September might just be the most underrated month for family holidays, and honestly, it’s a mystery why more parents haven’t caught on yet. The crowds have thinned out, temperatures are still beautifully warm without being scorching hot, and there’s something magical about that late summer atmosphere. 

Your kids are back in their routine, but there’s still time to squeeze in one last adventure before autumn properly settles in. The best part? You’ll find shorter queues at attractions, easier restaurant bookings, and that relaxed vibe that makes family time feel extra special. 

Whether you’re after beach days, cultural discoveries, or outdoor adventures, September offers the perfect conditions without the peak season madness. Here’s where I’d recommend you plan a vacation.

Tenerife, Spain

Visiting Tenerife in September feels like nature’s way of saying, “Don’t worry, summer isn’t over yet.” With average daytime temperatures sitting comfortably around 25-27°C and sea temperatures at a delightful 24°C, it’s absolutely perfect for families who want proper beach weather without melting in the heat. 

This is Spain’s “island of eternal spring,” and September proves exactly why it earned that nickname. The island enjoys around 8-9 hours of sunshine per day with minimal rainfall – we’re talking maybe one rainy day the entire month. And an advantage of Tenerife villa holidays is that the gentle trade winds in September keep things comfortable, especially for little ones who might struggle with intense heat.

Families can start their day building sandcastles on volcanic black sand beaches, spend the afternoon exploring the otherworldly landscapes around Mount Teide, and still have energy for evening strolls along the coastal promenades.

The southern beaches like Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje are particularly brilliant for families, with calm waters and every facility you could need. Your teenagers might even be impressed by the dramatic cliffs and lunar-like volcanic terrain – trust me, it’s Instagram gold.

The island’s excellent infrastructure means you can hire a car and explore easily, or stick to the reliable green Titsa buses if you prefer public transport. September also brings some lovely local festivals, giving families a chance to experience authentic Canarian culture.

Cornwall, UK

Whilst Cornwall is known for being hideously overcrowded in the summer, in September this English region offers families the chance to catch the last rays of summer warmth. Expect highs around 17°C and lows of 13-14°C, so it’s cooler than our Mediterranean options, but there’s something absolutely enchanting about Cornwall’s September atmosphere.

What makes September special in Cornwall is the space to breathe. Those famous beaches like Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay become natural playgrounds again, perfect for learning to surf without competing for waves. 

Many seasonal dog bans are lifted on September 1st, so furry family members can finally join the beach fun at places like Godrevy and Porthcurno. The county doesn’t hibernate when summer ends either – there are fantastic festivals throughout September, from the Little Orchard Cider and Music Festival to the Newquay Harbour Festival. The shoulder season brings better value too, with accommodation prices dropping from peak summer rates while still offering full resort amenities.

For families who love exploring, September’s mild weather makes coastal path walks and visits to historic sites like Tintagel Castle much more enjoyable. Pack those waterproofs though – September does see increased chances of rain, but that’s all part of the adventure!

Paros, Greece

A trip to Paros in September is like discovering Greece’s best-kept secret. With 11 hours of sunshine daily and sea temperatures still at a lovely 23°C, it’s ideal for families who want that classic Greek island experience without the August crowds.

This Cycladic gem offers something magical for every family member. The beaches like Golden Beach and Kolymbithres have shallow waters and soft sand that are absolutely perfect for days in the sun with your kids. 

Average temperatures for a September vacation hover around a perfect 24-25°C during the day, dropping to a comfortable 19-23°C at night. After early September, the island becomes noticeably quieter as the peak season winds down, making it perfect for families who prefer a more relaxed pace.

For families with older children, there’s horse-riding through the countryside, snorkeling at Santa Maria Beach, and even visits to Butterfly Valley, where children can marvel at swarms of butterflies in the shaded trees. September also brings the grape harvest season, which means families can experience local wine culture (sparkling grape juice for the kids!) and enjoy the island’s authentic charm.  

The traditional villages with their Cycladic architecture provide perfect photo opportunities, while the island’s size makes it easy to explore different beaches and towns during your stay. Relax in luxury Paros villas, choose beachfront hotels with kids’ clubs, or book charming holiday apartments where you can prepare your own meals using fresh local ingredients.

The Algarve, Portugal

In September, the Algarve is warm enough for proper beach holidays, with temperatures around 26°C during the day, but not so hot that sightseeing becomes uncomfortable. With only about 2 rainy days the entire month and sea temperatures at 21°C, it’s absolutely ideal for families who want guaranteed sunshine. 

The weather in September transforms the Algarve into an activity paradise. The slightly cooler weather makes it brilliant for family cycling, hiking the stunning Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos coastal route, or exploring the mountains near Monchique. Your teenagers might love trying surfing near Sagres, while younger children can splash safely in the calmer waters of Albufeira.

Evenings cool down nicely to around 17°C, perfect for those magical sunset beach walks that create lasting family memories. Family accommodation options are fantastic, from all-inclusive resorts with kids’ clubs and water parks, to spacious family villas in quieter areas like Alvor. 

The Algarve boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually, so even in September, you’re almost guaranteed that perfect family holiday weather. Evenings cool down nicely to around 17°C, perfect for those magical sunset beach walks that create lasting family memories.

Plan Your September Break

September family holidays offer the sweet spot between summer fun and sensible planning that every parent dreams about. You’ll find better flight deals, shorter queues at attractions, and that relaxed atmosphere where staff aren’t completely exhausted from peak season madness. 

Whether you choose the volcanic wonders of Tenerife, the authentic Greek charm of Paros, the rugged beauty of Cornwall, or the golden beaches of the Algarve, September provides ideal conditions for creating those precious family memories.