Category: Summer Trips

10 State Parks Near Dallas with Amazing Swimming Areas

Hike, dive, repeat:
These 10 State Parks near Dallas are perfect for a summer splash!

Enjoy nature and beat the Texas heat in one single shot, at beautiful State Parks and Preserves in Texas and surroundings, with natural swimming areas.

From popular summer spots among locals, to hidden gems where you can enjoy solitude, discover in this post 10 awesome places within 2 hours driving from Dallas to cool off this summer.

The parks below all feature great nature trails and river beaches, lake beaches or cascades. They make outstanding summer day trip destinations from Dallas.

Choose your favorites, make reservations (links along the post), and hit the road to have the time of your life every weekend of this season!

Don’t mind driving a little (or a lot) further? Check our summer special for tons of summer travel ideas in Texas and surroundings states, including the most amazing swimming holes in Texas and the best beaches to visit from Dallas. 

📝 Note:
It’s always a good idea to check on current conditions before heading to any State Park, as recent extreme weather or other unforeseen events can close trails and swimming areas without notice.
Click on the specific State Park links provided along the post to check for any current Park Alerts before hitting the road.

1. Cedar Hill State Park

Distance: 22 miles/ 25 min from Dallas

Cedar Hill is the closest State Park to Dallas and an amazing outdoor space for hiking and swimming.

This is the place to go if you’re looking for a quick summer getaway – Cedar Hill is the closest State Park to Dallas and located less than 30 minutes from the city. It’s overall a great Texas State Park to hit this summer if you need a change of scenery but don’t want to drive a long distance.

Cedar Hill State Park features a beautiful and well-maintained beach area. Swimming at Joe Pool Lake is a sure way to beat the Texas heat!

Hiking, biking, and fishing are some of the other fun things to do at Cedar Hill State Park. Or simply relax by the lake and soak in the summer vibe surrounded by nature.

2. Ray Roberts Lake State Park

Distance: 59 miles/ 1 h 00 min from Dallas

Ray Roberts Lake, in Pilot Point, Texas, is a popular State Park among Dalasites for its proximity to the city and great amenities.

It’s a place for fishing, swimming, paddling, camping, hiking, cycling and horseback riding – the opportunities to enjoy the outdoors are endless there.

Lake Ray Roberts Isle du Bois unit features a beautiful sandy beach area as well, perfect for a splash in the Texas summer.

Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch, a safari style zoo, is right next door to Ray Roberts Lake State Park and makes the perfect add on to your summer day trip from Dallas.

3. Lake Mineral Wells State Park

Distance: 78 miles/ 1 h 15 min from Dallas

Lake Mineral Wells is another popular place for swimming near Dallas. Photo by Larry D. Moore / CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)

Lake Mineral Wells is an amazing State Park in North Texas. It features a swimming beach, kayak and SUP rentals, and over 12 miles of trails. And its home to famous Penitentiary Hollow, a unique geological formation resembling a small canyon.

For a perfect summer day at Lake Mineral Wells State Park, hike Red Waterfront Trail towards Penitentiary Hollow and then refresh and recover at the lake shores.

Other activities at Lake Mineral Wells include boating, camping, fishing, and rock climbing.

Lake Mineral Wells is about 1h15 from Dallas and 0h45 from Fort Worth, and a popular Texas State Park among locals.

4. Eisenhower State Park

Distance: 79 miles/ 1 h 15 min from Dallas

Right on the shores of Lake Texoma, one of the largest reservoir in the United States, Eisenhower State Park is home to a beautiful swimming cove and over 6 miles of hiking and biking trails.

Set up on a bluff overlooking the lake, Eisenhower State Park offers amazing views. It’s a beautiful and well-maintained State Park in Texas, ideal for a splash in a hot summer day.

Other activities there include fishing, paddling (bring your own equipment), hiking and camping.

5. Dinosaur Valley State Park

Distance: 80 miles/ 1 h 25 min from Dallas

Dinosaur Tracks, crystal-clear Paluxy river and a great trail system make Dinosaur Valley an amazing summer day trip destination.

Dinosaur Valley is a must-visit State Park in Texas, and Dallasites are lucky to have it only a short driving distance from the city!

Not only Dinosaur Valley State Park scenery is absolutely gorgeous, but the park is also home to unique real dinosaur footprints along Paluxy River riverbed. Looking for them and hiking the several nature trails are among the top activities there.

On summer, Paluxy River takes the center stage and is one of the best places near Dallas to cool off surrounded by nature. Crystal-clear waters, sandy beach areas and small cascades make Paluxy River the most perfect place to chill out under the sun.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is right next door from Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, another must-visit attraction in the area. Check in this post a complete weekend itinerary including both places (destination # 1, Glen Rose) and plan you summer adventure.

6. Tyler State Park

Distance: 97 miles/ 1 h 30 min from Dallas

Tyler State Park is the closest place from Dallas to immerse yourself into the gorgeous Piney Woods region of Texas.

The Piney Woods region of Texas is simply stunning. And Tyler State Park is one of the closest places to experience its beauty from Dallas.

Tyler State Park landscape is unexpected. A dramatic change of scenery from the plains we are used to see around Dallas. Head there and you’ll find yourself immersed in nature, surrounded by gorgeous 100-foot tall trees framing a beautiful 64-acre spring-feed pond, ideal for all sort of summerish leisure activities.

Tyler State Park has a great designated swimming area, with a jumping platform. Kayaks, canoes, and SUPs are available for rent on site, and paddling the pond is another great way to enjoy summer there.

On your way between Dallas and Tyler you’ll find Ham Orchards -open summer season only and a slight detour from your itinerary. For an amazing summer experience in the Dallas surroundings, stop there on your way back to the city and try their famous homemade peach ice cream.

7. Fairfield Lake State Park

Distance: 95 miles/ 1 h 25 min from Dallas

Fairfield Lake State Park is a great summer day trip destination from Dallas. Not far from the city, it’s home to over 10 miles of beautiful easy to moderate hiking trails and to a large sandy swimming area.

Besides the designated swimming area, Fairfield Lake State Park also offers lake access from every camping area, so it’s easy to find solitude and claim your own spot on the peaceful lake shores. Other activities at Fairfield Lake State Park include camping, boating, and horseback riding (bring your own horse).

Ennis is in your way back to Dallas and home to classic Galaxy Drive Inn Theatre. For the ultimate summer adventure, stop by and top off your fun-filled day by the lake with an old-fashioned movie session under the stars.

8. Turner Falls Park

Distance: 128 miles/ 1 h 55 min from Dallas

The tallest waterfall in Oklahoma is only 2 hours from Dallas and a great place to explore nature and cool off on summer.

Turner Falls, in neighboring Oklahoma, is absolutely gorgeous.

The 77-foot cascade is the largest waterfall in Oklahoma and a popular summer travel destination for Texans. Besides the breathtaking waterfall, the park offers trails, small caves, zip-lining, and lodging.

Take advantage of your trip to Turner Falls Park to visit neighboring Little Niagara Falls, part of Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Other amazing nearby attractions include Arbuckle Wilderness Park and Chickasaw Cultural Center. 

Read this post for a full weekend itinerary covering Turner Falls and the best things to do in its surroundings (destination # 2, Davis, OK).

9. Lake Whitney State Park

Distance: 76 miles/ 1 h 15 min from Dallas

Beautiful swimming area at crystal-clear Lake Whitney State Park, Texas.

Lake beaches, clear water, and solitude. Lake Whitney State Park is a true hidden gem only 1h15 driving from Dallas.

The State Park features a designated swimming area with 2 sandy beaches. And several swimmable spots along Whitney Lake shores, including hidden and beautiful rocky beaches, as the one shown in the picture.

The limestone bottom makes Lake Whitney clean and clear, with fresh waters perfect for a summer splash. It’s a great lake for swimming, fishing, paddling, and boating. 

Whitney Lake State Park also features 2 short nature trails – Towash Forest Trail and Two Bridges Trail – as well as cabins and waterfront camping spots. It’s overall a superb summer travel destination in Texas, for a quick day trip or even to spend the weekend camping surrounded by nature.

