7 US beaches for an unexpected fall vacation
Though American beaches are busiest during the summer, the peak travel season can bring challenges that can quickly turn a leisure trip from relaxing to stressful.
This summer, temperatures across the country soared to scorching, record-high levels, making outdoor activities uncomfortable and unsafe. Crowds, too, are a perennial issue, as summer is when families with school-aged children plan their vacations — and the surge in demand means higher prices for hotels and flights. If these things aren’t enough to deal with, July and August are also prime months for flight delays and cancellations.
Fall offers an underrated opportunity to take advantage of your favorite beaches nationwide with more ease, comfort and affordability. Whether your idea of a vacation this time of year involves sun-drenched swims or strolling along a quiet coastline all bundled up, here are seven of the best U.S. beaches to visit this fall.
Note that Hurricane season in Florida and North Carolina runs through the end of November. For information on how to safely plan a trip, refer to our guide to the top travel mistakes to avoid during hurricane season.
Crystal Cove State Park, California
Declared the best beach in California this year by the California State Parks Foundation, Orange County’s Crystal Cove is home to a roughly three-mile stretch of sandy coastline punctuated with rocky tide pools and sandstone bluffs that feel quintessential California. (The local favorite is Moro Beach, Crystal Cove’s southernmost beach.)
Average daytime highs hover in the mid- to high 70s in September and October, providing an opportune time to swim, surf, or just lounge around in relative quiet. Beyond its beaches, Crystal Cove has 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness, giving hikers, backpackers and campers ample room to take in the stunning views while spotting native flora and fauna.
TPG tip: Prominently set above the Pacific coastline, The Resort at Pelican Hill is one of Orange County’s most luxurious stays. Drawing inspiration from the Italian Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, the 504-acre resort features residential-like bungalows and villas, two Tom Fazio-designed golf courses, the iconic Colosseum Pool (done up with over a million hand-cut glass tiles), a tranquil spa, and several enticing restaurants and bars. In September, accommodations are available from $865 or 114,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Waimanalo Beach, Hawaii
Marked by powdery-soft sand, crystal-clear water and a blissfully secluded feel, Waimanalo Beach is Oahu’s longest beach. It’s also one of the island’s most beloved, as it’s well-suited for all kinds of outdoor pursuits, from sunbathing to stand-up paddleboarding. Since the weather on the island is generally mild and tropical year-round, there really isn’t a bad time to visit. But if you’re seeking a quieter and more affordable vacation, consider September and October in Hawaii’s shoulder season.
Related: The best time to visit Hawaii for good weather, smaller crowds, deals and more
Since Hawaii has countless world-class beaches, why not island-hop to make the most of a fall vacation here? In addition to offering many flights within Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines earlier this year started accepting surfboards, bicycles and other sports equipment as standard checked baggage.
TPG tip: There are no points hotels directly on Waimanalo Beach, but Honolulu’s resorts are a 30-minute drive away. Set in the Waikiki Beach Walk complex, the 38-floor Ka La'i Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts has it all: super-spacious rooms and suites, many with modern amenities like fully-equipped kitchens and washer-dryer units; a convenient address close to popular attractions; and one of Honolulu’s best breakfast buffets. The hotel will be even more appealing when the phased renovation by Brian O'Sullivan Studio wraps next spring. In September, rooms are available from $496 per night, or 110,000 Hilton Honors points.
Key Biscayne, Florida
South Beach attracts its fair share of out-of-towners seeking sun and sand in Miami, but the area can feel a bit rowdy — that’s when Key Biscayne comes in. The local community cherishes this five-mile-long barrier island just minutes from downtown Miami for its tranquil vibes.
Here, you have everything you need for a warm-weather fall escape, from kayaking in the mangrove wetlands to visiting Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park’s historic Cape Florida Lighthouse to swimming at the beach. One of the best spots is Crandon Beach, a palm-fringed, two-mile stretch of soft sand and calm, shallow waters.
