Is October a good time to visit the Jersey Shore?

October is one of the best times to visit the Jersey Shore. Weather is pleasant (60s-70s), beaches are uncrowded, lodging rates drop 30-50%, and special events like Cape May Victorian Week make it magical. The fall striper run also draws fishing enthusiasts.

Can you swim at the Jersey Shore in October?

Swimming is possible in early October with water temperatures around 65°F, but most beaches no longer have lifeguards. Late October water drops to the upper 50s. Many visitors enjoy beach walks, surfing (wetsuits required), and fishing instead.

What is Cape May Victorian Week?

Victorian Week is Cape May's biggest annual event, held in mid-October. It celebrates the town's Victorian heritage with historic house tours, murder mystery dinners, vintage fashion shows, craft vendors, and the famous Victorian parade.

Is it cheaper to visit the Jersey Shore in October?

Yes! October rates are typically 30-50% lower than peak summer. Many restaurants stay open through October, hotels offer shoulder season specials, and there are no beach badge fees. It's one of the best value times to visit.

October at the Jersey Shore

Uncrowded beaches, fall foliage, Victorian Week, and the legendary striper run. One of the best and most affordable times to visit.

60-70°FAvg Temperature

30-50%Off Peak Rates

PeakStriper Run

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Fall Foliage

Beautiful autumn colors along the coast

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30-50% Off

Lower lodging rates than summer

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No Badge Fees

Free beach access all month

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Striper Run

Best surf fishing of the year

October Week by Week

Week	Weather	Water Temp	Crowds	Highlights
Week 1 Oct 1-7	65-70°F	63-65°F	Low	Still swimmable for the brave Fall colors starting
Week 2 (Columbus Day) Oct 8-14	62-68°F	60-63°F	Low	Victorian Week in Cape May Long weekend crowds
Week 3 Oct 15-21	58-65°F	58-60°F	Low	Peak raptor migration Victorian Week continues
Week 4 (Halloween) Oct 22-31	55-62°F	55-58°F	Low	Halloween celebrations Ghost tours popular

What's Open in October

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Beaches

Open - Free Access

All beaches open with no badge required. No lifeguards. Water is cold but beach walks are beautiful. Bring layers for cool ocean breezes.

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Boardwalks

Weekend Only

Ocean City and Wildwood boardwalks open select weekends in October. Most rides closed. Food stands vary by weather.

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Restaurants

Year-Round Towns Open

Cape May, Asbury Park, and Atlantic City have year-round dining. Some seasonal restaurants close after Columbus Day. Call ahead.

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Hotels

Open - Best Rates

Hotels offer 30-50% off summer rates. Victorian Week in Cape May books up early. Atlantic City has excellent midweek deals.

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Fishing

Prime Season

Fall striper run is the best fishing of the year. Surf fishing excellent at Island Beach State Park, Sandy Hook, and LBI.

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Nature/Wildlife

Peak Migration

Cape May is a world-renowned birding destination in October. Hawk migration, monarch butterflies, and fall shorebirds.

October Events & Activities

Cape May Victorian Week

Cape May's biggest annual event. House tours, murder mysteries, vintage fashion shows, and the famous Victorian parade.

Mid-October (10 days)Cape May

View Complete Guide →

HCANJ Convention

Healthcare Association of NJ annual conference for long-term care professionals. 1,500+ healthcare professionals at Harrah's Waterfront Conference Center.

Mid-OctoberAtlantic City

View Complete Guide →

Fall Striper Run

The legendary striped bass migration brings huge fish close to shore. Best surf fishing of the year.

October-NovemberStatewide

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Cape May Lighthouse Night Climbs

Climb the lighthouse after dark for spectacular views of the Delaware Bay sunset.

Select October datesCape May Point

Halloween Events

Ghost tours in Cape May and Asbury Park. Haunted hayrides. Family-friendly Halloween activities throughout the shore.

Throughout OctoberVarious

Fall Birding at Cape May

October brings massive raptor migration through Cape May. Hawks, eagles, and falcons fill the sky. Cape May Bird Observatory offers guided walks.

Throughout OctoberCape May Point

Best Towns to Visit in October

Cape May

Victorian Week, whale watching, birding migration, and most restaurants stay open.

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Asbury Park

Year-round dining scene, live music venues, Halloween events, and ghost tours.

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Spring Lake

Beautiful fall boardwalk walks, fewer crowds, and elegant B&Bs with off-season rates.

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Ocean City

Boardwalk still active weekends, fall festivals, and family-friendly Halloween events.

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Atlantic City

Casinos and entertainment year-round. Excellent midweek hotel deals. Indoor activities.

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Beach Haven (LBI)

Quiet island atmosphere. Excellent fall fishing. Many restaurants stay open through October.

Learn more →

Plan Your October Trip

Planning a trip to Jersey Shore? Book your accommodations and activities.

Vacation RentalsTours & TicketsFishing Charters

Secure booking • Free cancellation on most reservations

The Fall Striper Run

October kicks off the legendary fall striper run - the best surf fishing of the year. Striped bass migrate south along the coast, feeding heavily before winter. Island Beach State Park, Sandy Hook, and LBI are prime spots.

View our complete fishing guide →

October Bay Adventures

October offers spectacular bay experiences. Barnegat Bay fishing is excellent for flounder and stripers as fish prepare for migration. Kayaking through fall-colored salt marshes is magical, and osprey migration provides great birding. Waters are cooler but still pleasant for paddling on calm days.