10. Meridian State Park

Distance: 92 miles/ 1 h 40 min from Dallas

Shady trails, a clean designated swimming area and a peaceful lake make this small and secluded Texas State Park a great quick summer getaway from Dallas.

A nature retreat off the beaten path, and the place to go if you’re looking for quiet and privacy. 

Lake Meridian is a ‘no wake lake’, making it the perfect place for a summer splash – you won’t have to worry about boats and jet-skis.

Meridian State Park has over 5 miles of trails for all skill levels. Don’t miss Bosque Hiking Trail, which circles the lake perimeter and takes you through the Civilian Conservation Corps dam and a scenic overlook.

Other activities at Meridian Lake State Park include paddling (rentals available on site), floating and fishing.

Summing Up

In need of a change of air but not in the mood for a sleepover?

Try one of the 10 superb State Parks and Preserves mentioned in this post and enjoy the best lake beaches, river beaches and cascades in the Dallas surroundings.

Cedar Hill State Park, Lake Ray Roberts State Park, Lake Mineral Wells State Park, Eisenhower State Park, Dinosaur Valley State Park, Tyler State Park, Fairfield Lake State Park, Turner Falls Park, Lake Whitney State Park and Meridian State Park are all stunning nature spots with swimming areas and amazing places to explore this summer.

Places to breath in nature and cool off in style, all within 2 hours driving from Dallas and ideal for a summer day trip.

Which are your favorite swimming spots near Dallas? Leave a comment bellow!

Get more trips and leisure ideas right to your inbox. New and unique content released every week!

Heads up: my posts may contain affiliate links. 
If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more. But I’ll earn a small commission that will help the Dallas Wanderer to keep the lights on as a free travel and leisure resource for our community.
Thanks 🧡💙🧡

Share on social media or send to a friend:

12 Best Texas Swimming Holes to Cool Off this Summer

Beat the heat at Texas most stunning swimming holes

These 12 jaw-dropping natural pools in Texas will keep you cool and inspired all summer long!

Yes, Texas is HOT. But mother nature got your back. And so do we!

Discover in the lines below 12 amazing summer travel destinations to inspire you and keep you fresh during the whole season. 

Unbelievably beautiful Texas swimming holes you wouldn’t expect to find so close to Dallas, but that do exist and are out there just waiting for you. 

In need of a beach fix? Check our summer special for the best places to bury your feet in the sand in Texas and surrounding states (spoiler alert: yep, Texas has OUTSTANDING beaches as close as 5h45 driving from Dallas!).

Ready to explore startling Texas swimming holes? 

Check in the following lines the 12 best natural pools in Texas to visit this summer, pick your faves, and go!

1. Hamilton Pool

Dripping Springs, Texas

Distance: 220 miles/ 3 h 15 min from Dallas

One of the most stunning Texas swimming holes, in the heart of the gorgeous Texas Hill Country.

Hamilton Pool is simply stunning and considered by many the most amazing swimming hole in Texas.

The scenery there is mesmerizing, with lush green vegetation, a small beach, and an enclosed swimming hole fed by a cascade and accessible through a short hike. It’s a great place to hang out, have a picnic and cool off in the pristine waters. There are no concessions there (or anywhere near Hamilton Pool), so make sure to bring a picnic.

There is a daily limit of visitors and Hamilton Pool tends to reach full capacity, especially on weekends and holidays. Make online reservations in advance to visit Hamilton Pool here to assure your spot under the sun!

The only downside? Swimming is not always allowed at Hamilton Pool. Bummer. It depends on the water bacteria levels. But visit even if you can’t swim in the day of your reservation – Hamilton Pool sight is surreal, totally worth the drive even without swimming, and you can always head to neighboring Reimer’s Ranch afterwards to cool off at beautiful Pedernales River.

Hamilton Pool is surrounded by other nature wonders and close to Austin. Check in this post the best things to do and see in the Hamilton Pool surroundings (destination # 10) and plan your summer weekend getaway.

Booking.com

2. Jacobs Well

Wimberley, Texas

Distance: 230 miles/ 3 h 20 min from Dallas

One of Texas most unique swimming holes, consisting in a set of underwater caves and a cliff for jumping.

Does jumping from a cliff into a unique set of underwater caves covered by emerald waters sounds good?Head to Jacobs Well then, another mind-blowing Texas swimming hole. 

One of the most perfect summer travel destinations in Texas, even for the chicken-hearted like me 🙈 (it can be absolutely enjoyed without the kamikaze jump part). 

Jacobs Well is a designated Natural Area, nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country and home to trails and to the famous swimming hole. Getting to the swimming area requires an easy and pleasant 15-minute nature walk from the parking lot. Reservations are highly recommended, make yours here.

This top-rated Texas swimming hole is surrounded by great places to visit, included charming Wimberley – check here the best things to do near Jacobs Well to plan your trip (destination # 9).

Booking.com

3. Pedernales Falls State Park

Johnson City, Texas

Distance: 235 miles/ 3 h 30 min from Dallas

Crystal-clear Pedernales River is the perfect place to cool off after hiking gorgeous Pedernales Falls.

Pedernales Falls is probably my favorite Texas State Parks to date. This place is gorgeous. And home to crystal-clear Pedernales River, making it an amazing spot to cool off in Texas during summer season.

Swimming is not allowed in the falls for safety reasons. But is in the river, and the scenery there is also beautiful, with emerald waters and sandy beaches along the riverbed.

A destination by itself, Pedernales Falls State Park is a perfect place for camping. But it’s also close to the Hamilton Pool area and you can easily combine a visit to both in a single weekend summer trip from Dallas. Check this post for more info (destination # 10).

It’s always clever to make online reservations before visiting any Texas State Park – nobody wants to drive miles and miles and end up being turned away! Here is the link to make online reservations to Pedernales Falls. Plan your trip and have fun!

Booking.com

4. Krause Springs

Spicewood, Texas

Distance: 225 miles/ 3 h 25 min from Dallas

Startling nature setting at Krause Springs, a superb swimming hole in the Texas Hill Country.

Krause Springs is a private swimming hole, open to the public, nestled in the Texas Hill Country, near Marble Falls.

It features a small spring feed swimming pool, but the main attraction there is the stunning natural swimming hole, with emerald waters and surrounded by lush green vegetation.

Other attractions in the area include a cave, a canyon, a wildlife refuge, and an off-road adventure park. Check in this post the best things to do near Krause Springs (destination #8) and plan your summer escape from Dallas.

Booking.com

5. Blue Hole Regional Park

Wimberley, Texas

Distance: 230 miles/ 3 h 30 min from Dallas

Amazing blue waters and rope-jumping make Wimberley's Blue Hole one of the best summer destinations in Texas.

The Blue Hole Regional Park in Wimberley is considered one of the best small-town parks in Texas, and for a good reason. It features a crystalline swimming hole, famous for a rope jumping area. It’s a very popular swimming area in Texas during the summer months.

Best part is that you are right at Wimberley, one of the most charming Texas small towns, and just next door from gorgeous Jacobs Well, featured above.

So take advantage of it and check mark two of the most amazing Texas swimming holes in a single weekend trip from Dallas!

Make reservations to visit the Blue Hole Regional Park here and check this post for a complete weekend itinerary including the Blue Hole Regional Park, Jacobs Well and other attractions (destination #9).

Booking.com

6. Barton Springs

Zilker Park, Austin, Texas

Distance: 195 miles/ 2 h 50 min from Dallas

Austin's most popular swimming spot, Barton Springs is a natural spring-fed pool right at Zilker Park.

Austin makes a great summer travel destination in Texas, and Barton Springs is one of the reasons behind it.

A huge natural spring-fed pool in the heart of the city, at Zilker Park, Barton Springs is a popular swimming spot in Texas during the summer months.

Barton Springs is right next door to Barton Creek, another beautiful spot to cool off and the perfect place to engage in water activities, such as kayaking as stand-up paddling.

And not far from Congress Bridge, famous for the millions of bats that live under it and fly daily at sunset (March through October) in search of food. It’s a must-see natural spectacle, trust me!

