Texas is so renowned for its deserts and inland cities that many people forget that it also has a large coastline spanning 367 miles. Yes, the Lone Star State is home to an impressively diverse coastline stretching along the Gulf of Mexico.
Texas’s beaches offer everything from lively resort towns and historic seaside communities to remote barrier islands filled with untouched natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for wildlife encounters, fresh seafood, water sports or peaceful stretches of sand far from the crowds, the Texas coast delivers a surprising variety of seaside experiences that appeal to both adventure seekers and relaxation lovers alike.
Here are some of the coastal escapes you’ll wish you discovered sooner in Texas:
Padre Island
Padre Island sports 66 miles of protected pristine beaches. It’s the world’s longest undeveloped barrier island and is a top destination for birdwatching, dolphin spotting and seeing turtles. Visit this island if you’re craving a natural retreat – it’s a great location for activities like hiking, camping and kayaking. An excursion to Padre Island could be worth combining with a vacation to the nearby town of Corpus Christi (where you’ll find a stunning aquarium and the USS Lexington Museum).
Matagorda Bay
Matagorda Bay is a remote fishing hotspot located north of Corpus Christi (check out these hotels near Matagorda Bay). You’ll find beautiful beaches here and breathtaking views looking out onto the Gulf of Mexico. The Colorado River also reaches the sea here, adding to its beauty. The area around it is largely undeveloped, making it another great escape into nature for those interested in birdwatching or hiking. The beaches also remain largely untouched.
Galveston Island
Galveston Island boasts many historical Victorian buildings. It was once nicknamed the ‘Wall Street of the South’, but was greatly ravished by the 1900 Great Storm, which killed over 8000 people. Although many buildings remained intact, Galveston had to work hard to revive itself – there are museums and ghost tours here that delve into its tragic history (there’s also a massive shipwreck here). Of course, Galveston has recovered and is now a thriving seaside resort town with a popular historic pier and a water park containing the world’s largest water coaster! The town is also directly south of Houston, which is full of exciting things to see and do.
Rockport
Rockport is a quaint coastal town known for being home to the state’s first ‘blue wave beach’ – recognized for its superior cleanliness and safety. The town has a vibrant arts scene and is home to some impressive historic mansions. There are some great seafood restaurants here serving freshly caught fish and a number of piers and boat tours that families will enjoy. The Texas Maritime Museums is also located here and a great place to learn about the state’s fascinating nautical past. You’ll find several hotels and vacation rentals throughout the town, as well as tranquil RV parks on the outskirts.
Mustang Island
Mustang Island is directly opposite Corpus Christi and features unique ‘drive-on’ beaches and a wild west history (it was once used as a home for herds of wild mustang horses). It’s a beautiful place to explore – you can pristine white sands here and plenty of wildlife including the endangered Aplomado Falcon. There are many hotels in Corpus Christi that you can stay at, from here you can then journey to Mustang Island.
Much of the island is protected within Mustang Island State Park, making it an excellent destination for travelers looking to experience Texas’s coastal ecosystems up close. Visitors can enjoy miles of shoreline ideal for swimming, fishing and beachcombing, while paddlers can explore the Mustang Island Paddling Trail, one of the longest kayak trails in Texas. The calm coastal waters and scenic dunes create a peaceful environment that feels far removed from busy city life.
Camping is also a popular activity here, with beachfront sites allowing visitors to fall asleep to the sound of waves rolling onto the shore. Birdwatchers frequently visit during migration seasons, when countless coastal and migratory species pass through the area. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer seaside getaway, Mustang Island offers a perfect mix of adventure, wildlife and uninterrupted coastal scenery.
Port Aransas
Port Aransas is a laid-back beach town located on Mustang Island that perfectly captures the relaxed spirit of the Texas coast. Known locally as “Port A,” this destination is popular for its wide sandy beaches, excellent fishing opportunities and dolphin-watching cruises. The town has a welcoming atmosphere with colorful beach houses, local boutiques and waterfront restaurants serving fresh Gulf seafood. Visitors can enjoy everything from deep-sea fishing and parasailing to simply relaxing by the shoreline and watching spectacular coastal sunsets.
Surfside Beach
Surfside Beach offers a peaceful alternative to some of Texas’s busier seaside destinations. Located south of Houston, this quiet coastal community is loved for its uncrowded shores and family-friendly environment. The beach allows vehicle access in certain areas, making it easy to set up for a full day by the sea. Fishing, crabbing and birdwatching are popular activities here, while the gentle waves make it a pleasant spot for swimming. Its relaxed pace and natural beauty make Surfside Beach ideal for travelers seeking a calm seaside escape.
