Pelican State Beach holds the distinction of being California’s northernmost state beach, located just south of the Oregon border. This remote, undeveloped beach offers a wild, pristine coastline experience with minimal facilities and often few visitors. The beach features dramatic views of offshore sea stacks and the Oregon coast stretching northward. Birds including brown pelicans, […]
Beaches for Solitude
Third Beach (La Push)
Third Beach is the most remote of the three La Push beaches, requiring a 1.2-mile hike through coastal forest. This isolation rewards visitors with a tranquil beach experience and fewer crowds. The beach features striking sea stacks, a waterfall that cascades onto the shore, and rich tide pools. The scenic hike passes through Sitka spruce […]
South Beach at San Jose Island
South Beach represents the southernmost accessible portion of San Jose Island, reached via a short jetty boat ride from Port Aransas. This uninhabited beach offers one of the most pristine natural experiences on the Texas coast with exceptional shelling opportunities and clear waters. The south end features the St. Jo Island Jetty, creating excellent fishing […]
Matagorda Peninsula Beach
Matagorda Peninsula Beach stretches for 23 miles on a thin barrier peninsula accessible only by boat or by driving onto the beach from Matagorda Bay Nature Park. The remote location and limited access create one of the least crowded beach experiences in Texas. The peninsula separates the Gulf from East Matagorda Bay, offering fishing opportunities […]
North Beach at Port Mansfield
North Beach at Port Mansfield offers one of the most remote and undeveloped beach experiences in Texas. The beach is accessible via a sandy path through the dunes starting at Fred Stone County Park. Four-wheel drive is strongly recommended due to the soft sand. The remote location between Corpus Christi and South Padre Island means […]
Sargent Beach
Sargent Beach is a small fishing community and beach area between Matagorda and Freeport, offering a quiet alternative to busier coastal destinations. The beach features unusual dark sand due to the presence of natural clay deposits, creating a distinctive appearance. Vehicle access is permitted directly on the beach without fees, allowing convenient access for fishing […]
High Island Beach
High Island Beach sits at the northeastern end of the Bolivar Peninsula, offering a less developed beach experience with unique geological features. The name comes from the salt dome that raises the community 38 feet above sea level—unusual elevation for the Texas coast. The beach is bordered by the McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge, creating excellent […]
Sunny Beach
Sunny Beach is located on the west end of Galveston Island, offering a less crowded alternative to the more popular tourist beaches. The beach allows free camping and vehicle access, creating an accessible option for overnight beach stays without permits or fees. The area is especially popular with locals who appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and […]
Bryan Beach
Bryan Beach is a secluded 3-mile stretch of natural beach near Freeport, offering a more wild and undeveloped experience than many Gulf beaches. The beach permits free camping and vehicle access without permits, attracting those seeking an affordable seaside experience. Limited development means minimal facilities, creating a rustic atmosphere. The beach sits where the Brazos […]
San Jose Island
San Jose Island (locally known as St. Jo’s) is a pristine, privately-owned barrier island accessible only by boat or ferry from Port Aransas. While the owners maintain the island as a wildlife sanctuary, the public beach is open to visitors along the shoreline below the vegetation line. The uninhabited nature of the island makes it […]