Find here a full weekend itinerary in Austin, with the best things to do in the city, and plan your summer vacation driving from Dallas.

Booking.com

7. McKinney Falls

Austin, Texas

Distance: 205 miles/ 3 h 00 min from Dallas

McKinney Falls is a beautiful State Park with a great swimming area for little ones.

Beautiful falls, great hiking, and fun swimming. McKinney Falls State Park is another summer destination right in Austin not to be missed.

Only 15 minutes away from Downtown Austin, McKinney Falls features easy to moderate hiking trails, cypress trees and beautiful falls – make sure to visit the upper and lower falls along Onion Creek.

It’s a popular park in the Austin area, so make reservations to visit McKinney Falls in advance. Take advantage of your trip to explore the best of Austin, including Barton Springs and Hippie Hollow, other two amazing Texas swimming holes mentioned along this post.

Booking.com

8. Hippie Hollow

Lake Travis, Austin, Texas

Distance: 195 miles/ 2 h 50 min from Dallas

A secret cove on Lake Travis, Hippie Hollow is known for its beauty and for being the only official clothing-optional park in Texas. Photo by LoneStarMike - Own work, CC BY 3.0

Only clothing-optional public space in Texas, Hippie Hollow Park is a beautiful and secluded cove in the shores of Lake Travis, and a popular swimming hole in Texas.

It’s right next door to The Oasis at Lake Travis, a must-visit Austin restaurant famous for the cool outdoor area and gorgeous sunsets.

If you prefer to keep your clothes on (or to be sure that others will keep their clothes on, for that matter lol), try nearby Pace Bend Park, with nine miles of shoreline along Lake Travis featuring other gorgeous swimming coves. 

Booking.com

9. Devil's Waterhole

Inks Lake State Park, Burnet, Texas

Distance: 214 miles/ 3 h 15 min from Dallas

Devils Waterhole at beautiful Inks Lake State Park, in the Texas Hill Country. Cliff-jumping is one of the highlights there.

Inks Lake is a top-rated State Park in Texas, home to famous Devils Waterhole swimming hole. 

It’s the perfect summer travel destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers – Devil’s Waterhole features two large pink granite cliffs ideal for cliff jumping. 

Other activities at Inks Lake State Park include hiking, fishing, and camping. 

Inks Lake State Park is not far from Marble Falls, as well as to other Texas nature beauties such as Longhorn Cavern and the Colorado River Canyon. Check this post for all the best things to do in the Inks Lake State Park surroundings (destination #8)

Booking.com

10. Garner State Park

Concan, Texas

Distance: 360 miles/ 5 h 20 min from Dallas

Frio River is a popular Texas travel destination and the perfect place to cool off this summer.

Tubing gorgeous and crystalline Frio River is a Texan rite of passage and a must-try summer activity in the Lone Star State. The Frio River winds through stunning Garner State Park, one of the highest rated state parks in Texas and a locals’ fave.

Garner State Park is an amazing summer travel destination in Texas. Cooling off in the Frio River cold waters under the Texas excruciating heat feels simply amazing. And paddling down the river, surrounded by limestone walls and beautiful cypress trees is an unforgettable experience.

Other activities at Garner State Park include hiking, fishing, and camping. Reservations are recommended, especially during high season, and can be done online through the Texas State Parks reservation system.

Booking.com

11. Devils River State Natural Area

Distance: 392 miles/ 6 h 20 min from Dallas

Devil's River, in West Texas. One of the Lone Star State hidden gems awaiting to be discovered by you!

Devils River is one of the most pristine and remote rivers in Texas. A jaw-dropping nature hidden-gem in deep southwest Texas, by Del Rio. It’s a wild and off the beaten path river and an outstanding place for swimming, fishing, and paddling (advanced paddlers only). 

Accessing the Devils River State Natural Area requires a permit (more info here). Overnight stay is allowed in primitive campsites and requires a special permit as well. There is a strict limit on the number of people daily allowed to visit the area, for preservation purposes, and permits can be requested up to 5 months in advance.

Getting to Devils River requires a bumpy off-road driving and hiking a one-mile trail from the parking lot. Make sure to prepare in advance – check our summer essentials for ideas – and pack lightly. 

The famous Caverns of Sonora are on your way from Dallas to Devils River State Natural Area. Take a slight detour to combine both locations in a single trip, for a fun and wow filled summer weekend adventure in Texas. 

Booking.com

12. Leakey's Blue Hole

Leakey, Texas

Distance: 340 miles/ 5 h 15 min from Dallas

Pristine waters at Riding River Ranch's Blue Hole, in Leakey. The swimming hole is for guest use only. Photo by Angi English/ Flickr

If you’re looking for a more exclusive experience, head to Riding River Ranch, in Leakey.

This beautiful 3,400-acre private property is home to a pristine spring fed Texas swimming hole, the Blue Hole, open to overnight ranch guests only (no day use allowed). 

Rent a cabin there and dive head first on a weekend surrounded by nature and wildlife, with the perk of being able to experience one of the most beautiful and exclusive swimming holes in Texas.

Other activities at Riding River Ranch include fishing, hiking and jeep trails.

Booking.com

Summing Up

Texas is home to breathtaking swimming holes, and they all make extraordinary summer travel destinations from Dallas.

In this post we covered 12 of the most beautiful places to beat the Texas heat and have the summer of your life despite the triple-digit temperatures.

Hamilton Pool, Jacobs Well, Pedernales Falls, Krause Springs, Wimberley’s Blue Hole, Barton Springs, McKinney Falls, Hippie Hollow, Devils Waterhole, Frio River, Devils River and Leakey’s Blue Hole are all outstanding summer travel destinations in Texas, that I highly recommend you checking on and visiting at least once in a lifetime.

I’ve also put together a summer packing list with all travel essentials that can be useful and help you to make the most of these trips, check it out and prepare for your summer adventures!

Have you been to some of these places before? What is your favorite Texas swimming hole? 

Leave a comment below to help us showcase the best of Texas and most amazing travel destinations in the Lone Star State.


Booking.com

Get more trips and leisure ideas right to your inbox. New and unique content released every week!

Heads up: my posts may contain affiliate links. 
If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more. But I’ll earn a small commission that will help the Dallas Wanderer to keep the lights on as a free travel and leisure resource for our community.
Thanks 🧡💙🧡

Share on social media or send to a friend:

30+ Summer Vacation Ideas in Texas and Surroundings

Best summer travel destinations to visit from Dallas

Most amazing beaches, swimming holes and State Parks with swimming spots within a driving distance from the Big D

Dallas Summer
Staycation Ideas

Beaches, waterfalls, drive-thru safaris and more. Discover superb ways to spend a hot summer day in and around DFW.

Best Lake Beaches
near Dallas

Outstanding sand lake beaches in Dallas and surroundings to enjoy a summer day!

State Parks for
Swimming near Dallas 

Discover amazing State Parks near Dallas with lake beaches, river beaches and cascades.

Best Texas
Swimming Holes

Startling natural pools and swimming areas near Dallas to inspire and refresh you this summer.

Best Beaches to Visit
from Dallas

Superb white sand beaches as close as 5h30 driving from Dallas, in Texas, Alabama and Florida, that will change your heart on the Gulf Coast.

More trip and leisure ideas coming soon. Subscribe for free and get inspiration right to your inbox!

Share on social media or send to a friend:

10 Top Things to do In South Padre Island, Texas

Discover all must-sees and must-dos in South Padre Island, one of the best beach vacation destinations in Texas.

Have the time of your life this summer in one of the most beautiful portions of the Texas Gulf Coast

Ask any Texan about the best beaches to visit in the state and they will not hesitate in pointing out South Padre Island.

South Padre Island is a popular beach travel destination year-round, and especially during the excruciating Texas summer months – ocean breeze, water, and few clothes on are hands down one of the best ways to beat the Texas heat!

And the place lives up to all the hype about it: there you can expect to find white sand beaches, dunes, wildlife, beach vibe and great weather.

But which are the best beaches to hit in South Padre Island? What to do there besides hanging out on the beach? Which are the main local attractions you can’t miss and that will make you experience the best of this amazing portion of the Texas Gulf Coast?

