
BEACHES IN TEXAS
Complete Beach List: Upper Coast
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Sea Rim State Park
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McFaddin Beach
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Crystal Beach
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Gilchrist Beach
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High Island Beach
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East Beach
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Stewart Beach
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Seawall Beach
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Pocket Parks
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Sunny Beach
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Jamaica Beach
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Pirate's Beach
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Surfside Beach
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Quintana Beach
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Bryan Beach
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Jetty Park Beach
Mid Coast
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Matagorda Beach
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East Matagorda Beach
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Sargent Beach
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Matagorda Bay Nature Park
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Rockport Beach
Coastal Bend
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Goose Island Shoreline
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Port Aransas Beach
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IB Magee Beach
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Mustang Island State Park
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Fish Pass Beach
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North Padre Island
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Whitecap Beach
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Padre Balli Park
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JP Luby Beach
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McGee Beach
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North Beach (Corpus Christi)
Padre Island
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Malaquite Beach
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Bird Island Basin
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South Beach
Lower Coast
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Boca Chica Beach
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South Padre Island Beach
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Isla Blanca Beach
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Andy Bowie Beach
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Edwin King Atwood Park Beach
In total, Texas has more than 35 named public Gulf beaches, ranging from highly developed destinations with restaurants and entertainment to remote natural shorelines ideal for birdwatching, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
TEXAS BEACHES
KEMAH BOARDWALK:
Kemah Boardwalk, located in Kemah, Texas, is a bustling waterfront entertainment district that offers a plethora of attractions, dining options, and recreational activities. Situated on the shores of Galveston Bay, the boardwalk spans over 60 acres and provides visitors with a vibrant mix of amusement park rides, waterfront restaurants, shops, and live entertainment. One of the highlights of Kemah Boardwalk is its amusement park, featuring thrilling rides such as roller coasters, Ferris wheels, and a towering wooden roller coaster known as the Boardwalk Bullet. Families and thrill-seekers alike can enjoy a variety of attractions suitable for all ages.
Overall, Kemah Boardwalk offers a dynamic blend of entertainment, dining, and shopping experiences, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike seeking fun and relaxation by the waterfront in Texas.
CORPUS CHRISTI:
If outdoor adventure in Texas is calling your name, visit Corpus Christi for fun on the water and fishing, water skiing, kayaking, and more. Sleep under the stars on the beach or enjoy a weekend of family activities. Take in bird watching, arts and culture, or just relax the day away on the beautiful beaches. One of the main draws of Corpus Christi is its miles of pristine beaches, including popular destinations such as North Beach, Padre Island National Seashore, and Mustang Island State Park. These sandy shores offer opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, fishing, and water sports like windsurfing and kiteboarding.
In addition to its natural attractions, Corpus Christi boasts a wealth of cultural and historical sites. The city's downtown area features the iconic Selena Memorial Statue honoring the legendary Tejano singer, as well as the Art Museum of South Texas and the Texas State Aquarium, which showcases marine life native to the Gulf Coast region.
With its blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and recreational activities, Corpus Christi offers something for everyone, whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, historical exploration, or simply a relaxing beach getaway on the Texas coast.
GALVESTON:
Galveston, Texas, located on Galveston Island along the Gulf Coast, is a historic and charming city renowned for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and diverse attractions. Steeped in history, Galveston offers visitors a unique blend of Victorian architecture, maritime history, and coastal beauty. One of the main attractions of Galveston is its stunning beaches, including popular spots like Stewart Beach and East Beach. These sandy shores provide opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and water sports like surfing and paddleboarding.
Throughout the year, Galveston hosts a variety of events and festivals, including Mardi Gras Galveston, Dickens on The Strand, and the Galveston Island Food and Wine Festival, showcasing the city's vibrant culture and culinary offerings.
Whether you're interested in history, outdoor recreation, or simply relaxing on the beach, Galveston offers a unique coastal experience with its blend of historical charm, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.
JAMAICA ISLAND:
Jamaica Beach on Galveston Island, Texas, is a charming coastal community known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Located on the western end of Galveston Island, Jamaica Beach offers visitors a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The main attraction of Jamaica Beach is its pristine shoreline, which stretches for miles along the Gulf of Mexico. The soft sands and gentle surf make it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and building sandcastles. The beach is also popular among anglers, who can fish from the shore or launch boats from the nearby marina for deep-sea fishing excursions.
