Best Beaches near San Antonio: San Antonio, Texas may be located more than a hundred miles from the coast, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find beautiful beaches nearby. From scenic spots with calm waters perfect for families to more rugged stretches of sand that will thrill adventure-seekers, the Gulf Coast has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to escape the city for a day or take a longer beach vacation, there are plenty of options within driving distance of San Antonio. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best beaches near San Antonio, highlighting their unique features and what makes them worth a visit. So grab your sunscreen, pack your beach bag, and get ready to discover the beauty of the Gulf Coast.
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Best Beaches near San Antonio
Find some of the best beaches in Texas near San Antonio
Mustang Island State Park
If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination near San Antonio to soak up some sun, Mustang Island State Park is an excellent choice. Located just a few hours south of San Antonio, this stunning stretch of coastline boasts some of the best beaches in Texas.
One of the most popular spots in the park is the Mustang Island beach. With its soft, white sand and crystal-clear water, it’s the perfect place for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles with the kids. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try your hand at fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
For those looking for a quieter beach experience, the nearby Little Shell Beach is a hidden gem. This secluded stretch of coastline is perfect for a peaceful picnic or a romantic sunset stroll. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the local wildlife, such as dolphins, sea turtles, and pelicans.
For the ultimate beach day, head to the nearby Padre Island National Seashore. With over 70 miles of undeveloped coastline, it’s the perfect place to explore the natural beauty of the Texas coast. From surfing and fishing to birdwatching and beachcombing, there’s something for everyone at Padre Island.
Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family vacation or a peaceful getaway, the beaches near San Antonio have something for everyone. And with Mustang Island State Park just a short drive away, you can experience the best of Texas’ coastal beauty without venturing too far from home.
Surfside Beach
If you’re in search of a laid-back beach destination near San Antonio, Surfside Beach is the perfect spot. This quaint little town on the Texas Gulf Coast boasts miles of soft, sandy beaches and warm, inviting waters.
Surfside Beach is a favorite among families, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing, and beachcombing. The beach is also popular with surfers, who flock to the waves to catch some of the best breaks in Texas.
For a change of scenery, head to nearby Quintana Beach Park. This beautiful stretch of coastline is perfect for a day of sunbathing, picnicking, and beach volleyball. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the nearby marshlands.
If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience, head to Bryan Beach. This hidden gem is tucked away in a quiet residential area, and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The beach is also a great spot for birdwatching, with a variety of shorebirds and waterfowl calling the area home.
Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family vacation or a relaxing beach getaway, Surfside Beach and the surrounding areas have something for everyone. So pack your sunscreen, grab your swimsuit, and head south to experience the best of Texas’ coastal beauty.
Matagorda Bay
If you’re looking for a hidden gem among the beaches near San Antonio, Matagorda Bay is the perfect spot. This unspoiled stretch of coastline offers miles of sandy beaches, calm waters, and stunning sunsets.
One of the most popular spots in Matagorda Bay is Matagorda Beach, a wide, flat stretch of sand that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beach is also popular with anglers, who come to fish for redfish, flounder, and other species in the bay’s rich waters.
For a quieter beach experience, head to nearby Jetty Park Beach. This secluded spot is located at the mouth of the Colorado River, and offers calm waters and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. It’s also a great place to watch the ships coming and going from the nearby port.
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, head to Matagorda Island State Park. This barrier island off the coast of Texas is accessible only by boat, and offers miles of unspoiled beaches and dunes to explore. You can hike, fish, or birdwatch, or simply relax on the beach and take in the stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach vacation or a peaceful getaway, Matagorda Bay and the surrounding areas have something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and head south to experience the best of Texas’ coastal beauty.
Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi is one of the most popular beach destinations near San Antonio, and for good reason. With miles of soft, sandy beaches, warm Gulf waters, and plenty of family-friendly activities, it’s the perfect spot for a beach vacation.
One of the most popular beaches in Corpus Christi is Padre Island National Seashore. This protected stretch of coastline offers over 70 miles of unspoiled beaches, dunes, and wetlands, making it the perfect spot for beachcombing, birdwatching, or surfing. And with plenty of campsites and picnic areas, you can make a day (or week!) of it.
For a more lively beach experience, head to North Beach. This bustling beach is located near the USS Lexington Museum and the Texas State Aquarium, making it the perfect spot for a family day out. You can swim, sunbathe, or play beach volleyball, then head to one of the nearby attractions for some indoor fun.
If you’re looking for a quieter beach experience, head to Mustang Island State Park. This stunning stretch of coastline offers miles of soft, white sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding. And with plenty of campsites and cabins available, you can make a weekend (or longer!) of it.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Corpus Christi and the surrounding beaches have something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and head south to experience the best of Texas’ coastal beauty.
Galveston Island
Galveston Island is one of the top beach destinations near San Antonio, and for good reason. With miles of sandy beaches, plenty of family-friendly activities, and a rich history, it’s the perfect spot for a beach vacation.
One of the most popular beaches on Galveston Island is Stewart Beach. This family-friendly beach offers plenty of amenities, including showers, restrooms, and concession stands, making it the perfect spot for a day of sun, sand, and sea. Kids will love the playground and the on-site amusement park, featuring a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and other rides.
For a more secluded beach experience, head to East Beach. This beautiful stretch of coastline is located at the far eastern end of the island and offers calm waters and plenty of space to spread out. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, a game of beach volleyball, or just soaking up the sun.
If you’re looking for a bit of history along with your beach vacation, head to Seawall Urban Park. This historic beachfront promenade offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, as well as plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions. And with over 10 miles of beach to explore, you’ll have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the sun.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Galveston Island and the surrounding beaches have something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and head south to experience the best of Texas’ coastal beauty.