Find here 10 amazing things to do in South Padre Island and hit the road to uncover one of the best beaches to visit in Texas within a reasonable distance from Dallas – 8h30 driving from the city.

If you’re looking for a beach closer to Dallas, check this blog post as well, covering the best beaches to visit in the Port Aransas and Corpus Christi surroundings.

Check our ideas below, make your reservations and embark on an amazing trip through the Texas Coast!

Booking.com

Isla Blanca Park - Beach Access # 16

Isla Blanca Park is right in the heart of South Padre Island and offers several public beach accesses.

So, you’re here for the beach, right? And Isla Blanca Park happens to be one of the best places to bury your feet on the sand in the heart of South Padre Island, near hotels, condos, and eateries.

Beach Access # 16, at Isla Blanca Park, is a top-rated beach access in South Padre Island and a safe bet if you’re looking for your perfect spot under the sun without driving any further. Expect a clean beach with soft sand, easily accessible through a beautiful wooden walkaway.

Isla Blanca Park has a small public parking, as well as abounding public street park. Go there early in the morning to watch the sunrise.

Edwin K. Atwood Park

South Padre Island aerial view. Miles and miles of unexplored beaches.

Looking for something more private and scenic? Drive about 7 miles/ 15 minutes east and spend the day at Edwin K. Atwood Park instead.

It’s a scenic beachfront park with several amenities – such as beachfront covered pavilion, picnic tables and restrooms – and 20 miles of undeveloped and drivable beaches.

For the utmost adventure, drive on the beach (4-wheel drive recommended) and find your own private slice of paradise.

Sea Turtle Inc. is on your way to Edwin K. Atwood Park and combining them both is an outstanding way to spend your day in South Padre Island (keep reading for more info on that).

South Padre Sand Dunes

South Padre Sand Dunes, one of the best places to enjoy solitude and stunning views in South Padre Island, Texas.

Continue driving east on Ocean Boulevard for about 6 miles past Edwin K. Atwood Park and you’ll reach one of the most beautiful – and maybe least visited – areas in South Padre Island.

The South Padre Sand Dunes are a must-visit protected area, with gorgeous dunes and a peaceful beach. 

Its entrance marks the end of the road. You’re not allowed to drive on the dunes, so plan to hike them (bring plenty water!) and then set up your tent by the beach to enjoy solitude and stunning views.

the South Padre Sand Dunes are near South Padre Island Adventure Park, where you can experience horseback riding on the beach (more info in the next topics).

 

Sea Turtle Inc

Sea Turtle Inc. performs an amazing rehabilitation work and is a must-stop whenever visiting South Padre Island, Texas.

Sea Turtle Inc. is a conservation center and animal protection organization.

They perform an amazing job rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured sea turtles and they work can be seen firsthand – including the beautiful turtles they care for – at their rehabilitation center.

Visiting the center is an educative and inspiring experience. Witnessing their hatchling releases – currently suspended due to COVID-19 – an unforgettable moment. A must-stop in a summer trip from Dallas to South Padre Island.

South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is right next door and visiting them both together is highly recommended (see next topics).

Horseback Riding on the Beach

Horseback riding on the beach during sunset is a once in a lifetime experience you can try in South Padre Island.

Looking for once in lifetime experiences? Try horseback riding on the beach at South Padre Island.

Horseback riding with dunes and the ocean as a backdrop is a hard to beat summer activity, and a sure way to build everlasting memories. 

South Padre Island Adventure Park, near the South Padre Island Sand Dunes, is one of the providers offering this type of adventure on the Texas Coast.

Make sure to schedule your horseback riding tour to the end of the day and top off the already amazing experience with a stunning sunset over the dunes.

Dolphin Watching Tour

Make sure to include a dolphin watch tour in your travel itinerary to South Padre Island. Astounding!

Dolphins in Texas? You bet! And you can spot them right at the South Padre Island.

There are several operators offering Dolphin Watching tours in the area, at different times of the day.

Fins to Feathers is a great option and operates with small groups. The Original Dolphin Watch offers one of the most popular dolphin tours in South Padre Island.

Dolphin Docks is another interesting alternative. It departs from Port Isabel and you can take advantage of your day trip there to visit the Lighthouse (next topic) to cross both activities off your bucket list in a single day.

Make sure to bring your camera and if possible, schedule the sunset tour, for amazing photo ops.

Lighthouse at Port Isabel

Port Isabel Lighthouse is a Texas Gulf Coast landmark and offers amazing panoramic views from the top.

Port Isabel is right across the bridge from South Padre Island and a beautiful place for an afternoon stroll.

Head there to explore Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site, the only lighthouse in the Texas Coast open to the public. If you’re into historic spots and amazing views, you’ll love it.

The idyllic lighthouse offers great photo ops, has an informative visitors’ center telling its history and is surrounded by cute shops and restaurants. Make sure to climb the stairs to the top for amazing views of the bridge connecting the continent to South Padre Island.

Dolphin Docks is only a few steps from there and offers Dolphin Watching tours. Combining both activities can be a great way to spend an afternoon in the South Padre Island surroundings.

**NOTE:
Port Isabel Lighthouse Historic Site is currently closed due to COVID-19 as per Jul 21, 2020.
Check their website before heading there for current status.

South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center

South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is the place to go for an inspiring nature walk surrounded by wildlife.

South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is an amazing spot for a leisure nature walk and spot birds, turtles, and alligators!

Learn about nature. Stroll through their amazing suspended wooden boardwalk to breath in the beautiful wetland surroundings. Climb up the tower for stunning views. Feed gators and tortoises.

The South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is right next door from Sea Turtle Inc., so take advantage of your visit to the area to check on both places.

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge is a local gem almost untouched by man.

Things to do in this nature preserve include hiking, cycling, and fishing. The area is known for coyotes, falcons, and ocelots. Alligators, deer, roadrunners, and other birds can also be spotted.

The pavilion offers amazing bay views from the top.

It’s the place to be if you love nature, wildlife, solitude, and photography.

Waterfront Restaurants

A visit to the beach is not complete without enjoying a delicious meal or some drinks overlooking the ocean.

South Padre Island offers a handful selection of waterfront restaurants, both overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and beautiful Laguna Madre.

To watch the sunset over Laguna Madre, head to Lobo Del Mar Cafe, Laguna BOB or Long Board Bar and Grill. For amazing ocean views, Clayton’s Beach Bar and WannaWanna are your best bet.

Summing Up

South Padre Island, 8h30 driving from Dallas, is an amazing beach destination in Texas and a sure way to get your deserved beach fix without leaving the state.

One of the best beaches to visit driving from Dallas, South Padre Island is home to amazing white sand beaches, nature preserves, dolphins, turtles and more.

In this post you discovered the 10 top things to do on a trip to South Padre Island, including the best beaches to visit, top local attractions and a handful of waterfront restaurants to include in your itinerary.

Read it through, select your favorite attractions and make your reservations to enjoy the best the Texas Gulf Coast has to offer.

Have you been to South Padre Island? Do you know of any other local attractions that should be included in a travel itinerary to South Padre Island? Leave a comment below!

Booking.com
Get more trips and leisure ideas right to your inbox. New and unique content released every week!

Heads up: my posts may contain affiliate links. 
If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more. But I’ll earn a small commission that will help the Dallas Wanderer to keep the lights on as a free travel and leisure resource for our community.
Thanks 🧡💙🧡

Share on social media or send to a friend:

10 Best Things to Do in the Alabama Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Your essential mini guide with the best beaches, restaurants and attractions in the Alabama Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and surroundings.

Your essential mini guide for a superb summer road trip from Dallas to the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Best beaches, restaurants, and attractions in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and surroundings.

Alabama is a popular beach destination among Dallasites, with some people even claiming they prefer it over the Florida Gulf Coast as a summer road travel destination from Dallas.

I recently had the pleasure to go there and finally understood why all the hype about it. 

The Alabama Gulf Shores/ Orange Beach is indeed an amazing beach area to visit from Dallas. Not too far from the city – a roughly 9h30 drive – and with an absolutely outstanding beach vibe.

