Although the weather has cooled down, there are still plenty of fun opportunities when it comes to Texas beaches. When most people think of Texas beaches, they immediately think of places like Galveston, Corpus Christi, and South Padre Island, as each of these coastal cities is a popular destination year-round. Visitors can explore off-season events, famous spots, and fun beach resorts with the following list of recommendations.
Celebrate the carnival in Galveston
One of the more well-known events that take place along the coast is Galveston Mardi Gras, which takes place in late January and early February. The celebration includes amazing food trucks, poster contests, new parades, and big sponsors like Bud Light. Visitors can look forward to entertaining headliners, an official 5K race, and counts of the floats. More than 350,000 people attend this event each year.
There are many other things to do on Galveston Island during the winter, like shopping or visiting Moody Gardens.
Visit popular places of interest in Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi landmarks like the Texas State Aquarium and USS Lexington are year-round attractions for the whole family. The aquarium is full of dolphins, marine life, and touch pools, while the USS Lexington has behind-the-scenes tours, virtual battle stations, and a flight simulator. Those looking for an outdoor experience can stop by the most famous stretch of beach here, the 70-mile shoreline of Padre Island’s national shoreline. Travelers will enjoy this hidden bay known for its migratory birds, endangered sea turtles and its nature reserve.
Enjoy the scenery on South Padre Island
The southernmost beach resort in Texas, South Padre Island, offers year-round windsurfing and other water sports. South Padre is also a favorite among winter Texans and offers a comprehensive list of events geared towards visitors during the winter months. This resort town in Texas is popular because of its beaches, calm waters, and wildlife.
Animal lovers can stop by the South Padre Island Nature and Observation Center to see migratory birds and visit the Point Isabel Lighthouse, among other nearby museums.
Explore small coastal towns like Port Aransas
Each of these popular Texas beach destinations offers much to see and do during the winter. There are dozens of other small coastal towns in Texas, each of which offers activities to visitors during each season, such as fishing, bird watching, shelling, and more. Regardless of whether you choose a popular Texas beach destination or a smaller, more secluded spot, you can look back on fond memories during your winter visit.
Port Aransas, for example, is located just north of the island of Corpus Christi and offers a small town vibe with a laid-back vibe. Travelers will be able to enjoy the ferry ride, observe nature, go shopping and surf in this coastal city. Water lovers can book a sailing charter and take a kayak tour with a guide, while land lovers can build sand castles, play golf, and experience local bars and grills. Finally, wind connoisseurs can go on an adventure with parasailing, sightseeing, and skydiving.
