Famous for its rich colonial heritage, impressive historical sites, eclectic Tex-Mex cuisine, spectacular promenades, and other scenic landmarks, there are undoubtedly lots of fun things to do when you’re visiting San Antonio. But if you’re looking to take a break for a swim or simply relax in the sand, don’t fret. Though the Alamo City is not set on the coast, it’s nearby many popular beaches, allowing you to make your trip more enjoyable. To get you started, here are the top beaches close to San Antonio, where you can cool off and find more great adventures.
Surfside Beach
Located nearly four hours from San Antonio, Surfside Beach is a small coastal village that boasts a 4-mile pristine coastline, ideal for swimming, lounging, or simply soaking up in the sun. As its name suggests, it’s renowned for its consistent Wavves, making it one of the best surfing spots in the Lone Star State. If you need exercise, you can walk, jog, hike, or bike its Bluewater Highway Trail that stretches three miles from the town’s center. Otherwise, you can embark on a wildlife adventure and take the Bird & Butterfly Trail. See snow geese, egrets, herons, cranes, and spoonbills that reside or visit Surfside at different times in the year.
Matagorda Bay
Matagorda Bay strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and nonstop fun activities. You can simply relish the beauty of the Texas Gulf Coast as you lie on the sandy shore or go horseback riding on the beach for a peaceful stroll. Alternatively, you can cast your line and go saltwater and freshwater fishing all day in this nutrient-rich estuary. If you want to travel back in time, step into many of its historical landmarks and experience Texas’ 500-year history. Blessed with miles and miles of beautiful beaches, there are many campsites and rental houses available, you can bring your friends and family together to enjoy this paradise.
Boca Chica Beach
Situated 296 miles away or over a four-drive drive from San Antonio, Boca Chica Beach offers beautiful, fine white sand, nice patches of beach grass, and subtly sloping dunes. Here, you can have pure and simple fun while playing in the water, surfing, fishing, snorkeling, kiteboarding, or birdwatching. Boca Chica Beach is quite remote, but the solitude it offers adds to its charm, a perfect respite from the city noise and jam.
Mustang Island State Park
Only a 2 hour and 30-minute drive from San Antonio, Mustang Island State Park is located in the 29-kilometer (18-mile) long barrier island, which stretches from Corpus Christi to Port Aransas. Easily one of the most sought-after family beaches in Texas, it offers amazing swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and camping opportunities. Nature lovers can go hiking, mountain biking, or paddling in the available trails to appreciate the natural sceneries that also surround the state park.
East Beach, Galveston Island
If you like to see crowds and parties, head straight to Galveston’s Island East Beach. It is the largest and most famous beach on the island and where summer festivals, concerts, and parties are held. Booze is openly allowed and sold. You can bring alcohol, given that it’s not in a glass container. Outside summer, the beach becomes an ideal place for fishing, birdwatching, or strolling while reveling in the dramatic sunset.
North Beach, Corpus Christi
Located 143 miles away from San Antonio or a 2-hour drive from the city, you’ll reach North Beach, one of Corpus Christi’s charming beaches. While dipping your feet in the calm bay waters or strolling the white sands are sure fun things to do in the area, this beach has more unique things to offer. It is home to the USS Lexington, a World War II aircraft turned into a stunning museum, and the Texas State Aquarium, a nonprofit aquarium that will take you on a memorable aquatic journey. Cap up your day by enjoying delicious food or sipping your favorite cocktail with the line of restaurants available, all while enjoying the lovely bayfront views.
Port Aransas Beach
Port Aransas is regarded as one of the best beaches near San Antonio. No surprise, as you’ll definitely enjoy its mile of sandy beaches, warm clear waters, and fresh air. Here, you can beach comb, sunbathe, surf, or boat to your heart’s content. If you love fishing, don’t hesitate to ask the beach guides for the best fishing spots. You can catch a variety of fish, like trout, tuna, sailfish, snapper, or blue marlin. What’s great is that Port Aransas Beach allows 3 by 3 feet campfires, giving you the chance to get fun nights and an unforgettable camping experience.
Rockport Beach
Stretching only 1 mile in length, Rockport Beach may be short, but it never lacks in fun, beauty, and acclaim. It is the first beach in the Lone Star State to receive the Blue Wave Certification, implying that the beach has met safety, health, ecological, and cleanliness practices, making it a robust and vibrant beach. From fishing, swimming, windsurfing, birdwatching to walking trails, adults will never get bored with the activities the beach has to offer. Adding the toddler-friendly waters and the beautiful children’s playground, kids will surely have a fun time as well.
Final Words
San Antonio is indeed a fascinating city for sightseeing, getting immersed in diverse cultures, and witnessing a stunning history. Yet, every trip to the Alamo City can become even more amusing, knowing that you can quickly reach many equally spectacular beaches, swim in warm waters, or simply adore the breathtaking views, all adding to the unique Texan experience.
