Having moved to Austin from Florida, I was often cautioned that Texas beaches wouldn’t quite measure up to the ones in the Sunshine State. And while there may be some truth to that, I’ve come to appreciate the unique beauty of the Gulf Coast. Now is the perfect opportunity for Austin moms and families to plan a road trip to the gorgeous beaches of Texas. In this Texas Beaches Guide, we’ll delve into some of the best family-friendly beach destinations, ensuring you create unforgettable memories under the warm sun.
Ok, ok, we know Texas beaches have a bad rap right now. We wanted to showcase all the fun ways to enjoy the coast without necessarily getting into the water. To stay on top of the latest water conditions, visit Texas Beach Watch.
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Port Aransas – Mustang Island State Park
Located on Mustang Island, Port Aransas is a beloved destination for Austin families seeking a classic Gulf Coast beach experience. The Mustang Island State Park offers miles of sandy beaches, perfect for building sandcastles, collecting seashells, and enjoying beach games. One of my favorite aspects is avoiding lugging beach gear onto the beach in an overflowing wagon. I can drive my car right onto the sand! The warm Gulf waters are ideal for swimming and even provide opportunities for birdwatching.
Just a short drive from Port Aransas, Corpus Christi’s North Beach is another family-friendly option. In addition to its soft sands and inviting waters, North Beach is home to attractions such as the Texas State Aquarium, the USS Lexington Museum, and the Museum of Science & History, making it an exciting and educational day trip for the whole family. As a city with rich cultural ties, Corpus Christi also holds a special place in the hearts of many music lovers as the hometown of the legendary Selena Quintanilla. Be sure to take your kiddos to see her statue and museum and scream-sing, “Bidi Bidi Bum Bum” on the drive there.
Galveston Island is the perfect choice for Austin moms looking for a beach closer to home. Stewart Beach is a popular family spot, offering clean facilities, picnic areas, and lifeguard supervision. Kids will love playing at the interactive playground, and parents can unwind under beach umbrellas while watching their little ones have a blast. I’d also recommend getting brunch at The Sunflower Bakery and Cafe. We also loved driving 20-30 minutes outside Galveston and enjoying Jamaica Beach and San Luis Island. The beaches are more remote, and often we’d be the only humans on the shore. We found seashells galore, wild hermit crabs, had front-row views of dolphin flips and sunrises/sunsets.
I know, I know, not an actual beach, but why not escape the crowds of the coast and enjoy a peaceful day at Lake Travis’ Bob Wentz Park? Lake Travis doesn’t even feel like Austin. I always tell my kids I feel like I escaped to Italy or Spain. This family-friendly beach-like destination offers clear waters, a sandy shoreline, and shaded picnic areas. It’s an excellent spot for swimming, paddleboarding, and lakeside barbecue with your loved ones. Wear water shoes; the lake is filled with rocks and pebbles. Grab lunch and views at the Oasis. We recommend going during sunset, shopping for a love lock, and getting ice cream from Anti-social Ice Cream Co.
A picturesque beach destination off the southern coast of Texas offers an enchanting escape for families seeking sun and sea. The island’s pristine beaches, with their powdery sands and warm Gulf waters, provide the perfect playground for water activities and relaxation. There are shops and restaurants galore. After a long day at the beach, I’d recommend a family-friendly dinner at The Meatball Cafes, which serves homemade Italian food. South Padre Island is a paradise for beach lovers and a sanctuary for sea turtles. Home to the remarkable efforts of Turtle Inc., Our family recently had the opportunity to witness the turtle hatchlings making their way into the ocean. Turtle Inc. is dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of sea turtles, and their turtle release programs allow families to witness these tiny creatures embark on their journey to the vast ocean. You can also visit their rehabilitation center and meet some turtle residents. A trip to South Padre Island is not only a delightful beach vacation but also an opportunity to witness the wonder of nature and contribute to preserving these magnificent sea creatures.
With this Texas Beaches Guide, moms can plan the perfect beach getaway for their families. Texas has it all, whether you prefer the Gulf Coast’s salty waters or the serene lakeside retreats. So, pack your bags, slather on the sunscreen, and prepare for an unforgettable sun, sand, and laughter with your loved ones!
Featured Image Credit :: Noelle Westcott Photography