TPG tip: While the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami, is closed for renovations through mid-December 2025, many hotels are just a 15-minute drive away in downtown Miami’s Brickell neighborhood.
East Miami has always had top-notch amenities, like a lush outdoor pool with cabanas and Beast (Body by East) — a massive fitness center stocked with the latest equipment. But its recent revamp of its three restaurants and bars (Quinto, Sugar, Tea Room) has cemented it as one of the most delicious hotels in town. Nightly rates in September start at $303. Book through American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts to receive daily breakfast for two, late checkout and more.
East End Beach, Maine
The only public beach in Portland, Maine, is just a 15-minute stroll from downtown. East End Beach provides a scenic perch for panoramic views of Casco Bay and neighboring islands like Peaks Island, Great Diamond Island and Little Diamond Island.
Though this time of year is too brisk for a dip in the ocean, it is ideal for kayaking, ambling along the pebbly beach with your dog — some areas even permit furry companions to be off-leash under voice control — and gazing at the kaleidoscopic fall foliage, which typically peaks in mid- to late-October.
TPG tip: From the organic sheets topping the beds in the energy-efficient rooms to the restaurants running on electricity instead of gas, the West End’s Longfellow Hotel practices what it preaches regarding sustainability. Thanks to Hilton's partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World, overnight stays in September start at $401 or 95,000 Hilton Honors points.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Located approximately 80 miles west of Portland, Oregon, Cannon Beach is renowned for its singular and stirring landscape. (You may recognize it from movies like “The Goonies” and “Point Break”.) The coastline is long and pristine, and Haystock Rock, a volcanic monolith that towers over the beach, is one of Oregon’s most recognizable landmarks.
Despite its year-round appeal, Cannon Beach is especially enchanting in autumn, which locals call “Magic Season.” The beaches are secluded, and there are more chances to see wildlife like Roosevelt elk and sea lions that come out when there are fewer crowds.
TPG tip: Even though you can redeem points at the Holiday Inn or Best Western 15 minutes north in Seaside, you’ll want to splurge locally in Cannon Beach.
Opened in 1993 and still run by the founding family, Stephanie Inn feels more like a luxurious beach house than your standard hotel. It offers cozy accommodations with mountain or ocean views, botanical spa treatments and elevated dining prepared with local ingredients. Rooms in September start at $669 per night.
Kitty Hawk, North Carolina
The Outer Banks are a 200-mile stretch of barrier islands and coastal terrain off the North Carolina coast, stretching from Back Bay, Virginia, to Cape Lookout, North Carolina. Its wonderfully wild landscape reflects the destination’s dedication to preserving its diverse wildlife and vulnerable ecosystems.
Come fall, the daytime highs range between the low 70s and low 80s, making the water comfortable enough for all kinds of recreation. If it’s great surf you’re after, head to Kitty Hawk’s beaches, which are famous for their consistent and powerful swells.
TPG tip: Recently renovated, Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks/Kitty Hawk has a beachfront location and spacious accommodations. Nightly rates in September start at $158 per night, or 52,000 Hilton Honors points.
Related: A movie and TV lovers road trip through coastal North Carolina
La Jolla Cove, California
Consistently ranked among the top beaches in America, La Jolla Cove is a small, protected beach dramatically cradled by sandstone cliffs about a 20-minute drive north of downtown San Diego.
While the actual stretch of beach skews small, its extraordinary natural beauty and abundant wildlife-spotting opportunities — you’ll likely encounter garibaldi (California’s bright orange state fish), leopard sharks and sea lions while snorkeling and scuba-diving — warrant a visit in the fall. Even better? The water hits its warmest temperatures (low 70s) in early September, so you can jump right in.
TPG tip: Fresh off a 2024 renovation, the Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton, has a year-round heated pool and a penthouse-level restaurant with sunset views. September rates start at $209 or 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
For a convenient place to stay downtown, the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina has rooms in September that start at $286 per night, or 44,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
Related reading:
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| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
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Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.