10 Best Beaches in Houston Texas, 2024
If you want to enjoy some beaches in Houston Texas, you have several great options. Visiting the beaches near Houston may not be the first thing on your mind when planning your trip, but it would be remiss not to do so. Located within striking distance of the city, this stunning coastline offers a variety of beaches. These beaches are unspoiled natural marvels with lovely sands, calm waves, and scenic scenery typical of a beach. So get your beach gear and head to the best beaches in the Houston area.
Table of Contents
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10 Best Beaches in Houston, Texas
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- Sylvan Beach
- El Jardin Beach
- Jamaica Beach
- Stewart Beach
- East Beach
- Galveston Island State Park
- Surfside Beach
- The Texas City Dike
- Crystal Beach
- Quintana Beach
1. Sylvan Beach
Sylvan Beach Park is a popular beach in Houston Texas for both locals and tourists. Located on the shores of Galveston Bay, this beach offers stunning views of the water and a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the main draws to Sylvan Beach Park is its calm waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The park also has picnic areas and pavilions available for rent, perfect for a family day out or a barbecue with friends.
Sylvan Beach Overview
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- Weather:21–28°C
- Tags: Beach
- Address: 636 N Bayshore Dr, La Porte, Texas 77571
- Timings: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.
- Distance from Dallas: 26.2 miles
- Parking: Free
- Fee For Fishing Pier: USD 4
- Total Budget (Per Person):$120 to $170 per day per person
- Best Time To Visit: June to August
What to Expect
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- Family-friendly atmosphere:
- Lakeside charm
- Seasonal Events
Where to Stay with
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- Cottages and cabins: Perfect for families or groups, these rentals offer a homey feel and more space. Many are located right on the water’s edge. Prices typically range from $100-$200 per night.
- Hotels: Several hotels are situated within walking distance of the beach and amusement park. Prices can range from $75-$150+ per night, depending on the amenities and season.
- Campgrounds: For a more rustic experience, consider staying at one of the campgrounds located near Sylvan Beach. Campsite prices typically start at around $50 per night.
Total Budget
The total budget for your trip will depend on several factors, including your accommodation choice, spending habits on food and activities, and travel costs. Here’s a rough estimate for a daily budget per person:
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- Food: $50
- Accommodation: $100 (depending on the time of year and type of accommodation)
- Activities: $50 (including entrance fees to the amusement park, mini-golf, boat rentals, etc.)
- Other expenses: $20 (souvenirs, transportation, etc.)
Nearby Attractions
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- Verona Beach State Park:
- The Erie Canalway Trail:
- Oneida Lake:
- Fort Stanwix National Monument.
- Turning Stone Resort Casino
2. El Jardin Beach
El Jardin Beach in Houston Texas, is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. This beautiful beach boasts golden sand, crystal-clear water, and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. With warm weather year-round, El Jardin Beach is the perfect spot to soak up the sun and relax with friends and family.
Aside from its natural beauty, El Jardin Beach also offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Popular water sports for beachgoers include swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking. The beach also has several volleyball courts for those looking to have some fun in the sand.
El Jardin Beach Overview
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- Weather: 21 – 28°C
- Tags: Beach, Local favourite, Family-Friendly
- Address: 500 El Jardin Dr, Seabrook, TX 77586 (Pasadena, TX 77506)
- Timings: El Jardin Beach Park is open year-round during daylight hours
- Parking: Payment is necessary for visitors.
- Fee For Fishing Pier:
- Total Budget (Per Person): Residents: $0 – $20, Non-Residents – adult: $15 – $35, Non-residents – child): $5 – $25
- Best Time To Visit: morning hours from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
What to Expect
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- Beautiful Beach Scenery
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere
- Local Favorite
Where to stay
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- Beach Houses and Condos ($150-$500+ per night): Find vacation rentals offering stunning beach views and easy access to the shore. Prices can vary depending on size, amenities, and proximity to the beach.
- Hotels ($80-$200+ per night): Several hotels are located within a short drive of El Jardin Beach. These offer amenities like pools, fitness centres, and on-site restaurants.
Total Budget
The total budget for your El Jardin Beach trip depends on several factors, including
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- Entrance Fee::
- Pasadena Residents: Free
- Non-Residents: Adults: $10; Children (3–12 years): $5
- Entrance Fee::
Here’s a rough estimate for a daily budget per person:
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- Residents: $0–$30 (depending on food, activities, and transportation)
- Non-Residents (Adult): $15–$45 (depending on food, activities, and transportation)
- Non-Residents (Child): $5–$35 (depending on food, activities, and transportation)
Nearby attractions
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- Galveston Island State Park
- Moody Gardens
- Armand Bayou Nature Centre
3. Jamaica Beach
Jamaica Beach Located just 50 miles from the bustling city centre, this beach offers a peaceful escape from urban life. With its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, Jamaica Beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and other water activities. If you are planning to visit Beaches in Houston Texas, you can see Jamaica Beach.
