Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a two-week sojourn, the Texas coastline has it all with some of the most diverse sea life, outstanding beaches, and renowned resorts in the country.

Seaside Hotels and Resorts

Who can say no to a seaside resort complete with world-class amenities and accommodations? From relaxing resort getaways to family vacations packed with adventure, Texas beaches, hotels, and resorts offer something for every trip to Texas.

If you’re destined for the resort island of South Padre, plan to stay at a South Padre beachfront rental with the water right at your feet. For convenient beach access and all the attractions of the city, look to Carr Mansion, a bed and breakfast just north of Galveston. With upscale amenities and eco-friendly touches, Lively Beach on Mustang Island is surrounded by natural wetlands and offers rest and relaxation for naturalists and adventurers alike. Wherever you decide to stay, it’s easy to let loose and relax along the Texas coast.

Family Style Beaches

Head to the Gulf with the whole family (pets included) to relax by the water, catch a few rays and switch into vacation mode at any of the amazing accessible beaches of Galveston Island. East Beach offers special events and concerts throughout the summer and Stewart Beach has fun for everyone, including playgrounds, volleyball, and more. Galveston’s historic downtown is great for discovering chic boutiques, haunting legends, and historic architecture.

Be sure to check out Rockport and Corpus Christi for your next Texas family beach vacation. Known for its spectacular sea and sand, North Beach in Corpus Christi provides must-see attractions like the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington Museum, where you'll get an opportunity to tour an aircraft carrier. Nearby Rockport Beach offers birdwatching, the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site and the Texas Maritime Museum.

For Marine Life Lovers

If you’re looking for natural wonders and untouched beaches, visit North Padre Island for an unforgettable experience. With a little bit of luck and good timing, you can witness the release of sea turtle hatchlings on Malaquite Beach in Corpus Christi. Visit the Hatchling Releases page on the National Park Service website to catch a glimpse of the hatchlings making their way across the shore and into the sea. 

Scuba certified? Book a trip to the Flower Garden Banks. There are a variety of charters available to take you 100 miles off coast, where you’ll dive 60 feet to see star coral, bluehead wrasse, manta rays, and loggerhead sea turtles. Plan a trip to the Texas Clipper off South Padre Island and dive 70 feet to explore a sunken ship that is now an artificial reef.

Surf’s Up in Texas

For those interested in surfing, there’s a Texas wave for every level. Learn how to ride a wave at Surfside Beach, where you’ll find a variety of waves perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers. Wind and kite surfers will find premier conditions at Laguna Madre in South Padre. This estuary is a shallow saltwater lagoon that offers unobstructed wind over thousands of acres of water, making it one of the best spots to windsurf and kitesurf in mainland USA . If you’re looking to make a splash, head to Port Aransas for amazing surfing, boogie boarding, sailing, or jet skiing opportunities in the warm Gulf waters.

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