These top beach getaways in Texas are for the whole family to enjoy.
The Gulf Coast is home to some of the best beach getaways in South Texas and the United States. With its miles of beaches and perfect weather, it’s no wonder that so many people flock to the Lone Star State for a beach vacation. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an exciting family vacation, or a relaxing solo adventure, there’s something to satisfy everyone looking for the best beach getaways in Texas.
Top Beach Getaways In Texas
Each of these beaches on the coast of Texas is different, with its own culture, vibe, and food choices, except seafood. Of course, they all have great seafood restaurants. Whether you are heading to the coast for spring break, summer vacation, or just a quick weekend getaway, the Texas coast is a perfect place to visit.
• South Padre Island
South Padre Island is a popular destination for visitors seeking a tropical paradise. It’s a top beach getaway along the Texas coast. This popular beach town is renowned for its stunning beaches, family-friendly attractions, and kid-friendly accommodations. Visitors can stay at beachfront resorts such as Isla Grand Beach Resort or La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham. The island also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing and birdwatching.
Where To Stay
The Isla Grand Beach Resort, located on the island’s southern portion, is one of the premier resorts along the Texas Gulf Coast. The resort is situated right on the beach, offering guests stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Close to the Isla Grand Beach Resort are various activities, including water sports, fishing, and beachside dining options. Visitors can also explore the island’s nature reserves, which are home to a diverse array of wildlife species.
What To Do
In South Padre, you will find miles of white sandy beaches, clear emerald waters, and a lively nightlife scene. It’s also known for its outdoor activities, such as windsurfing, kayaking, parasailing, and taking a Dolphin Tour with The Original Dolphin Watch. After a fun-filled day, you can enjoy some delicious seafood overlooking the ocean at one of the many excellent restaurants.
One of the best attractions, besides the beautiful beach, is the South Padre Island Dolphin Research & Sea Life Nature Center.
Where To Eat
Landshark Bar & Grill is always my go-to spot for a bite when I visit South Padre Island. It’s located in the Margaritaville Spa & Resort and is worth the stop. If you want to feel like a local and grab a great burger, be sure to stop at Blackbeard’s, located right off Padre Blvd.
How To Get To South Padre Island
South Padre is the farthest drive for us from San Antonio. It’s about a four-and-a-half-hour drive down Hwy 37 to US 77. You do go right past Corpus Christi, so you could certainly visit two beaches on one trip.
Expert Tip
The best time to visit South Padre is in the Fall, with September being the best month. The weather is excellent, and the crowds aren’t as bad.
• Galveston Island
Galveston Island is one of the best beach getaways in Texas and one of the most popular beaches on the Gulf Coast. From the island’s northern tip down to the Mexico border, the Galveston beaches rival any other coast and are among the best Texas beach vacations.
The island offers a range of accommodations, including beachfront resorts such as The San Luis Resort, Spa, and Conference Center, Grand Galvez, and Hilton Galveston Island Resort. Visitors can also enjoy various activities, including swimming, fishing, and exploring the island’s historical treasures.
The island also offers a range of dining options, from casual beachside eateries to upscale restaurants. Galveston is worth a visit for its unique blend of history and beach culture.
Where to Stay
The Grand Galvez has always been my favorite place to stay. It’s located on the Seawall and is pet-friendly. They offer daily ghost tours, including a visit to a haunted hotel room. There is a lot of history to learn while staying there as well. Be sure to check out the spa as well, as it is wonderful.
The San Luis is one of the fancier hotels to stay at and is owned by the Landry Corporation –the onsite restaurant is impressive.
Or the amazing Harbor House Hotel with live music and views of the Gulf.
What To Do
- Moody Gardens – if you spend a lot of time here, you may want to stay at the hotel. It has a fabulous spa and convention center.
- Pleasure Pier – The historic Pleasure Pier features carnival rides and many other activities.
- The Strand
- Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston
- Take the Ferry – Another fun activity is taking the ferry ride to Bolivar Peninsula. It’s a short ferry ride from Galveston, and the trip is free. The ferry operates every 30 minutes between 6:00 a.m. and midnight.
- For relaxing days at the beach, head to the east beach for white sand, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets.
- Be sure to visit during Galveston’s Mardi Gras Celebration, one of the largest in the US South.
Where To Eat
Gumbo Diner is still my favorite place to stop. They have the best gumbo, and their seafood balls are amazing. It’s located right off Seawall Blvd, and I promise you will love it. Nick’s Kitchen and Beach Bar, also located on Seawall Blvd., is also a great place to grab a bit. They have amazing crab cakes and an outdoor patio so you can watch the waves on the ocean as you eat.
How To Get To Galveston Island
From San Antonio, you drive East on I-10 to 45 South. This will take you right to the main street or Broadway.
Expert Tip
Pack your patience for this beach getaway, as it has become one of Texas’s most popular beach destinations. The best time to go to Galveston is in the early spring, but don’t go too late into spring –you’ll run into spring breakers.
