The Texas coastline curves along the Gulf of Mexico between Louisiana and Mexico. The diverse terrain includes 373 miles of beaches with wildlife preserves, camping areas, fishing ports and resort towns. Visitors to Texas beaches have a wealth of opportunities for fitness-oriented activities. Sportfishing, camping and sea kayaking are just a few of the things to do at beaches in Texas that will get your heart pumping.
Sportfishing on Southwest Beaches
The southwest Texas Gulf Coast is home to some of the best beachside sportfishing locations in the country. Anglers fly in from all over to popular areas such as South Padre Island and Port Aransas for recreational and competitive fishing. Visitors can set up right on the beach and fish from the surf. Boat rentals and charter trips are available from tour companies if you want to take your fishing up a notch. After a day of fishing, home-cooked catch can provide a healthy dinner meal. A state license is required for fishing.
Bird-Watching
Beach areas such as Sea Rim State Park offer visitors opportunities to interact with nature without the distractions of attractions and development. At Sea Rim, the grasses of inland marshlands meet the waves. The park is part of the Greater Texas Coastal Birding Trail. Bring comfortable shoes; you may want to stay a while. Healthy activities include hiking while bird-watching on the Gambusia Nature Trail in the marsh area, canoeing and kayaking. Paddle boat rentals are also available. There is no fee to enter Sea Rim but it is only for day use. There are no facilities and it is a pack in, pack out area.
Beachside Camping
Vacationers who want to experience camping along the Gulf Coast can camp at numerous sites on Mustang Island south of Port Aransas. Named for the wild horses brought to Texas by Spanish explorers, the island has five miles of beach. Beachside camping facilities include water, electricity, restrooms and shade shelters. For the more adventurous, there are more primitive camping sites on the island. Vacationers can swim, hike, fish and mountain bike along the open beach. The park's picturesque paddling trails gives kayakers excellent bird-watching views. Paddlers travel through coves, marshes and pass nearby spoil islands. Mustang Island is a Texas State Park and campers must adhere to state rules.
Shore Attractions
All along the beaches of Galveston Island in the Southeast part of the state’s coastline are outdoor attractions and activities including amusement parks, golf courses, restaurants and shopping areas. Climbing the steps at Schlitterbahn Waterpark is a good workout for kids and adults alike. Afterward, try the kid-friendly Treasure Isle Tour Train. Outdoor enthusiasts can surf or go sea kayaking. Beach volleyball is a healthful activity and the Gulf Coast Volleyball Association at Stewart Beach organizes games.
Beach Lighthouses
There are 16 lighthouses along the Texas Coast. As many as 90 existed along the coastline since the early 1800s. The majority have fallen into disrepair or were demolished. Port Isabel Lighthouse near the end of the southwest border of the Texas Gulf is the only remaining one open to the public. It provides views of South Padre Island and is open seven days a week. The 75 winding steps to the top of the lighthouse and its three ladders provide a -heart-healthy climb for visitors.
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