Quick Guide: The Best Beaches for a Labor Day Weekend Getaway

School supplies are flying off the shelves and stores are stocking up on Halloween decorations. But that doesn’t mean summer is over! There are plenty of places in the U.S. that still have warm weather. And not just warm-ish; we’re talking “slather on sunscreen and hit the waves” warm.

If you’re in the mood for one last trip to the shore before the leaves start changing colors, we know just where to go! Pack your bag and check out our five fave beaches for a fun-filled Labor Day weekend getaway trip.

• Daytona Beach, Florida

  Florida’s spring break headquarters is one of it’s most popular beach destinations any time of year, and Labor Day weekend is definitely not an exception. The water’s still warm enough to splash around, and the Atlantic Ocean’s waves are perfect for surfing, skimming, and body surfing.

  If you want to go for a walk, Daytona Beach’s boardwalk stretches out for just over a mile along the beachfront. Enjoy the ocean breeze while you check out street performers, live music, and amusement rides.

  The perfect way to cap it all off? A fireworks display over the Atlantic, of course!

• Nantucket, Massachusetts

  We know – we’re heading north… but hear us out. Nantucket is on fire all summer long. And this is the island’s last big weekend before the cooler weather takes over and the tourists disperse. So Nantucket goes all out with fun activities for Labor Day weekend with outdoor concerts, giant beach parties, special events at local restaurants, and killer end-of-season sales at the local shops.

  Even if you’re just going for the beach time, you can’t go wrong with Nantucket and its 82 miles of gorgeous coastline. There’s something for everyone, from surfers to your four-legged BFF.

  And if you’re in the mood for a drink (or two), check out Cisco Brewery. Over Labor Day weekend, they’ll have food trucks, live music, and public brewery tours. The perfect break from the beach!

• Outer Banks, North Carolina

  Long before Netflix made it famous, the OBX was a top-notch coastal destination. Its warm, pristine beaches are ideal for anyone looking to relax and end the summer in zen mode.

  September is actually the best time of year to visit the Outer Banks: less crowded (even on Labor Day weekend!) and milder weather. Whether you’re working on your tan or taking a dip, it’s the perfect place to soak up the last rays of summer.

  The Outer Banks is known for its stunning sunsets – and they’re best viewed on the water. Hop aboard one of the many sunset cruises to experience it for yourself.

• Santa Monica, California

  For bustling beach fun in Cali, look no further than high-energy Santa Monica. Its 3.5 miles of soft sand includes the original “Muscle Beach” – filled with free-to-use athletic and gymnastics equipment.

  Feeling fancy? Santa Monica does the beach the way only California can: with its Annenberg Beach House. Rent beach canopies, reserve a volleyball court, or snap up a pool pass – all right on the beach.

  And don’t forget it’s world-famous ferris wheel. Featured in dozens of movies and tv shows, it’s located right on the iconic Santa Monica pier. While you’re there, check out the shops, restaurants, aquarium, street performers… there’s even a trapeze school!

• Tybee Island, Georgia

  Mix the old-world charm of Savannah with the laid-back vibe of the coast and you’ll get fun, funky Tybee Island. Just a short drive east of Savannah, this little island has everything you could possibly want during a Labor Day weekend getaway: sand, sun, and surf.

  Feeling adventurous? Climb up to the top of the Tybee Island Lighthouse. It’s only 178 steps, easy-peasy, and well-worth it for the stunning 360-views of the island.

  But our recommended “can’t miss” is the annual Tybee Island Labor Day Beach Bash. Head over to the open-air pavilion on the pier for live music, food, and drinks that last well into the night.

Make the most of your last “unofficial” summer weekend by shipping your bags to your hotel or Airbnb with LugLess. No waiting at baggage claim or having to swing by your hotel. Just hop off the plane and head straight to the beach, to maximize your fun in the sun!

What do you say? Ready for one last beach getaway this season?