Posted in Texas
May 24, 2020
10 Pristine Hidden Beaches Throughout Texas You’ve Got To Visit This Summer
Texas beaches are notorious for being crowded during the summer, and visiting on weekdays or outside of peak hours doesn’t always help. A better solution is to skip the most popular destinations altogether and opt for lesser-known spots. From city parks to gulf-side oases, these 10 hidden beaches will take your summer to a whole new level.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Just an hour north of Dallas, Eisenhower State Park is a secluded oasis on Lake Texoma. White sands lead into a pristine swimming cove, all overlooking rocky bluffs and a wide variety of gorgeous trees. Hike four miles of trails, fish, observe wildlife, and look out for breathtaking flora and fossils from an ancient ocean. More information here.
The often overlooked Matagorda boasts almost 60 miles of beach, with the portion east of the Colorado River fair game for vehicles. The remaining 35 miles west of the river is only accessible by watercraft. It's a much quieter alternative to Galveston for swimming, and you can camp on the beach for free. A $10 permit is required to drive onto the beach, however parking areas with no usage fees are available within walking distance. The first eight miles of eastside beach beyond the dunes is private property, so make sure to keep up with the mile markers. More information here.
Serving as the dividing line between Mustang and Padre Island, South Packery Jetty Beach is often much less crowded than its northern counterpart. It's a fantastic destination for swimming, fishing, sandcastle building, and even snorkeling during the summer months! Access Road 3A is the only point of entry, and you'll need a permit to park on the beach. More information here.
A renowned scuba facility, Blue Lagoon offers training for beginners and instructors alike. Non-divers are also welcome, however, entrance is based on space availability and vehicles regularly get turned away. Only divers are permitted to make reservations, so have an alternate plan in place before arriving (Blue Lagoon recommends Huntsville State Park.) If you end up getting in, the experience is truly unparalleled. More information here.
On the northernmost point of Mustang Island, I.B. Magee Beach Park spans 167 acres and is open year-round. It features 75 campsites, a bathhouse, freshwater shower, picnic sites, and absolutely stunning water. Seagulls abound here, so bring a camera! More information here.
With just 1.5 miles of coastline, Whitecap Beach is unbeknownst to many. Its unspoiled sands are the perfect place to relax with a good book, enjoy a picnic lunch, or simply escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It serves as an access point for the Padre Island Seawall, and there are no entrance fees (but a permit is required for parking on the beach.) More information here.
Closed to vehicular traffic, Malaquite Beach allows kids to play without a care in the world. It's an incredibly scenic place, with deep blue waves lapping onto white sand. Admission to Padre Island National Seashore is required, at $10 per vehicle. More information here.
What's a city to do when the coast is hundreds of miles away? Build a beach, of course. Lake Granbury has its very own sandy beach, perfect for swimming and picnicking. The park includes various amenities, such as public restrooms, a spray park, kayak rentals, pavilions, and more, plus it's a great point of access for the boardwalk. Historic downtown Granbury is within walking distance, where you'll find a plethora of dining and shopping options. More information here.
21 miles of virtually untouched golden sand lie on this forgotten, privately-owned island just a brief ferry ride away from Port Aransas. San José Island is home to some of the best birding and saltwater fishing in the South, plus a wealth of unique seashells. More information here.
Another inland city beach, Little Elm Park offers a safe, enclosed swimming area closed to boat traffic. There's a lakefront restaurant, and the park also features a playground, pavilion, amphitheater, tent camping, trails, and more. Just look at this sunset! More information here.
Some or all of the beaches might be closed or operating under different circumstances, so keep checking their websites and Facebook pages for updates.
Have you ever been to any of these hidden beaches? Did we miss your favorite spot? Let us know, and check out our previous article for a road trip to some of the most secluded waterfront oases in the state: The Hidden Beaches Road Trip That Will Show You Texas Like Never Before.
Are there any restaurants, businesses, or other attractions in Texas you think the world should know about? Head over to our nomination page and give them a shoutout — you just might see your submission featured in an upcoming article!
Address: 321 N on the Beach, Port Aransas, TX 78373, USA
Address: San José Island, Texas, USA
Address: 701 W Eldorado Pkwy, Little Elm, TX 75068, USA
Address: 50 Park Rd 20, Denison, TX 75020, USA
Address: 20420 Park Rd 22, Corpus Christi, TX 78418, USA
Address: 6420 FM2031, Matagorda, TX 77457, USA
Address: 649 Pinedale Rd, Huntsville, TX 77340, USA
Address: Padre Island, Corpus Christi, TX 78418, USA
Address: 14802 Whitecap Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78418, USA
Address: 505 E Pearl St, Granbury, TX 76048, USA
