SEASIDE PARK, NJ – While the end of the summer tourist season isn’t the greatest time of year for businesses, many locals who call the New Jersey Shore home actually enjoy locals summer, which is usually through the end of September.
It’s a time when they can just go to the beach, relax and enjoy their community without swarms of tourists and vacationers.
Summer in New Jersey is often synonymous with crowded beaches, bustling boardwalks, and tourists as far as the eye can see. But there’s a secret season cherished by New Jersey residents: the time period known as “Locals Summer.” As the name suggests, it’s a season for locals to reclaim their favorite spots and enjoy the shore without the overwhelming throngs of visitors. Here’s what Locals Summer in New Jersey means and why locals look forward to it so much.
Locals Summer generally occurs from early September to late October. During this time, most tourists have returned home, as schools are back in session and families resume their regular routines. This leaves New Jersey’s coastal towns much quieter than during peak summer months, allowing locals to savor the remaining good weather in relative solitude.
Anyone who’s been to a New Jersey beach in the middle of July knows how packed it can get. From long waits at restaurants to searching for a free spot on the sand, the shore during high season can be stressful. During Locals Summer, the beaches are far less crowded, offering an unparalleled sense of space and freedom. Locals can spread out their beach towels without bumping elbows with strangers and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.
Tourist season usually means inflated prices for everything from accommodations to parking fees. However, the post-Labor Day period brings a welcome reduction in costs. Many local businesses offer off-season specials, and parking becomes both easier to find and cheaper—or even free in some places.
While the temperatures may not soar as high as they do in July or August, September and October often offer mild, comfortable weather ideal for a range of outdoor activities. Whether it’s swimming in the still-warm ocean, kayaking, or hiking, locals can take advantage of the natural beauty around them without the oppressive heat.
Locals Summer fosters a sense of community among residents. The more relaxed pace provides opportunities for neighbors to catch up and for local businesses to connect with their most loyal customers. It’s a season where the local culture shines, devoid of the frenzied atmosphere that the influx of tourists can bring.
So, if you’re a New Jersey local, you already know the charms of this unofficial season. And if you’re a would-be visitor contemplating a trip to the Jersey Shore, consider coming during Locals Summer. You’ll get a unique taste of what makes these coastal communities so special, straight from the people who know them best.