The Texas Gulf Coast boasts over 600 miles of diverse shorelines, offering everything from bustling boardwalks to serene, untouched sands.
Whether you’re seeking family-friendly amenities, thrilling water sports, or peaceful solitude, there’s a beach tailored for every traveler.
Having been born and raised in Texas, we have visited our fair share of Texas Gulf Coast beaches.
Based on our experience, we have created this comprehensive guide to the top Texas Gulf Coast beaches you won’t want to miss. Enjoy!
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Isla Blanca Park – South Padre Island
If you are looking for one of the best beaches in Texas, look no further than Isla Blanca Park, on Texas’ South Padre Island.
Isla Blanca Park boasts a fun and vibrant atmosphere while giving beach goers plenty of amenities to enjoy, including, pavilions, restrooms, and shower facilities.
While you will pay an entry fee ($12 per vehicle at time of publication), this beach is well worth it.
Visitors love the raised boardwalk and the ability to see the SpaceX rockets launch from nearby Starbase.
Port Aransas Beach – Mustang Island
Known to locals as “Port A,” this charming beach town is one of our absolute favorites!
In addition to the miles of sandy shoreline, Port Aransas is also home to some great restaurants and some fun and unique festivals.
During your visit to Port Aransas, be sure to do like the locals and drive around the area (including the beach) on a golf cart before enjoying the many water-based activities offered.
Plan your visit during the spring to enjoy one of our favorite festivals in Texas, the Texas Sandfest, which draws thousands of visitors to marvel at the incredible sand sculptures that line the beach.
Whitecap Beach – Corpus Christi
You will find Whitecap Beach in the fun town of Corpus Christi, Texas.
A family favorite thanks to its gentle surf and ample amenities, Whitecap Beach is a great place to enjoy a picnic or play some sand volleyball.
Bring your kite, sandcastle building supplies, and lots of sunscreen when enjoying a day at this Texas Gulf Coast beach.
Padre Island National Seashore
Padre Island National Seashore is the perfect beach if you are a nature lover.
Boasting nearly 70 miles of beach, you are sure to find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sand and surf.
Popular spots include Malaquite Beach, known for its clean, car-free shoreline, and Big Shell Beach, which is the perfect spot to go shell hunting.
Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy kayaking and birdwatching from this seashore.
Rockport Beach – Rockport
For a different vibe, check out Rockport Beach, celebrated for its cleanliness and environmental standards.
The shallow waters make it a great place for kids to splash around in the surf and sand, and the many amenities ensure that the adults have a carefree day as well.
Visitors here can enjoy shaded picnic tables, grills, and bird-watching platforms making this a great beach to include on a weekend getaway or a Texas road trip!
Mustang Island State Park
Located just north of the Padre Island National Seashore, Mustang Island State Park offers visitors five miles of surf and sand to enjoy, making this park perfect for camping, surfing, and wildlife watching.
Visitors love paddling through the miles of paddling trails before sunbathing of the wide expanse of beach.
Surfside Beach – Near Houston
Just about an hour outside of Houston, Surfside Beach is a lesser-know, small town in Texas.
Known for its laid-back vibe and small town charm, Surfside Beach is the perfect place to go if you are looking for a relaxing, more personal seaside getaway.
The soft sand of the beach offer opportunities for beach volleyball, surfing, fishing, and more.
One of the perks of this beach is that some areas even permit camping right on the beach, making it a favorite for families and weekend adventurers wanting to sleep under the stars.
Tips For Planning Your Texas Gulf Coast Getaway
Best Time To Visit the Texas Gulf Coast
The spring and fall months are the best time to visit the Texas Gulf Coast. These months bring more moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. While it does get really hot in Texas in summer, the coastal areas do benefit from a nice breeze, and the gulf waters to cool off in, making summer a viable option as well.
What to Pack
- Sunscreen
- Sun Protection (hats and rash guards)
- Beach Gear: Towels, chairs, umbrella, and coolers
- Water Sports Equipment: Surfboard, kayak, snorkeling gear, kits, sandcastle building materials
- Camping Essentials (if camping): Tent, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment
- Wildlife watching tools: Binoculars and camera
Getting There
Most Texas beaches on the Gulf Coast are accessible by car. While you can fly into major cities like Houston, it is advised that you rent a car as public transportation is limited.
Final Thoughts on Gulf Coast Beaches in Texas
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, the Texas Gulf Coast offers a beach for every traveler. From the bustling shores of South Padre Island to the tranquil sands of Rockport, there’s no shortage of coastal beauty to explore.
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Michelle Snell-Founder/Writer
Born and raised in Texas, Michelle Snell graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and her Master’s Degree from Texas Wesleyan University. Her passion for travel has taken her all over the world. She has received multiple awards for her writing. She has been featured in numerous publications, including Travel Awaits, Fort Worth Magazine, Fort Worth Weekly, NewsBreak, Voyage Dallas, Ella Inspires Magazine, and more. You can view her complete profile on MuckRacks.
