Situated near the Houston-Galveston area, Galveston Bay is the largest and most productive estuary in all of Texas. Here, the state's rivers and bayous converge with waters of the Gulf of Mexico to sustain a diversity of ecosystems. Ecotourism in the region provides dynamic opportunities to participate in low-impact, nature-based activities that enhance conservation initiatives, provide education and contribute to the local community.
Kayaks and Art
- Artist Boat Kayak Adventures marries art, science and hands-on activities to increase awareness of Galveston Bay's marine environment. The not-for-profit organization incorporates art programs and interactions with local populations in its initiatives that celebrate the Bay's beauty and diversity. Its paddling tours provide opportunities to get up close and personal with significant natural sites within the Bay. Tour destinations include Galveston Island State Park, Armand Bayou, East Beach Lagoon, Christmas Bay, Drum Bay and others. Tours of four hours, including those to the bays, inspire paddler creativity through watercolor painting demonstrations.
Birding
- Galveston Bay intersects three North American migration flyways. The area beckons hobbyists and students with its extraordinary opportunities for observing bird life. Area birding spots include Big Reef Nature Park. Follow the park's East Lagoon Nature Trail to see cormorants, egrets and heron. Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge, along the eastern side of the Bay, attracts songbirds, snow geese and 27 species of ducks. Other hot spots include Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge at the west end of the Bay, and Galveston Island State Park. Bring binoculars and stay on designated paths for low-impact viewing.
Galveston Island
- Galveston Island State Park is an ecotourist's delight. The 2,000-acre preserve is a barrier island within west Galveston Bay. A birding hot spot, visitors witness laughing gulls, snowy plovers, sanderlings and other resident or migrating species. A kayak launch located off the bay road provides access for exploring the marine environment surrounding the island. Three designated island paddling routes explore isle coves and bayous. Foot paths are designed to showcase island habitats, including beaches, prairies and salt marsh wetlands. Park interpretive programs offer options for learning about the ecosystems and conservation. Conducted by Texas Master Naturalists and Friends of Galveston Island State Park, hands-on activities enhance appreciation for Galveston Bay's natural wonders.
Eco-Celebrations
- The nonprofit Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council is a community organization offering fun and imaginative nature-based education and recreation programs. Its calendar of special events include the FeatherFest Birding and Nature Photography Festival, a three-day event held in April. One of the state's largest birding festivals, it has included more than 100 classes and field trips. The eco-crowd flocks to Breakfast with Sandhill Cranes in December. The weekend event includes fields trips and educational programs. In February, Sea Turtle Saturday calls out kids and adults to attend seminars focused on learning about and celebrating this native creature. Activities take place at NOAA Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary and the NOAA Fisheries, home to 350 turtles.
