A wonderful, defining attribute of Shore towns is that they remain lively well past the peak summer season—especially with so many holiday festivities on the horizon. While you might not want to take a dip in the ocean or lay in the sand after autumn, you can enjoy the boardwalks, take in the history, experience arts and culture, and attend events without the congested crowds.
“Every season on Long Beach Island offers something unique. Summer is the most popular, with warm beach days, bustling events and plenty of family activities. Many, however, would argue that early fall—affectionately known as ‘local summer,’ is the very best time,” says Jules Christopherson, destination marketing manager of Long Beach Island (LBI) Chamber of Commerce. “The weather is still beautiful, the ocean’s warm and the beaches are open, but without the peak summer crowds. Even through winter, the island holds a special charm. It takes on a small-town feel again, where year-round businesses remain open and locals gather in a quieter, more intimate setting.”
The tourist-driven price hikes are also lower for lodging, with off-season deals to be found at local businesses. A few categorically summertime businesses close for the season, but many remain open and welcoming to locals.
“We do have a few ‘season-only’ businesses [like] the ice cream places and one or two of the summer-life boutiques that focus in selling primarily bikinis, but a vast majority of our businesses are open 12 months of the year and very happy to welcome visitors with a smile and great off-season deals,” says Ed Berger, president of the Margate Business Association.
The beauty of the Shore is incredible to experience with winter and fall ambiance. Visitors can watch the towns transform with the seasons. Diane F. Wieland, director of Cape May County’s Department of Tourism’s, explains that Cape May is a prime destination to view migratory birds and butterflies during autumn.
“While summer is traditionally the most popular time to visit Cape May County with its beautiful beaches, boutique shopping and vibrant family-friendly atmosphere, many seasoned travelers and locals consider fall to be the hidden gem of the year, especially in the city of Cape May. Autumn brings a unique charm to the area. The weather remains pleasantly mild, perfect for strolling along the beach or exploring the historic streets without the summer crowds,” says Wieland. “The pace is more relaxed, making it an ideal season for those looking to unwind, enjoy boutique shopping, savor local cuisine and experience the town’s cultural offerings in a more intimate setting.”
The serene environment throughout fall and winter includes vibrant, town-wide bursts of excitement—but these events are more peaceful and don’t involve the bustling summertime crowds.
“Fall has a different energy with a full calendar of special events and festivals—from food and wine weekends to Victorian-themed celebrations, theater, concerts that include a jazz festival, girl getaways and Oktoberfest—both locals and visitors [are attracted to Cape May] throughout the season, creating a festive atmosphere,” says Wieland. “Many local businesses embrace the extended tourism season by offering seasonal menus, holiday-themed merchandise and festive events. … The town also comes alive with special events like Halloween happenings, Thanksgiving dinners and Cape May’s famous Victorian Christmas celebrations, which keep the energy vibrant and the storefronts beautifully decorated.”
Town happenings are given exquisite attention to detail, extensive planning and renowned success year after year. One such event is the Annual LBI FLY Invitational Kite Festival, a colorful event that encompasses community and art. This year, it will take place on Oct. 10-11 in Ship Bottom.
“This signature event features massive kite displays filling the sky, family-friendly activities and a festive atmosphere that draws crowds from across the region,” explains Christopherson.
In addition to the aforementioned Cape May events, the destination town is gearing up for numerous others throughout October, November and December. It recently hosted the internet-viral mystical festival, Lunar Faire, and a sunset dolphin watch party. These are not only a testament to the wide variety of interests represented in the community, but to the surplus of new opportunities.
Other notable Cape May events include the Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey Oct. 18-19; an Outdoor Craft & Collectibles Show Nov. 1 and 8; An Old-Fashioned Christmas Exhibit beginning Nov. 29. Spooky season is illuminated with month-long Halloween Happenings like historic ghost tours. Thanksgiving time events encapsulate that indescribable transition from fall to winter.
Frequent visitors are familiar with the fact that each Shore town has its own unique charm. Especially without the excessive traffic and out-of-town visitors, the connectivity between each town becomes even more streamlined. With shorter wait times at restaurants and attractions, multiple areas can be explored in one day.
The next stop to the north is Wildwood, which will be hosting its own Oktoberfest during the first two weekends of October, and the 15th annual Bonfire on the Beach Oct. 11. Stone Harbor is gearing up for its Nov. 28-29 holiday weekend, with Black Friday fun and the Annual Christmas Parade on Saturday. Just around the corner is Avalon’s Arts & Seafood Festival on Oct. 11, and Trunk-or-Treat Oct. 25. Sea Isle City’s Harvest Classic will commence on Oct. 18, and its Winter Village on Nov. 28-29 as well. Ocean City will welcome the autumn season on Oct. 11 with a Fall Block Party, and the winter season on Nov. 15 during Winterfest by the Sea.
Details about these events and even more options to explore are available on each town’s chamber of commerce website.
Whether taking a trip to the Shore in the coming weeks, or planning an unorthodox wintertime escape, families, friends, couples and solo travelers are sure to experience the warmth of new memories that will last a lifetime. It’s likely that first-time, off-season visitors will discover their new favorite time to go to the Shore.
“I think everyone you ask this question of [what the best season to visit Margate is] will resoundingly reply that the fall here is nothing short of fabulous; beautiful days, cooler evenings and a little easier to get a seat at your favorite restaurant,” says Berger. “Add in Fall Funfest at the Bay, and you’ve got the World Series, the Super Bowl and your birthday fun all rolled up into one.”
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Published and copyrighted in South Jersey Magazine, Volume 22, Issue 6 (September 2025)
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