Surfside Beach TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Surfside Beach, Texas.
1. Surfside Beach
SANDY GULF COAST BEACH
Surfside Beach offers visitors a classic Texas Gulf Coast experience with miles of sandy shoreline ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and shelling. The beach is family-friendly, open year-round, and popular for water sports such as surfing and fishing. With easy access and beautiful sunsets, it remains a must-visit destination for travelers seeking relaxation by the sea.
2. Surfside Jetty Park
FISHING AND NATURE SPOT
Surfside Jetty Park is renowned for its nearly one-mile-long jetty, offering prime fishing opportunities and scenic coastal views. Visitors can watch ships enter the Brazos Harbor, enjoy fresh ocean breezes, and try wildlife spotting along the rocky jetty. The park provides picnic areas, pavilions, and beach access, making it a favorite for anglers and families alike.
3. Surfside Beach Bird & Butterfly Trail
NATURE WALK AND WILDLIFE
The Surfside Beach Bird & Butterfly Trail is a landscaped path specifically designed to attract native and migratory birds and butterflies. The trail features interpretive signs, native plants, and workout stations, offering an engaging and educational outdoor activity. It's a serene spot for birdwatching, photography, and enjoying the local flora and fauna.
4. Fort Velasco Site
HISTORIC TEXAS LANDMARK
The Fort Velasco Site commemorates one of the most significant battlegrounds in early Texas history, where the first major conflict of the Texas Revolution happened in 1832. Visitors can explore historical markers and learn about the port where Stephen F. Austin's colonists first arrived. The site provides a glimpse into the origins of Texas independence and its early settlement period.
5. Surfside Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
Located within Surfside Beach City Hall, the Surfside Historical Museum houses artifacts and exhibits related to Surfside's rich past. Displays cover the town's role in the Texas Revolution, shipwrecks, and the development of the area. This small but informative museum offers context for the region's unique heritage and significant historical events.
6. Surfside Marina
BOATING AND FISHING HUB
Surfside Marina is a high-end facility offering wet slip and dry stack storage for boats, positioned as the home base for Texas sportfishing. Boaters and anglers have direct access to Gulf waters for offshore adventures and charters. The marina features modern amenities and serves as a launch point for deep sea fishing and leisure boating.
7. Pier 30
RESTAURANT WITH A VIEW
Pier 30 is a waterfront eatery and bar known for its laid-back atmosphere, fresh seafood dishes, and live music events. Situated right on the water, it offers guests scenic views of the intracoastal channel and passing boats. The restaurant is a popular gathering spot for both locals and visitors seeking classic Texas coastal fare.
8. Red Snapper Inn
SEAFOOD DINING FAVORITE
The Red Snapper Inn is a long-standing local restaurant, renowned for its fresh Gulf seafood and welcoming, family-friendly setting. Its menu features a variety of classic seafood dishes with a focus on snapper, shrimp, and oysters. The casual coastal vibe and attentive service make it a top dining choice in Surfside Beach.
9. Seahorse Bar & Grill
BEACHFRONT CASUAL DINING
Seahorse Bar & Grill offers guests a relaxed dining and drinking experience just steps from the beach. Known for burgers, sandwiches, and cold drinks, it's a great spot to unwind after a day in the sun. The open-air patio and cheerful ambiance attract both beachgoers and locals alike.
10. Kitty's Purple Cow
ICONIC LOCAL DINER
Kitty's Purple Cow is a quirky, beloved diner famous for its vibrant decor and time-honored comfort food menu. From hearty breakfasts to burgers, this spot is a Surfside institution offering a fun and nostalgic dining experience. Its purple exterior and friendly staff have made it a must-visit for decades.
11. Beachfront RV Resort
CAMPING BY THE SEA
Beachfront RV Resort provides a unique opportunity for visitors to camp right on the Texas Gulf Coast. The resort features full hookups, direct beach access, and beautiful ocean views. It's an ideal spot for RV travelers seeking relaxation and outdoor adventure near Surfside Beach.
12. Reel Hard Charters
GUIDED FISHING TOURS
Reel Hard Charters offers guided deep sea fishing trips departing from Surfside Beach, led by experienced local captains. Guests can catch a variety of Gulf species on half-day or full-day excursions. The charters cater to all experience levels, making them a great option for families, friends, or avid anglers.
13. Bridge Bait
TACKLE, BAIT, AND SHOP
Bridge Bait serves as a comprehensive shop for fishing supplies, live bait, and local souvenirs right at the bridge entering Surfside Beach. In addition to gear, it offers snacks and friendly advice, making it a convenient stop for anglers before heading out. The shop is also a gathering place for the local fishing community.
14. Moody Gardens
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ADVENTURE PARK
Moody Gardens is a major entertainment complex on Galveston Island featuring the iconic glass pyramids housing an aquarium, rainforest, and science exhibits. The venue also offers a 3D IMAX theater, a water park, and regular seasonal attractions. Its diverse activities make it a popular day trip for families visiting the Surfside area.
15. Brazosport Museum of Natural Science
NATURAL HISTORY AND DISCOVERY
The Brazosport Museum of Natural Science in nearby Clute features engaging exhibits on fossils, gems, native wildlife, and regional history. Interactive displays and educational programs make it a hit with families and curious explorers. The museum offers insight into the rich natural diversity of the Gulf Coast region.