If you’re looking to grab that last bit of Vitamin D before autumn arrives, consider heading to one of these five beaches. September brings a hiatus in travel between the busy summer months and hectic holiday travel season, making it a great time to take advantage of fewer crowds, great weather, and lower prices. So pack your sunscreen and savor every last bit of summer.
The Big Island, Hawaii
Although summer in Hawaii is waning, temperatures still soar in the mid-’80s during the day and ’70s at night. Because crowds decrease after Labor Day, you’ll find better rates on hotels and airfare. Aside from breathtaking beaches, September showcases two big festivals. The Hawaii Island Festival which runs all month, features a look into the heritage, history, and culture of the Big Island with food, dance, music, and art every day of the month. A Taste of the Hawaiian Range is the Big Islands premier agricultural festival celebrated with food producers and chefs honoring the Big Island.
Baia do Sancho, Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
Consistently voted one of the best beaches in the world, the UNESCO Natural World Heritage site was Brazil’s first Marine Park. The archipelago of volcanic islands lies on the island of Fernando de Noronha. It’s about an hour flight from the mainland of Brazil and can only be reached by boat or climbing down steep stairs, but we promise it’s worth the effort. Especially in September when temperatures stay between 77 and 89 degrees.
Caladesi Island State Park, Dunedin/Clearwater, Florida
Dubbed “paradise” by beachgoers, and gaining a spot on Dr. Beach’s best beaches in the US, Caladesi Island is truly one of the few untouched beaches left. There are two ways to access the park: private boat or the Caladesi Island Ferry, which operates out of Honeymoon Island State Park. Kayak through the mangroves, relax along pristine beaches or hike through fragrant pines and hundred-year-old live oaks. With warm waters and temperatures in the ’80s, spend September in a hidden paradise.
Palm Beach, Aruba
September is still considered hurricane season for much of the Caribbean, but because Aruba lies well outside the hurricane belt, visiting Palm Beach during September means better prices and calmer trade winds. There’s plenty to do on the two-mile stretch of beach from parasailing and snorkeling to leisurely lunches at the Pelican Pier Bar. Luxury accommodations, such as the Ritz-Carlton and fabulous nightlife, makes Palm Beach the perfect September getaway.
Matira Beach, Bora Bora
If you can manage to sneak away for the granddaddy of all trips, this is your bucket list destination. Matira Beach is one of the only public beaches on Bora Bora’s main island and typically referred to as the most beautiful beach in the world. A kaleidoscope of colors greet you: bright blue waters, turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches, and emerald palms, creating an island paradise. And with its gently sloping beaches graduating into the sea, not only is Matira Beach an excellent choice for kids and families, but it lends way to fantastic snorkeling. During low tide, you can wade out to the barrier reef.
So, say goodbye to summer and hello to September at one of the best beaches in the world.
