7 Stunning Beach Towns on the East Coast That Shine Even More in the Fall

While summer is the obvious choice for beach trips, fall offers compelling reasons to head to the coast: numerous festivals, a fresh selection of seasonal dishes like oysters, and fewer crowds, to name just a few.

Even though the water is colder, fall is the ideal season for catching some great waves, as hurricane season brings bigger swells, and birds flock in large numbers—perhaps it’s the perfect moment to dive into that birdwatching hobby you’ve been considering?

If you're looking to extend your summer fun or want to escape the crowds for your next fall vacation, here are seven beach towns that will meet your needs.

1. Cape May, New Jersey

• Average air temperatures (°F): September 60–70 degrees; October 50–60 degrees; November 40–50 degrees

For those who can tell a sanderling from a semipalmated sandpiper—or hope to master such birding skills—Cape May is the ideal destination. Located on a peninsula at the confluence of Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, this town is a hotspot for bird-watching in the fall, even hosting an annual bird-watching festival. (In 2024, the festival will take place from October 17 to 20.) Both amateur and professional birders flock to the Cape May Bird Observatory during the season, eager to catch a glimpse of rare species like the Swainson’s hawk and the rough-legged hawk.

Although the water temperature dips into the 60s by October, there are still many reasons to hit the beach: this town boasts the second highest number of Victorian homes in the U.S. (after San Francisco), allowing for over two miles of picturesque beach walks while you admire the stunning architecture.

Recommended accommodation: Beach Club on Madison Avenue

The Beach Club on Madison Avenue is a boutique hotel exclusively for adults, situated just a 10-minute stroll from the beach. It features suites and studios equipped with kitchenettes, rainfall showerheads, and quartz vanities.

2. Nags Head, North Carolina

• Average air temperatures (°F): September 70s to low 80s; October 60s to low 70s; November 50s to low 60s

Charming beach towns are scattered across more than 130 miles of barrier islands known as the Outer Banks (commonly referred to as OBX). From the tranquil Duck to the surf-ready waves favored by seasoned surfers in Buxton, these towns provide numerous options for a family-friendly vacation during the shoulder season.

Nags Head is a fantastic all-around choice, thanks to its central location among the Outer Banks beach towns and a wealth of activities. You can explore the tallest sand dunes on the East Coast and enjoy dining at fantastic spots like Fish Heads Bar & Grill (be sure to try the fries!) and Nags Head Pizza Company.

Recommended accommodation: Nags Head Airbnb

Many visitors prefer vacation rentals or Airbnbs when visiting the Outer Banks. For a quaint experience, this Airbnb on Nags Head’s “Cottage Row” provides private, direct access to the beach—perfect for those picturesque sunrise strolls along the shore.

3. Melbourne Beach, Florida

• Average temperature (°F): September/October in the 70s to 80s; November in the 60s to 70s

If you're looking to prolong your summer instead of welcoming fall, Florida is the obvious destination. This haven for snowbirds offers sunshine all year round, and many of its coastal towns maintain a summery atmosphere throughout the seasons. Melbourne, located an hour's drive southeast of Orlando on the state’s “Space Coast,” is a prime example. The waters remain comfortably swimmable in the mid-70s to mid-80s during fall, and the town's atmosphere is peaceful and tranquil due to its relative seclusion from larger cities. Depending on your timing, you might enjoy the town’s food and wine festival or the art and craft expo.

Where to stay: Element Melbourne Oceanfront

The modern Element Melbourne Oceanfront opened its doors in the summer of 2024, marking the first oceanfront property in the Element brand. Guests can enjoy amenities such as complimentary bicycles and a saline swimming pool.

4. Charlestown, Rhode Island

• Average air temperature (°F): September 50s to 70s; October 40s to 60s; November 30s to 50s

Nestled on Rhode Island’s southern shore, Charlestown has earned a spot on Dinogo’s list of the USA’s most charming small towns thanks to its quaint coastal village ambiance. Culinary delights await—be sure to sample the Indian fry bread at Sly Fox Den Too. The chef, Sherry Pocknett, gained recognition as the first Indigenous woman to win a James Beard Award in 2023. Nature enthusiasts can observe fall bird migrations at the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge, and for families visiting in October, the kid-friendly Applumpkin festival at Ninigret Park features activities like a scarecrow building contest, corn hole games, and pumpkin painting.

Accommodation: The General Stanton Inn

Established in 1740, The General Stanton Inn has hosted notable figures such as George Washington and Theodore Roosevelt. This 15-room inn underwent renovations in 2022, preserving its historic charm while adding modern amenities like air conditioning in both the guest rooms and shared spaces.

5. Folly Beach, South Carolina

• Average temperature (°F): September 70s; October 60s to low 70s; November 50s to 60s

Just a 20-minute drive from Charleston, Folly Beach stands out as a vibrant beach destination that doesn’t slow down in the off season. This South Carolina locale buzzes year-round, attracting visitors drawn to its surf-friendly waves. However, if surfing isn’t your thing, the water remains comfortably in the 70s Fahrenheit well into October, allowing for enjoyable swims.

Embrace your inner mermaid to potentially win the town’s costume contest during the annual Mermaids & Mateys festival held every September. Folly Beach also boasts the second-largest fishing pier on the East Coast, an ideal spot for catching redfish and black drum during this season.

Accommodation: Beachside Boutique Inn

Rooms at the Beachside Boutique Inn feature quirky names like “that 70s Room” and “Tree House Room,” complete with matching funky decor such as peace sign wall art and beds crafted from local tree branches. The property consists of four buildings: a two-story house with private rooms, a single-story cottage with themed rooms, and two private cottages equipped with kitchens.

6. Chincoteague, Virginia

• Average air temperature (°F): September 70s; October 60s to low 70s; November 50s to 60s

The presence of ponies draws many to Chincoteague, the gateway to Virginia’s Assateague Island National Seashore. This region is home to about 150 wild ponies that graze on the land and occasionally swim in the Atlantic. While many flock to see these majestic creatures during the summer's annual Chincoteague Island Pony Swim, opportunities also arise in spring and fall for health checks, when the ponies are gathered in the south pen by the Woodland Trail parking lot, offering visitors ample chances for memorable photos with these horses, who stay overnight.

Autumn visitors can still enjoy outdoor activities like canoeing and kayaking in the area's marshes (consider camping here for a chance to gaze at starry skies). In October, Chincoteague welcomes the oyster season with its Chincoteague Oyster Festival, featuring bivalves served raw, steamed, fried—you name it.

Where to stay: Refuge Inn

Refuge Inn offers 70 rooms and suites along with a beach reads lending library. Each room is equipped with a private patio or balcony, a refrigerator, and a flatscreen TV.

7. Provincetown, Massachusetts

• Average air temperature (°F): Sept. mid-50s to low 70s; Oct. mid-50s to low 60s; Nov. 40s to low 50s

Located at the northern tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown attracts summer visitors with its vibrant arts scene and LGBTQ+ community. The fun continues well into the fall, with shops and restaurants along Commercial Street remaining open until the end of October. The decrease in visitors means plenty of sales and hotel availability, along with peaceful beach strolls.

Fall is also packed with events, one of the most notable being Trans Week (previously known as Fantasia Fair), which is the world's longest-running transgender event. This annual celebration has been part of the town since 1975 and features conferences, fashion shows, and a cabaret/talent show.

Where to stay: Pilgrim House

This nearly 215-year-old boutique hotel is just steps from Commercial Street. With white linens and warm-toned accents, the rooms exude a cozy atmosphere. The property also features EV chargers for those planning to embark on a road trip.