Overall, Jamaica Beach offers a tranquil escape where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the Texas Gulf Coast and experience the charm of a coastal community. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, beachfront relaxation, or simply a quiet retreat by the sea, Jamaica Beach has something to offer everyone.
MATAGORDA ISLAND:
Matagorda Island, located along the Texas Gulf Coast, is a remote and pristine barrier island known for its natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Accessible only by boat, Matagorda Island is part of the Matagorda Island Wildlife Management Area, managed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, ensuring its preservation and protection. The island boasts over 38 miles of undeveloped beaches, making it a haven for beachcombers, birdwatchers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the island's diverse ecosystems, including sandy beaches, dunes, salt marshes, and tidal flats, which are home to a variety of wildlife species, including shorebirds, seabirds, dolphins, and sea turtles.
Overall, Matagorda Island offers a serene and unspoiled natural environment where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Texas Gulf Coast and experience a true wilderness adventure.
PORT ARANSAS:
Port Aransas, often referred to as "Port A" by locals, is a charming coastal town located on Mustang Island along the Texas Gulf Coast. Known for its pristine beaches, vibrant arts scene, and laid-back atmosphere, Port Aransas is a popular destination for beachgoers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts alike. The main draw of Port Aransas is its miles of sandy shoreline, offering ample opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and kiteboarding.
Overall, Port Aransas offers visitors a relaxed coastal getaway with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, artistic exploration, and seaside relaxation.
ROCKPORT: Rockport, Texas, nestled along the shores of Aransas Bay on the Texas Gulf Coast, is a charming coastal town renowned for its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities. Known as the "Texas Riviera," Rockport offers visitors a unique blend of coastal charm, artistic flair, and outdoor adventure. The centerpiece of Rockport is its picturesque waterfront, where visitors can stroll along the scenic Rockport Beach Park, a certified Blue Wave Beach known for its soft sands, gentle surf, and family-friendly amenities. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing, and offers stunning views of the bay and nearby islands.
Rockport also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including the Rockport Art Festival, a juried art show featuring works by local and regional artists, and the Rockport Seafair, a waterfront celebration with live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
Overall, Rockport offers visitors a relaxed coastal retreat with a wealth of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and scenic beauty to explore.
BEACH PARK AT SOUTH PADRE ISLAND:
Beach Park at Isla Blanca, located on South Padre Island, Texas, is a premier beachfront destination offering a wide range of recreational activities and amenities for visitors of all ages. Situated along the stunning Gulf of Mexico shoreline, Beach Park at Isla Blanca is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coastal atmosphere. The centerpiece of Beach Park at Isla Blanca is its expansive beach area, featuring soft sands and gentle waves ideal for sunbathing, swimming, beach volleyball, and sandcastle building. Visitors can relax under umbrellas or rent chairs and cabanas for added comfort while enjoying the picturesque views of the Gulf Coast.
Overall, Beach Park at Isla Blanca provides a complete beachfront experience, combining natural beauty with thrilling waterpark attractions and family-friendly amenities. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or both, Beach Park at Isla Blanca offers something for everyone to enjoy on South Padre Island.
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND:
South Padre Island, situated along the southern tip of Texas, is a renowned barrier island known for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and abundance of outdoor recreational activities. Stretching approximately 34 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, South Padre Island offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. The main attraction of South Padre Island is its stunning beaches, featuring soft white sands and warm turquoise waters. These beaches provide an idyllic setting for sunbathing, swimming, beach volleyball, sandcastle building, and a variety of water sports such as surfing, kiteboarding, and parasailing.
South Padre Island offers visitors a perfect getaway destination with its beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, lively entertainment, and year-round sunshine.
SURFSIDE BEACH:
Surfside Beach, nestled along the Gulf Coast of Texas, is a serene coastal community known for its pristine beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and abundant recreational opportunities. Located just south of Galveston, Surfside Beach offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with miles of sandy shoreline and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The main attraction of Surfside Beach is its expansive beaches, which provide ample space for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and jet skiing. The soft sands and gentle surf make it an ideal destination for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Overall, Surfside Beach offers a relaxed coastal getaway with a wealth of outdoor activities, natural beauty, and cultural attractions to explore. Whether you're seeking sun and surf, fishing and boating, or simply a quiet retreat by the sea, Surfside Beach has something to offer everyone.
