Best Beaches in Texas
Searching for the nicest beaches in Texas? Well, you are in the right place! As a Texan who has also visited beaches around the world, I can confidently say that the beaches in Texas are some of the most unique and underrated coastal escapes in the U.S. They’ve become my favorite places to enjoy the Gulf Coast, not just because they’re close by.
I discovered lively boardwalks, quiet barrier islands, and beaches that invite you to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax by the shore. Here are the beaches I recommend, and I hope you’ll enjoy them on your day trip or longer vacation as well.
1. Boca Chica Tract of the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge
I thought this windswept stretch of sand at the southern tip of Texas was one of the most hauntingly beautiful places I’d ever seen and home to the best beaches in Texas. Why? First off, the shoreline is undeveloped and natural. In addition, we loved the sand dunes, and wild coastal prairies! Then there is the surreal backdrop of SpaceX’s Starbase launch facilities which were so interesting to see on our beach trip!
A 30-minute drive east from Brownsville took me past wildlife-rich wetlands before I reached this untamed barrier beach. Trust me... the mix of raw nature and cutting-edge space exploration here is unlike anywhere else in the world!
You can spend days walking along the remote sands, watch ghost crabs on the sand, watch pelicans dive for fish, and walk on The Boca Chica Tract of the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge. At night, the sky was so dark that the Milky Way stretched clearly overhead (except at SpaceX launch times).
- Location: South Texas, near Brownsville in the Lower Rio Grande Valley
- Map & Directions
The 4-star Margaritaville Beach Resort - South Padre Island offers pools, a spa and many activities if you don't want to rough it. We stayed at the more affordable 2-star Port Isla Inn for two days.
What I loved best:
My highlight were nesting sea turtles on the beach. Hatchlings begin to emerge July to September on this beach. I think this is the best beach in Texas if you want to get close to wildlife.
2. East Beach, Galveston Island
Is this you first trip to Texas and not sure where to go for a relaxing beach day? Head to Galveston Island... This lively stretch of sand on Galveston’s far eastern tip was one of the most energetic spots along the Texas coast. East Beach has a wide shoreline, rolling surf, and the buzz of music, festivals, and family gatherings.
Unlike the quiet beaches farther down the island, East Beach, about 50 miles southeast of Houston, is Galveston’s social heart with something always happening on the sand. There's also lots to do nearby so I recommend at least three day here if you are from out of town. We based ourselves in a relaxing vacation rental for five days. Gaido's Seaside Inn is another nice place to stay near East Beach.
I’ll admit that before visiting, I mostly associated Galveston with the historic Strand and cruise ships, but East Beach showed me a completely different side of the island. Known for its relaxed rules and festive atmosphere, this beach is all about wide-open space, Gulf views, and laid-back coastal fun.
Like much of Galveston, East Beach reflects the island’s mix of cultures and visitors, drawing locals, road-trippers from Houston, and international travelers alike. What I like most about East Beach as a half-day or day trip is how easy it is to reach. If you’re staying on the island, driving is the simplest option, and there’s on-site parking available for a daily fee (usually around $15–$20 USD, depending on the season). Rideshares work too, though availability can be limited during busy weekends.
Once you’re there, the main attraction is, of course, the beach itself. East Beach is known for being more social than other Galveston beaches, with space for volleyball, music, and even beach bonfires during permitted times. It’s also one of the few beaches on the island where alcohol is allowed, which adds to its reputation as the go-to spot for festivals and summer events.
If you want a break from the sand, take a walk along the nearby shoreline for sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset. And when hunger strikes, it’s easy to head back toward central Galveston for fresh seafood or classic Tex-Mex—perfect after a salty, sun-filled afternoon by the water.
- Location: Galveston Island, Texas (far eastern tip of the island)
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
Lunch at Porch Cafe was my personal highlight.
My favorite annual event here is the 2-day Galveston Sandcastle Competition in September.
3. Rockport Beach
Chris and I both absolutely love Rockport Beach, and have been many times. Just a few minutes from Rockport’s charming arts district, this beach completely won me over. We loved that the beach offers a sandy shore, picnic cabanas, and a mile-long promenade where we caught an amazing sunrise!
In addition, families will enjoy the calm waters, and anglers can cast their lines from the pier.
For me it was no wonder Rockport Beach had earned Texas’s first “Blue Wave Beach” designation because it's clean and calm!
- Location: Rockport, Texas (Aransas County, Texas Gulf Coast)
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
Staying at 3-star The Lighthouse Inn at Aransas Bay for two nights was lovely.
A downside? I learned that this region is vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms so it's important to check the weather before you head there.
4. IB Magee Beach
Ahh... IB Magee Beach, one of the true coastal gems of South Texas. Tucked away in Port Aransas on Mustang Island, this beach is where laid-back island vibes meet wide-open Gulf views. If you’ve never been, it’s hard to explain how peaceful and refreshing it feels. Considering how easy it is to access, the soft sand, and the variety of outdoor activities, it’s a spot I recommend to anyone who loves the ocean and a slower pace of life.
What I love about IB Magee Beach is how natural and unspoiled it feels. The beach stretches for miles, giving you plenty of space to spread out without feeling crowded. You’ll often see seabirds flying overhead, fishermen casting lines from the shore, and families enjoying the gentle waves. It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down the moment you step onto the sand.
Plus, one word – sunsets. Watching the sun dip below the Gulf here is something special, with pastel skies and a warm ocean breeze that makes you want to stay just a little longer. Whether you’re swimming, beachcombing, fishing, or simply relaxing with a book, IB Magee Beach makes it easy to unplug and enjoy the moment.
