As the summer crowds thin and temperatures start playing nice, fall will become one of the best times to sneak away from the Triangle for a Southern beach trip.
According to Expedia’s Fall Travel Outlook, shoulder season can often mean lower rates, fewer crowds and more comfortable weather, especially across coastal destinations where summer heat and peak-season traffic can make things a little intense.
From Florida’s Emerald Coast to South Carolina’s Grand Strand, here are four beach resorts worth considering for a sunny fall escape when you’re looking to get away from Raleigh.
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Miramar Beach, Florida
For travelers who want a little bit of everything, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort offers a sprawling fall getaway along northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast. The 2,400-acre resort stretches between the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay, giving guests access to beaches, bay views, golf, boating, and plenty of room to roam.
The property features four championship golf courses, more than seven miles of beaches, a 226-slip marina, tennis and pickleball facilities, and The Village of Baytowne Wharf, which offers shopping, dining, and seasonal events.
Fall brings a quieter pace after the busy summer season, making it a strong pick for travelers who want beach time, outdoor recreation, and sunset views without the peak-season rush.
Hotel Effie Sandestin, Autograph Collection
Miramar Beach, Florida
Also located in the Sandestin area, Hotel Effie Sandestin offers a more polished resort stay on the Emerald Coast. The hotel offers Southern hospitality with a luxury lean, including a rooftop pool, spa, access to championship golf and walkable proximity to Baytowne Wharf.
During the fall shoulder season, travelers may find rates lower than during peak summer, while still enjoying the sugar-white beaches and Gulf Coast setting that make this stretch of Florida so popular.
For couples, friend trips or travelers looking for a more elevated coastal weekend, Hotel Effie offers a stylish way to enjoy the beach after the summer crowds have cleared.
SkyBeach Resort
St. Petersburg, Florida
In St. Petersburg, SkyBeach Resort offers a waterfront escape with Old Florida charm and a newly refreshed feel. The resort includes a private beach, marina, pickleball courts, live entertainment at Azibi Stage, and dining at LUMA and SkyBar + Grille.
Guests can spend the day exploring downtown St. Pete’s museums, galleries, craft breweries and waterfront scene before heading back to the resort for sunset views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
For fall travelers hoping to linger a little longer, SkyBeach’s current offer includes 30% off three-night stays and 40% off four-night stays, making it a tempting option for an extended coastal getaway.
The Ellie Beach Resort Myrtle Beach, Tapestry by Hilton
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
For a beach trip that is easy to reach from the Triangle, The Ellie Beach Resort Myrtle Beach offers a relaxed fall escape along South Carolina’s Grand Strand.
RELATED STORY: Check out Midtown’s stay at The Ellie, featured in our March/April issue!
Set on 30 oceanfront acres at Springmaid Beach, the newly transformed resort features Atlantic views from every room and suite, five pools, a lazy river, water slides, a splash pad, waterfront dining at Ocean Blue and daily programming. Guests are also close to Springmaid Pier and The Market Common, with Myrtle Beach International Airport less than 10 minutes away.
The resort is currently offering a “Stay Three Nights, Get the Fourth Free” deal, giving families, couples and groups another reason to consider Myrtle Beach once the summer rush slows down.
Fall beach travel might not come with the same frenzy as summer, and that is exactly the point. With fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures and a little more room to breathe, shoulder season may be the South’s best-kept beach secret.
