September might not be the first month that comes to mind when you think about a seaside break, but it could be one of the best times to visit Exmouth.
The summer holidays are winding down, the beaches are quieter and the pace of life starts to slow – but there’s still plenty of sunshine, warm days and opportunities to get out and enjoy the coast. Plus, with a packed programme of events and things to do, there’s no shortage of reasons to make Exmouth your next day trip or short break.
Here are just a few reasons why September might be the perfect time to visit.
Enjoy Exmouth Beach at a Quieter Time of Year
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Exmouth in September is getting to enjoy its two miles of golden sandy beach without the height-of-summer crowds.
There’s still plenty of time for traditional seaside activities, whether you fancy a morning walk along the promenade, a paddle in the sea or simply finding a spot on the sand and watching the world go by.
The beach stretches from the mouth of the Exe Estuary towards Orcombe Point, giving you plenty of space to explore. Head towards Orcombe Point and you’ll also reach the Geoneedle, marking the western gateway to the Jurassic Coast.
And if the weather isn’t quite beach-day material? That’s no problem – there are plenty of cafés, restaurants, indoor activities and things to do nearby.
Get Out on the Water
September can be a fantastic time to experience Exmouth from the water.
The River Exe provides sheltered waters, while Exmouth’s position at the start of the Jurassic Coast means you can also experience the coastline from the sea.
For something a little more relaxing, climb aboard a cruise with Stuart Line Cruises. With cruises exploring the Exe Estuary, Jurassic Coast and beyond, it’s a great way to take in the scenery without having to worry about navigating the coast path yourself.
September is also a particularly lovely time for an evening cruise. Keep an eye out for their seasonal trips, including their summer BBQ and evening cruises taking place in September.
Exmouth is the western gateway to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, making it an ideal starting point for a coastal adventure.
September’s cooler temperatures can make walking much more comfortable than on a hot summer’s day, whether you’re heading along the South West Coast Path towards Budleigh Salterton or taking a shorter walk towards Orcombe Point.
For a longer adventure, you can also follow the coast and explore more of East Devon, taking in dramatic cliffs, beaches and views across Lyme Bay along the way.
September is a great month to get on your bike and explore the Exe Estuary.
The Exe Estuary Trail provides a largely flat route from Exmouth towards Exeter, with beautiful waterside views and plenty of places to stop along the way.
You don’t necessarily need to bring your own bike either. Local businesses such as The Cycle Hive make it possible to hire bikes and explore the area at your own pace.
Whether you cycle the whole route or just enjoy a shorter section, the estuary is a fantastic way to see another side of Exmouth and the surrounding area.
Make the Most of Exmouth’s Attractions
One of the best things about September is that you can combine outdoor adventures with some of Exmouth’s year-round attractions.
At World of Country Life, you can explore its extensive collections and enjoy family-friendly activities, while Ocean Exmouth offers bowling, soft play and places to eat – making it a useful option if the weather takes a turn.
Meanwhile, Exmouth Pavilion continues to host entertainment throughout the year, with comedy, live music, theatre and other events on the programme.
September is also a great time to explore some of Exmouth’s smaller attractions and local experiences, without trying to fit everything into the busiest weeks of the summer.
There’s Still Plenty Happening
September certainly doesn’t mean that Exmouth’s events calendar comes to an end.
There’s a varied programme of events taking place throughout the month, from live entertainment and quizzes to food and drink experiences, markets and family activities.
So, whether you’re visiting for a weekend or simply looking for something to do on a September day, it’s worth checking what’s happening during your visit.
Enjoy a Slower Pace
Perhaps the biggest reason to visit Exmouth in September is simply that everything feels a little more relaxed.
You can take your time over breakfast, enjoy a coffee overlooking the water, browse the town centre, spend an afternoon on the beach and finish the day with dinner by the coast.
There’s no need to squeeze everything into one day. And with the school holidays coming to an end, September can be a particularly good time for couples, friends and those looking for a quieter coastal escape.
The Best of Summer and Autumn
September sits in that sweet spot between summer and autumn.
You can still have warm, sunny days by the sea, but you’ll also start to see the first signs of the changing season. The evenings become a little cooler, the light starts to change and the landscape gradually takes on its autumn colours.
For photographers, walkers, foodies and anyone who simply enjoys being beside the sea, it’s a lovely time to experience Exmouth.
Plan your September Visit to Exmouth
From two miles of sandy beach and the Jurassic Coast to watersports, boat trips, cycling, attractions, events and plenty of places to eat, there’s lots to discover in Exmouth at any time of year.
But if you’re looking for a coastal escape without the busiest summer crowds, September could be just the ticket.
Ready to plan your visit? Explore things to do in Exmouth, find somewhere to eat and drink, or see what’s happening in our September events calendar.
