LOCAL SUMMER
Local Summer
The Best Kept “Secret”
It’s that time of year again… the crowds are gone, the water has warmed up. Locals wait all year for September at the Jersey Shore, which earned the moniker “Local Summer.” For beachgoers and surfers alike, Local Summer really is the peak of our beaches, from the water temperature to lack of crowds. Here, I’ve compiled all the reasons Local Summer is Peak Summer…
Firstly and perhaps most obviously, the crowds are gone by September. Many summer rentals and visitors book from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend, meaning by September 1 this year, the population in shore towns all along the coast will dwindle significantly. While you won’t need beach badges to enter the beaches after Labor Day, it is essential to note that lifeguards are not on patrol after Labor Day and will not monitor swimming safety.
Grom Team Practice (Tim Torchia, 2024)
Now, let’s talk about how water conditions change during September. Once hurricane season rolls into the Atlantic, big swells hit our shoreline, serving up perfect waves for intermediate and advanced surfers. When those hurricanes stay out at sea, the weather stays gorgeous on shore, with the only signs of a storm being incredible swell. While we generally don’t run any private or group lessons through September (our coworkers have to get out there and enjoy the surf too!), we do run our September After School Coaching Intensive for members of our competitive surf team, Grom Team. Check out more info on that here!
This program is designed to hone the skills of young surfers, allowing them to take full advantage of the prime surfing conditions that September brings. Each session is tailored to challenge and improve their techniques, preparing them for competitions and fostering a deep love for the sport.
Another significant advantage of Local Summer is the weather. The oppressive heat of July and August gives way to milder, more comfortable temperatures. The days are still warm enough to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and all your favorite beach activities, but the humidity is often lower, making it more pleasant to be outside for extended periods. Evenings are cooler, perfect for beach bonfires, barbecues, and stargazing.
Local Summer also offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Without the crowds of tourists, the pace of life slows down. Restaurants, cafes, and shops that were bustling and crowded just a few weeks earlier now provide a more intimate and leisurely dining and shopping experience. It’s a great time to explore local eateries and boutique stores that you might have avoided during the peak season due to long waits and crowded aisles.
Wildlife enthusiasts will find Local Summer to be particularly delightful. The beaches and dunes are less disturbed, providing a serene environment for bird watching and observing other coastal wildlife. Migratory birds start their journey south, and you might spot species that aren’t around during the height of summer.
Lastly, the sunsets in September are something truly special. As the sun dips lower in the sky, the colors seem more vibrant, painting the horizon with spectacular hues of orange, pink, and purple. It’s the perfect backdrop for an evening stroll along the shore or a quiet moment of reflection as you listen to the gentle waves.
All these elements come together to make Local Summer the best-kept “secret” of the Jersey Shore. It’s a time when locals can reclaim their beaches, surf perfect waves, enjoy milder weather, and savor the beauty of a quieter, more peaceful coastline. So, if you find yourself at the Jersey Shore in September, take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy the magic of Local Summer.
If you aren’t convinced enough to join in on Local Summer, I’ll start guilt-tripping you…. With only two months until Daylight Savings begins, you better soak up the rays and saltwater while you can!