Houston is an unexpectedly convenient gateway to a myriad of magnificent beaches. Houston does not have any beaches. However, the sandy beaches of Texas are only a quick ride away from the city.
It’s also surrounded by several state parks with revitalizing lake beaches. So, treat yourself to a fantastic seaside vacation by visiting one of our specially chosen best beaches near Houston, Texas.
Sylvan Beach Park
Sylvan is 26.2 miles from downtown Houston, making it the city’s closest beach. Without a doubt, Sylvan is among our favorite quick beach vacations from Houston. This white sand beach is not only close to the city, but it also has a slew of amenities.
An air-conditioned pavilion, a skate park, tennis courts, a playground, and picnic tables are available. It’s also the best swimming beach because of its gentle waves and lack of seaweed.
Get an all-day pass to Sylvan’s bait and tackle shop at the fisher pier. Ocean commodities such as drum, flounder, and trout are typically caught off the park’s pier.
Galveston Island State Park
Look to Galveston Island State Park for outdoorsy weekend beach trips from Houston. Aside from the beach, the park provides numerous hiking, camping, kayaking, and fishing opportunities.
Explore the area and look for birds such as Mexican eagles, blue herons, pelicans, and snowy egrets. Similarly, don’t miss out on biking or hiking any of the park’s nine nature trails.
Surfside Beach
This 2.5-square-mile town, 64.8 miles from Houston, captivates tourists with its pristine coastline. Stewart’s 4 miles of beautiful coastline will provide you with a relaxing and pleasurable beach escape. Choose an idyllic location, set up your towel and umbrella, and relax on one of Texas’ most beautiful beaches.
Furthermore, the beach has consistent low waves, making it ideal for beginning surfers. This beach has no organized activities, amenities, or pier. Pack all of your beach essentials and equipment before departing from Houston.
You can also stock up on drinks, sunscreen, and snacks at Buc-ee’s (just before the large bridge).
Stewart Beach
Stewart is the least dangerous beach for kids near Houston, thanks to its calm waters and lifeguard patrols. Furthermore, it is combed regularly, ensuring the beach is free of trash and seaweed. Best of all, it’s jam-packed with amenities like showers, concessions, and umbrella and chair rentals.
Explore the nearby attractions to add a touch of family to your beach trip. Moody Gardens and the Schlitterbahn Waterpark are two of our favorites.
East Beach
Galveston’s East Beach, also known as a “party beach,” is among the state’s liveliest and largest waterfront hangouts.
East Beach is a haven for young travelers and partygoers. For many years, this popular public beach has hosted a variety of festivals, colorful concerts, and events such as the AIA Sandcastle Competition. Furthermore, it is the only beach on Galveston Island where alcohol is permitted.
Finish your day on East Beach with a visit to the famous Mario’s Seawall Italian Restaurant. This restaurant promises to satisfy your taste buds with delectable pizzas and pasta.
Sea Rim State Park
This 4,141-acre park on the southeast edge of Texas provides a fantastic nature outing for beach lovers. Visitors can spend hours paddling, kayaking, and participating in outdoor activities in the park’s calm waters. Furthermore, beach camping is permitted in this state park during certain months.
On top of that, the picturesque Gambusia Nature Trail Boardwalk allows you to explore acres of wild marshes. Explore the natural beauty of the Gulf by horseback riding along the park’s ten-mile marsh trails. This extraordinary ride is also available on the park’s fabulous beach.
El Jardin Beach
This small and peaceful cove in Seabrook is ideal for those seeking solitude and serenity. Despite its small size, this beach does not feel frantic or crowded. Most of the time, the beach is empty, and you can relax by building sandcastles, sitting in the sun, or listening to the waves.
There are about 18 parking spaces available. Show up early on the beach to secure a convenient spot. Pack food, snacks, and other necessities since there are no concession stands in the area.
Lake Tejas
This spring-fed lake in Colmesneil is accessible for swimming from May to Labor Day and is full of splashy fun and thrills. Make a point of including this lake on your list of must-see beaches near Houston. Because of its sandy beach, you’ll have a great time wading into the water, sunbathing, and paddle-boating on this lake.
Even better, the lake features a thrilling and towering 100-foot-tall water slide. Don’t confine yourself to the pool. Explore the park and its other amenities, such as volleyball courts and diving boards.
Rockport Beach
No collection of the best beaches near Houston is complete without Rockport. This laid-back hideaway on Aransas Bay was the first in Texas to be designated a Blue Wave beach. Because of the lack of strong undertows and large waves, Rockport is an excellent destination for families with young children.
This beach is also a great place for couples. With its lighted pier and tranquil atmosphere, you can easily sense the romance in the air.
After you’ve had your fill of sand and sun:
- Visit some of Rockport’s most notable attractions and sights.
- Stroll past its historic downtown and enjoy the small-town atmosphere.
- Visit the Fulton Mansion and the Aransas Wildlife Refuge as well.
Also, because it’s a three-hour drive from Houston, you might want to stay for the weekend rather than just a day trip.
Garner State Park
This 1,420-acre park, established in 1941, is well-known for its rocky beach and campsites. Cool off at Rocky Beach to escape the Texas heat. This beach, surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush mesquite trees, will provide a refreshing dip in its clear and cool waters.
Spend a full weekend in this state park for a memorable trip. This park has many activities that will keep you busy for days. Furthermore, the park is 285 miles (5 hours) from Houston, making it unsuitable for day trips.
Bring a pair of aqua shoes if you don’t mind a muddy bottom or a leafy feeling. Also, pack a floatation device if you aren’t a swimmer, as the water is quite deep.
Quintana Beach
This 52-acre park on Texas’ upper Gulf coast is among the state’s best-kept secrets. This beach offers a plethora of entertaining activities.
You can spend hours admiring the vestiges of its historical sites and dabbling in its striking beach area while visiting this beach. The beach, of course, provides a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, surfing, and swimming.
Walk down the park’s jetty on the park’s eastern edge to see birds and dolphins. Captain Mark’s Seafood is a great place to get cheap and tasty seafood.