But there’s more to do here than just soak up the sun. The beach has plenty of recreational facilities, such as volleyball courts, playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a fishing pier.
For those looking for some adventure, Jamaica Beach also has an abundance of wildlife, including dolphins and various species of birds. It’s the perfect spot for birdwatching or taking a dolphin-watching tour.
Jamaica Beach Overview
-
- Weather:
- Tags: Beach, Relaxing, Fishing
- Address: Jamaica Beach, Texas, 77564
- Timings: 5:00 am to 11:00 am
- Parking: free
- Total Budget (Per Person): $10-$30
- Best Time to Visit: June-August
What to Expect
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- Relaxing Atmosphere
- Beautiful Scenery
- Fishing Paradise
- Limited Amenities
Where to stay with cost
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- Hotels ($80-$200+ per night): Find hotels in Galveston that cater to different budgets. Some offer amenities like pools, fitness centres, and on-site restaurants.
- Vacation Rentals ($100-$500+ per night): Rent condos or beach houses in Galveston for a more spacious and homey feel. Prices vary depending on size, amenities, and proximity to the beach.
Total Budget
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- Budget-friendly: $30-$50 (packing food, minimal rentals, staying at a budget hotel)
- Moderate: $50-$75 (eating out occasionally, renting some beach equipment, staying at a mid-range hotel)
- Splurge: $75+ (dining out regularly, enjoying water activities, staying in a beachfront vacation rental)
Nearby attractions
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- Galveston Island State Park
- Moody Gardens
- Schlitterbahn Galveston
- The Strand Historic District
4. Stewart Beach
Stewart Beach is a popular beach located on Galveston Island, which is just an hour’s drive from Houston, Texas. It offers a peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere for visitors to relax and enjoy the beautiful Gulf Coast.
The beaches in Houston Texas, features soft white sand and clear blue waters, perfect for swimming or sunbathing. Visitors can also engage in various water activities, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. There are also volleyball nets set up for those who want to play a game with friends or family.
For those looking for a more laid-back experience, there are beach chairs and umbrellas available for rent. Families can also have a picnic on the designated grassy areas or use one of the many barbecue pits provided by the beach.
Stewart Beach Overview
-
- Weather:
- Tags: Beach, Family-Friendly, Amenities
- Address: 20 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554
- Timings: Monday through Thursday: 9 am – 5 pm, Friday through Sunday: 9 am-6 pm
- Total Budget (Per Person):$20 – $50
- Best Time to Visit: June-August
What to Expect
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- Relaxing Beach Getaway
- Family-Friendly Fun
- Convenient Amenities
Where to stay with cost
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- Hotels ($80-$300+ per night): Find hotels within walking distance of the beach, offering amenities like pools, fitness centres, and on-site restaurants. Prices vary depending on the season and amenities.
- Vacation Rentals ($100-$500+ per night): Rent condos or beach houses for a more spacious and homey feel. Enjoy stunning ocean views and easy beach access. Prices depend on size, proximity to the beach, and amenities.
Total Budget
-
- Budget-friendly: $40-$60 (packing food, minimal rentals, free street parking if available)
- Moderate: $60-$80 (eating out occasionally, renting some beach equipment, staying at a mid-range hotel with free parking)
- Splurge: $80+ (dining out regularly, enjoying water activities, staying in a beachfront vacation rental with paid parking)
Nearby attractions:
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- Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
- Moody Gardens
- Schlitterbahn Galveston
- The Strand Historic District
5. East Beach
East Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. This beautiful stretch of coastline offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, with its crystal clear waters and soft sandy beach. Located on Galveston Island, just an hour’s drive from downtown Houston, East Beach is easily accessible and offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The beach itself is spacious and well-maintained, making it a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, or building sandcastles. This beach would be a wonderful place for your vacation if you want to visit beaches in Houston Texas.
East Beach Overview
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- Tags: Beach, Party Atmosphere, Events
- Address: 1960 Strand St, Galveston, TX 77550
- Timings: Mondays through Thursdays: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday to Sunday: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Total Budget (Per Person):$25 – $75
- Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August)
What to Expect
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- Lively Atmosphere
- Party Scene:
- Alcohol Permitted:
Where to stay with cost
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- Hotels ($80-$300+ per night): Find hotels within walking distance or a short drive from East Beach, offering amenities like pools, fitness centres, and on-site restaurants. Seasons and amenities affect prices.
- Vacation Rentals ($100-$500+ per night): Consider renting condos or beach houses near East Beach for a more spacious feel and potentially closer proximity to the action. Prices depend on size, proximity to the beach, and amenities.
