Galveston Island State Park offers 2,000 acres of protected coastal environment with both beach and bay sides accessible to visitors. Following a major renovation completed in 2022, the park features new facilities including a beach information station, expanded hiking trails, and improved beach access points. The park preserves natural dune systems and coastal prairie, providing […]
Texas Beaches
Mustang Island State Park
Mustang Island State Park encompasses 3,954 acres with 5 miles of pristine beach along the Gulf of Mexico. The park offers primitive beach camping as well as developed campsites with water and electricity. A highlight is the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail, featuring a 20-mile route through the shallow waters of Corpus Christi Bay […]
Matagorda Bay Nature Park
Matagorda Bay Nature Park offers 1,600 acres of coastal habitat and several miles of pristine beach where the Colorado River meets the Gulf of Mexico. The unique location provides both river and Gulf access, creating diverse fishing opportunities and ecosystems. The park features 2-story screened shelters for overnight stays, RV sites, and tent camping areas. […]
Crystal Beach
Crystal Beach stretches along the Bolivar Peninsula, offering 7 miles of open beach with few restrictions. The beach permits driving and camping directly on the sand, creating a popular destination for weekend getaways. The area is famous for its exceptional crabbing and fishing opportunities, with blue crabs abundant in the warm Gulf waters. The beach […]
Magnolia Beach
Magnolia Beach is a unique “shell beach” composed primarily of crushed shells rather than sand, creating a striking white shoreline along Matagorda Bay. This free beach allows camping directly on the shore with no permits required, making it popular with budget travelers and RV enthusiasts. The calm, shallow waters of the protected bay are ideal […]
Holly Beach
Holly Beach is one of Galveston’s most western public beach access points, offering a more natural experience than the island’s eastern beaches. The remote location results in fewer visitors, creating a sense of discovery and solitude rare on popular coastal areas. The beach allows vehicle access and overnight camping without permits, attracting those seeking a […]