Texas is not usually associated with white sand beaches, but it actually has 600 miles of coastline, equal to that of Florida. Despite not being famous for its beaches, Texans are happy about it. When you visit the Texas coast, you’ll experience an authentic, locally influenced lifestyle.
There are no overwhelming tourist traps, so you can enjoy a relaxing beach bonfire with friends. Some of the best beaches in Texas are protected areas, where turtles hatch and there is very little human presence. By enjoying both the untouched paradises and the local way of life, you’ll understand why Texas is a hidden gem for beach vacations.
12. Galveston Beach
Galveston Beach is a very famous beach in Texas, known all across the country. It’s only an hour away from Houston, making it a popular choice for people from the city who are looking for a weekend escape. The beach town always has a great atmosphere, no matter what time of year it is.
One of the best things about Galveston Beach is the 61st Street Fishing Pier. It’s open most of the time, even 24/7 on certain occasions, and it’s a perfect addition to your beach day. If you’ve spent enough time swimming, reading, and just chilling out, it’s nice to take a leisurely walk along the pier.
And if you’re into fishing, you can easily rent all the equipment you need and even get some snacks and drinks at the pier store. Once you’re done enjoying the beach and pier, you can simply walk a short distance inland to find some excellent local restaurants where you can end the day on a high note.
11. San Jose Island
To reach San Jose Island, travelers need a boat as it is located across the water from Port Aransas. Once you set foot on the island, the only available destination is the beach. From the sandy shores, you can easily walk towards the crystal clear waters, rivaling any other in Texas.
It’s a peaceful experience, free from the noise of passing cars and off-road vehicles on the sand. To fully enjoy your day on this tranquil and untouched island, it’s essential to come prepared. Since there are no facilities available, make sure to bring a well-supplied cooler and an umbrella for shade.
10. Boca Chica Beach
Not all Texan beaches are open to the public or available 24 hours a day, but Boca Chica beach is an exception. Located at the southern tip of Texas, between the Rio Grande and Laguna Madre, Boca Chica is a truly beautiful sight.
Stretching for eight miles, the beach is incredibly picturesque and seems to go on forever, meeting the horizon in the distance. This beach is particularly special as it is situated where the US ends and Mexico begins, with only the Rio Grande River separating the two countries.
Despite being part of a wildlife refuge, there are no facilities or services available here, offering a purely rustic and stunning experience.
9. Sea Rim State Park
Sea Rim State Park has been damaged by hurricanes over the years, but now it is ready to display its natural beauty after a period of rejuvenation. The park’s resident beach is five miles long and has been well-protected, providing a serene setting without much development.
If you’re looking for a beach with a lively atmosphere, this might not be the right choice. However, it is perfect for those who want to relax, go boating, fish along the coast, or observe birds.
And if you can’t get enough of Sea Rim, you have the option to stay overnight at the campground, allowing you to experience the soft white sand once again in the morning.
8. East Beach, Galveston
When it comes to Texas, Galveston Island’s East Beach is considered one of the best beaches. It is not only beautiful, but also the largest in the state. Moreover, you are allowed to bring alcoholic drinks, which makes it even more appealing to many people. Although it can get crowded, the lively atmosphere adds to the enjoyment.
During the summer, there are frequent live music performances by various artists. Additionally, the beach hosts a renowned sandcastle competition. If you continue walking along the beach towards the west, you will eventually reach Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier.
This place is home to an amusement park, a 100-foot Ferris wheel, and several bars right on the beach. It becomes the popular spot to visit once the sun sets.
7. Rockport Beach
Rockport Beach, proudly certified as a Blue Wave Beach, is a perfect example of a healthy beach with clear water. It has undergone changes over time, shifting away from beachfront bonfires and driving vehicles on the sand.
Nowadays, it stands as a pristine beach where you can swim in the sparkling waters of the gulf, engage in a friendly game of beach volleyball, and try your luck at fishing off the pier.
The calm and shallow water of Rockport makes it an ideal destination for families with young children, as there is no need to worry about strong waves or rip tides. To make things even better, Rockport Beach offers a reasonably priced parking lot that costs only $5 per day, providing easy access to the shore.
