When the Texas sun starts sizzling, Houstonians know the best way to escape the heat: pack the car, grab your swim gear, and head toward water. Whether you’re craving a breezy Gulf beach, a peaceful lake shaded by pines, or a hidden bay with kayaking trails, you don’t have to go far. Within two to three hours of Houston, you’ll find countless summer escapes that promise to cool you down and lift your spirits.
This ultimate guide to summer road trips from Houston features seven stunning lakes and beaches—plus three food spots and three cozy accommodations to enhance your getaway. Each location includes full details, costs, pro tips, and official links to help you plan the most refreshing summer possible.
Top Lakes and Beaches Near Houston to Beat the Summer Heat
1. Galveston Island
Galveston is a Texas beach classic—only an hour from Houston and offering 32 miles of sun-soaked shoreline. Families love Stewart Beach, while East Beach is known for live music and summer events. Beyond the sand, Galveston boasts historic architecture, charming shops, the Seawall, and fun attractions like Moody Gardens and Pleasure Pier.
Galveston’s beaches are patrolled by lifeguards, and parking is plentiful (but fills fast). The water stays warm well into the fall, making this a go-to spot even beyond summer’s peak.
Address: Galveston, TX 77550
Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free access; $12–$15 parking
Famous For: Family-friendly beaches, island atmosphere, and coastal attractions
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Avoid Seawall crowds by heading west to Galveston Island State Park or Sunny Beach.
2. Lake Livingston State Park
Just 90 minutes north of Houston, Lake Livingston State Park offers the perfect lake escape for those who want peace, nature, and water activities. The 90,000-acre lake is perfect for kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Trails wind through pine forests, and there are ample shaded picnic spots for families and groups.
This is one of Texas’ largest lakes, and the park is designed for easy access to the water—whether you want to launch a boat, rent a paddleboard, or simply swim near the shore. Birdwatchers and stargazers will love the clear skies and natural surroundings.
Address: 300 Park Road 65, Livingston, TX 77351
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $6 per adult; free for kids under 13
Famous For: Scenic pine-lined lakeside recreation and family-friendly campgrounds
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Make day-use reservations online before your visit to guarantee entry on summer weekends.
3. Surfside Beach
A hidden gem for many Houstonians, Surfside Beach offers a more relaxed, less commercial beach experience than Galveston. Visitors can drive directly onto the beach, set up tents, and enjoy open sandy spaces perfect for volleyball, grilling, and chilling.
The town of Surfside is small but welcoming, with a few great restaurants and rental cottages steps from the shore. The water here tends to be cleaner and less crowded, especially early in the day or on weekdays.
Address: Surfside Beach, TX 77541
Hours: Open daily
Approx Cost: Free access; $12 beach parking permit
Famous For: Quiet beach days, wide sands, and drive-on beach access
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring your own shade and supplies—the area is beautiful but limited in amenities.
4. Lake Conroe
Lake Conroe is the energetic, fun-loving sibling of Texas lakes. Located just north of Houston, it’s packed with marinas, jet skis, restaurants, and nightlife. You can rent boats or kayaks, relax at lakefront parks, and even enjoy live music at waterfront venues.
This lake is especially popular for group trips or couples looking for a full weekend experience with great food, watersports, and lakeside lounging. It’s busy in the summer but big enough to find your own slice of water.
Address: Lake Conroe, TX 77356
Hours: Public access varies by park/marina
Approx Cost: Free access; rentals vary
Famous For: Boating culture, waterside dining, and lakefront entertainment
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to catch both the sunlight and the evening breeze with fewer boats on the water.
5. Matagorda Bay Nature Park
This coastal preserve combines ocean waves, river mouth access, and wide-open beaches—making it one of the most diverse coastal ecosystems near Houston. It’s quiet, serene, and great for nature lovers, especially birdwatchers.
Managed by LCRA, the park includes kayak rentals, walking trails, RV camping, and beach access with hardly any crowds. Shell collecting, crabbing, and sunbathing are top activities here.
Address: 6430 FM2031, Matagorda, TX 77457
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 5 PM
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Coastal solitude, wildlife watching, and low-key water recreation
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring binoculars—this is part of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail.
6. Lake Somerville State Park
Nestled between Houston and Austin, Lake Somerville is ideal for quiet swims, kayaking, and campfire evenings. The park has two main units: Birch Creek and Nails Creek, both with sandy beach areas and wooded trails.
The lake is uncrowded, the water clean, and the amenities well-maintained. You’ll find ample picnic tables, shady campsites, and boat ramps. This is a peaceful place to unplug and cool down.
Address: 14222 Park Road 57, Somerville, TX 77879
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $4 per adult
Famous For: Secluded lakefront camping, gentle swimming spots, and hiking
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Birch Creek Unit is best for swimming, while Nails Creek is perfect for trail hikes and stargazing.
