When you think of fall colors in New Jersey, you probably picture mountain vistas or drives through the forest. But here’s a secret: the Jersey Shore has its own special autumn magic.
The beaches are golden, the skies turn pink and purple, and the air feels crisp and clear. Fall is one of the best times to visit the Shore, because it’s quiet, cozy, and full of vibrant color. Here are five ways to see it for yourself.
1. The Beach Itself
You don’t need trees to see color at the beach. In the fall, the sand and the ocean glow in a warm, golden light. The dunes are warm under the autumn sun, with the grasses waving in the wind. Blue and green sea glass scattered in the sand glints as it catches the light.
It’s the perfect time to take a peaceful stroll by the water. Bring a warm drink and your camera. You’ll quickly discover how beautiful a fall beach getaway can be.
2. Foliage with a Historic Backdrop
If seeing colorful fall foliage is at the top of your seasonal bucket list, Cape May is the spot for you. The town’s Victorian homes are colorful year-round. But when the trees start to change, the combination is hard to beat.
Stroll down tree-lined streets like Hughes or Jackson, where the homes pop against the changing scenery. It’s a unique New Jersey fall foliage experience you won’t find anywhere else. To make the most of your visit, stop into one of the town’s cozy cafes or restaurants, or browse the local boutiques.
3. Vineyard & Brewery Leaf Tour
Fall is harvest season, and Cape May County’s vineyards and breweries are at their best. A short drive to the vineyards gives you a chance to enjoy both the scenery and the local offerings. Be sure to stop at local favorites like Willow Creek Winery, Hawk Haven Vineyard, and Natali Vineyards.
Trees showing their colors line the roads, and you’ll pass farms and open fields along the way. It’s a peaceful, scenic way to explore fall in New Jersey.
4. Birdwatching: The Colors of Fall Migration
At the Jersey Shore, fall colors aren’t just in the trees. They’re also in the sky! Every autumn, thousands of birds pass through Cape May on their way south. Sparrows, hawks, and many other migratory birds pass through the area during this time.
Lots of visitors gather to watch them on their journey. Cape May Point State Park or The Meadows are great local birdwatching spots. Even if you’re not a serious birdwatcher, it’s quite interesting to see so much activity in one place.
5. Fall Sunsets and Coastal Skies
Fall sunsets at the beach are some of the best of the year. The cooler air makes the sky clearer and the colors more vivid. The sky lights up with bright orange, pink, and purple hues. Bring a light jacket and a blanket, and find a spot on the sand to settle in and watch until night falls.
Cozy Up with ICONA
After a day of exploring, retreat to comfort at ICONA Resorts. With some of the top hotels down the shore, ICONA Resorts offer the perfect base for exploring the area’s autumn beauty.
The Cozy Escape Package at ICONA Diamond Beach and ICONA Avalon makes planning fall beach getaways easy and relaxing. Enjoy ocean views, serene accommodations, and a food and beverage credit to help you dine and unwind.
Fall at the beach is a peaceful, vibrant, and colorful experience. It’s a side of the Shore many people never see. Book your stay at ICONA Resorts to experience the perfect blend of cozy comfort and coastal charm.
