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. Galveston Island
Galveston Island is a dynamic destination that seamlessly blends entertainment, history, and natural beauty. At the heart of its appeal is the historic Galveston Island Pleasure Pier, a beloved landmark that stretches out over the Gulf of Mexico. The pier is home to thrilling amusement park rides, carnival games, and a variety of eateries, making it a perfect spot for family fun and excitement.
Beyond the pier, Galveston offers miles of sandy beaches where visitors can relax, swim, and soak up the sun. Stewart Beach and East Beach are two popular spots, each offering amenities like lifeguards, restrooms, and concessions, catering to both families and party-goers alike.
2. 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!
3. Port Aransas Beach
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Mustang Island State Park
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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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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!
10. 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.
Other Beach Destinations
- 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!
- San José Island – Private and tranquil, great for shell hunting.
- North Beach (Corpus Christi) – Family-friendly with nearby attractions like the Texas State Aquarium.
- Goose Island State Park – Not a traditional beach, but offers unique coastal scenery and great fishing.
- Sea Rim State Park – Secluded with marshes and beachfront, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching.
- Quintana Beach – Quiet, with camping facilities and fishing piers.
- Sylvan Beach Park – Small beach with a pier, playground, and picnic facilities, perfect for a day trip.
- Whitecap Beach (Corpus Christi) – Less crowded, great for sunbathing and surfing.
