall beaches. They dry quickly in cooler air and are thick enough to provide comfort on chilly sand.
- More absorbent than regular towels
- Dry faster in autumn breezes
- Provide extra warmth when sitting
- Take up less space in beach bags
2. Warm layers
Fall temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. Layering clothes allows you to adjust to changing conditions. Bring various options for comfort.
| Layer Type | Examples |
| Base Layer | T-shirt, long-sleeve shirt |
| Mid Layer | Sweater, fleece jacket |
| Outer Layer | Windbreaker, raincoat |
Choose fabrics that retain warmth when damp. Wool and synthetic materials work well. Avoid cotton, which stays cold when wet.
3. Picnic blanket
A sturdy blanket serves multiple purposes on fall beaches. It creates a sand-free zone for relaxing, and picnics stay organized on its surface.
- Look for water-resistant materials
- Choose a size big enough for your group
- Consider blankets with carrying straps
- Dark colors hide sand and stains better
4. Thermos
Hot beverages provide comfort on cool beach days. A good thermos keeps drinks warm for hours. Pack favorites to sip throughout your visit.
| Beverage | Benefits |
| Coffee | Warmth, energy boost |
| Hot cocoa | A sweet treat, nostalgic comfort |
| Soup | Filling, savory option |
Choose a thermos with a wide mouth for easy filling. Insulated cups help retain heat while drinking.
5. Umbrella
Fall weather can change quickly at the beach. An umbrella offers protection from sun, wind, and rain. It shields food and electronics from unexpected elements.
- Beach umbrellas anchor in the sand for stability
- Compact travel umbrellas work for sudden showers
- UV-protective umbrellas offer sun safety
- Large golf umbrellas cover more area
Check weather forecasts before your trip. Bring appropriate umbrella types for predicted conditions. A versatile option covers various scenarios.
