Texas has so much to offer residents and visitors alike that sometimes our 600 miles of gorgeous coastline can go overlooked. The state is home to a number of unique and interesting beaches and beach resorts that make it easy to create a perfect beach vacation without travelling far.
Imagine spending a few days or even a week exploring isolated stretches of gulf coastline with your family. Soft warm sand, foamy waves, incredible seashells and intriguing birds and wildlife complete the picture perfectly. Or for the more adventurous type, think about surfing, boogie boarding, sailing, sport fishing or any number of exciting recreational opportunities. Texas is home to more than 60 beaches along its coastline.
Gulf coast beaches rank among the best in the country for shell collecting, as hundreds of species of shellfish inhabit the Gulf. The most extreme beachcombers in Texas always head to San Jose Island in Aransas County. The island iprivately owned, uninhabited and can be reached only by boat. The Jetty Boat is available to ferry passengers to the island and back several times each day. The island is also perfect for nature walks, picnics, and provides unbeatable photographic opportunities. For more information and schedules, visit www.jettyboat.net .
Port Aransas Beach in Nueces County is known for its unbeatable wind and waves, perfect for surfers, boogie boarders and more recently, kite boarders. The prime surfing spots on this beach are near the Horace Caldwell Pier, due to its creation of rip currents that cause huge waves. This is one of the few places in the world where it is not forbidden to surf near fishing piers, however experienced surfers always keep far away from possible fishing lines. A concession area on the pier provides snacks, drinks and restrooms and free parking is available. For more information, visit www.cityofportaransas.org/Port_Aransas_Beach.cfm .
Padre Island National Seashore is a destination famous for its surf fishing. The is the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world, making it a prime spot for saltwater fishing. Several varieties of fish are common throughout the year including redfish, shark, tarpon, and whiting. It is recommended to utilize a four-wheel drive vehicle for this excursion, and this is a necessity to go beyond the beach’s five-mile marker. Also beware of stringrays lurking in the shallow water. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/pais .
South Padre is consistently ranked among the country’s top beaches, offering a festive tropical environment and miles of beautiful beaches to enjoy. The most common activities on SPI include swimming, surfing, water sports, parasailing, sunbathing, searching for the island’s legendary lost pirates’ treasure, and enjoying the islands vibrant nightlife. For more information, visit www.sopadre.com
Galveston Island is a popular beach hideout for visitors from nearby Houston. Galveston is the perfect beach getaway for those with an additional interest in culture and history. The island also offers a variety of world-class family entertainment options, theme parks, and incredible beach resorts. For more information, visit www.galveston.com
Surfside
Surfside beaches are less than an hour away from Houston, and are a popular destination for a diverse group of active beach lovers. In Surfside, experience a variety of water sports and recreation options, tempting eateries, unique lodging options and a delightful seaside atmosphere. For more information, visit www. texasexplorer.com/Surfside.htm .
