What are the most popular beaches in Texas?
With the Gulf of Mexico bordering the state, there’s no shortage of amazing beaches in Texas. Whether you’re looking for a quiet stretch of sand to read and birdwatch, or looking for an amusement park and boardwalk, Texas has you covered with a great selection of beaches.
Top beaches in Texas
1. Padre Island National Seashore
2. Boca Chica Beach
3. Mustang Island State Park
4. Rockport Beach
5. Crystal Beach
6. Surfside Beach
7. North Beach
8. Port Aransas
9. Galveston Island East Beach
10. South Padre Island
Texas Beaches
With so many popular beaches to choose from it was hard to narrow it down. But here some 10 of our favorite Texas beaches to add to your next RV itinerary.
1. Padre Island National Seashore
First up is Padre Island National Seashore. The longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world, this national seashore protects 70 miles of coastline. There’s plenty to do besides swimming including kayaking, fishing, boating and camping. And if you time it right, you can even watch sea turtles hatch! Padre Island National Seashore is also run by the National Park Service, and there’s a variety of ranger programs you can join to learn more about the area.
Things to do near Padre Island National Seashore: Obviously you’re here for the beach, so explore and enjoy the water and sand! But if you want to explore the city you’re not far from Corpus Christi. We have you covered with local RV rentals nearby.
2. Boca Chica Beach
Just across the Rio Grande from Mexico lies Boca Chica Beach. This gorgeous stretch of sand is pretty undeveloped and there are no facilities, so remember to bring everything like water, food, and beach equipment along with you. You’ll be able to swim, surf, snorkel, and fish on a relaxing beach without the crazy crowds or built up boardwalks. And it’s fantastic for watching the birds and other wildlife.
Things to do near Boca Chica Beach: You’re right by the Lower Rio Grande National Wildlife Refuge if you want to learn more about the area and watch for wildlife. You can also check out Boca Chica State Park, and you’re just south of South Padre Island for more beach fun.
3. Mustang Island State Park
Texas has some fantastic state parks, and Mustang Island State Park is no exception. Just off the coast of southeast Texas, Mustang Island State Park has more than 5 miles of sandy beaches to explore that overlook the Gulf of Mexico. It’s the perfect spot if you want to relax, spend some time laying in the sand or go swimming. Looking to do something more active? Try kayaking or canoeing down the 20 miles Mustang Island Paddling Trail, or try your luck fishing in the state park.
Things to do near Mustang Island State Park: Corpus Christi is just 15 miles away, and San Antonio is a manageable 165-mile drive. We’ve got you covered with nearby RV rentals for your trip.
4. Rockport Beach
Just north of Corpus Christi is Rockport and Rockport Beach. This beach overlooks the Aransas Bay and has an 800-foot long pier that is great for fishing. The shallow waters of the beach and the playgrounds make it great for families. There are also picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a 3/4 mile long walking path to meander. It’s also Texas’s first Blue Wave Beach, certified by the Clean Beaches Coalition. Just note that dogs, fire, and overnight camping on the beach are prohibited.
Things to do near Rockport Beach: Explore the rest of Rockport, then head to Corpus Christi if you’re looking for some fun activities outside of the beach. You’re also close to several other beaches on our list, including Mustang Island State Park and Port Aransas.
5. Crystal Beach
Our next beach is just outside of Houston on Bolivar Peninsula. Hop on the ferry in Galveston and head over to this fun beach known for its hermit crabs and birding opportunities. Spend your day hunting for crabs, watching for birds, and fishing, then grill out or have a campfire on the beach. They even allow overnight camping on the beach in both tents and RVs!
Things to do near Crystal Beach: After your time on the beach, take the ferry back over to Galveston and explore the town. We have a local’s guide to help you find the best things to do. Houston is also close by, if you want to head into the city.
6. Surfside Beach
Surfside Beach is 4 miles of sandy beach to explore. And because of the stronger waves here, it’s a fantastic beach for surfing and windsurfing. Hang out on the beach, fish from the jetty or hire a deep sea fishing boat, or hike and bike along the Surfside Bird and Butterfly Trail. Once you’ve had your fill of the surf and sand, head into town to check out this little beachside community.
Things to do near Surfside Beach: You’re near the town of Freeport, and about an hour’s drive from Houston. And you’re also just a short drive away from Galveston and Crystal Beach.
7. North Beach
Just across the harbor from Corpus Christi is North Beach, with plenty of activities for everyone. There’s 1.5 miles of sand to enjoy, and plenty of water and sun. There’s also the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington nearby. Stop in the aquarium to see a variety of sea life as well as flamingos and sharks, or head to the USS Lexington, a WWII aircraft carrier that is now a navel museum. The paved Beachwalk leads right there from the beach so it’s easy to get to.
Things to do near North Beach: Head into Corpus Christi for some city life, or head to Mustang Island State Park or Port Aransas for more beach time. We’ve got a local’s guide with the best things to do in Corpus Christ, and have you covered when it comes to local RV rentals.
8. Port Aransas
There’s so much to do in this Texas vacation town. Also located just outside Corpus Christ on Mustang Island, Port Aransas not only has the beach, but it has plenty of other activities to enjoy. Rent a kayak or stand up paddleboard and explore the Mustang Island Paddle Trail. Or try some shallow water or deep sea fishing. It’s also known for birdwatching with 6 sites on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. And there are plenty of festivals held here, such as the Texas SandFest – a crazy sandcastle building contest that happens each spring.
Things to do near Port Aransas: Check out the other great things to do on Mustang Island like Mustang Island State Park or head south to Padre Island National Seashore. Corpus Christi is just 15 miles away, and San Antonio is a two and a half hour drive.
9. Galveston Island East Beach
East Beach in Galveston is Texas’s largest beach and a local favorite. There are concerts and festivals all summer long, so there’s always something to do. They also have a yearly sandcastle building competition and it’s one of the few beaches that allow alcohol (but no glass containers!) If you’re there in the offseason, it’s a great beach for long strolls, birdwatching, and fishing.
Things to do near Galveston Island East Beach: Walk to Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and take a ride on the Ferris Wheel and roller coaster at this amusement park. The beach is only an hour south of Houston, and it’s near Crystal Beach if you’re looking for a quieter stretch of sand. Check out some great local RV rentals for your trip!
10. South Padre Island
South Padre Island is a resort town on a barrier island, and home to the last beach on our list. The sandy shores on this 34-mile long island offer great views of the Gulf of Mexico, as well as great opportunities for kite-surfing, parasailing, deep sea fishing, and dolphin watching excursions. And of course there’s plenty to sand to relax on and water to swim in! March gets crazy with students packing the beaches for spring break, but the rest of the year is quieter and a family friendly destination.
Things to do near South Padre Island: Boca Chica Beach and Boca Chica State Park are nearby, and you’re about a three hour drive from Corpus Christi. Looking to go to a city farther away? It’s only a day’s drive from Houston and Dallas.
Planning an RV trip to Texas
There are so many fantastic beaches to choose from in Texas, and an RV is a great way to explore them. We’ve got all the resources you need to plan a perfect beach vacation. As you explore, be sure to check out our resources on traveling in the state.
Here are guides to some of the best state parks in Texas, as well as all the national parks in the country. RVshare is also the perfect one-stop-shop to help you find an RV rental and get all the information you need for your trip.
