When the sun is high and the salt air calls, nothing beats a coastal road trip from Houston. Just a short drive from the city’s hustle, Texas’ Gulf Coast welcomes road trippers with sandy beaches, ocean breezes, and breezy boardwalks. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, digging your toes into soft sands, or enjoying seafood by the bay, these coastal getaways deliver the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
This guide explores the top beach destinations within driving distance of Houston — each offering its own vibe, scenery, and seaside charm. From lively beach towns to serene shorelines, these road trip ideas are perfect for families, couples, solo travelers, or anyone looking for a break from city life.
Why Coastal Road Trips from Houston Are Worth the Drive
Houston’s strategic location makes it a prime launching point for beach lovers. Within 1–4 hours, you can reach a variety of coastal gems: some ideal for peaceful retreats, others alive with festivals, shopping, and entertainment. These routes combine the freedom of the open road with the laid-back joy of Gulf Coast living.
Beyond the beaches themselves, many of these trips include charming small towns, nature reserves, lighthouses, and roadside attractions. Whether you want to camp, stay in a beach bungalow, or enjoy a luxurious oceanfront resort, there’s a beach road trip that fits your style — and your budget.
Let’s explore the best beach destinations just a tank away from Houston.
Top Coastal Road Trip Destinations from Houston
1. Galveston Island
Just an hour south of Houston, Galveston is the easiest and most popular coastal escape. This island city offers a bit of everything: beaches, amusement parks, historical architecture, and great seafood.
Address: Galveston, TX 77550
Hours: Open 24/7 (public beaches and attractions vary)
Approx Cost: Free to access beaches; parking may cost $12/day
Famous For: The Seawall, Pleasure Pier, and Moody Gardens
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit East Beach for live music and a festive atmosphere or Stewart Beach for family-friendly vibes.
2. Surfside Beach
Located about 70 miles south of Houston, Surfside Beach is a quieter, more relaxed option compared to Galveston. With free beach access, small-town charm, and wide sandy stretches, it’s a favorite for locals who want fewer crowds and clean surf.
Address: Surfside Beach, TX 77541
Hours: Open daily
Approx Cost: Free entry; beach parking pass may be required ($12 annual)
Famous For: Peaceful atmosphere and fishing pier
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring your own beach gear — rentals are limited. Stop by Jetty Park for a scenic picnic.
3. Crystal Beach & Bolivar Peninsula
Accessible via a short ferry ride from Galveston or by road from Winnie, Crystal Beach stretches across the Bolivar Peninsula and offers miles of drive-on beaches, rustic rentals, and an easy-going feel.
Address: Bolivar Peninsula, TX 77650
Hours: Open daily
Approx Cost: Free entry; vehicle beach permit approx. $10/year
Famous For: Drive-on beaches and laid-back coastal vibes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Take the free ferry from Galveston and watch for dolphins on the ride over.
4. Quintana Beach County Park
A hidden gem near Freeport, Quintana Beach is ideal for nature lovers and budget travelers. It’s quieter than Galveston, with a county-run park offering campsites, picnic areas, and clean beaches.
Address: 330 5th St, Quintana, TX 77541
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – Sunset
Approx Cost: Free entry to day-use area; camping from $25
Famous For: Tranquility and proximity to nature trails
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit nearby Sea Center Texas in Lake Jackson for a free, family-friendly stop.
5. Matagorda Bay
About 2.5 hours from Houston, Matagorda offers stunning coastal views and fewer crowds. It’s popular for fishing, kayaking, and its remote-feeling beaches. While parts of the beach require 4×4 access, there are paved access points as well.
Address: Matagorda, TX 77457
Hours: Daily
Approx Cost: Free access; vehicle permit required in some areas
Famous For: Unspoiled beaches and fishing opportunities
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring supplies — services and shops are limited. The beach is best for those looking to disconnect.
6. Port Aransas
While it’s further from Houston (around 3.5–4 hours), Port Aransas is worth the drive for its walkable beach town charm, lively nightlife, and dolphin-filled boat rides. Located on Mustang Island, it’s perfect for longer weekend getaways.
Address: Port Aransas, TX 78373
Hours: Daily
Approx Cost: Free access; parking permit $12
Famous For: Vibrant beach town and coastal adventures
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try a sunset cruise or visit during SandFest for fun, family-friendly events.
7. Sea Rim State Park
Tucked away near Port Arthur, Sea Rim is a quiet park with five miles of natural beach and unique kayaking trails through marshes. It’s ideal for nature lovers seeking peace and wildlife.
Address: 19335 TX-87, Sabine Pass, TX 77655
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – Sunset
Approx Cost: $3 per adult; kids free
Famous For: Natural beach, kayaking, and boardwalks
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring bug spray and visit early or late for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Packing Tips for a Coastal Road Trip
- Beach towel, swimwear, flip-flops
- Reef-safe sunscreen and bug spray
- Umbrella or beach tent for shade
- Cooler with water, snacks, and lunch
- Reusable utensils and trash bags
- Lightweight chairs or picnic blanket
- Dry bag for electronics if kayaking or near water
- Sand toys or beach games for kids
- Extra change of clothes and ziplock bags
- Cash for small shops or local parking permits
Food & Drink Stops
1. The Spot – Galveston
Casual beachfront dining with burgers, seafood, and frozen drinks.
Address: 3204 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 11 PM
Approx Cost: $12–$25
Famous For: Open-air dining with beach views
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Grab a seat upstairs for the best ocean breeze.
2. Seahorse Bar & Grill – Surfside
No-frills eatery with fresh seafood, cold drinks, and Gulf views.
Address: 702 Bluewater Hwy, Surfside Beach, TX 77541
Hours: Thurs–Sun, 11 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Shrimp baskets and relaxed patio
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Order ahead during peak hours to avoid a wait.
3. Shells Pasta & Seafood – Port Aransas
A cozy restaurant offering creative seafood dishes and homemade pasta.
Address: 522 E Ave G, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Hours: Daily, 5 PM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$30
Famous For: Local seafood with chef-crafted flair
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Reservations recommended for dinner.
Accommodations Along the Coast
1. Casa Del Mar Beachfront Suites – Galveston
Address: 6102 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77551
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: $130–$200/night
Famous For: Full kitchen suites and oceanfront views
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book early for summer weekends — they fill up fast.
2. Beach Resort at South Padre (Port Aransas location)
Address: 2525 S 11th St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: $150–$250/night
Famous For: Resort-style amenities with beach access
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Great for families looking for more than just the beach.
3. Sea Breeze Suites – Port Aransas
Address: 407 Beach Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: $100–$180/night
Famous For: Cozy stays with easy walk to the beach
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Choose an upper-level unit for a partial ocean view.
Local Tips for Coastal Road Trips
- Leave early to beat traffic and heat
- Pack your own gear to avoid high rental prices
- Watch for jellyfish warnings during late summer
- Use beach driving permits when needed
- Respect dunes and nesting areas — stay on designated paths
- Avoid peak holiday weekends for less crowd
- Always bring extra towels and trash bags
- Ferry to Bolivar can be crowded — go early or late
- Many beach towns have open container laws — follow local rules
Final Conclusion
Coastal road trips from Houston offer more than sandy beaches — they deliver freedom, fun, and an escape from the everyday. Whether you’re heading to the family-friendly shores of Galveston, the peaceful dunes of Quintana, or the vibrant vibes of Port Aransas, each destination offers its own flavor of Gulf Coast magic.
So load the cooler, roll down your windows, and hit the road. With ocean air in your lungs and waves on the horizon, your next beach adventure is just a drive away.