Total Budget
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- Budget-friendly: $190-$210 (includes gas, budget accommodation, packing food, minimal rentals)
- Moderate: $240-$260 (includes gas, moderate accommodation, eating out occasionally, and some rentals)
- Splurge: $290+ (includes gas, splurge accommodation, dining out regularly, event fees, and possible additional activities)
Nearby attractions
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- Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
- Moody Gardens
- Schlitterbahn Galveston
- The Strand Historic District
6. Galveston Island State Park
Galveston Island State Park is a popular beach destination in Houston, Texas. Located just an hour away from the city, it offers a peaceful escape from the bustling urban life. The park features miles of sandy beaches, dunes, marshes, and coastal prairies, making it a diverse and unique natural attraction.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Galveston Island State Park, including swimming, fishing, birdwatching, hiking and camping. The calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico are perfect for swimming and wading during the warm summer months. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching redfish, speckled trout or flounder while taking in the scenic views.
Galveston Island State Park Overview
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- Tags: Nature, Beach, Camping, Birding
- Address: 1030 FM 3005, Galveston, TX 77551
- Timings: Open 24 hours a day
- Total Budget (Per Person): Day Trip: $10-$20, Camping Trip (without hookups): $25-$45, Camping Trip (with hookups): $35-$55
- Best Time to Visit:(March-May
What to Expect
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- Swimming, fishing, bird watching,
- Hiking, paddling, and picnicking
- Wildlife
- Beach access
- Camping
Where to stay with cost
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- Galveston Island State Park Campground: This is the most convenient option, located right within the park. The nightly rate starts at around $20.
- Hotels in Galveston: There are many hotels to choose from in Galveston, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. Rates start at around $100 per night.
- Vacation rentals in Galveston: Vacation rentals can be a great option for families or groups. The nightly rate starts at around $150.
Total Budget
The total cost of your trip will depend on several factors, including the cost of your accommodations, food, and activities. However, it is possible to have a great trip to Galveston Island State Park on a budget. Here’s a sample budget for a 3-day trip for 2 people:
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- Accommodations: $100/night x 3 nights = $300
- Food: $50/day x 3 days = $150
- Activities: $50 (park entrance fees) = $50
- Gas: (assuming you are driving from Houston) $100 (round trip) = $100
Total: $600
Nearby attractions
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- Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
- Moody Gardens
- Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark,
- The Strand
7. Surfside Beach
Surfside Beach is a popular beach in Houston Texas. Located just an hour’s drive from the city, this beautiful stretch of coastline offers miles of sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Many people visit Surfside Beach to relax and soak up the sun, but there are also plenty of activities to keep you busy. The warm Gulf waters are perfect for swimming, surfing, and kayaking. You can even rent a jet ski or go parasailing for a more thrilling experience.
Surfside Beach Overview
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- Tags: Beach, Family-Friendly, Clean, Eco-Friendly
- Address: Surfside Beach, TX 7754, 1304 Monument Drive
- Timings: 24/7.
- Total Budget (Per Person):$40-$80
- Best Time to Visit: June-August
What to Expect
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- Relaxing atmosphere,
- Clean Beach
- Eco-Friendly Focus
- Limited Development
Where to stay with cost
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- Budget-Friendly Hotels ($50-$100 per night): Find motels or smaller hotels within walking distance or a short drive from the beach. These offer basic amenities like a pool and Wi-Fi.
- Mid-Range Hotels/Condos ($100-$200 per night): These offer more amenities like on-site restaurants, fitness centres, and potentially oceanfront views. Condo rentals might fall within this range as well.
- Vacation Rentals ($200+ per night): Rent spacious condos or beach houses for a more private and luxurious experience. Prices vary depending on size, proximity to the beach, and amenities offered.
Total Budget
The total budget depends on your chosen accommodation, transportation mode, and spending habits:
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- Day Trip (no overnight stay): ~$120-$180
- Overnight Stay (Budget-Friendly): ~$190-$280
- Overnight Stay (Mid-Range):$250-$380
Nearby attractions
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- Myrtle Beach (30-minute drive)
- Brookgreen Gardens (1-hour drive)
- Huntington Beach State Park (1-hour drive)
- Barefoot Landing (45-minute drive)
8. The Texas City Dike
The Texas City Dike is a popular beach destination located in Houston, Texas. This five-mile stretch of shoreline offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico and plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy.
The water at the Texas City Dike is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. The beach also has picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails for those who prefer to stay on land. Visitors can even rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to explore the waters surrounding the dike.
The Texas City Dike Overview
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- Tags: Beach, Fishing, Pier, Scenic Drive
- Address: Texas City Dike Rd., Texas City, TX 77591, USA
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Total Budget (Per Person): $10 – $20
- Best Time To Visit: October to April for cooler weather and good fishing.
