Corpus Christi
Three hours from Houston
Just a short drive from Houston, Corpus Christi offers an easy and memorable coastal escape. With over 220 days of sunshine each year, the city is a great destination for year-round visits filled with relaxation, adventure, and culture.
The city is known for its beaches, offering several different beach areas, from the easy access of North Beach to the expansive stretches of Padre Island National Seashore. Corpus Christi delivers more than just sun and sand. Visitors can enjoy horseback rides along the water, electric Moke rentals, birdwatching along the Central Flyway, and sea turtle hatchling releases. Each provides opportunities to delve into nature and make the most of the Texas shoreline.
The 1.5-mile Downtown Seawall is ideal for walking, biking, or surrey rides, with scenic views and iconic landmarks like the Selena Memorial. On the water, visitors can enjoy a guided evening LED kayak tour or enjoy floating yoga classes for a fun twist on a typical fitness routine.
Art, history, and marine life come together at the Art Museum of South Texas, the Texas State Aquarium, and the USS Lexington. Unique dining and accommodations round out the experience with various options for every type of traveler.
Galveston
1.5 hours from Houston
For a close-to-home getaway, Galveston invites travelers to embrace their adventurous spirit. Whether visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, the island offers a year-round calendar filled with festivals, live music, and family-friendly events. The island's 32 miles of beaches provide the perfect backdrop for relaxing on a quiet stretch of sand or diving into water activities at livelier spots. Beyond the shore, Galveston's must-visit attractions, from amusement parks to historic landmarks, create a well-rounded coastal escape where travelers can explore, unwind, and indulge at their own pace.
From kayaking and fishing to surfing, hiking, biking, and boating, the island offers many ways to explore the great outdoors. With 32 miles of coastline, Galveston delivers high-energy experiences and calming moments for those who prefer a slower pace.
Historic Downtown Galveston offers a journey through time. Visitors can stroll past beautifully preserved Victorian-era architecture, explore eclectic shops, and experience the unique charm that sets this district apart. It's a walkable area full of history, culture, and character.
Food lovers will find Galveston's dining scene both delicious and unforgettable. The island offers everything from casual seaside seafood spots to upscale culinary destinations. Local breweries and distilleries offer the perfect place to unwind and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the nightlife scene long after sunset.
For overnight stays, the island offers something for every style. Hotel Galvez, an iconic beachfront resort, blends historic elegance with modern comfort. Hotel Lucine, a new boutique hotel, offers a fresh take on coastal luxury. Galveston has options for every type of visitor, from cozy bed and breakfasts to stylish vacation rentals.
Waco Surf
Three hours from Houston
For Houstonians looking to escape the city for a weekend, Waco Surf offers a mix of surf, wakeboarding, and family-friendly activities. The hub of the water hotspot is the 2.5-acre Surf Lagoon, powered by PerfectSwell® technology and designed to simulate waves inspired by global surf spots. Recognized by publications including Texas Monthly and Southern Living, the lagoon caters to professionals and beginners, with lessons available for those new to the sport.
The Cable Park is where riders of all levels can experience rotating rails and ramps. Guests can access the beach next to the lagoon, which includes surf and lodging packages or is available as an add-on for Water Park and Cable Park visitors.
For rest between waves, beachside cabanas are available for rent and include beach passes for up to ten guests. Wedge Cabanas, located by the Lil' Wedgie wading pool, offers shaded seating for up to eight people.
Those looking to extend their surfing vacation can choose from several overnight accommodations, including the beachfront Waco Surf Hotel, lakeside cabins, private lake houses, and RV spots. The Summer Stay & Surf package offers early surf session booking, discounted Water Park Day Passes, weekday Cable Park access, and beach entry.
New in 2025, Waco Surf introduces "The Lil' Wedgies," small slides designed for tiny surf enthusiasts. Summer food and beverage updates include new menus at Surfside Shack, Wedge Grill, The Saloon, Star Bar, and The Dive Bar.
Port Aransas
Four hours from Houston
Less than four hours from Houston, Port Aransas offers a combination of beachside recreation, cultural history, and local attractions on Mustang Island. Referred to as "Port A," this town features 18 miles of shoreline and is a favorite of visitors looking for various things to do while on vacation.
The area's history traces back over 4,500 years to when it first formed as submerged sandbars. The Karankawa Indians were among the island's earliest inhabitants, with Spanish explorer Cabeza de Vaca making contact in 1528. These days, fishing still has a stronghold, with options ranging from deep-sea charters to pier and bay fishing. Outdoor enthusiasts will be thrilled by kayaking, jet-skiing, surfing, and birdwatching at the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center and the Port Aransas Nature Preserve.
Cultural attractions on this part of the Texas coast include the Patton Center for Marine Science Education, Chapel on the Dunes, Lydia Ann Lighthouse, and Farley Boat Works. Each offers visitors insight into marine life, local architecture, and maritime heritage.
Dining options on the golf cart-friendly island range from coastal seafood to international cuisine, with many restaurants offering "cook your catch" services. Local favorites, including Cinnamon Shore and Palmilla Beach, as well as cottages and vacation rentals, make finding the perfect place to sleep easy.
Lake Conroe
1.5 hours from Houston
Just a short drive from Houston, Lake Conroe offers a nearby escape filled with outdoor recreation and lakeside relaxation. Visitors can spend the day water skiing, boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, or fishing. Visitors don't have to worry about lugging gear; local marinas and rental shops along the shoreline have everything necessary for a great day on the lake.
Margaritaville Lake Resort sits on 186 acres of lakefront property and features a water park with slides and a lazy river, boat rentals, and courts for tennis and pickleball. The resort also offers seasonal events and year-round activities for all ages.
Golfers can play through a pine-shaded course with bunkers and waterfalls. Anglers will find some of Texas' top freshwater fishing here, with bass tournaments, guided fishing trips, and opportunities to catch crappie, catfish, and bluegill. Plenty of dining options exist, including five restaurants at Margaritaville and waterfront views at LandShark Bar & Grill. The Southern Empress riverboat offers onboard meals and live dueling pianos for a unique dinner experience.