September is a fantastic time to travel, particularly on a long-haul holiday, with many destinations promising fewer crowds, pleasant weather and great prices. Falling outside of school holidays for much of the world, you can enjoy a relaxing getaway, whether you’re searching for warm places in September to extend your summer, or you’re simply after a unique travel experience.
From snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, to encountering wildlife in the rainforests of Borneo, admiring the spectacular autumn colours in New England or island-hopping around Fiji, our picks for the best holiday destinations in September each promise something special.
Continue reading for our opinion of where to go on holiday in September, and handy travel tips about each destination.
September Holiday Destinations:
| Great Barrier Reef, Australia | |
|---|---|
| Distance from the UK | 9466 Miles |
| Journey Time | 23 Hours (including 1 stop) |
| Local Time | GMT +9 Hours |
| Which Airlines to Fly? | Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Emirates |
| Which Hotels to Stay? | Green Island Resort, Fitzroy Island Resort |
| Visit the Great Barrier Reef |
The Great Barrier Reef is a dazzling underwater treasure trove, bursting with marine life. This natural wonder of the world has found its place on the bucket lists of many, and September is the perfect time to make the trip. It’s an incredibly complex natural habitat that makes up around ten percent of the world’s coral reef ecosystems, housing a remarkable variety of species.
In September, Queensland is well into its dry season, boasting balmy sunshine, but without the intense heat of the summer months. Outside temperatures meander between 16°C and 27°C, whilst the ocean typically sits at a pleasant 25°C throughout the month, so the weather is perfect for exploring the reef.
Snorkelling or scuba diving allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant life of the reef, and September’s lack of rain means the visibility is great. As the waters begin to warm, the huge variety of marine life is also becoming particularly active. Keep your eyes peeled for the ‘Great Eight’ including clownfish, giant clams, manta rays (which are particularly prevalent at this time of year), maori wrasse, potato cod, reef sharks, turtles and whales.
Each year, between May and September, hundreds of humpback whales make the epic journey from Antarctica, to give birth and nurse their calves in the warm waters along Australia’s East Coast. There’s a good chance you’ll manage to spot some as you sail out towards the reef.
Although the snorkelling and scuba diving is particularly good in September, there are so many ways to experience the Great Barrier Reef. Choose from a range of sailing and cruise options, with glass bottomed boat tours, Dreamtime tours, focusing on the significance of the reef for the indigenous Traditional Owners, and even overnight cruises where you can sleep on the reef. If you don’t fancy a boat trip, opt to get a bird’s eye view of the reefs with a scenic helicopter flight. From above, you can really appreciate the sheer scale of this incredible wonder, that covers a whopping 344,400 square kilometres.
Travel Tip: Why not stay in the heart of the reef, on an island resort? You can stay on the stunning rainforest paradise of Fitzroy Island, surrounded by crystal clear waters and coral reef beaches, or Green Island is similarly peaceful and remote, engulfed by the Great Barrier Reef.
| Borneo | |
|---|---|
| Distance from the UK | 7200 Miles |
| Journey Time | 17 Hours (including 1 stop) |
| Local Time | GMT +8 Hours |
| Which Airlines to Fly? | Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines |
| Which Hotels to Stay? | Shangri-Ka Rasa Ria, Damai Beach Resort, Borneo Rainforest Lodge |
| Visit Borneo |
The island of Borneo is a nature lover’s paradise. Think lush rainforests, housing an abundance of wildlife, towering mountain ranges blanketed in clouds, and a coastline dotted with pristine beaches. Although it may not be your first thought when searching for hot countries in September, Borneo makes the perfect tropical escape, a little further afield.
September falls within Borneo’s dry season and, throughout the month, you can expect average temperatures of 28°C. There is generally lots of sunshine, although make sure to be prepared for some showers! This intermittent rain, however, just means that Borneo’s jungles are particularly lush and green.
The Malaysian state of Sabah, in the north of Borneo, is known for its rich wildlife and, in September, the Kinabatangan River really comes alive. Amongst colourful birdlife and lurking crocodiles, September is the ideal time to spot Borneo’s characterful proboscis monkeys and native pygmy elephants along the river banks.