MORE BEACHES ALONG THE TEXAS GULF:
Padre Island National Seashore: As the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world, Padre Island National Seashore is a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can experience remote beaches, dunes, and tidal flats, as well as opportunities for birdwatching, camping, and stargazing.
Crystal Beach: Situated on the Bolivar Peninsula near Galveston, Crystal Beach is a popular spot for beachgoers looking to relax and unwind. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, shelling, and fishing along its sandy shores.
Fremont Beach: Nestled along the tranquil shores of the Texas Gulf Coast lies Fremont Beach, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous beachgoers. Tucked away from the bustling tourist hubs, Fremont Beach offers a serene retreat for those seeking solace in nature's embrace.
Port Isabel: Nestled along the shores of the Laguna Madre Bay, Port Isabel stands as a picturesque coastal town in South Texas, offering a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and laid-back charm. As one of the oldest towns in Texas, Port Isabel beckons visitors with its rich maritime heritage, vibrant waterfront, and proximity to scenic beaches and pristine wildlife habitats.
Port Arthur: Nestled along the shores of the Sabine Lake and the Gulf of Mexico, Port Arthur stands as a vibrant coastal city in Southeast Texas, brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. From its industrial roots to its scenic waterfront and cultural attractions, Port Arthur offers a diverse array of experiences for visitors to explore and enjoy.
Upper Texas Coast (Sabine Pass to Galveston)
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Sea Rim State Park Beach
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McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge Beach
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Crystal Beach (Bolivar Peninsula)
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Gilchrist Beach
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High Island Beach
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East Beach (Galveston)
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Stewart Beach (Galveston)
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Seawall Urban Beach (Galveston)
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Pocket Parks 1, 2 & 3 (Galveston)
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Sunny Beach
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Jamaica Beach
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Pirate's Beach
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Surfside Beach
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Quintana Beach
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Bryan Beach
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Jetty Park Beach (Freeport)
Matagorda Bay Area
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Matagorda Beach
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East Matagorda Beach
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Sargent Beach
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Matagorda Bay Nature Park Beach
Central Texas Coast
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Rockport Beach
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Goose Island shoreline
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Port Aransas Beach
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IB Magee Beach Park
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Mustang Island State Park Beach
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Fish Pass Beach
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North Padre Island Beach
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Whitecap Beach
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Padre Balli Park Beach
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JP Luby Beach
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McGee Beach
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North Beach (Corpus Christi)
Padre Island National Seashore
One of the longest undeveloped barrier islands in the world.
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Malaquite Beach
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Bird Island Basin
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South Beach (60+ miles of undeveloped shoreline)
South Texas Coast
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Boca Chica Beach
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South Padre Island Beach
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Isla Blanca Beach
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Andy Bowie County Park Beach
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Edwin King Atwood Park Beach
Popular Family Beaches
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Rockport Beach (Blue Wave certified)
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Stewart Beach
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Surfside Beach
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Port Aransas Beach
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South Padre Island
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Mustang Island State Park
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Whitecap Beach
Best Beaches for Shelling
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San José Island
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Padre Island National Seashore
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Boca Chica Beach
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Crystal Beach
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Matagorda Beach
Best Beaches for Camping
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Padre Island National Seashore
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Mustang Island State Park
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Matagorda Beach
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Crystal Beach
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Sea Rim State Park
Best Beaches for Fishing
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Surfside Beach
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Port Aransas
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Padre Island National Seashore
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Crystal Beach
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Boca Chica Beach
Best Beaches for Driving on the Sand
Texas is one of the few states where driving is permitted on many beaches (subject to local conditions and restrictions).
Popular drive-on beaches include:
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Crystal Beach
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Surfside Beach
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Matagorda Beach
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Padre Island National Seashore (South Beach)
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Boca Chica Beach
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South Padre Island (designated sections)
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Mustang Island (designated sections)

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