10 Best Family Beaches in Texas [for 2023]
Texas, the second largest state in the United States, is also known as the Lone Star State. While its beaches may not be as popular as those of Hawaii or California, they are equally picturesque and stunning. Plus, they offer a wide range of activities that are perfect for families who want to spend a fun-filled vacation together.
Texas beaches are designed to cater to families and are aimed at The aim is to make it as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. These shorelines offer a host of fun-filled activities like fishing, surfing, and snorkeling, making it a perfect vacation spot for all.
So if you are planning to go on a family vacation, you should definitely visit the beaches of Texas. should be considered. As you explore the best family beaches in Texas with our list, you’ll be eager to pack your bags and head out for a great family adventure.
1. South Padre Island Beach, South Padre Island
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If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach with lots of activities for your kids, South Padre Island Beach is an excellent option for you. As part of the Padre Island Beaches, it offers nearly 70 miles of undeveloped shoreline, complete with dunes, prairie, and several access points.
Your kids can build sand castles, collect conch shells, and watch hundreds of sea turtles. They can also spot unique birds and enjoy beautiful views as they walk along the extensive beach. When it comes to accommodations, The Pearl South Padre is one of the best family resorts in Texas and is conveniently located near the beach.
For even more family fun, consider booking a tour with Breakaway Cruises. They offer a variety of activities including dolphin-watching, eco-tours, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, and bay fishing. It is an excellent opportunity to explore the surrounding waters and marine life while creating unforgettable memories for you and your family.
2. Rockport Beach, Rockport
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Rockport Beach is a great beach in Texas, especially for families with young children. This beach is not only the first Blue Wave Beach in Texas, but it also has crystal clear water and stunning views of the Aransas Gulf.
What sets Rockport Beach apart from other Texas beaches is its safety. It is known as the safest beach in Texas and is an excellent place for kids to play and swim because it does not have big waves or strong undertows. Plus, the water is calm, shallow, and clear, and the shoreline is well-maintained and kept clean.
If you’re visiting with kids, there are plenty of fun activities to keep them entertained, such as pristine water Swim in, building sand sculptures and castles and playing on the on-site playground. For those looking to host a family event, Rockport Beach offers beach pavilions that are available for rent.
These pavilions are equipped with private restrooms and can accommodate up to 85 people, making them an excellent choice for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and other family celebrations.
3. Stewart Beach, Galveston
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Stewart Beach is an exceptional choice for families who are planning to go on a beach vacation in Texas. This beach is specially designed for families and has many facilities that make you stay more convenient and enjoyable.
The beach has sand volleyball courts, which can be a fun family activity for you, and Concessions that sell delicious snacks and drinks. The playground is ideal for children to play, and restrooms and showers are readily available.
The water at this beach is relatively shallow and has calm waves, making it an ideal place for kids. Vigilant lifeguards are also on duty to ensure that everyone stays safe while in the water. A unique feature of this beach is that you can spot pods of dolphins swimming by.
Keep an eye out for these beautiful creatures as they are often in the area. If the sun is too hot, you can rent a beach lounger and umbrella for a fee. This would be a more relaxing day at the beach, lying under the shade.
4. Mustang Island State Park Beach, Corpus Christi
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Mustang Island State Park Beach is a peaceful and secluded beach to spend quality time with your family. This picturesque beach is located on the Gulf of Mexico and has a wide and expansive shoreline that will allow you to kick back and relax while enjoying the beautiful views.
While you soak up the sun, your teen can enjoy surfing, kitesurfing, and kayaking, One can engage in many exciting water activities like paddling, or even a game of beach volleyball. You won’t have to worry about parking or restroom facilities as there are plenty of parking spots, bathrooms, and showers available for your convenience.
Additionally, if you prefer to dine out there are a number of great restaurants located only 10 minutes away. You should note that there are no lifeguards at this beach, so it is important to keep a watchful eye on your children while swimming.
To further ensure their safety, it is recommended that they wear personal notation devices. Mustang Island State Park Beach is the perfect destination for families who want to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy some quiet time. Want to enjoy quality time with your family and loved ones.
5. Boca Chica Beach, Brownsville
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Boca Chica Beach is an ideal place for family vacations in Texas, especially for those who love water activities more than anything. This 8-mile beach is equipped with breathtaking ocean views and a wide range of recreational activities like fishing, surfing, snorkeling, kiteboarding, and surf fishing. Apart from the thrilling water activities, you can catch a glimpse of the wildlife at this beach can also see.
