The 15 Best Beaches in Texas

Texas is known for its vast stretches of clear blue skies and warm temperatures. The state features a semi-arid climate with mild winters and long summers. And beach and swimming season lasts much longer than in many other regions. If you’re wondering where the best spot is to sun and play, check out these picks for the 15 best beaches in Texas.

1. Port Aransas “Port A” Beach

Port Aransas is the gateway beach town to many popular beach spots along the Gulf Coast. The area features shopping, dining, golf courses, and hotels along the water. And one of the most popular beaches is the Port Aransas Beach. It’s a popular spot for beach camping, sand competitions, and general relaxation. Just be sure to get there early on the weekends as the beach gets crowded quickly depending on the season. 

2. Boca Chica Beach

Boca Chica Beach, a state park and wildlife refuge, is near the Mexico border. And with the SpaceX launchpad nearby, you can lounge on the beach while watching the rockets take off. Boca Chica Beach is tranquil and less overcrowded than other Texas beaches. You can even drive your car onto the beach. Just make sure you can get out if you get stuck. The beach also lacks amenities, so be sure to bring everything you need.

3. Crystal Beach

Crystal Beach is a resort town in the Bolivar Peninsula. The area has everything you need for the perfect summer vacation, including hotels, restaurants, and stores. The beach is a short walk from most areas in the town and offers a quiet retreat without the crowds. You can drive onto the beach and camp overnight for a small fee. The water is excellent for swimming, and children will benefit from its shallow areas.

4. Padre Island National Seashore

The Padre National Seashore is a coastal island with quiet spots along the ocean for relaxation. It is also an excellent area to come and see sea turtles and Man o’ Wars. People come to stroll along the sand, fish, boat on the lagoon, and camp among the grassy sand dunes. Weekends during the summer can be pretty busy, but weekdays typically offer a quiet getaway.  It’s $10 to get access to the beach, and proper 4X4 vehicles can drive for miles on the packed sand.

5. Matagorda Beach

Matagorda features 58 miles of pristine beach, about two hours from Houston. It’s a great family beach perfect for overnight beach camping, fishing, sunset watching, and beach combing. It is a quiet, more secluded spot featuring clear blue water and fine white sand. While you can bring your vehicle onto the beach with a permit, you may get stuck due to the different sand textures. Check out Matagorda if you want plenty of space to stretch out away from people. 

6. Galveston Island State Park

This 2000-acre state park features coves, bayous, and beaches for the perfect weekend or summer getaway. It is a popular spot for camping, hiking, swimming, and birdwatching. The beach access is clean and quiet, with nearby campsites and plenty of swimming and sand castle building. You can even go to the beach at night and look for crabs! You will also find picnic tables, hiking trails, restrooms, and showers.

7. Malaquite Beach

Located near Corpus Christi, Malaquite Beach is on Padre Island in a secluded and quiet area. It’s a clean beach with no crowds and plenty of spots for beach tent camping. Just be sure to get your permit first. Malaquite Beach is a favorite for families featuring clear water and soft sand. There are also nearby hiking trails and a fishing spot great for catching pompano and trout.

8. North Beach

North Beach is a beach town in Corpus Christi featuring restaurants, hotels, and fun attractions. The beach is a popular spot, featuring turquoise waters and white sand. And it offers everything you would expect in a touristy area, with seafood restaurants, a Ferris wheel, and an aquarium. Depending on where you stay, you can get a private entrance to the beach. Even though it’s a popular spot, there is plenty of room and not too many crowds. 

9. South Padre Island

Located on the barrier island, South Padre is a resort town known for its calm waters and incredible beach access. You will find everything you need in the area, including delicious cuisine, beach resorts, and amusement parks. The beach is quiet, clean, and family-friendly. And it’s a short walk from most hotels and restaurants. South Padre water is warm, and there is always a nice cool breeze.   

10. San Jose Island

San Jose Island is located next to Port Aransas and the Aransas Bay. It offers miles of shoreline perfect for fishing, birdwatching, shell collecting, and lounging. You have to take a jetty boat from Fisherman’s Wharf, so be sure to pack and carry everything you will need. The boat comes back around every hour or so when you’re ready to head back. It is a secluded area where many people come to go shelling after storms or fish in peace. Plus, you might be able to spot sea turtles and dolphins!

11. Rockport Beach

Rockport Beach is a great spot for the whole family. It’s located across the bay from San Jose Island and features calm water, a playground, a pavilion, BBQ areas, and volleyball nets. The water is also relatively shallow, perfect for children and pets to splash and play. It costs $10 to drive in or $40 for a yearly pass. But the cost is worth it for the peaceful atmosphere and many amenities.

12. Mustang Island State Park

With nearly 4,000 acres of open beaches and natural areas, there is something for everyone at Mustang Island State Park. The beach features calm blue waters and miles of white sand. It’s a great quiet spot for families and pets, and it’s only $5 per person to gain access. There are bathrooms nearby, and you can pitch your tent right on the sand. 

13. Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach is a seaside community on Follet’s Island featuring parks, restaurants, and hotels. The beach is only about an hour from Houston, and it’s a popular spot for surfing, fishing, and family fun. Summers can get crowded, and it offers a lively feel. Nearby, you will find restrooms, showers, picnic areas, bars, and lots of delicious food. Surfside Beach also offers jet skiing, paddle boarding, and parasailing.

14. Lighthouse Beach

Lighthouse Beach is a popular area on Lavaca Bay. You will find plenty of things to do on the waterfront, such as parks, splash pads, a bird sanctuary, restaurants, and hotels. Many people come to this beach for the RV park and beach access. And it’s a great spot for families due to the shallow water. You can also take advantage of the boardwalks and fishing pier.

15. Seawall Urban Park

This public beach area is in Galveston and features hotels, dining, shopping, and historical landmarks. Due to the packed sand, it’s a great place for walking and running along the ocean. And it has fun for the whole family, including an amusement park area and shallow water for splashing and playing.

Summary of Best Beaches in Texas

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