October at the Jersey Shore
Enjoy uncrowded beaches, fall foliage, Victorian Week, and the legendary striper run. October is one of the best—and most affordable—times to visit.
Why Visit in October?
30-50%
Lower lodging rates
60s-70s
Perfect temperatures
No
Beach badge fees
Zero
Crowds
October Weather
Average High
64°F (18°C)
Average Low
47°F (8°C)
Water Temperature
60-65°F early, 55-58°F late
Rainfall
3.5 inches (9 days)
Sunny Days
60%
Layers are key—mornings are cool, afternoons warm. Bring a light jacket for evening boardwalk walks.
October Events
Cape May Victorian Week
Mid-October (10 days)Cape May
The biggest event of the year in Cape May. House tours, murder mysteries, vintage fashion shows, and the Victorian parade.
Sea Witch Halloween Festival
Late OctoberRehoboth Beach (nearby)
Massive Halloween parade and costume contest just across the bay from Cape May. Worth the ferry ride.
Oktoberfest at the Boardwalk
Throughout OctoberVarious towns
Many shore towns host Oktoberfest events with craft beer, German food, and live music.
Fall Striper Run
October-NovemberStatewide
The legendary striped bass migration brings huge fish close to shore. Best surf fishing of the year.
Cape May Lighthouse Night Climbs
Select October datesCape May Point
Climb the lighthouse after dark for spectacular views of the Delaware Bay sunset.
October Activities
Fall Foliage Drives
The Pine Barrens and back roads of Cape May County offer beautiful fall colors. Drive the scenic routes through state forests.
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers
Whale & Seal Watching
October marks the transition to seal season. Whale watching cruises still run, and you might spot the first seals of the season.
Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts
Surf Fishing
The fall striper run is legendary. Striped bass migrate south along the coast, providing the best shore fishing of the year.
Best for: Anglers
Wine Tours
Visit Cape May wineries during harvest season. Taste new vintages and enjoy fall vineyard views.
Best for: Couples, wine lovers
Birding
October brings massive raptor migration through Cape May. Hawks, eagles, and falcons fill the sky.
Best for: Birders, nature enthusiasts
Ghost Tours
Historic shore towns are perfect for spooky October ghost tours. Cape May and Asbury Park offer popular walking tours.
Best for: History buffs, Halloween fans
Best Towns for October
Cape May
Victorian Week, whale watching, birding migration, and most restaurants stay open.
Asbury Park
Year-round dining scene, live music venues, Halloween events, and ghost tours.
Spring Lake
Beautiful fall boardwalk walks, fewer crowds, and elegant B&Bs with off-season rates.
Ocean City
Boardwalk still active weekends, fall festivals, and family-friendly Halloween events.
The Fall Striper Run
October kicks off the legendary fall striper run—the best surf fishing of the year. Striped bass migrate south along the coast, feeding heavily before winter. Island Beach State Park, Sandy Hook, and LBI are prime spots.
View our complete fishing guide →October Packing List
Essentials
- • Light jacket or fleece
- • Layers (mornings are cool)
- • Comfortable walking shoes
- • Sunglasses & sunscreen (still needed!)
If Swimming/Surfing
- • Wetsuit (water is 55-65°F)
- • Towel (no lifeguard stands for changing)
- • Beach blanket
Related Guides
Plan Your October Trip
Find hotels, activities, and restaurants for your fall shore getaway.