In September, the turtle hatching season is beginning to wind up, however there is still a good opportunity to witness this spectacle. On both Lankayan or Selingan Island, the seas remain calm, so the recently hatched turtles are released to make their journey down to the sea. The tiny turtles begin to hobble down the shore, fins flailing, in a captivating journey.
Of course, one of Borneo’s big draws is their orangutan population, and September makes a great time to spot these fascinating creatures. The dry season offers better conditions for spotting orangutans high in the canopy, and, as the trees begin to fruit, orangutans gather to feast. In Sabah, you can visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, learning about this incredible species and exploring the observation walkways. In the Malaysian state of Sarawak, Batang Ai National Park is a great place to spot orangutans in the wild, as they roam free throughout this remote rainforest.
Throughout Borneo, September is prime trekking season. It is generally agreed to be the best time for hiking Mount Kinabalu, with clear skies and comfortable conditions. In the state of Sarawak, you can similarly find some outstanding hiking. Gunung Mulu National Park is a particular highlight, where you can wander canopy walkways, discover mystical caves and visit the fascinating Pinnacles rock formation.
Borneo’s coastline is spectacular, offering an underrated spot for a hot September getaway. The conditions for diving and snorkelling are incredible at this time of year, or you can simply sit back and relax on the island’s white sand beaches.
Travel Tip: Borneo provides the perfect destination for combining wildlife watching and a relaxing beach stay. You can combine viewing the orangutans and monkeys along the Kinabatangan River with reading a book on the sands of Gaya Island. A good example is our Sabah’s Wildlife & Islands holiday.
| Nova Scotia, Canada | |
|---|---|
| Distance from the UK | 2884 Miles |
| Journey Time | 7 Hours |
| Local Time | GMT -4 Hours |
| Which Airlines to Fly? | Air Canada, Westjet |
| What Hotels to Stay? | Keltic Lodge Resort & Spa, White Point Beach Resort |
| Visit Nova Scotia, Canada |
The province of Nova Scotia has earned its reputation as ‘Canada’s Ocean Playground’. With over 13,000 kilometres of coastline, making for some spectacular scenery, incredible seafood and quaint fishing towns. Nova Scotia is a bit of a hidden gem of a September holiday destination, but the month offers the perfect weather for exploring all that it has to offer.
In September, daytime temperatures tend to sit at around 19°C, with plenty of sunshine, but you avoid the higher humidity of the summer months. Hikers can therefore enjoy Nova Scotia’s meandering trails with comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
The Skyline Trail is particularly spectacular, a seven kilometre lopping trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. There’s no better time to explore it than September, as the ‘Hike the Highlands’ festival takes place, with seven days of guided hikes and evening activities.
There is no shortage of ways to explore Nova Scotia’s extensive coastline. Keen golfers can enjoy numerous seafront golf courses, like the stunning Cabot Cliffs Golf Course. The coastline is perhaps even better enjoyed from the water, with canoeing and kayaking offers a different perspective. Paddle past dramatic cliffs, remote coves and fascinating glacial landscapes.
Nova Scotia’s lengthy coastline is, naturally, home to an abundance of marine life, and it is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. There is an incredible 12 species of whales that inhabit Nova Scotia’s waters each summer, beginning to make their migration south in September.
The food and drink scene is not to be overlooked. Enjoy hearty dishes like chowders, as well as delicious fresh lobster. September’s farmers markets are also a highlight, with the stalls filling up with fresh produce from the early autumn harvests. Nova Scotia also has a growing craft beer scene, celebrated with the Craft Beer Festival that takes place in September.
For a glimpse into Nova Scotia’s captivating history, the 18th century town of Lunenburg has been preserved as a UNSECO World Heritage site. This charming settlement is characterised by the colourful buildings that line the waterfront. The quaint fishing village of Peggy’s Cove similarly captures quintessential Nova Scotia. Its famous lighthouse is perched atop a rugged cliffside, and pastel clapboard houses are scattered intermittently along the coastline.
