Plains TexasBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Plains, Texas.
1. Port Aransas Beach
CLEAN FAMILY-FRIENDLY SHORES
Port Aransas Beach offers visitors clean and well-maintained shores with minimal seaweed or jellyfish, making it a favorite destination on the Texas Gulf Coast. The exciting island destination features beautiful beaches and incredible wildlife alongside shopping, dining, and golfing opportunities. Visitors love Port A for its relaxed atmosphere and variety of recreational activities that cater to all ages.
2. South Padre Island
CLEANEST BEACHES IN TEXAS
South Padre Island boasts the cleanest beaches in Texas, offering pristine shorelines for year-round swimming and water activities. The island destination features fun activities throughout the year and is one of the most exciting tourism spots in the Lone Star State. Adding to its unique appeal, visitors may even witness rocket launches from Starbase while enjoying the beautiful coastal setting.
3. Galveston Island
HISTORIC COASTAL RESORT
Galveston Island offers everything expected in a resort destination with beautiful accommodations, entertainment, shopping, and 32 miles of Gulf Coast beaches. The island combines memorable historical sites with relaxed waterfront restaurants and unique events throughout the year. Visitors can escape and explore this complete coastal destination that balances beach activities with cultural experiences.
4. Padre Island National Seashore
UNTOUCHED NATURAL WONDER
Padre Island National Seashore features stunning, untouched beaches stretching over 70 miles, providing a serene escape for visitors to Corpus Christi. The park encompasses diverse ecosystems including dunes, grasslands, and salt flats that support varied wildlife and serve as an important nesting site for endangered Kemp's ridley turtles. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, and camping in this less crowded beach environment while also participating in educational programs about the park's ecological significance.
5. Bay Area Houston
WATERFRONT RECREATION HUB
Bay Area Houston offers memorable historical sites, relaxed waterfront restaurants, and unique events throughout the year. The coastal area provides a wealth of recreational opportunities with year-round swimming and water sports options. Visitors can discover the perfect balance of coastal relaxation and activity in this vibrant section of the Texas Gulf Coast.
6. Port Arthur Beaches
CAJUN COASTAL CHARM
Port Arthur invites visitors to let the good times roll while enjoying outdoor recreation and fantastic Cajun and southern cuisine. The coastal city offers beautiful beaches alongside opportunities to tour its unique historical sites. The blend of Gulf Coast beaches with distinctive Cajun flair creates a one-of-a-kind waterfront destination for travelers seeking cultural and coastal experiences.
7. Beaumont Waterfront
OIL TOWN OUTDOOR ESCAPE
Beaumont offers a unique blend of cowboy charm and colorful Cajun flair along its waterfront areas. This bigtime oil town combines plenty of history with outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy water activities while experiencing the cultural richness of this distinctive Texas coastal plains city.
8. Corpus Christi Bay
DOLPHIN WATCHING PARADISE
Corpus Christi Bay is renowned for its frequent dolphin sightings, making it a must-stop on any Texas family vacation. The beautiful bay offers scenic views alongside diverse marine wildlife observation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy the historic and natural attractions of this vibrant section of the Texas Gulf Coast.
9. Rockport Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY COASTAL GETAWAY
Rockport Beach provides visitors with a family-friendly coastal getaway along the scenic Texas Gulf Coast. The area combines beautiful shorelines with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and enjoying waterfront activities. Visitors appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and range of recreational options in this charming coastal community.
10. Matagorda Bay
SECLUDED COASTAL TREASURE
Matagorda Bay offers visitors a more secluded coastal treasure with less crowded beaches and pristine natural settings. The bay area provides excellent opportunities for fishing, birding, and enjoying peaceful shoreline activities. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the unspoiled beauty and tranquility of this less-developed section of the Texas Gulf Coast.
Plains Things To Do
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Plains Restaurants
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