Known as the Lone Star State, Texas is located on the border of the Mexican Gulf. It’s a state that boasts rich history and culture. More than the rich history, the famous Texas BBQ, and the sunny weather, it also features a chock-full of beaches that you will surely love to visit.
In this article, we have rounded up the best 10 beaches in the second largest state in the United States. Whether you are planning for a business trip or an out-of-town trip with your family, here are some of the best beaches that you don’t want to miss out on. Make sure to read further!
1. Boca Chica Beach
Located at the southernmost point of the state, Boca Chica Beach is something that you don’t want to miss out if you enjoy watching sunsets. It is about 23 miles east of Brownsville located in Highway 4, which ends at the Gulf of Mexico. The beach sits right on a peninsula separated from Mexico by the Rio Grande River wherein you can witness mangrove marshes, tidal salt flats, clay dunes, and more.
2. Padre Island National Seashore
Located about 30 miles southeast of Corpus Christi, this national seashore is where visitors can swim, kayak, camp, windsurf, and do any fun summer activity! It provides a wide shoreline, which is ideal if you want to take long romantic walks with your partner. It is also the perfect place wherein you can understand more of nature.
3. Mustang Island State Park
The Mustang Island State Park is a popular destination to go swimming and sunbathing. It is also a dog-friendly beach, so feel free to let your pooch tag along with you! It’s the perfect place for your four-legged best friend to search for seashells and other treasures by the beach. Make sure to visit the Kemp’s Ridley, a place rich in wildlife, housing more than 400 different bird species.
4. South Padre Island
An undeniable tourist hot spot in Texas, South Padre Island is the perfect destination if you want to witness diverse marine wildlife such as dolphins and large sea turtles. Beach-goers like you can revel in a selection of activities, from basking in the sun to swimming, parasailing, and sightseeing! This barrier island is teeming with party-goers too!
5. Rockport Beach
Take a breathtaking gaze at the Aransas Bay by Rockport Beach in southeastern Texas. This crescent-shaped beach is perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy photos. You can swim, play volleyball, enjoy intimate picnics, and fish in this place! The shore is so crystal clear it has been deemed as the first Blue Wave Beach in the state.
6. Port Aransas Beach
If you want to take a break from the city noise, then this tranquil beach is the perfect place to go. It is less crowded than any beaches on the list. It encompasses 6 miles of beach, making it an ideal getaway spot for family reunions and other gatherings.
7. Crystal Beach
A quiet stretch that spans seven miles, Crystal beach is sparkling and teeming with amazing restaurants and fishing opportunities! If you want to sneak in some fishing time while swimming with your family, you would not want to miss out on this beach.
8. Lighthouse Beach
This was once devastated by hurricane Harvey, but it’s flourishing now, warranting a visit from families who want to have a quiet weekend getaway. Little kids can splash into the beach’s splash pad, while teenagers can enjoy swimming in Lavaca Bay. The place is teeming with birdlife too. Make sure to bring a camera with you!
9. Surfside Beach
Located in the southwest of Galveston is Surfside Beach, a spot famous for its kayaking, windsurfing, and surfing opportunities. Its deep waters are not for the faint of heart—make sure you are a thrill-seeker before you enjoy the large waves of this beach.
10. Matagorda Bay Nature Park
The Colorado River passes through the Matagorda Bay Nature Park, wherein the whole family can swim, camp, fish, and go on horseback riding. This nature park is filled with wildlife too, you and your family are sure not to get bored! If you forgot some equipment, don’t worry—this is a place where you can rent usual beach items such as chairs, wagons, and paddleboards!