As in any place in the world, whether you will love your trip to the Alabama beaches or not will depend a lot on your itinerary and stops along the way. 

So, check below the 10 most incredible beaches, restaurants, activities, and places to visit on the Alabama Gulf Coast and plan the perfect summer vacation there.

Trust me: follow the suggestions you find here, and you’ll have a tough time not loving your summer vacation in the Alabama Gulf Shores and Orange Beach areas!

Looking for more options on beaches to visit from Dallas? Click here to discover the best beaches on the Texas and Florida Gulf Coast.

Ready to hit the road? Make your reservations and check on the following 10 recommendations to start planning your summer escape.

Booking.com

Best Beaches in the Alabama Gulf Shores/ Orange Beach Area

I’ve loved loved loved the Alabama Gulf Coast beaches.

Well, not all of them, of course.

But knowing where to go, you can spend the day burying your feet in white sands at uncrowded beaches with crystal-clear water.

Beaches that you certainly wouldn’t expect to find within a driving distance from Dallas.

Here I share the beaches I liked the most in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and surroundings.

The ones I will certainly be visiting again when I return to the Alabama Gulf Coast (something I’m planning to do soon!):

Gulf State Park

Gulf State Park beach palm trees, white sand, blue ocean, and great amenities make the perfect combo for a leisure day at the beach.

Gulf State Park is an outstanding natural area.

There you’ll find amazing campgrounds, beautiful trails, and one of the best beaches in the Gulf Shores.

Head to the Gulf State Park Pier area to enjoy an amazing day by the beach.

The perks there are great facilities (public parking, showers, clean bathrooms, and concessions), beautiful views, and nature surroundings – I prefer that over Orange beach and its tall hotel buildings.

Walk the pier (USD 3.00 pp) for amazing sunset views.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins playing in the ocean.

West Beach

Loved uncrowded and beautiful West Beach, only 15 minutes away from more touristic areas.

West Beach is another amazing beach area, considered by many to be Alabama’s best beach. A 6-mile beach stretch, quieter and more residential than the other beaches on the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Offering beachfront rentals, a laid-back vibe, and an absolutely gorgeous landscape, it is the place to be if you’re not much into Orange Beach’s touristic vibe. 

Don’t take me wrong: Orange Beach is great, with beautiful white sand and crystal-clear water.  But I prefer to run away from more crowded areas. And West Beach proved to be way more my style.

Fort Morgan

Vast and virtually desert beaches and an amazing Civil War fort make Fort Morgan a must visit in a trip to the Alabama Gulf Shores.

Historic sightseeing and vast undeveloped beaches make Fort Morgan an amazing place to spend the day in the Alabama Gulf Shores.

Pack a picnic and head to Fort Morgan State Historic Site. Take a self-guided tour through the over two-centuries-old Civil War fort and breath in the amazing views. 

Then head to the virtually private beach and enjoy your picnic, nature, and solitude overlooking the ocean.

On your way back to Orange Beach, stop by The Village Creamery, a top-rated local ice cream shop.

Perdido Key State Park

Right by the Florida/ Alabama border, Perdido Key is another amazing place to enjoy a day by the beach near Orange Beach.

Ok, technically not in the Alabama Gulf Coast. But pretty close to it – 15 minutes away – and totally worth the drive.

Perdido Key State Park is in Florida, only a few miles away from the Alabama border and a simply stunning area to enjoy a day by the beach. The beach is jaw-dropping, and it has amenities such as parking, showers, and restrooms.

Less than 5 minutes driving from there, on your way back to Orange Beach, you’ll find Flora-Bama.  A laid-back waterfront oyster-bar and live music lounge between the state lines, perfect to finish the day watching the sunset.

Best Waterfront Restaurants in the Alabama Gulf Coast

If you’re looking for an unbiased review of the absolute best restaurants to try in the Alabama Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you’ve stumbled on the right page.

These were the places that did the best job wowing me during my visit, and that I highly recommend you trying not only for the food but especially for the uniqueness and amazing beach vibe of each one of them.

Here are the must-try restaurants in the Alabama Gulf Coast:

The Gulf

I loved The Gulf beach vibe. Grabbing a delicious seafood meal over the counter and enjoying it at charming tables on the sand by the ocean sold me immediately on the place.

If you go to the Alabama Gulf Shores and don’t stop to have a meal by The Gulf, you’ll be missing out.

The Gulf’s vibe is pretty amazing, with tables, lounge chairs, and palapas on the sand overlooking the ocean.

Gulf Shores is an over-the-counter-style restaurant and entertainment complex featuring a pub and a cute store with amazing and unique branded items and souvenirs. Grab your food, choose one of the lounge seats and soak in the vibe and ocean breeze.

This is the place that made me fall in love with Orange Beach and realize I was somewhere really, really special. I won’t say more, lol.

Fisher's at Orange Beach Marina

Fisher's at Orange Beach Marina has the ideal balance between style and beach vibe IMO!

Picture yourself in a boat taking a Dolphin Tour. You cruise the ocean watching dolphins playing around you with the sunset as a background.

Then you come down the clouds – or disembark – and drive exactly one minute to reach one of the most beautiful restaurants in town, Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina.

There you take a stroll through a gorgeous marina and shop high-end branded souvenirs while you wait for your table. When the hostess calls your group, you’re guided to a comfy table in a unique chic-coastal setting and have the best meal of your trip.

Nothing more to add. Just try it.

Lulu's

Lulu's is a super fun place and a perfect spot to have lunch near the Gulf State Park.

Lulu’s Gulf Shores is a super cool waterfront restaurant and entertainment complex. A must-visit in the Alabama Gulf Coast, especially – but not only – if you have kids in tow.

It’s more touristic than the other two restaurants mentioned here, but still highly recommended.

The restaurant area is large and overlooks a beautiful canal. Kids can have fun at the sandy playground, amusement park, and arcades. 

You can buy cool souvenirs in their branded store. I did buy a pack of local beers with honey as a gift, and they were so good I ended up drinking all of them myself – not at once, lol.

Lulu’s is not far from the Gulf State Park, and combining both can be an amazing way to spend a day at the Alabama Gulf Shores.

Best Fun Activities in Orange Beach and Surroundings

Come for the beach, stay for the fun. The Alabama Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area offers amazing entertainment options.

Dolphins? Yep. Alligators? They got it. First-class entertainment? You bet!

Here are some superb add-ons to spice up your trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast and build everlasting summer memories:

Sunset Dolphin Cruise

A Dolphin Cruise is a must when visiting Orange Beach. Several companies offer tours at different times of the day. I highly recommend the sunset tour.

Yep, you can see dolphins in Orange Beach. 

More specifically, you can take a boat ride and be followed by them, what I don’t know about you but to me sounds pretty incredible.

I took the Dolphin Tour with Southern Rose Dolphin Cruises and had a great experience. 

They promise you dolphins, and they work hard to deliver the promise – we took a long time to find dolphins, but the crew persevered, and when we did find them, oh boy, it was AMAZING.

What I did – and recommend – was to take the sunset tour. 

It allowed me to enjoy the day by the beach, watch the most amazing sunset ever from the boat surrounded by dolphins (!!!) and top off with dinner at Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina, right next door. 

The Wharf

The Wharf is a top-notch shopping and entertainment district in Orange Beach, perfect for a summer night stroll. Photo by divemasterking2000 / CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)

If you need a break from the beach and want to feel a little more urban, head to The Wharf, a high-end shopping and entertainment center.

With over 60 stores and restaurants, and an iconic Ferris Wheel – the largest in the southeast – The Wharf is Orange’s Beach official entertainment district and a great place for an evening stroll after spending the day on the beach.

You can also take a boat tour from there – the Wharf is home to a large marina – and engage in fun activities such as zip-lining and mini-golf.

Alligator Alley

Spice up your summer travel adventure in Orange Beach feeding alligators at Alligator Alley, an unforgettable and top-rated experience.

Not for the faint of heart, this top-rated attraction is surely unique. If you’re looking for an exotic experience, make sure to include Alligator Alley in your itinerary.

