Ready for sunshine, adventure, and a serious change of scenery? These Texas spring break destinations offer something for everyone—from beach vibes to hill country retreats and vibrant city scenes.
Highlights:
Unique Texas Spring Break Destinations:
1. Head to the beach on Galveston Island
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
Galveston Island, TXHighlights:
Planning a beachy getaway with fun for everyone? Galveston Island is your go-to spot with 27 miles of sandy shoreline, thrill rides, history, and Gulf Coast charm. From family adventures to romantic walks on the beach, it has it all.Recommended For:
Families, couples, spring breakers, beach lovers, and thrill seekers.What I Love: ♥
Long stretches of golden sand, the vibrant historic Strand district, adrenaline-pumping rides on Pleasure Pier, and the immersive pyramids at Moody Gardens®.- Relax on the wide beaches of Galveston Island State Park, East Beach, and Dellanera RV Park—perfect for volleyball, shelling, or sunbathing.
- Explore the quirky mansions like Moody Mansion and Bishop’s Palace for a peek into Galveston’s ornate past.
- Ride the exciting roller coasters and family attractions on Pleasure Pier right over the Gulf.
- Dine at Pier 21 while soaking up harbor views and diving into Galveston’s fascinating history.
- Discover the Rainforest and Aquarium Pyramids at Moody Gardens®, or challenge yourself on the Sky Trail® Ropes Course and Zip Line.
2. Plan a picnic on the beach in Corpus Christi
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Location:
Corpus Christi, TXHighlights:
If you're dreaming of endless beach days and salty breezes, Corpus Christi is calling your name. With over 100 miles of coastline and laid-back vibes, it's the perfect beach town to kick back and explore.Recommended For:
Beach lovers, surfers, families, water sports enthusiasts, and anyone looking for sun-soaked adventure.What I Love: ♥
Pristine beaches for every mood, a buzzing surf and kite scene, refreshing local brews, and unique spots like the South Texas Botanical Gardens.- Swim and sunbathe at Padre Balli Park, where picnics and peaceful waves await.
- Surf or ride the waves at J.P. Luby Surf Park, ideal for kiteboarding, jet skiing, and more—with beachside parking for easy access.
- Stroll over 100 miles of beaches with drink in hand (just skip the glass containers).
- Explore the serene South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center for a nature escape.
- Cool off at Hurricane Alley Waterpark, packed with slides, rides, and splash zones.
- Sip small-batch craft beers at Lazy Beach Brewing Company, a local favorite.
3. Listen to music and watch dolphins in Port Aransas
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Location:
Port Aransas, TXHighlights:
If you’re looking for a breezy beach town with natural charm and fun around every corner, Port Aransas is a Texas Gulf Coast gem. It’s perfect for lazy beach days, wildlife encounters, and a little adventure on the water.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, beachgoers, spring breakers, birdwatchers, and anyone craving coastal relaxation.What I Love: ♥
Wide, walkable beaches, dolphin sightings from observation towers, serene birding trails, and quick boat rides to secluded island shores.- Sunbathe or play volleyball on the soft white sands of Port Aransas Beach.
- Watch dolphins from the scenic observation tower or catch live music at lively Roberts Point Park.
- Explore wetlands and spot birds (and gators!) from the boardwalk at Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center.
- Escape to San José Island via a quick boat ride for a quiet, undeveloped beach experience.
- Fly high with Chute 'Em Up parasailing for unbeatable views over the island and Gulf waters.
Texas Spring Break for Outdoor Enthusiasts:
4. Play volleyball or go fishing on South Padre Island
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Location:
South Padre Island, TXHighlights:
Need sun, surf, and a place where fun never stops? South Padre Island delivers golden beaches, clear blue waters, and the perfect mix of nature and nightlife.Recommended For:
Beach lovers, partygoers, nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone chasing sun-soaked memories.What I Love: ♥
34 miles of scenic shoreline, a towering birding center, fresh Gulf seafood, and beach bars that keep the good vibes rolling well after dark.- Lounge on soft sand, join a volleyball game, or picnic along the island’s pristine beaches.
- Visit the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center with its five-story watchtower for unbeatable views and wildlife watching.
- Fish offshore with a local charter and cook your fresh catch right on the beach at Andy Bowie Park.
- Party into the night at top spots like Clayton’s Beach Bar, Louie’s Backyard, or Tequila Sunset.
- Unwind with live music, beachfront cocktails, and unbeatable island sunsets.
5. Go camping in Boca Chica State Park Beach
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Location:
Boca Chica State Park Beach, near Brownsville, TXHighlights:
Want to truly unplug and escape the crowds? Boca Chica is your peaceful coastal haven—where wild beauty meets serene solitude, just steps from the U.S.–Mexico border.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, solitude seekers, campers, birdwatchers, and travelers craving an off-the-grid beach escape.What I Love: ♥
Eight miles of untouched shoreline, nesting sea turtles, world-class birding, and the freedom to roam a truly unspoiled landscape.- Swim, surf, snorkel, or simply wade through the clear waters along this undeveloped stretch of beach.
- Relax with a picnic or camp under the stars—no crowds, no noise, just nature.
- Spot rare wildlife like Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles and migrating falcons during your coastal explorations.
- Wander through mangrove marshes and tidal salt flats where the Rio Grande meets the sea.
