Want to Extend the Summer Vibe? Plan a Beachy September Getaway to This Local Destination

Labor Day might be the symbolic end of summer, but for savvy travelers, it’s the best time of year to head down to the shore. The crowds thin out, the air gets crisper, and the sunsets linger a little longer—September is a secret sweet spot for those in the know. With warmer water, less traffic, fewer people, and affordable rentals, the list of pros is strong for post-August getaways.

Driving a little further down Route 1, bypassing bumper-to-bumper traffic and the angst of air travel, brings you to 10 miles of sunny beaches in Ocean City, Maryland—a seaside town that doesn’t take an off-season when it comes to good times. Plus, this year there’s even more reason to go: Ocean City is celebrating its 150th anniversary, lending way to dozens of special events and outdoor fun to mark the milestone.

September and October bring an exciting lineup of events, including historical walking tours, pop-up art displays, live music on the beach, and themed festivals. An inaugural OC Seafood Festival (Sept. 6) promises to showcase Maryland crab in all its most delicious fashions. Expect everything from classic crab cakes to innovative twists by local chefs from favorites like The Shark on the Harbor and Hooked.

If blue crabs aren’t quite your thing, Weezer, Green Day and Lenny Kravitz are headlining the Ocean’s Calling Festival (Sept. 26–28). Both events are right on the waterfront, providing solid jams and idyllic end-of-summer sunsets.

Ocean City’s fall itinerary goes beyond the usual shore activities. For chill vibes, cooler days in September and October offer more open tee times at one of the area’s top-rated golf courses. Pare down your options using this handy tool to build a whole trip around your game. It’ll suggest the best courses and accommodations in the area for the time of year you’re visiting and the number of rounds you’d like to play.

With the hustle of peak season behind you, there’s more time to take in Ocean City’s three-mile boardwalk (consistently voted one of the best in the country). Early mornings are perfect for a peaceful bike ride or a jog, with dozens of brunch options afterward. Grab a fresh-squeezed lemonade at Delaware’s Famous or sample handmade caramel corn at Fisher’s as you stroll past arcades and surf shops.

If you’re not an early riser, you can save your energy for Thrasher’s fries and rides at Jolly Roger Pier—all without waiting in endless lines for your turn. On the bay side, fewer boats on the water make for calmer conditions to enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or kicking up your own waves on a jet ski.

Founded in 1875, Ocean City started as a humble fishing village and has grown into one of the East Coast’s favorite family beaches. In September, it offers the best parts of a beach vacation without the summer-season stress—just close enough for a long weekend, far enough to feel like an escape.

To get started on planning your trip to Ocean City, MD., click here.

This is a paid partnership between Ocean City and Philadelphia Magazine