It is a family-friendly attraction and a great place to experience the outdoors and interact with reptiles and other animals – they also have snakes, turtles, and other creatures there.

Stroll through the raised boardwalk over a beautiful swamp for wildlife viewing in their habitat. Feed the alligators. It’s an unforgettable experience and one that keeps people in awe and coming back.

Summing Up

Superb white sand beaches. Outstanding waterfront restaurants. Dolphins. Swamps. The Alabama Gulf Coast has it all and more and is an amazing summer vacation destination from Dallas.

You discovered 10 amazing things to do in the Alabama Gulf Shores and Orange Beach areas in this post. Including 4 top beaches, 3 must-try restaurants, and 3 must-visit attractions. 

Add these places to your itinerary, and you will certainly love your trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Best things to do in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores

For the best beaches and a perfect day by the ocean, head to Gulf State Park, West Beach, Fort Morgan, and Perdido Key State Park.

For unforgettable dining experiences, try The Gulf, Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina, and Lulu’s.

For summer fun at its finest, a Dolphin Cruise, The Wharf, and Alligator Alley are your best bet!

Ready to hit the road?

Make your reservations, pack your suitcase, and bookmark this page to make sure you don’t miss out on the best the Alabama Gulf Coast has to offer. Enjoy!

Have you been to the Alabama Gulf Shores and Orange Beach? What are your favorite things to do there? Share in the comments below.

.

Booking.com
Get more trips and leisure ideas right to your inbox. New and unique content released every week!

Heads up: my posts may contain affiliate links. 
If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more. But I’ll earn a small commission that will help the Dallas Wanderer to keep the lights on as a free travel and leisure resource for our community.
Thanks 🧡💙🧡

Share on social media or send to a friend:

Best Beaches to Visit from Dallas

Top beach vacations within a driving distance from Dallas.

Where to bury your feet in the sand in Texas and surrounding states without hoping on a plane
(hint: yep, Texas has AMAZING white sand beaches!) 

Texas
Beaches

Superb beaches as close as 5h30 driving from Dallas, that will change your heart on the Texas Gulf Coast.

Florida
Beaches

Jaw-dropping Caribbean-style white sand beaches within a driving distance from Dallas, in the stunning Florida Emerald Coast.

Alabama
Beaches

Discover why all the hype about the Alabama Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and surroundings, and all of the must-sees at the Alabama Gulf Coast.

In need of a beach fix but not in the mood for a plane ride? We got your back!

Find here the most amazing beaches in Texas and surrounding states within a reasonable driving distance from Dallas, and prepare to bury your feet in the sand.

From exclusive destinations in the Florida Emerald cost nothing short of spectacular, to stunning beaches as close as 5h45 driving from Dallas you wouldn’t expect to find in Texas not even in your wildest dreams, here you find the best Gulf Coast beaches to visit from Dallas, with all the info you need to make the most of your trip.

Read the posts above, find out the best things to do in these superb beach travel destinations and hit the road! 

More trip and leisure ideas coming soon. Subscribe for free and get inspiration right to your inbox!

Share on social media or send to a friend:

Best Texas Beaches to Visit from Dallas

4 Texas beaches that are totally worth the trip

(and 3 you should skip altogether!)

Find out the most amazing Texas beaches within a reasonable driving distance from Dallas.

I was told several times I should not waste my time with Texas beaches. That I should head to Florida or hop on a plane instead. I’m glad I was stubborn enough to ignore those (so) untrue statements!

Life is short to wait for the next long vacation. And better on the beach. So, after doing some extensive research, I embarked on a personal mission to discover the best Texas beach within a reasonable driving distance from Dallas. One that could be reached in a long weekend, when I got beach sick and felt like burying my feet in the sand.

And I’m happy to announce that I succeeded!

On my quest for the perfect Texas beach, I spent a long weekend exploring the Port Aransas – Corpus Christi coast, around 6 hours away from Dallas. There I discovered not only one but 4 amazing summer spots. And a surprisingly gorgeous beach that took the game to a whole new level! 

Here I share with you the bumps and humps of my adventure, so you can avoid tourist traps and enjoy the best beaches around. And my soulmate Texas beach, a hidden gem you must include in your bucket list now!

Keep reading and find out the best way to explore the area and have the time of your life. Fast your flip flops and enjoy!

For another trip ideas closer to Dallas, check our top weekend getaways. Tons of surprising destinations within 4 hours driving from DFW.

4 Must-Visit Texas Beaches Ranked

Those 4 Texas beaches are truly special, for different reasons, and worth the trip. They are all within a reasonable driving distance from each other and can be covered in a single visit to the Corpus Christi or Port Aransas areas.

I’ve ranked them (in descending order) according to my personal taste and experience but go check and decide by yourself which is your favorite!

Rockport Beach

4th Place
3.5/5
Rockport Beach is Texas first Blue Wave beach and a great spot for families with little kids for its calm waters.

Rockport is Texas only Blue Wave Beach. Meaning you can expect a super clean beach with all amenities – including handicap access – and swimmable waters.

Rockport was one of the most instagrammable of all beaches visited during the trip. The palapas, smooth sand and blue waters make the perfect background for snapshots, giving the impression you are in the Caribbean!

Rockport is a bay beach, so there are no waves. The water is shallow and warm during summer. There are play areas and a pavilion with picnic tables and showers. So, it is a perfect family destination and it was the favorite beach of all for the little ones that joined me in this adventure.

I liked it. And would be back. I think that it is worth visiting and for some people it can even become their favorite beach spot in Texas.

But Rockport beach was not my favorite beach among all visited because I prefer more untouched places and I missed that “beachy” vibe. It felt more like a man-made beach to me.

Padre Island National Seashore's North Beach

3rd Place
3.7/5
North Beach is in the east end of beautiful Malaquite Beach and you can drive on it!

North Beach is at the northernmost section of the Padre Island National Seashore, right before Malaquite Beach. It is a 5-mile beach stretch opened to driving (no 4×4 required, watch weather and beach conditions and use caution though).

Expect dunes, white and soft sand and clear blue waters. The visual is amazing.

This is your beach if you want the visual of Malaquite Beach (see bellow) but prefers or needs to park on the beach. And if free camping sounds good to you.

The downside is that there are no amenities – you must drive to Malaquite’s Beach Visitor Center for restrooms and showers. 

IMPORTANT: This is the North Beach inside the Padre Island National Seashore. Don’t mistake it by the North Beach in Corpus Christi! Use this GPS coordinates: 27.4774, -97.2742

Mustang Island State Park

2nd Place
4/5
Mustang Island is the perfect place if you're looking for solitude. After driving a few miles onto the beach you'll be all by yourself.

Mustang Island State Park is beautiful. It has over 5 miles of shoreline, meaning that even in the most crowd days you can find your secluded spot under the sun (the pic above was taken during Labor weekend!). The sand is soft, the water is clear, and you are surrounded by dunes, with no signs of civilization other than a trash can here and there. 

Mustang Island State Park’s beach is divided into two sections. One for the pedestrians, to the left, usually crowded and not very nice. And one for cars, to the right, crowded in the beginning – where the camping areas are – but very desert and pleasant if you keep driving for one or two miles. Go for the second option and you won’t regret. A 4-wheel drive is recommended, but we used a regular SUV and did just fine (weigh the risks before jumping in though).

Park access fee is USD 5.00 per person (children 12 and under are free). At the entrance of the park you will find amenities such as restrooms and showers. There is no concession inside, so bring drinks and snacks.

This was the second beach I visited in this trip and it wowed me. I wasn’t expecting to find such a nice beach in Texas because of what I’d heard about Texas beaches and due to my own personal experience (Galveston…).

It could have become my favorite Texas beach if I hadn’t found in the following days one that took the game to a whole new level.

I’ll definitively be back (actually I already did lol, we liked it so much that we stopped by next day to watch the sunset).

Malaquite Beach

1st Place
5/5
A slice of paradise in the Texas Gulf Coast, Malaquite Beach is at the beautiful and unique Padre Island National Seashore.

Wow. Wow wow wow wow wow wow.