Travel Tip: Towards the end of August, until October, the Northern Lights begin to reappear. The dark sky preserves of Kejimkujik National Park and Cape Breton Highlands National Park are great places to try and catch a glimpse of this magical Aurora Borealis.
| Zambia | |
|---|---|
| Distance from the UK | 5057 Miles |
| Journey Time | 16 Hours (including 1 stop) |
| Local Time | GMT +1 Hour |
| Which Airlines to Fly? | Virgin Atlantic, Emirates, British Airways |
| Which Hotels to Stay? | Puku Ridge South Luangwa, Chiawa Camp Lower Zambezi |
| Visit Zambia |
Zambia makes a great September safari destination. At this time of year, Zambia is well into its dry season, meaning you can expect clear blue skies and idyllic daytime temperatures around 30°C. Wildlife viewings in September are spectacular, as, thanks to the dry weather, vegetation thins and animals begin to congregate around water sources. The National Parks offer sweeping, sunlit vistas, and although it is not at full flow, Victoria Falls remains breathtaking in September.
South Luangwa National Park is a must visit on any safari holiday to Zambia. This spectacular park has become renowned as the birthplace of the walking safari, allowing you to explore on foot accompanied by expert guides. Truly immerse yourself in the African wilderness, experiencing the sights, sounds and smells that surround you.
With wildlife drawn to the Luangwa River, South Luangwa offers some incredible wildlife sightings. Home to four of the ‘Big 5’, you can expect to see elephant, leopards, buffalo and lions on safari. Leopards are particularly prevalent in South Luangwa and it is possible to follow them hunting on a night drive from many camps and lodges. You can also spot hippos, crocodiles and pelicans around the river. The birding in the park is incredible. September attracts carmine bee-eaters in their thousands, in a thrilling spectacle of colour and sound.
Lower Zambezi National Park is situated along its namesake river, which lends itself to canoe safaris, boat trips and fishing, in addition to traditional game drives. This tranquil safari experience makes for some magical sightings, as you drift quietly past elephants, hippos and buffalo.
In the dry season, Victoria Falls reveals a different kind of drama. The lower water levels allow clearer views of the falls and its fascinating geological features, without the intense mist and spray. Along the Zambezi River, you can go white-water rafting: a thrilling way to experience the falls. Thanks to the lower water levels, you can also swim in the iconic Devil’s Pool in September. This natural rock pool allows you to swim right up to the edge of the falls, if you dare, you can look over the edge,.
Travel Tip: Pack for warm days but cool evenings. Game drives typically take place in the early morning and the evening, but it can get chilly, so make sure to pack lots of layers.
| Fiji | |
|---|---|
| Distance from the UK | 10000 Miles |
| Journey Time | 25 Hours (including 2 stops) |
| Local Time | GMT +11 Hours |
| Which Airlines to Fly? | British Airways, Fiji Airways, Air New Zealand |
| Which Hotels to Stay? | Outrigger Fiji, Tokoriki Island Resort, First Landing Resort |
| Visit Fiji |
A stunning tropical archipelago, Fiji offers the perfect sunny escape in September. Spend your days island-hopping, discovering pristine beaches and lush rainforests. Unwind with a blissful resort stay, enjoying Fiji’s incredibly warm hospitality. Situated in the heart of the South Pacific, it is an ideal destination to combine with Australia or New Zealand.
The temperature usually sits between 18°C and 27°C in September, making it a great option if you’re searching for hot places in September, and rainfall is low. Although September falls within Fiji’s high season, as resorts are scattered between many of Fiji’s 333 islands, it is easy to find a tranquil slice of paradise.
September is an ideal time to get outdoors and immerse yourself in Fiji’s diverse and breathtaking landscapes. The snorkelling and scuba diving is fantastic at this time of year, with the lack of rainfall meaning there is great visibility. It is also one of the best months of the year to swim alongside manta rays. Marvel at their sheer size and elegance as they glide through the water.
The rainforests and mountains of Fiji offer spectacular hiking. Why not take the rewarding four hour trek to the summit of Mount Batilamu, or opt for a more leisurely stroll through the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, both a short drive from First Landing Resort. For a completely different hike, explore Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Heritage Park on the Coral Coast. Towering up to 60 metres high, these windswept dunes offer striking views, easily accessed by well-marked trails.
