Texas is a totally amazing state in the United States to visit. With historic cities like San Antonio, vibrant cities like Austin and epic spots in Houston and Dallas, it’s a state that’s got something for everyone. Though don’t be fooled into thinking that Texas is all about its cities! There are a heap of the best beaches in Texas dotted all across its coastline that you really can’t miss.
In addition to its endless attractions, natural wonders, and spectacular hikes, Texas, the Lone Star State, has approximately 400 miles of beautiful coastline, great for the warm summer days. Visitors may swim, sail, kayak, fish, or get on a boat for a fun-filled day in the sun with the entire family, thanks to the warm Gulf Coast waters and numerous fantastic and scenic beach sites. Whether water lovers want to partake in thrilling beach activities, including kiteboarding, windsurfing, parasailing, or even relaxing on a calm patch of sand or exploring diverse wildlife, Texas beaches are a haven for outdoor travelers and have a lot to offer to nature enthusiasts.
Texans occasionally downplay their beaches (they may not always stack up to some of the best beaches in certain other states), but if you know where to go, Texas beaches can be quite lovely and ideal for an afternoon of sunbathing or a weeklong Texas beach getaway.
Venture to Texas’s under-appreciated coastal territory, and you’ll find laid-back, family-friendly getaways (like Port Aransas and Galveston), as well as beautiful wildlife and state parks on barrier islands (like Mustang Island and South Padre Island). Throw in endless outdoor activities, and you’re in for a mellow vacation. So, yes, Texas really does have beaches. Great ones.
1. Boca Chica Beach
Boca Chica Beach is the right place for a totally laid-back and chilled trip to the Gulf Coast of Texas. Nestled within Brazos Island State Park it’s one of the best beaches in Texas to visit that’s got something extra, too! You see, just shy of Boca Chica Beach is the SpaceX Launch Facility which is pretty epic to see.
Now, Just remember, Boca Chica Beach (including Del Mar Beach) might be quite quiet in terms of facilities. I mean, you’re not going to find piers, beach bars or restaurants nearby.
While certainly inconvenient, such a lack of development is exactly what makes Boca Chica so special. The area is tranquil and relaxed, perfect for enjoying life’s slower pleasures — swimming, snorkeling, fishing, birding, or simply soaking up the sun’s rays while flipping through a favorite beach read.
That being said, this long stretch of sand is well worth visiting if you’re looking for a totally quiet beach and picnics. Also, if you’re an early riser, Boca Chica Beach is one of the best places to watch the sunrise.
2. Jamaica Beach, Texas
Jamaica Beach, located along the Gulf Coast of Texas, offers a serene and picturesque coastal experience. The place combines pristine sandy shores and clear blue waters, which makes it an excellent destination for relaxation and recreation.
The beach is known for its calm waters, making it ideal for families and water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. The beach also provides amenities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and parking. Surrounded by natural beauty and a laid-back atmosphere, Jamaica Beach offers a tranquil escape for beach lovers in Texas.
3. Matagorda Beach
Matagorda Beach is an under-the-radar Texas coastal destination located halfway between Galveston and Corpus Christi in a tranquil fishing village. You’ll find some beautiful (and sparsely visited) beachfront here. There are two spots worth mentioning: The first is the main beach, located just off a public access road past the tiny town of Matagorda, with 23 miles of soft sand and public picnic areas. The more remote option is Jetty Park, where the Colorado River and the Gulf of Mexico meet.
Less than two hours from Houston, Matagorda Beach has more surf and sand than you’ll know what to do with—20+ miles of it (and even more are accessible by watercraft). With a 4×4 vehicle and a permit, you can drive right on the sand, and anyone can hike along the dune trails or even camp. For free!
You’ll need to take a boat or kayak and then walk along the jetty to find one of the most secluded beaches in Texas — it’s a great place to collect shells. Texas’ Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) just built some new beach bungalows near the main beach, which are great for large families or groups of friends.
4. Port Aransas Beach
You’ll find this coastline with the beloved family beach town on Mustang Island, known affectionately as “Port A.” Port Aransas and its main beach have made a remarkable recovery from the devastation of Hurricane Harvey in 2017.
Port Aransas, affectionately known as “Port A” among locals, is a charming coastal destination located on a stunning six-mile stretch of beach on Mustang Island, just 43 miles from Corpus Christi. Permit-only parking is available on the beach, and small campfires are permitted, creating the perfect setting for roasting s’mores and enjoying the Gulf breeze at night.
Its six miles of broad, flat sands invite hours-long lounging and elaborate sandcastles, since the grains are rich in clay and silt, making the sand easy to pack. (Time your visit to the annual three-day SandFest to witness competitive castle-building.) The water is enticing, too: It hovers around 84 degrees in the summer, making this island an ideal swimming destination.
5. Rockport Beach
Rockport is in Aransas County, about 33 miles north of Corpus Christi. Less frequented than Padre and South Padre Islands, the beach offers fewer crowds and the stunning beach vistas of its southern neighbors. Rockport Beach Park is the most popular beach in the area and provides cabanas, picnic areas, showers and restrooms, multiple fishing piers, play areas and volleyball courts.
Visitors can also enjoy bird-watching or charter a boat for dolphin-watching in the Gulf waters. Rockport is part of the Clean Beaches Coalition, promoting clean, healthy, well-managed beaches. The water around Rockport is also tested twice weekly for bacteria, so visitors can rest easy knowing that the Gulf waters are clean enough to enjoy.
In addition to fun at the beach, Rockport has a vibrant art scene. The Rockport Center for the Arts is located in a renovated Victorian house with art galleries and exhibition rooms inside. There are also several art galleries throughout the small city, and visitors must snap a photo in front of the Big Blue Crab statue at the entrance to Rockport Beach Park.
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