During the spring and summer seasons, Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles, the most critically endangered sea turtles, come to the shores to nest. Additionally, hawks, falcons, and osprey can be seen here, making it a great spot for bird watching.
You should be aware that Boca Chica Beach has limited facilities and services. It’s essential to pack everything you’ll need on your trip, such as food and drink, swimming gear, and equipment like snorkeling masks and surfboards.
There are no shops or restaurants on the beach, so it’s important to bring your own supplies. Boca Chica Beach is a stunning place to enjoy various water activities and observe the local wildlife. But to make the most of your trip, it’s important to come prepared and bring everything you need because facilities are scarce.
6. Lighthouse Beach, Port Lavaca
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Lighthouse Beach is a picturesque coastal destination that is loved by locals and tourists alike. Its appeal is particularly strong for families with young children, as it has shallow water, gentle waves, and no pebbles or small rocks that could potentially injure their feet.
Additionally, the beach offers a range of kid-friendly activities, including an on-site playground and splash pad. If you want to extend your stay, you have the option of pitching a tent and spending the night at Lighthouse Beach provides.
The night view of the beach is truly breathtaking, with the stars shining brightly from above. If your family is not in the mood for a picnic, there are several restaurants nearby that serve delicious local cuisine like the Texas Tradition Grill & Bar, Where you can enjoy delicious food with your family. Whether you’re looking for a fun day trip or a longer beach vacation, Lighthouse Beach is definitely worth a visit.
7. East Beach, Galveston
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East Beach, also known as R.A. Apffel Beach. Apfel Beach is a popular and iconic beach in Texas. It is an ideal place for family trips and there is a wide range of activities to enjoy.
Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll along the oceanfront boardwalk, relax on a beach chair under the shade of an umbrella, or make sand sculptures with your kids, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy The beach is also patrolled by friendly lifeguards, ensuring that you and your loved ones can feel safe while swimming in the cool waters.
Additionally, there is a playground for kids who don’t want to swim, as well as a variety of concessions selling delicious food, snacks, and drinks.
If you’re planning to visit East Beach, we recommend During the summer months there is an on-site entertainment stage and live music events at the annual Sandcastle Competition. The competition is a must-see event where you can see amazing sculptures made entirely of sand in all shapes and sizes.
8. Sea Rim State Park Beach, Sabine Pass
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Sea Rim State Park Beach is a spectacular beach with natural beauty that invites you and your loved ones to spend a wonderful day filled with various activities. The beach boasts more than ve mile of coastline, giving you ample space to enjoy various recreational activities.
There’s no limit to what you can do at Sea Rim State Park Beach – whether it’s fishing, horseback riding, kayaking, or canoeing, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a more relaxing day, you can spend your time sunbathing and listening to the sounds of nature around you.
One of the most exciting things about Sea Rim State Park Beach is the opportunity to explore the marsh and its wildlife. You can rent a kayak and paddle through the rivers or go on a quiet hike to fully experience the marsh and its fauna.
Walk along the shoreline for you to discover unique oysters A great way to do some sightseeing and watch rare birds y by. Don’t forget to take your time to explore the marsh and appreciate all the beauty that nature has to offer.
9. Crystal Beach, Bolivar Peninsula
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Crystal Beach in Texas is a great spot for a family beach vacation. This peaceful beach boasts golden sands and spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico. There are plenty of activities for families to enjoy, such as playing catch with a ball, building sandcastles with shells, and swimming in the water.
For those who are more adventurous, there are options for surfing, kayaking, and boogie boarding. It is important for you to note that there are no lifeguards present, so it is important to be cautious while swimming and not go too far into the water.
Additionally, you should be aware of seagulls in the area and take precautions to protect your food from these scavenging birds. To fully enjoy your time at Crystal Beach, it is recommended that Keep your food properly covered and don’t leave it out for long.
Seagulls have been known to swoop in and take advantage of any unattended food, so it is important to pay attention to this and take the necessary precautions.
10. Matagorda Beach, Matagorda
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Matagorda Beach is a serene and picturesque beach in Texas that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Its secluded shoreline is perfect for families looking for a relaxing and tranquil vacation spot where you can focus on spending quality time together.
The beach offers plenty of activities for families to enjoy. Offers a range, including fishing, beach-going, and photography opportunities near the beautiful jetty. It is also an ideal place for driving along the shorelines, provided you have a permit.
It is especially important to note that the currents are very strong in the area around the jetty, making it an unsafe place for swimming. Families should take expert advice seriously and avoid swimming in this area to ensure their safety. Metagorda Beach is a hidden gem in Texas that offers an idyllic and peaceful vacation spot for families.