Sometimes planning an off-season beach trip is the way to go.
In other coastal locations, shoulder season is a little harder to define.
For example, on the Outer Banks, it’s roughly April through May and September through October.
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Before you book your sweater-weathertrip to the shore, keep in mind these few caveats about off-season travel.
For one, it’s important to pay attention to weather reports.
(That’s not necessarily a bad thing, once we’ve made it through the scorcher months.)
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Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Fall getaways in the South always include fairs and festivals.
Spend the day paddling through the mangroves or taking a nature walk to the historic Scharrer Homestead.
Campon a boat at the marinaor head back to one of the many hotels nearby at Clearwater Beach.
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This town is a Victorian-era planned community on Virginia’s Eastern Chesapeake shores, which are beautiful in fall.
But throw in gorgeous beaches, and the wow factor goes even higher.
Take the kids to theClearwater Marine Aquariumduring the day and stop byPier 60for entertainment at night.
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With so many family friendly activities, it’s no wonder thatClearwater Beachis often rated a top destination.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Skip the spring break crowds byvisiting Gulf Shoresin the autumn months.
Pack a sweater and enjoy the less-crowded beaches as well as the vibrant sunrises and sunsets.
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History buffs will enjoy visitingFort Morgan, while families can catch theAlabama Gulf Coast Zoo.
Bring your walking shoes to explore the Sandpiper Pond Nature Trail and Kerrigan Nature Trail.
Enjoy six miles of hard-packed beaches that invite sunbathing, sea glass-hunting, hiking, and more.
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Visit theLewes Maritime Museumat the battle-scarred Cannonball House.
The stone crabs featured at theSouth Beach Seafood Festivalin fall will have you salivating.
Travel to nearby Assateague Island for an unforgettable day trip.
The weather is usually perfect for window shopping in Downtown Fernandina Beach.Credit: Trixie.In.Dixie, Photographer/flickr
Head north for even more serenity on the Padre Island National Seashorethe longest undeveloped barrier island in the world.
Sounds like a dream, right?
VisitHistoric Pensacolaand experience what life was like in this beach town under Spanish rule.
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Waterfront dining, parasailing, ecotoursthis top-rated beach has it all.
The annualsand-sculpting festivalhappens in fall, too.
The harbor town also offers boat tours, amaritime museum, andof coursefreshly caught Maryland blue crabs.
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It’s quiet and charming with a few restaurants you just can’t miss.
Wrightsville Beach is a lively destination that hosts competitions and festivals throughout the fall.
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