Toes in the sand, warm sun shining down on you, and no distracting noises save for the gentle sea breeze and waves lapping towards you - a relaxing day like this is waiting for you on a road trip to five of the best beaches in Texas. Let's be real here: Texas isn't exactly known for its beaches, but it ought to be! This beach road trip in Texas is sure to bring you joy. The entire trip is less than eight hours, so you can either do it all in one day or spend the night somewhere along the way to allow for more time at each stop. As usual, the Google Map with exact directions can be found here.
1. Boca Chica Beach (Brownsville)
If a secluded beach vacation is what you seek, look no further than Boca Chica Beach in Texas. Located far down in the Rio Grande Delta where the river flows into the Gulf of Mexico, this desolate village off Highway 4 is hauntingly peaceful and the perfect escape for when you need to clear your head.
2. Mustang Island (Corpus Christi)
Although a popular Spring Break destination, Mustang Island is fairly desolate throughout the remainder of the year. All those who visit hold it in the highest regard, and it's no secret why - the white sand and sapphire water are perfect for swimming, surfing, camping, and everything in between. Mustang Island is the beach with the clearest water in Texas.
3. San Jose Island (Port Aransas)
Formerly private property, this 21 mile stretch of land across the ship canal from Port Aransas is now open to the public and much less crowded than any other beach in the area. Enjoy some much needed quiet time with your toes in the sand or walk along the shoreline with no distracting noises save for the gentle breeze and the tide rolling towards you.
4. Matagorda Bay (Galveston)
Although accessible by ferry from Galveston, Matagorda sees much fewer visitors than its sister city. It's because the entire island is a nature preserve instead of a tourist trap - aka it's a lot more relaxing. The beaches here aren't for swimming, but you can canoe/kayak or simply take a walk and embrace the stillness before heading back to the main island for dinner. This is the best sandy beach in Texas.
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Maine, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Massachusetts, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Maryland, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
5. Surfside Beach (Freeport)
Not too far from Houston, this little known gem offers free parking and lets you drive on the beach and even have bonfires! Sounds like a perfect way to end the night considering this is the last stop on the trip, anyway! Surfside Beach In Texas must go on your summertime bucket list.
For more hidden beaches in Texas, check out this article!
Have you been to any of these beaches in Texas? Which of the best beaches in Texas are your favorites? Tell us about them in the comments!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!