Fijian culture is rich in tradition and warm hospitality, and visitors are welcomed to share in it. You could join a Kava Ceremony, a ritual that brings people together, or enjoy a Lovo Feast, where dishes are slow-cooked in an underground oven. Traditional Meke Performances are absolutely captivating: a powerful expression of Fijian storytelling that combines music, rhythmic chants, dances passed down through generations and intricate costumes.
You can also get involved with local celebrations. The Lautoka Sugar Festival typically takes place in September, with the whole community getting together to celebrate the impact that the industry has had on the islands. Fiji Regatta Week also takes place this month, with racing to watch and daily social events to get stuck into. The weather for surfing is also great in September, but if you don’t fancy giving it a go yourself, why not spectate a surf competition, with several events usually held throughout the month.
Travel Tip: Embrace ‘Fiji time’. Be prepared for everything to run on a bit of a relaxed schedule, and enjoy the care-free atmosphere.
| New England, USA | |
|---|---|
| Distance from the UK | 3300 Miles |
| Journey Time | 7½ Hours |
| Local Time | GMT -5 Hours |
| Which Airlines to Fly? | British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines |
| Which Hotels to Stay? | Inn on the Square, The Lodge at Spruce Park, North Conway Grand |
| Visit New England |
Envision a tapestry of crimson and gold that blankets charming storybook towns, quaint covered bridges and winding roads. New England in the ‘Fall’ is an iconic image, regarded as one of the most spectacular autumn foliage displays in the world. Made up of six of America’s North Eastern states, New England lends itself to a magical road trip.
Throughout September, the temperatures in New England are around a mild 20°C, with little rain. The days are perfect for getting outdoors and exploring National Parks and beautiful trails. The cooler evenings, however, entice you into New England’s cosy inns to for a local cider and some comfort food.
New England is made up of six US states, the largest of which is Maine. It’s nicknamed the ‘Pine Tree State’, and its charming coastal communities are set against a backdrop of beautiful yellow-gold trees in the autumn. September is prime lobster season, so make sure to get stuck in to some delicious seafood. Acadia National Park is another highlight, with stunning trails through thick woodland, rocky beaches and glacier-scoured granite peaks.
New Hampshire also has some spectacular scenery. The White Mountains covers about a quarter of the state, and is a fantastic backdrop for hiking and biking. Franconia Notch State Park has some particularly stunning trails, traversing the glacier carved landscape.
Vermont has earned the title of the Fall’s Colour Capital, and it offers a real treat for the senses. The state is famed for its farm-to-table produce, particularly its dairy products and maple syrup. Explore the Vermont Cheese Trail, and visit the famous ‘Sugarworks’ for all manner of maple-based treats.
Massachusetts is known for its rich history and beautiful beaches. Take time to visit some of the many museums: get a glimpse into the state’s role in the American Revolution, learn about the Salem witch trials or visit one of Harvard University’s museums. Cape Cod and Cape Ann are popular coastal getaways, with picturesque harbours, stretching sandy beaches, seafood shacks and boutique shops. They are both excellent for whale watching in September too.
Connecticut is a smaller state, which is perfect for a shorter New England holiday, as you can explore multiple regions in one day. Immerse yourself in ‘fall’ festivities, with many towns hosting harvest celebrations and farmers markets vending state specialities, like pumpkin-flavoured dishes, local cider and the Connecticut famous lobster rolls.
With its wiggling coastline, Rhode Island has been nicknamed the ‘Ocean State’. Relax on pristine beaches, and make sure to sample some seafood, particularly the state’s famous clam-based dishes.
Travel Tip: Staying in a cosy inn really completes the quintessential ‘New England in the fall’ experience. These quaint guesthouses can book up quickly, however, so it’s best to plan well in advance. Get in touch with our America Experts and they will help you find the perfect accommodation for your trip.
Suggested itineraries for an August holiday.
Grace joined the Marketing Team at Freedom Destinations after she returned from 3 months backpacking around Australia. Her long-haul travels have also taken her to Canada, the U.S. and South East Asia so far, but her destination wish list is far from complete!
