Jersey Shore in September
Warm water, empty beaches, no badge fees, and hotel rates 30-50% lower than summer. The shore's best-kept secret.
Warmest Water
Ocean hits peak temps (70-74°F) in early September
Free Beaches
No beach badges required after Labor Day
No Crowds
Summer crowds disappear after Labor Day
Lower Prices
Hotels 30-50% cheaper than peak season
September Week by Week
| Week | Weather | Water Temp | Crowds | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Labor Day Weekend (First Week) Aug 30 - Sep 2, 2025 | 78-82°F | 72-74°F | High |
|
Week 1 (Post-Labor Day) Sep 3-7 | 75-80°F | 71-73°F | Low |
|
Week 2 Sep 8-14 | 74-78°F | 70-72°F | Low |
|
Week 3 Sep 15-21 | 70-76°F | 68-71°F | Low |
|
Week 4 Sep 22-30 | 68-74°F | 65-68°F | Low |
|
What's Open in September
Beaches
Open - Free AccessAll beaches open with no badge required. Lifeguards typically on duty weekends through mid-September. Facilities may have reduced hours.
Boardwalks
Open WeekendsWildwood, Ocean City, and Seaside Heights boardwalks open weekends through September. Some rides close after Labor Day. Food stands vary.
Restaurants
Mostly OpenMost restaurants remain open through September, some with reduced days. Cape May restaurants stay open year-round. Check hours before visiting.
Hotels
Open - Lower RatesHotels remain open with significantly lower rates (30-50% off peak season). Many offer last-minute deals. Vacation rentals shift to weekend minimums.
Fishing
Prime SeasonSeptember is excellent for fishing. Striped bass migration begins, flounder run continues. Charter boats operate regular schedules.
Nature/Wildlife
Peak SeasonFall bird migration makes September prime birding season, especially at Cape May. Whale watching continues. State parks fully open.
September Events & Activities
Sea.Hear.Now Festival
Asbury Park's signature music and surf festival. Major headliners, beach vibes, and a celebration of surf culture on the beach and boardwalk.
Irish Fall Festival
Free admission, live Irish music, food vendors. One of the largest Irish festivals on the East Coast, celebrating heritage and culture.
NJ FMBA Convention
Annual convention for NJ firefighters and fire/EMS professionals at the Hard Rock Hotel. 2,000+ firefighters from across the state.
Fall Bay Fishing
Flounder run peaks as fish prepare for fall migration. Striped bass begin their southward journey. Excellent charter and bay fishing.
Fall Bird Migration
Cape May becomes a birding hotspot as raptors, songbirds, and shorebirds migrate south. Cape May Bird Observatory offers guided walks.
Best Towns to Visit in September
Cape May
Year-round destination with excellent restaurants, Victorian charm, and fall birding. Most businesses stay open.
Learn more →Ocean City
Boardwalk open weekends through September. Family-friendly with most attractions operating. Great beaches.
Learn more →Wildwood
Free beaches year-round! Morey's Piers open select weekends. Doo-Wop motels offer great fall rates.
Learn more →Asbury Park
Restaurant and bar scene thrives year-round. Music venues active. Great for adult getaways.
Learn more →Beach Haven (LBI)
Quieter vibe perfect for relaxation. Many restaurants stay open. Great surfing conditions in fall.
Learn more →Spring Lake
Peaceful beaches, no boardwalk crowds. Victorian B&Bs offer fall packages. Excellent for couples.
Learn more →Plan Your September Trip
Planning a trip to Jersey Shore? Book your accommodations and activities.
Secure booking • Free cancellation on most reservations
Why September Water is the Warmest
It takes time for the ocean to absorb summer heat. While air temperatures peak in July, ocean water continues warming through August and reaches peak temperature in early September. That's why September swimming can feel warmer than June or early July!
September Bay Adventures
September is ideal for bay activities. Barnegat Bay and Great Bay offer warm, calm waters perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Blue claw crabbing remains excellent through mid-September, and flounder fishing peaks as fish prepare for fall migration.
September Insider Tips
Best Days
- • Weekdays are incredibly quiet - you may have beaches to yourself
- • Book the Wednesday after Labor Day for the best balance
- • Weekends are busier but still much calmer than summer
What to Bring
- • Light jacket for cooler evenings
- • Water shoes (jellyfish more common in warm water)
- • Binoculars for bird watching
- • Cash - some seasonal businesses are cash-only
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Fall Surfing Gear
September offers the warmest water (70-74°F) and solid fall swells. A 3/2mm wetsuit is perfect for these conditions.
Soft-Top Longboard (8-9ft)
Forgiving, stable, catches small waves. Perfect for beginners.
Wetsuit (3/2mm)
Summer suit for June-September. 3mm body, 2mm arms.
Wetsuit (4/3mm)
Fall suit for October-November and late spring. 4mm body, 3mm arms.
Wetsuit (5/4mm)
Winter suit for December-March. 5mm body, 4mm arms for cold NJ water.
Surf Booties
Keep feet warm in cold water. 5mm-7mm for winter surfing.
Surf Gloves
Essential for winter surfing. 3mm-5mm keeps hands functional.
Surf Hood
Keep your head warm in winter. Works with non-hooded wetsuits.
Surf Leash
Matches your board length. Don't cheap out - safety first.
Rash Guard
Sun protection and prevents board rash.
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