- Disconnect—there are no facilities, so it’s just you, the sand, and the sea (and a friendly reminder: no alcohol allowed).
6. Go sailing on Lake Texoma
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Location:
Lake Texoma (Texas–Oklahoma border)Highlights:
If you're craving lake life, Lake Texoma brings all the fun—boating, fishing, history, and sunshine. It’s the kind of spot where you can cast a line by day and cruise under the stars by night.Recommended For:
Boating enthusiasts, anglers, friend groups, history buffs, and anyone who loves a laid-back water getaway.What I Love: ♥
Massive open waters, paddlewheel dinner cruises, smallmouth bass fishing, and charming local history near the shoreline.- Fish for trophy-worthy smallmouth bass or just enjoy casting a line from the shore or a boat.
- Boat your way across the lake—bring your own, rent one, or hop aboard the Texoma Bell Riverboat for scenic or starlit cruises.
- Swim and relax in deep, clear waters that feel like a world away from the city.
- Tour The Grayson County Frontier Village in Denison, TX to learn about pioneer life and see preserved 19th-century buildings.
- Stroll through Sherman, TX to admire the architecture and small-town charm of Heritage Row.
7. Drift down Comal River in New Braunfels
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Location:
New Braunfels, TXHighlights:
If floating down a spring-fed river with your favorite people sounds like heaven, New Braunfels is your spot. This charming town near San Antonio blends small-town vibes with river adventures and classic Spring Break energy.Recommended For:
Groups of friends, families, tubing fans, water lovers, and anyone chasing a cool, relaxing escape.What I Love: ♥
Slow floats on the Comal River, vibrant downtown with live music, and tubing outfitters that make getting on the water effortless.- Float down the crystal-clear Comal River in a giant tube—bring a drink (just skip the disposables!) and go with the flow.
- Explore the beautiful spring-fed waters that originate from the Edwards Aquifer.
- Relax with friends or family while soaking up the sun and scenery on the river.
- Join group tubing adventures or rent your gear from one of many local outfitters for a smooth ride.
- Enjoy the music, food, and laid-back nightlife in Downtown New Braunfels after your river day winds down.
8. Go tubing down San Marcos River
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Location:
San Marcos, TXHighlights:
Want to spend your Spring Break floating in crystal-clear water with a drink in hand? San Marcos is your go-to for river tubing, laid-back vibes, and year-round sunshine near Austin.Recommended For:
College students, friend groups, river floaters, and anyone who loves a relaxing party on the water.What I Love: ♥
Crystal-clear water at 72°F year-round, lush riverbanks, and tubing runs you’ll want to repeat all day long.- Tube down the San Marcos River—just a mile of float, but you can do it again and again for nonstop fun.
- Chill in some of the clearest, calmest spring-fed water in Texas, flowing through protected parkland.
- Float through tropical vibes with giant elephant ear plants lining the river’s lush banks.
- Bring a drink! Alcohol is allowed, and many outfitters have coolers ready to go for your float crew.
- Feel the lively college town energy—thanks to Texas State University—everywhere from the river to downtown.
9. Or go tubing down Guadalupe River
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Location:
Texas Hill Country – Guadalupe RiverHighlights:
If tubing a scenic river through rolling hills sounds like your kind of Spring Break, Texas Hill Country delivers. The Guadalupe River is the go-to for floating, drinking, and soaking up the natural beauty of the Lone Star State.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, tubing enthusiasts, road trippers, and anyone who enjoys a lazy river with a side of Hill Country charm.What I Love: ♥
Shaded riverbanks lined with cypress trees, tubing outfitters along a picture-perfect stretch of River Road, and clear water that’s both refreshing and fun to float.- Float the Guadalupe River for hours—bring your drink (no disposables!) and enjoy the ride.
- Drive the scenic River Road between New Braunfels and Canyon Lake, where nature meets classic Texas charm.
- Choose from many experienced tubing outfitters who’ll get you on the water safely and easily.
- Explore both the Upper and Lower Guadalupe: the Upper is peaceful and shaded, while the Lower is lively and packed with fellow tubers during peak times.
- Enjoy moderate drinking on the river—it’s allowed as long as you skip the disposable containers.
For Big City Fun:
10. Listen to music and go dancing in Austin
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Location:
Austin, TXHighlights:
If you're chasing music, food, and nonstop energy for Spring Break, Austin’s got your back. From legendary nightlife to laid-back lakeside escapes, this city knows how to mix party vibes with outdoor fun.Recommended For:
College students, music lovers, foodies, craft beer fans, and anyone who lives for live music and nightlife.What I Love: ♥
The electric energy of Sixth Street, food trucks on Rainey, live music in Red River, and cooling off at Barton Springs Pool after a day (or night) of adventure.- Party on Sixth Street with cheap drinks, live bands, and dance floors that keep going late into the night.
- Chill on Rainey Street with microbrews, food trucks, lawn games, and bungalow-style bars.
- Explore other nightlife hot spots like the Warehouse District, SoCo, and the iconic Red River District.
- Unwind outdoors with a cruise on Lady Bird Lake or a jog along the scenic Butler Hike and Bike Trail.
- Cool off in Barton Springs Pool—a local favorite fed by natural springs and surrounded by sunshine.
Plan Your Trip