Appleby TexasBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Appleby, Texas.
1. Lake Nacogdoches West Side Park
SERENE LAKESIDE RETREAT
Lake Nacogdoches West Side Park offers a tranquil escape with sandy swimming areas, shaded picnic tables, and scenic lakefront views. Visitors enjoy fishing, swimming, kayaking, and boating in a peaceful, uncrowded setting surrounded by towering pines. The park's quiet atmosphere and direct lake access make it a favorite for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a genuine East Texas waterfront experience.
2. Lake Sam Rayburn
EXPANSIVE RESERVOIR PLAYGROUND
Lake Sam Rayburn is one of Texas' largest lakes, featuring sandy beach areas, clear waters, and abundant opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. The vast shoreline offers numerous parks and public beaches where visitors can relax, sunbathe, or enjoy watersports. Its size and variety of recreational facilities make Lake Sam Rayburn a beloved destination for families and adventure seekers alike.
3. Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area
FOREST LAKE GETAWAY
Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area, nestled within the Davy Crockett National Forest, boasts a peaceful 45-acre lake with a designated swimming area and sandy beach. The setting is surrounded by towering pine trees, providing shade for picnics and hiking on nearby forest trails. Its blend of wooded ambiance and waterfront fun makes it a unique spot for nature lovers wanting to combine swimming and hiking.
4. Martin Dies, Jr. State Park
RIVERSIDE FAMILY ADVENTURE
Martin Dies, Jr. State Park sits where the Angelina and Neches Rivers converge, offering multiple swimming holes and sandy riverbanks. Activities include kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, and camping in a lush, forested environment. Its easy river access and scenic picnic areas make it an ideal waterfront escape for visitors of all ages.
5. Crystal Beach
CLASSIC GULF COAST BEACH
Crystal Beach stretches for miles along the Bolivar Peninsula, offering soft sand, rolling surf, and a laid-back atmosphere. Popular for swimming, beachcombing, and picnicking, it's also known for the vibrant local seafood and welcoming family vibe. Crystal Beach's easy car access and wide shoreline make it a quintessential Texas coastal experience.
6. Stewart Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESORT BEACH
Stewart Beach in Galveston is celebrated for its clean sands, lifeguarded swimming areas, and abundant amenities like volleyball courts, playgrounds, and pavilions. Its festive atmosphere is perfect for families looking for safe, supervised ocean fun. Stewart Beach's proximity to shops and restaurants also makes it a convenient spot for a full day of seaside relaxation.
7. East Beach
VIBRANT FESTIVAL BEACH
East Beach is Galveston's largest and liveliest public beach, famous for its summer festivals, concert events, and wide expanse of sand. The area features cabanas, umbrella rentals, playgrounds, and a fishing pier, catering to both partiers and families. Its festive environment and expansive waterfront make East Beach a standout Gulf Coast destination.
8. Lake Livingston State Park
BIG LAKE TRANQUILITY
Lake Livingston State Park features sandy lakeside swimming areas, scenic hiking trails, and spacious campgrounds along one of Texas' largest lakes. The park welcomes visitors for swimming, paddling, fishing, or simply soaking in the calm waterside scenery. Its blend of forested shoreline and recreational amenities appeals to families and outdoor adventurers alike.
9. Rockport Beach
CLEAN COASTAL OASIS
Rockport Beach is renowned for its immaculate sandy shoreline, calm waters, and extensive picnic and playground facilities. With clear swimming areas and family-friendly amenities including covered cabanas and fishing piers, it hosts numerous festivals and events year-round. Its reputation for pristine conditions and vibrant community gatherings makes it a must-visit Texas waterfront gem.
10. Port Aransas Beach
SUN-SOAKED ISLAND ESCAPE
Port Aransas Beach captivates visitors with its powdery sand, gentle surf, and broad shoreline ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports. The beach boasts a relaxed island vibe complemented by nearby shops, eateries, and sunset dolphin tours. Its laid-back atmosphere and variety of water activities make it one of Texas' most beloved beach destinations.

Appleby Things To Do
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