This beach made me wonder if someone had put something in my breakfast. Ridiculously white and soft sand. Dunes. Crystal clear turquoise blue ocean. Spotting a sea turtle in the water while swimming. Stumbling upon a huge band of birds with hundreds of Pelicans and Seagulls during a beach walk. Feeling basically alone at the beach right in the middle of Labor Weekend.

I didn’t expect to find such an amazing beach in Texas, not even in my wildest dreams.

Malaquite Beach is so far my favorite Texas beach. And for good my top one considering the beaches within a reasonable driving distance from Dallas – 6h 30 m, doable for a long weekend. 

It is at the Padre Island National Seashore, the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world, with 70 miles of seashore (don’t mistake it by South Padre Island, much further from Dallas). Entrance fee is USD 10.00 per car.

Malaquite Beach is the only stretch of the Padre Island National Seashore closed to driving and with amenities such as showers, restrooms and a visitors’ center. The other sections are a 60 mile stretch after Malaquite Beach that requires a 4-wheel drive and a 5 mile stretch before Malaquite Beach suitable for regular cars (see North Beach above in this post)

When you get to the beach, walk to the left from the Visitors Center to beat the crowds. I visited Malaquite Beach during Labor weekend and the stretch of beach right in front of the parking lot access was not nice and too crowded, but I walked less than 5 minutes to the left and it was paradise!

3 Texas Beaches to Skip

(but that worth a stop for other reasons)

Those beaches didn’t wow me. Actually, I even disliked them.

But they all offer something special beyond the beach itself, so I would recommend you including them in your itinerary if you have extra time or if the experiences mentioned bellow speak to you. 

And staying in Port Aransas to explore the area, despite of the beach there not being the best.

Port Aransas Beach

Port Aransas is a charming coastal town and a great base to explore the other beaches mentioned in this post.

The beach right at Port Aransas is not bad. But with so many nicer beaches within a driving distance – the four I mentioned above – I wouldn’t waste my time there. Port Aransas beach is not as clean as the other ones. The water not as clear and the sand not as white, so…

But still, I highly recommend you using Port Aransas as your base to explore the area. 

Port Aransas is a charming seaside town with good restaurants, nightlife and entertainment options. It is within a short driving distance from the best beaches in the Gulf Coast: Malaquite Beach, Padre Island Seashore’s North Beach, Mustang Island State Park and Rockport.

Port Aransas has that laid-back beach vibe you are probably looking for when heading to the beach, with still tons of things to do. Much better than staying in Corpus Christi (a big city), in my opinion.

While in town, try one of the following restaurant options: Crazy Cajun, Venetian Hot Plate or La Playa. All recommended by a local foodie. Make reservations in advance, especially during summer and holidays. I tried the Crazy Cajun and loved it. It is a unique experience, with seafood served directly on the table to be eaten with your bare hands. Cool and tasty!

For a treat, make sure to stop by the Desserted Island Ice Cream, if only for the ambiance. I loved the vibe and decor. And their famous warm brownie sundae, of course!

Bob Hall Pier Beach

Bob Hall pier views and oceanfront restaurant make it a great place for lunch or a drink.

On the day of my visit the beach by Bob Hall Pier was way too crowded and it turned me off.

It is true that it was Labor Weekend. And that crowds should be expected. But with amazing and much more tranquil beaches such as Padre Island’s North Beach, Malaquite Beach and Mustang Island State Park only a few miles from there, I wouldn’t spend the day on this beach.

I would still recommend you stop by Bob Hall Pier though, on your way back from Malaquite Beach or North Beach. You can actually drive to Bob Hall Pier from North Beach on the sand. 

The views from the pier are gorgeous. You can walk the pier to watch the sunset (USD 3.00 fee per person), fish or just take in the views. And even have a meal or a drink at the waterfront Mikel May’s restaurant. 

North Beach in Corpus Christi

Have lunch in Corpus Christi at an amazing patio overlooking USS Lexington and visit it afterwards.

North Beach is a big city beach. So, you can imagine what to expect. The sand is not soft, the water not really clean and the surroundings very urban. Not my favorite type of beach.

But Corpus Christi’s North Beach hides a Texas gem and that is worth the trip.

North Beach is home to the USS Lexington Aircraft Carrier, used by the American Navy during the Second World War. It is a massive and impressive ship, currently a museum. You can visit it or admire it from Pier 99 restaurant outdoor patio, overlooking the USS Lexington.

I would recommend a stop for a late lunch at Pier 99 before heading back to Dallas. It is a laid-back beach style restaurant with a beautiful scenery. Not the best meal I’ve ever had, but food was tasteful, prices reasonable and I loved the vibe and the views.

Summing Up

There are amazing beaches within a driving distance from Dallas. Bam!

No, you don’t need to leave the state or drive 10 hours to South Padre Island to find a decent beach. Instead, drive about 6 hours to Port Aransas and explore 4 beautiful beaches in the Texas Gulf Coast: Malaquite Beach and North Beach at the Padre Island National Seashore, Mustang Island State Park and Rockport Beach. 

It is not a short drive. I know. But it is one totally doable in a long weekend. 

It took me 3 days to explore the 7 beaches mentioned here. Not all the beaches were worth the stop, so you can read this post and focus solely on the best ones. And take advantage of the tips above to enjoy your visits to the fullest. So, make your plans and spend the very next holiday unwinding on an amazing Texas beach!

If you happen to know of a superb Texas beach less than 6 hours away from Dallas not mentioned in this post, PLEASE let me know. I’ll be more than happy to check on that.

And after visiting the beaches I mention here, please let me know your impressions and findings! Did you like Malaquite Beach as much as I did? Did you prefer the pedestrian beaches or the ones you could reach driving? Have you found any hidden gems worth sharing?

Get more trips and leisure ideas right to your inbox. New and unique content released every week!

Share on social media or send to a friend:

Florida 30A Travel Guide

Discover the 5 best beaches to visit on Florida 30A and the top things to do in each one of them! 

Your ultimate guide to highway 30A in Florida, the most jaw-dropping and exclusive portion of the Emerald Coast.

Let’s cut to the chase: Florida Emerald Coast is home to some the most incredible beaches in the whole United States. And it’s within a reasonable driving distance from Dallas.

So yes, you can spend your next vacations on Caribbean-style white sugar-sand emerald water beaches without even hoping on a plane – or leaving the US.

This is what I did last Spring Break. I headed to a portion of Florida’s Emerald Coast known as Florida 30A, in South Walton. And oh boy, this place beat all my expectations! I want to go back really bad, like NOW lol. 

Here I share with you my top findings there, so you can plan your own adventure without missing out on the absolute best things that the Florida Gulf Coast has to offer.

FLORIDA 30A ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE

  Where is Florida Emerald Coast? And What is Florida 30A?
 What is there to do in Florida 30A?
 Where to stay in Florida 30A?
 5 Best Beaches to Visit on Florida 30A (and the best things to do in each one of them!)

Where is Florida's Emerald Coast? And what is Florida 30A?

Florida’s Emerald Coast comprises about 100 miles of Gulf Coast beaches from Pensacola to Panama City, along five counties: Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, and Bay.

Florida 30A is a 24-mile portion of Florida’s Emerald Coast in south Walton county, between Sandestin and Panama Beach, roughly 11 hours driving from Dallas. 

Its name derives from Country Road 30A, a winding and narrow highway connecting 12 beachfront communities: Dunne Allen, Gulf Place, Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Beach, Watercolor, Seaside, Seagrove, Watersound, Allys Beach, Seacrest, Rosemary Beach, and Inlet Beach.

What is there to do in Florida 30A?

Florida 30A is home to stunning white sand beaches, rare coastal dune lakes and two gorgeous state parks – Grayton Beach State Park and Deer Lake State Park. Each one of its 12 charming and upscale beachfront communities has a unique style and offer its own entertainment options.

This is a place to unwind, to soak into nature and beach vibe at its best. Spending the day by the beach, paddling the gorgeous dune lakes, hiking, indulging in excellent eateries, pubs and breweries and riding your bike throughout the beach communities are some of the must-dos there.

Most of the 30A beach communities offer public beach accesses – some well-signaled, others trickier to find. And some beach accesses are private, requiring a gate code to enter.