What to Expect
Where to stay with cost
-
- Budget-friendly: There are several campgrounds located near the dike, which offer a more affordable option for staying overnight. Prices typically start at around $20 per night.
- Mid-range: There are a variety of hotels and motels located in Texas City and Galveston, with prices ranging from $50 to $100 per night.
- Luxury: For a luxurious stay, there are several beachfront resorts located on Galveston Island. Prices typically start at around $200 per night.
Total Budget
-
- Budget-friendly: There are several campgrounds located near the dike, which offer a more affordable option for staying overnight. Prices typically start at around $20 per night.
- Mid-range: There are a variety of hotels and motels located in Texas City and Galveston, with prices ranging from $50 to $ per night.
- Luxury: For a luxurious stay, there are several beachfront resorts located on Galveston Island. Prices typically start at around $200 per night.
Nearby attractions
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- Fishing
- Beachcombing
- Birdwatching
- Scenic Drive
- Picnicking
- Biking and Hiking
9. Crystal Beach
Crystal Beach is Located approximately an hour’s drive from the city centre, this beautiful stretch of coastline offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
With miles of soft white sand and warm turquoise waters, Crystal Beach is the perfect spot for a day trip or weekend getaway. Visitors can relax on the beach with a good book, take a dip in the ocean, or go fishing off one of the many piers.
In addition to its natural beauty, Crystal Beach also offers various activities for all ages. Families can enjoy building sand castles together, while kids can go exploring in the nearby marshes or participate in a game of beach volleyball. For those seeking some adrenaline-pumping fun, there are also options
Crystal Beach Overview
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- Tags: Beach, Fishing, Camping, Family-friendly
- Address: Bolivar Peninsula, Texas (Crystal Beach stretches along State Highway 87 for about 7 miles)
- Timings: 24/7.
- Total Budget (Per Person):$50 to $200
- Best Time to Visit: March-May and September-November
What to Expect
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- Breathtaking beaches
- Fishing Paradise
- Camping under the stars
- Birding haven
- Boating & Kayaking
- Family Fun
Where to stay with cost
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- Budget-friendly: Camping is an excellent option for budget-conscious travellers. Campgrounds typically start around $20 per night, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors at an affordable price.
- Mid-range: A variety of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals are available, offering comfortable accommodations at a range of price points. Expect nightly rates to start around $50 and go up depending on the amenities and proximity to the beach.
- Luxury: For those seeking an indulgent beachfront experience, luxury resorts are also available. These resorts offer top-notch amenities, stunning views, and impeccable service, with prices typically starting at $200 or more per night.
Total Budget
The total budget for your Crystal Beach trip depends on your chosen accommodation, food preferences, and activities. Here’s a sample budget for a mid-range traveller:
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- Beach Access: $15 (parking pass)
- Accommodation: $75 (nightly rate for a mid-range hotel)
- Food: $50 (estimated cost for meals and drinks per day)
Total: $140 per day
10. Quintana Beach
Quintana Beach is a popular coastal destination located in the bustling city of Houston, Texas. With its wide stretches of sandy shoreline and crystal-clear waters, it’s no surprise that this beach has become a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike.
The beach offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. It also boasts a vibrant boardwalk filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Quintan a Beach Overview
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- Tags: Beach, Relaxing, Family-friendly, Fishing
- Address: Quintana Beach County Park, 4502 SH 256, Freeport, TX 77541
- Timings: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m
- Total Budget (Per Person):$50 to $200
- Best Time to Visit: March-May and September-November)
What to Expect
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- Public Beach
- Swimming and sunbathing
- Fishing Paradise
- Birding
- Family Fun
- Park Amenities
Where to stay with cost
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- Camping: Quintana Beach County Park has a campground with tent and RV sites. Rates start at around $20 per night, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Hotels and Rentals: Several hotels and vacation rentals are located near Quintana Beach, ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxurious beachfront resorts. Prices typically start around $50 per night and go up depending on the amenities and proximity to the beach.
Total Budget
-
- Beach Access: Free (public beach)
- Park Entrance Fee (if using park amenities during peak season): $5 per vehicle
- Accommodation: $75 (nightly rate for a mid-range hotel)
- Food: $50 (estimated cost for meals and drinks per day)
Total: $130 per day
FAQ’s Of Beaches in Houston Texas
Are there any beaches near Houston?
Yes! Galveston Island, Crystal Beach, and Surfside Beach are all Beaches in Houston Texas.
What’s the closest beach to Houston?
Galveston Island is the closest major beach destination, about an hour south.
What are the best beaches for swimming?
Crystal Beach and Galveston Island both offer great swimming conditions.
What are some family-friendly Beaches in Houston Texas?
All the beaches mentioned are great for families. Galveston offers the most amenities for kids.
What beaches allow pets?
Crystal Beach and Surfside Beach are known to be pet-friendly. Double-check the regulations before bringing your furry friend.