7. Sea Rim State Park
At the edge of the Gulf and the Louisiana border lies one of Texas’ most underrated beach escapes. Sea Rim offers raw natural beauty, where beach meets marsh. You can walk a boardwalk through wetlands, kayak marsh trails, and then relax by the surf—all in one spot.
Unlike most beaches, this one is less developed and wonderfully quiet. You can even camp directly on the sand if you reserve early.
Address: 19335 TX-87, Sabine Pass, TX 77655
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 5 PM
Approx Cost: $3 per adult
Famous For: Remote beach camping, wildlife-rich marshes, and peaceful Gulf views
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Come prepared—there’s minimal shade and limited services, but the solitude is worth it.
Top Food Spots Near Lakes & Beaches
1. Floyd’s Cajun Seafood – Beaumont
Floyd’s is the perfect post-beach stop for bold Cajun flavors. Known for its gumbo, blackened catfish, and buttery boudin balls, this spot hits the spot after a day on the water. The vibe is casual, the portions are big, and the service is quick—everything you want on a summer road trip.
Address: 2290 I-10, Beaumont, TX 77707
Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $12–$25
Famous For: Authentic Cajun seafood and big Gulf flavors
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Order the crawfish étouffée with hush puppies—it’s the signature combo.
2. Waterman’s Restaurant – Galveston
Perched on the bay side of Galveston, Waterman’s offers fresh seafood and unforgettable sunset views. It’s ideal for couples looking for a romantic dinner or families wanting to enjoy a peaceful patio meal after a beach day.
Address: 14302 Stewart Rd, Galveston, TX 77554
Hours: Wed–Sun, 4 PM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $25–$45
Famous For: Fine seafood dining with spectacular coastal views
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book a table before 6 PM to catch golden hour on the deck.
3. The Hidden Gem Diner – Surfside Beach
This locally loved breakfast and lunch spot is known for hearty plates, fresh coffee, and the best shrimp po’boys in town. It’s small, so seating is limited—but that’s part of the charm.
Address: 101 Bluewater Hwy, Surfside Beach, TX 77541
Hours: Thu–Sun, 8 AM – 2 PM
Approx Cost: $8–$18
Famous For: Beach-town comfort food with fast service and generous portions
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Grab a breakfast taco to-go and watch the sunrise from your beach chair.
Best Accommodations Near the Water
1. Casa Del Mar Beachfront Suites – Galveston
These ocean-facing suites offer all the comfort of home with the convenience of beachfront living. Each suite includes a kitchen, private balcony, and easy access to the Seawall.
Address: 6102 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77551
Hours: Check-in 4 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $130–$200
Famous For: Beachfront value with full amenities for families and couples
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask for a top-floor unit to maximize Gulf views and minimize noise.
2. Surfside Cabins – Surfside Beach
These colorful cottages offer coastal charm with modern convenience. Located steps from the beach, they’re perfect for groups or couples looking for a quiet, cozy stay.
Address: 309 Bay Ave, Surfside Beach, TX 77541
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $150–$250
Famous For: Stylish beachfront lodging with great walkability
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Reserve early—summer weekends fill up months in advance.
3. Sunset Marina & Resort – Lake Livingston
Set on the lakeshore, Sunset Marina offers cabins, RV sites, and full-service boat access. It’s a peaceful, well-managed resort with great sunrise views and water sports options.
Address: 101 Private Rd 5885, Livingston, TX 77351
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $95–$180
Famous For: Lakefront lodging with easy boat access and a relaxing vibe
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring your own groceries—the resort is remote, and restaurants are limited.
Local Tips & Seasonal Advice
Leave early: Beat the heat and the traffic by starting road trips before 9 AM.
Weekday advantage: Mondays to Thursdays mean fewer crowds and more beach or lake space.
Bring your own gear: Shade tents, folding chairs, sunscreen, and refillable water bottles are essential.
Pack snacks: Not every lake or beach has nearby food options—especially Matagorda and Sea Rim.
Reservations recommended: State parks often reach capacity by noon in summer. Reserve your day pass online in advance.
Respect nature: Stay on marked paths, dispose of trash properly, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Check water conditions: Look for advisories, especially after heavy rain, which can affect water safety.
Avoid peak sun hours: Swim or lounge before 11 AM or after 4 PM for a cooler, safer experience.
Night skies: Lakes like Lake Somerville and Matagorda offer beautiful stargazing—pack binoculars and bug spray.
Don’t forget cash: Some remote parks and small towns may not accept cards for parking or small eateries.
Final Conclusion
From breezy beaches to shady forest lakes, summer road trips from Houston offer a beautiful, budget-friendly way to escape the heat and embrace the great outdoors. Each destination offers its own mix of recreation, scenery, and peace—whether you’re paddling through a marsh at sunrise or walking a soft-sand beach at dusk.
These getaways aren’t just cool in temperature—they’re cool in experience. They invite you to slow down, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories with the people you care about. So pack light, drive safe, and dive into Texas’ most refreshing adventures.
