Though Texas's major cities, like Houston and Dallas, lie inland, the state's Gulf Coast is anything but sparsely populated. Cities along the Gulf of Mexico are frequented by inland residents when summer's heat arrives. They flock here to catch a breeze, head to the beach and work on a tan. But these laid-back towns have much to offer in their own right beyond the sand.
Port Aransas
- Locals and frequent visitors call this town "Port A." You'll find an array of shops, restaurants and cafes, plus colorful rental homes, along the 3 miles of beach here. The town of 3,000 is just a 30-minute drive from the big city of Corpus Christi, or you can opt to take the free ferry that runs 24 hours a day between the two cities. Warm water laps at the beaches here year-round, making for an ideal place for swimmers, sunbathers and surf fishers. You can camp in designated spots along the beach, or explore the tidal flats and bird-watching boardwalks for an afternoon.
Corpus Christi
- This sprawling metropolis of 300,000 is the largest of Texas's Gulf Coast cities. Along with sugar sand beaches, you can spend time at the Texas State Aquarium, the Corpus Christi Botanical Gardens, and several museums and art galleries. A slew of seafood restaurants also draw visitors. Thrill seekers enjoy visiting J.P. Luby Surf Park, where you can ride waves, kite surf and boogie board. Quieter spots for picnics or sunbathing include Whitecap Beach and North Beach.
Galveston
- Resilient Galveston has survived decades of lashing by hurricanes and strong storms in the Gulf. Rather than fold, the charming island town has stood tall. Ornate 19th-century buildings still remain, and more modern developments such as restaurants, small shops and galleries have thrived. The surrounding island sports 30 miles of beaches, like Stewart Beach, popular with families, and East Beach, frequented by spring-breakers. Fishing enthusiasts revel in the coast's more than 100 species of fish. The nearby Kemah Boardwalk is a favorite amusement park with both locals and visitors to the area.
South Padre Island
- South Padre Island is Texas' southernmost beach town. The town sits on a barrier island at the far southern reaches of the state, near Mexico. Purposefully laid-back, South Padre Island has banned the wearing of ties. If you're caught, you'll be given a T-shirt and a warning, but a second offense will warrant forfeiture of your tie. The city operates a free WAVE shuttle bus to tiny Port Isabel, a bayside community with a historic lighthouse and several museums. Ecotourism is another draw of South Padre, where the Dolphin Research and Sea Life Nature Center offers boat excursions to view porpoises and dolphins and learn about Gulf Coast wildlife.