As you make your way there, you will come across palapas, which offer a welcome shelter from the blistering Texan sun for beachgoers. Additionally, located nearby are restrooms, showers, and picnic areas for your convenience.
6. Padre Island National Seashore
The Padre Island National Seashore in Texas is unique because it has 70 miles of untouched sand and rolling dunes. It is one of the longest undeveloped barrier islands in the world. It is perfect for both beachgoers and nature enthusiasts. Unlike other beaches, this seashore is more secluded and doesn’t offer easy access to food and drinks.
However, most visitors wouldn’t want it any other way. They appreciate the opportunity to let nature take the spotlight. In addition to sunbathing and swimming, you can also go kayaking along the rugged shoreline or snorkeling in Laguna Madre. If you’re a bird watcher, you’ll be thrilled to spot any of the island’s 300 bird species.
5. Surfside Beach
Surfside Beach is a beach that perfectly matches its name. While the Gulf of Mexico is not typically known for its waves, strong winds can cause waves to appear. Especially during hurricane season, surfers often visit the beach in search of ideal waves. On the sandy shore, Surfside Beach is just as clean and clear as any other beach in Texas.
The only thing preventing it from achieving Blue Wave status is its relaxed rules. Instead of strictly focusing on conservation, Surfside Beach strives to find a balance between beauty and cleanliness, allowing activities like campfires and beach driving. Additionally, the jetties provide a great spot for fishing, and you can even go horse riding along the coast.
4. North Beach, Corpus Christi
Unlike many beaches along the southern coast of Texas that require a drive from the state’s largest cities, North Beach is conveniently located within Corpus Christi. Its popularity stems from both its proximity and its stunning scenery. Situated just across the city’s Harbor Bridge, North Beach offers 1.5 miles of soft, powdery white sand.
If the wind picks up, it provides some enjoyable surf. The beach’s shoreline is pristine, creating a wonderful environment for relaxation. Should you need a break from the sun, there are cabanas available on-site.
Additionally, North Beach is surrounded by numerous attractions, such as the USS Lexington, the Texas State Aquarium, and the Corpus Christi Bay Trail.
3. South Padre Island
South Padre Island, which used to be popular for Spring Break, is now a beautiful destination where families can have a sunny vacation. The island has white sand and Isla Blanca Beach is a must-visit spot.
To enter the beach, there is a small fee of $5, but it is worth it, especially for families with young children who can enjoy the gentle waves in the warm Gulf of Mexico. During the summer, both locals and tourists flock to the beach, so it’s a good idea to arrive early if you want to rent beach chairs and umbrellas.
If you venture beyond the sandy shore, you will find Isla Blanca Park, where you can have picnics and find places to buy food.
2. Port Aransas Beach, Mustang Island
Port Aransas Beach, located on Mustang Island, is a popular destination that attracts a large number of people. However, the beach offers a spacious atmosphere due to its long shoreline. You can visit the beach at any time because there is plenty of 18-mile long golden sand for everyone.
The beach is situated near Corpus Christi and is surrounded by the timeless Port Aransas, which is a charming town with lovely vacation homes that provide easy access to the coastline. Here, you can relax and sunbathe in peace, and there are several bathrooms and outdoor showers available along the waterfront.
Additionally, after spending the day on the sand, you can conveniently walk to various restaurants nearby that offer casual food and delicious seafood.
1. Crystal Beach
Crystal Beach, located just north of Galveston on the Bolivar Peninsula, is known for its vibrant party atmosphere and glamorous ambiance. During the summer to early fall season, the beach becomes a popular destination for beach driving, tailgating, and bonfires that often continue into the early hours of the morning.
If you’re looking for more than just sand and sea during your beach day, be sure to include Crystal Beach in your plans. For a fee of $10, you can drive onto the beautiful golden sand covered in seashells. Once you arrive, enjoy your day at the beach before deciding to set up a camp.
And if you’re not interested in cooking your own meal over a campfire, you can always opt for a delicious meal or drinks at a local restaurant or bar instead.