The Texas coastline has nearly 370 miles of stunning beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. Everyone can find a beach to enjoy, from well-liked vacation spots like Galveston’s East Beach to the naturally preserved scenery of Padre Island National Seashore near Corpus Christi, and even Rockport’s Blue Wave Beach.
There are a few standout beaches along the coast that offer even more than the breathtaking views that create the perfect setting for idyllic days spent lounging in the sand and by the clear blue ocean. Others are known for their isolation, beachcombing, and shell hunting, while some beaches are known for their social scenes and seaside pursuits like building sandcastles and windsurfing.
Review our list of the Top 10 beaches in Texas to find whatever appeals to you for the ideal day by the water.
1. Texas Beaches: Padre Island National Seashore
Because of its unspoiled beauty, the Padre Island National Seashore, which is close to Corpus Christi, is one of the best beaches in the state. It is the world’s longest undeveloped barrier island, and its 66 miles of beaches are bordered by natural features like imposing sand dunes and endangered species.
Even during the busiest travel season, there is still plenty of space due to the beach’s clean, soft, and wide sand. This beach is great for swimming, shell hunting, camping overnight, watching birds, and simply unwinding under a beach umbrella.
The Kemp’s ridley sea turtle hatchlings and releases that take place at the Padre Island National Seashore from June to August are also well-known. The releases are entertaining ways to spend a day at the beach and are available for public viewing.
2. Beaches In Texas: Port Aransas Beach
It is no surprise that Port Aransas Beach is well-known for its social atmosphere given the laid-back beach vibe and cottage community feel of the area. The calm waves coming in from the Gulf of Mexico are perfect for swimming at the beach.
Due to the availability of beach activities like volleyball, sandcastle building contests, and evening bonfires, this beach is perfect for families and groups looking for a more social experience. The beach is conveniently located in Port Aransas, making it convenient for overnight camping, which is also allowed.
3. Beaches In Texas: Malaquite Beach
Malaquite Beach on Padre Island National Seashore is a Texas beach with immaculate white sands, epic azure water, and just the right amount of salty air breeze. If this is your first time visiting the area near Corpus Christi, Malaquite Beach is the ideal place to start your seaside vacation.
To learn more about the area and to use the facilities, including a bathhouse, restrooms, and a covered pavilion, go to the Malaquite Beach Visitor Center. Choose a picnic table right on the beach and spend the day swimming and beachcombing. Sand dollars are frequently discovered along this stretch of beach.
4. Texas Beaches: Seawall Beach
Seawall Beach, which is located along the renowned seawall promenade in the middle of the island, is one of Galveston’s busiest beaches. The bustling Pleasure Pier can be seen in the background as beachgoers unwind by the water and enjoy the surf on any given day.
Due to the beach’s popularity, it is simple to rent cabanas and secure a cozy spot in the sand. At Seawall Beach, swimming is a well-liked activity, but so is simply taking in the scenery by strolling along the shore or admiring the statues along the seawall promenade.
5. Beaches In Texas: Isla Blanca Park & Beach
Isla Blanca Beach is a beautiful stretch of beach on South Padre Island. This beach receives high marks for both its scenery and its amenities, which include a boardwalk, readily available restrooms, picnic areas, covered pavilions, and concessions.
The south end of the island has a beach with plenty of room for beach biking, kite flying, shell hunting, and sandcastle building. Because of the reliable waves coming in from the Gulf, this beach is well-liked for swimming. A great place to observe ships passing through the shipping channel and where local fishermen try to catch the day’s catch is at the far end of the beach close to the jetty.
6. Mustang Island
One of the most well-known beaches in Texas may be Mustang Island, and it lives up to its reputation in terms of beauty. Between Port Aransas and Corpus Christi, there is an 18-mile stretch of beach with a beautiful natural coastline enhanced by tall sand dunes.
The beach at Mustang Island is perfect for swimming and shell-hunting strolls along the sands. On the sand, beach buggies are permitted. At one of the numerous public access points, there is also plenty of parking. If you are unsure of where to go on Mustang Island, Mustang Island State Park has a nice area for first-timers.
7. East Beach
East Beach is one of Galveston Island’s busiest and most popular beaches. The layout of the 80-acre beach park, with ample parking and dozens of picnic pavilions, reflects the beach’s popularity. Swimming is a popular activity at East Beach, but so is socializing.
Volleyball courts, an entertainment stage, beach chair and cabana rentals, and regular festivals and activities are available at the beach park. East Beach has a number of entrances. A nature preserve near the entrance is a nice addition to a beach day for hiking, bird-watching, and kayaking.
8. Boca Chica Beach
The ideal location for a completely unhurried and carefree trip to Texas’ Gulf Coast is Boca Chica Beach. One of the top beaches in Texas to visit with a special touch is located inside Brazos Island State Park. You see, the SpaceX Launch Facility is pretty amazing to see and is located just outside of Boca Chica Beach.
Just keep in mind that Boca Chica Beach, including Del Mar Beach, may not have many amenities. You won’t find any piers, beach bars, or restaurants nearby, after all. That being said, if you’re looking for a completely quiet beach and picnics, this long stretch of sand is definitely worth visiting.
9. Bolivar Beach
Bolivar Beach (and Crystal Beach), located on the Bolivar Peninsula, is a seven-mile wonder and unquestionably one of the best beaches in Texas that is conveniently close to Houston. In fact, you could easily spend an entire afternoon here.
It may now be well-known among locals for its fishing possibilities. All of this indicates that there is an abundance of fresh seafood available in the restaurants close to Crystal Beach.
Bolivar Beach and Crystal Beach are currently less crowded than some other locations in Texas due to their size, which is fairly large. All of this makes it the perfect location if you want a more laid-back beach vacation.
10. Stewart Beach
Stewart Beach in Galveston is one of the Texas coast’s family-friendly beaches. In addition to having lifeguards on duty, the park offers a lot of other activities for kids, including playgrounds. Beach access is simple and there is paved parking at Stewart Beach.
Stewart Beach’s ubiquity on Galveston Island, close to Seawall Boulevard and nearby landmarks and dining options, contributes to its appeal. Even on busy days, there is enough sand to find a comfortable spot. Cabana and umbrella rentals are also offered.
