Nothing against the classic American summer vacay or anything, but September is a wildly underrated month to take a beach trip.
As coastal towns transition into the off-season, you'll be paying winter prices for summer temperatures.
For some inspiration on the best beaches to hit, we asked our friends at TripAdvisor Rentals to run some numbers and find us the areas with the most dramatic price drops if you were to book for September rather than August, comparing average weekly rates for a two-bedroom rental.
Not only that, we looked for spots with attractions and amenities that are best enjoyed with far fewer people around. Everyone's in school, so spread out, take all the sand you need.
SEE ALSO: Why it seems like everyone else can afford the things you can't
1. Pawleys Island, South Carolina
Average weekly September rental: $1,157
Off-season savings: 32%
It's exceedingly tough to pick just one barrier island to visit in Carolina's laid-back Lowcountry, but if a nap in a rope hammock, sunsets over the creek, and some damned delicious seafood are among your top priorities, check out Pawleys Island.
The tiny town of PI remains "arrogantly shabby" year-round, and September will treat you right with warm water, a wide, sparsely populated beach, and far less scandalous prices. Historic houses here date back to the late 1700s, and the area offers some impressive dining and golf courses. Up the road, Huntington Beach State Park is one of the best bird-watching spots in the state, and the must-visit Brookgreen Gardens features grand sculptures and a surprisingly diverse zoo.
Nights are best spent tapping along to some local blues band at the PIT (Pawleys Island Tavern), which you'll find hiding in the trees down a pothole-ridden drive off Highway 17.
2. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
September weekly average: $2,305
Off-season savings: 22%
Summering on the Vineyard is typically reserved for people whose car payment is more than your mortgage. Early-falling on the Vineyard? An achievable dream! Rentals are a solid $600 cheaper per week, so you can take in the gorgeous cliffs, beaches, cycling trails, and historic cottages with a little less financial guilt.
You'll also be basking in near-perfect temperatures that never go much over 80 degrees or below 60. Actually getting there takes a bit of effort as it's only accessible by boat or plane, but with far fewer people clogging up the joint, that only enhances those remote getaway vibes.
3. Orange Beach, Alabama
September weekly average: $1,359
Off-season savings: 28%
The tiny towns along Alabama's Gulf Coast are arguably the most beautiful in the state, and Orange Beach, home to Gulf State Park, is one of the highlights. The idyllic white sand beaches and turquoise water are every bit the Gulf Coast postcard you'd expect in Florida, with a far lower price tag and a fraction of the crowds.
The high-rises along the shore empty out after Labor Day, meaning shorter wait times at hugely popular restaurants like Big Fish and Fisher's Upstairs. And don't worry, the party at Pirate's Cove — one of the best beach bars in America — will still be going strong on the weekends, even in the off-season, but you won't have to reserve your pontoon boat months in advance to get there and enjoy it.
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