Discover in this article the public beach access locations, the best things to do in each of the top Florida 30A beaches and other valuable insider tips.

Where to stay in Florida 30A?

Each Florida 30A beachfront community has its own vibe. Choosing one to stay really depends on what you’re looking for. 

For party goers, consider Seaside. If you’re looking for exclusivity, Rosemary Beach and Watercolor are amazing options. If you prefer a more authentic and laid-back vibe, head to Grayton Beach.

Florida 30A is a very sought-after beach destination, especially during summer, so make reservations in advance to assure the best prices. 

There are tons of hotel and rental options in the area, for all budgets and needs. Search for the best deals here:

Booking.com

No matter where you decide to stay, make sure to explore the other beach communities – it’s the combination of all of them that make Florida 30A such a unique place. Grab your bike or your car, use the recommendations below as a starter guide and go find your favorite spots!

5 Best Beaches to Visit on Florida 30A

(and the best things to do in each one of them!)

1. Grayton Beach

Florida 30A beaches are all stunning. But Grayton Beach somehow manages to be even more breathtaking than its gorgeous neighbors, with the magnificent white sand dunes and natural pool formed by Western Lake. 

Grayton Beach is my favorite Florida 30A beach from far and one not to be missed. If you need to pick only a single beach to visit on your Florida 30A road trip, choose this one.

Unlikely some of its 30A peers, Grayton Beach has a large public beach access: 

The landscape there is absolutely startling. Right when you arrive, you’re greeted with a stunning view of dunes and a small natural pool formed where Western Lake coastal dune lake meets the ocean. 

It’s the perfect place for kids to play in the shallow waters or to launch your kayak or SUP and paddle along the coastal dune lake, surrounded by sugar-white sand dunes.

I used my own inflatable kayak for this adventure, which I love taking along with me as it fits perfectly in my trunk and is inexpensive compared to recurring rental costs. But you might be able to find places to rent one around doing some research. 

Grayton Beach has a laid-back vibe and is home to Grayton Beer Brewpub, an awesome place to sample beers and have dinner after a perfect day by the beach.

Browse here the best deals in Grayton Beach and make reservations in this hidden slice of paradise:

Booking.com

2. Seaside

Seaside is the most famous and popular Florida 30A beachfront community, thanks to The Truman Show movie, starring Jim Carey. Seaside was used as a filming location to bring to life the fictitious town of ‘Seaheaven”, featured in the movie. 

Yep, the place exists in real life. And it’s totally gorgeous, with its distinctive architecture and immaculate streets. You can visit Jim Carey’s character house (31 Natchez Street) and other places that appear in the movie there.

Some of Seaside highlights and best things to do, other than enjoying the gorgeous beach itself, include exploring the Town Square boutiques and eateries, grabbing a bite in one of the several food trucks daily parked there and having brunch or lunch at waterfront Bud & Alleys.

There is a large public beach access in Seaside right across the street from the food trucks, by Bud & Alley’s, the Coleman Beach Pavilion – check the map below. It is the place to be if you’re looking for buzz, especially during high season.

Otherwise, Van Ness Butler Jr beach access, between Seaside and Watercolor, is only a 5-minute walk from there, and usually less crowded (see “Watercolor” for map).

Seaside is your best bet at Florida 30A if you’re looking for fun and a lively atmosphere.

Find the best hotel and rental deals in Seaside/ Seagrove here:

Booking.com

3. Rosemary Beach & Inlet Beach

Rosemary Beach is a gorgeous Florida 30A beachfront community, with an exclusive and unique vibe. It is home to an extra charming Main Street and a cozy town square – The Village of South Walton. 

Rosemary Beach’s Main Street is the perfect place for a leisure walk. 

It has a distinctive architecture, resembling a European village, and is filled with lovely boutiques, good restaurants, and eateries – La Crema Tapas & Chocolate and Edwards Fine Food & Wine are some of the recommended places to try.

The Village of South Walton town square features food stands, a fire pit and bike rentals to explore the area.

Head there early in the morning to try mouthwatering Charlies Donuts, which lives up to the hype – I’m not a donuts person and I loved it. Or go at the end of the day and grab a bite in one of the trucks to be enjoyed on the lounge chairs surrounding the firepit (with live music in the background if you’re lucky).

Rosemary Beach does not have a public beach access – they are all gated and require an access code, provided to residents and hotel/ rental guests. 

Closest public beach accesses are in neighboring and stunning Inlet Beach.

One of them only a short 10-minute walk from Rosemary’s Beach Main Street (see map below). If you’re driving though, head to Inlet Beach public beach access at the intersection of S Orange St with W Park Pl Ave, which has a lot of public free parking available and is absolutely gorgeous.

If you want to enjoy it all, including the exclusive beach, consider staying at Rosemary Beach.

Browse here for the best lodging options there:

Booking.com

4. Dune Allen Beach & Blue Mountain Beach

In the west end of Florida 30A scenic road lie two beautiful residential beach communities: Dune Allen and Blue Mountain, featuring dune lakes and gorgeous (usually uncrowded) beaches.

But here the highlights are two well-known Florida 30A eateries: Stinky’s Fish Camp and Blue Mountain Beach Creamery.

Stinky’s Fish Camp is one of the best seafood restaurants along Florida 30A Country Road. Fresh homemade food is served in a cozy setting overlooking beautiful Allen Lake, one of the area’s rare coastal dune lakes. Stinky’s Fish Camp is right across the street from one of Dune Allen’s public beach accesses, perfect for a leisure walk after indulging in delicious fresh oysters. 

Blue Mountain Beach Creamery features homemade ice creams and it’s within a short driving distance from the restaurant. It’s one of the most traditional ice cream shops in the area. Head there late in the afternoon, grab your cone and walk a few minutes down the street to enjoy it by the beach watching the most beautiful sunset at Blue Mountain Beach.

5. Watercolor

Watercolor is a small and exclusive Florida 30A beachfront community featuring amazing outdoors, including beautiful and immaculate parks and gardens, and one of 30A largest and most scenic coastal dune lakes.

The beach access is private there, but Watercolor is right by Van Ness Butler Jr public beach access (a short 5-minute leisure walk from the parks and boutiques):

How to spend a perfect day in Watercolor? 

Enjoy the beach. Take a leisure walk through beautiful and immaculate Cerulean Park. Rent a bike at Watercolor Bike Barn and explore Marina Park bike trails. Rent a kayak or SUP at the BoatHouse and paddle stunning Western Lake, one of the largest coastal dune lakes along 30A.

Top off with shopping at the local boutiques and dinner paired with a glass of wine at the Wine Bar.

Summing Up

Florida Emerald Coast beaches are absolutely stunning, and the 30A portion of it a must-visit summer destination in the United States.

If you are looking for the best beaches to visit from Dallas, look no further and use this post to guide you through the most amazing beach vacation driving from Texas. 

The roughly 11-hour driven is well-worth the jaw-dropping white sand beaches waiting for you at the end of the rainbow 🌈.

In this post we covered all of the best neighborhoods and beaches to explore during your visit to this exclusive portion of Walton County, Florida – aka South Walton – as well as the best things to do and must-try activities in these amazing destinations.

Grayton Beach, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Inlet Beach, Blue Mountain Beach, Dune Allen Beach and Watercolor are all highlighted here, for different reasons, and together make the most superb beach escape from Dallas.

Now make your plans and hit the road to enjoy the finest beaches along Florida’s Gulf Coast!

Browse here the best deals and make reservations in advance to assure the best prices:



Booking.com

Have you ever been to Florida 30A? Do you know of any gem there not mentioned here that is worth adding to the travel itinerary? 

Share your wisdom in the comments below and help our travel community to travel more and better! 🧡

Get more trips and leisure ideas right to your inbox. New and unique content released every week!

Heads up: my posts may contain affiliate links. 
If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more. But I’ll earn a small commission that will help the Dallas Wanderer to keep the lights on as a free travel and leisure resource for our community.
Thanks 🧡💙🧡

Share on social media or send to a friend:

Follow us for daily travel & leisure ideas in Texas and surroundings!

Exit mobile version