IB Magee Beach is located just minutes from the heart of Port Aransas and is easily accessible by car, with nearby parking and facilities that make a beach day simple and stress-free. There’s a small entrance fee to access the park, but it’s well worth it for the clean shoreline and peaceful atmosphere.
This awesome spot on Mustang Island is one of my favorite beaches in Texas! About 40 minutes from Corpus Christi, we adored the wide sandy stretches and steady Gulf breezes on.
What I loved best:
My highlight was the sunset which was especially magical. I also enjoyed visiting the 3-day Texas SandFest in April.
5. Magnolia Beach
This beach felt like one of those hidden gems along the Gulf Coast that only locals seem to know about. I immediately thought this quiet curve of shoreline along Lavaca Bay was one of the most peaceful beaches I’d found on the Texas coast when I visited this month. In addition, it has this unique shell-and-pebble surface.
Unlike Mustang Island or Galveston, Magnolia Beach felt tucked away and unhurried, less of a tourist stop. I found it just a short drive from Port Lavaca. There are picnic tables and covered gazebos for visitors. In, addition, I like that the beach allows for up to 14 days of free camping.
- Location: Magnolia Beach, Texas (Calhoun County, on Lavaca Bay)
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
A relaxing picnic on the beach with my husband and son was my personal highlight.
6. Matagorda Bay Nature Park
This place completely won me over with its 2 miles of undeveloped Gulf beaches, sprawling dunes, and the tranquil meeting point of the Colorado River and the sea. I though that the constant sea-breeze made even the hottest Texas afternoons feel nice!
After just a two-hour drive southwest from Houston, I arrived at this tucked-away spot that felt worlds apart from the city bustle. I head that it’s managed by the Lower Colorado River Authority. While it’s a bit more developed than a true wilderness island, it still carries that quiet, remote energy that makes you want to slow down and just breathe.
Fishing enthusiasts lined the river mouth, while families searched for sand dollars on the Gulf side. Unlike more isolated barrier islands, amenities here were handy: there’s a small park store, kayak rentals, campsites, and even cabins.
- Location: Matagorda, Texas (on the Matagorda Peninsula)
- Map & Directions
- Matagorda Bay Nature Park website
What I loved best:
My highlight were sunsets, painting the sky pink and gold over the water.
7. Padre Island National Seashore
This beach spot completely blew me away with its wild, endless horizons, 66 miles of untouched beaches, shifting dunes, tidal flats, and prairies. I think Padre Island National Seashore is home to some of the best beaches in Texas. Why? There’s something magical about standing on sand that seems to stretch forever in both directions. There's only the sound of surf, gulls, and the wind filling the air.
Just a short drive southeast of Corpus Christi, the park feels remote the moment you leave pavement behind. A 4WD vehicle is essential if you want to explore more than a few miles down the beach, but that’s part of the adventure — the further you go, the emptier and wilder it feels.
The seashore has almost no development (there's no restaurants, no gas stations once you enter!) so you need to come prepared with food, water, and supplies. But there are primitive camping areas right on the sand, and RV spots near Malaquite Visitor Center.
What I loved best:
The feeling of waking up with nothing between you and the Gulf sunrise is unforgettable.
8. Port Aransas Beach
This Mustang Island beach felt like one of the most joyful and exciting coastal spots in Texas, combining small-town feel with a Gulf shoreline.
The sand was soft and wide, and this underrated gem instantly felt like one of the best beaches in Texas, calm, vibrant, and surprisingly uncrowded.
There are six miles of soft, sandy shoreline where the Gulf waves roll. We set up our chairs and towels first, which was an awesome experience because everything felt relaxed, affordable, and perfect for a family or romantic vibe.
Next we walked along the shoreline, and the sound of the waves plus salty air made it feel like a hidden coastal dream you see in my photos.
Swimming came after, and the water was cool but refreshing, making it one of my favorite beach experiences and honestly the absolute best part.
Later we rented bikes and cruised around town, which felt unique and exciting, with colorful shops and that laid-back Port A energy everywhere.
Lunch was fresh seafood near the beach, and it tasted amazing, like one of those simple meals that turns into a joyful core memory.
In the afternoon we relaxed again, watched dolphins offshore, and it felt like an unusual and spectacular moment that made the beach feel extra special.
As sunset hit, the sky turned pink and gold, and that glowing view was the coolest, most romantic ending to a brilliant beach day.
By the end of the night, we agreed Port Aransas Beach is a hidden gem near Corpus Christi and easily one of the best Texas coastal experiences.
- Location: Map & Directions
What I loved best:
Chris, my son and I watch seabirds circling overhead, and felt that salty air that instantly makes you relax.
9. High Island
I think this is the best beach in Texas if you want an island getaway for bird lovers. In spring, this spot is a preferred stop for migrating birds of all kinds.
This may be a tiny town perched on a salt dome above the Gulf, but it completely captivated me with its legendary birding sanctuaries and its location off the beaten path.
Just under two hours east of Houston and a quick hop from the Bolivar Peninsula ferry, arriving here felt like stepping into a quieter world. The town itself is modest, but its sanctuaries (Boy Scout Woods, Smith Oaks, and others managed by the Houston Audubon Society) have trails, viewing platforms, and rookery boardwalks full of birds.
There aren’t many amenities right in High Island itself (a couple of small stores and gas pumps) so I was glad we brought snacks, water, and binoculars.
- Location: Map & Directions
What I loved best:
For me, High Island is one of the best beaches in Texas because it's peaceful and unique!
The focus here is the birds and their natural setting, and that’s exactly what makes it so special and my personal highlight.
Looking for more Gulf coast beaches? Read about my favorite Gulf coast destinations in Florida.
Booking Checklist
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