• Port Aransas Beach
Port Aransas is 1 of the three beaches in the Corpus Christi area of the Gulf of Mexico. I personally think it has the best beaches because you can drive on them, they are very well kept, and the views are amazing. There is also a great restaurant stop on the beach called Port A Beachlodge.
Where to Stay
We stayed at The Place Hotel. It has been completely renovated, and they offer a complimentary breakfast. They also offer coffee and tea throughout the day. It’s located just across the street from some of the best adventures on the island.
What To Do
Dolphin Tours, Bay Fishing, deep-sea fishing charters, bird watching, and more are available for you to experience. Be sure to check beforehand to ensure they have room, especially if you plan to visit during peak season. There are also numerous shopping opportunities throughout the island. Be sure to rent a golf cart from Kacies Golf Carts, or wherever you can, to feel like a local when exploring the many miles of beautiful beaches.
Where To Eat
One of the best places to eat is Fins. If you go fishing while staying in Port Aransas, Fins will cook up your catch for you. They also offer a fantastic menu featuring some of the best seafood on the island. MacDaddy’s is one of our favorite stops. They offer a wide range of options, from BBQ to fresh seafood, and their cocktails are truly wonderful, especially the margarita flight.
How To Get To Port Aransas
From San Antonio, it’s just a 2 1/2-hour drive down I-37 to Corpus Christi, then head east on TX 361.
Expert Tip
Plan for this trip. It is a busy island during the peak season, so you want to ensure you book your adventures in advance. You will also need to buy a beach pass for driving on the beach.
• Corpus Christi
Corpus Christ is a family-friendly beach vacation. Starting at the North Beach and the South Shore, you have beautiful white sand beaches to visit, warm waters, and plenty of wildlife. My husband and I spent our honeymoon in Corpus Christi over 30 years ago, so it will always have a special place in my heart. Be sure to visit Corpus Christi Beach Park for a range of activities, including volleyball and beachcombing.
Where to Stay
One of the more well-known hotels to stay at in Corpus Christi is the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel. With its stunning views and luxurious accommodations, this downtown location is the perfect spot to experience the heart of downtown Corpus Christi.
What To Do
Besides spending time at the beach, you will want to visit the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay. It is a great way to learn more about the history of this amazing city. The ship and museum offer daily tours, a gift shop, and a simulation ride. You’ll also want to head over to Padre Island National Seashore. It is located just south of Corpus Christi. Here, you’ll find miles of secluded shorelines and pristine sandstone reefs. The Padre Island National Seashore is also home to several species of sea life, including dolphins and sea turtles. The park also offers two cabins and camping options for those looking to stay overnight.
Where To Eat
The Landry’s Seafood House in Corpus Christi is probably my favorite Landry’s to visit. Though it is a chain restaurant, they have some of the best seafood in the Gulf. Another great restaurant is a local stop.
How To Get To Corpus Christi
From San Antonio, it’s about 2 1/2 hours south on US 37 until you reach Corpus Christi.
Expert Tip
Definitely do your research before you head to Corpus Christi. There is so much to do at this Texas beach getaway, and you want to ensure that the activities you’re interested in are not only open but also available when you visit; many things are seasonal only.
• Rockport Beach
After Rockport Beach was rebuilt from the devastation of Hurricane Harvey, it has become one of the must-visit beaches in the Gulf of Mexico. Surrounded by Copano and Aransas Bay, it is one of the number 1 retirement communities on the Texas Gulf Coast.
Where to Stay
There are many hotels, RV parks, and bed & breakfast locations to choose from. Be sure to plan ahead, as Rockport is becoming one of the top beaches to visit during peak summer months.
What To Do
Rockport is renowned for its excellent fishing, but there’s much more to do. From its many art galleries, nature trails, and boating experiences, you can also catch some of the most beautiful sunsets you have ever seen.
Where To Eat
There are over 30 seafood restaurants to choose from in Rockport, though my absolute favorite is The Old Fulton Seafood Cafe & Steakhouse. They offer a variety of seafood and steak, and the martini selections are among the best I’ve ever seen.
How To Get To Rockport Beach
From San Antonio, it’s just under 3 hours south on Interstate 37 to Texas 188.
Expert Tip
Rockport is different than most Texas beach getaways. The winter months can sometimes be busier than the summer months because of the “Snowbirds” who have winter homes here. I would recommend visiting during the late spring or early fall months.
Lesser-Known Beaches to Visit in Texas
- Boca Chica Beach
- Surfside Beach
- Port Arthur
- McFaddin Beach
- Jamaica Beach
- Stewart Beach
Deciding which of the best beach getaways in Texas can be quite cumbersome, but no matter what kind of beach getaway you’re looking for, there’s something to satisfy your desires in Texas. From luxurious beach escapes like Padre Island National Seashore to exciting destinations like South Padre Island. You’ll find plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy throughout your trip. So why not book a stay and explore Texas’s beautiful beaches for yourself?
And while you’re planning your beach getaway, check out these outdoor activities at Texas beaches you might not have thought about – these chosen picks are great for the entire family!
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