Piece of Paradise: Must-see Texas beach towns
Story and photos by PHOENIX CARLISLE | Additional photos courtesy of CYNTHIA WERTS and VISIT ROCKPORT BEACH
Oh Texas, with its rolling hills, stretches of desert and sandy shores. There’s no other state I would want to be in. As a dedicated Texan and beach girl at heart, I’ve traveled my way up and down the islands that are only a few hours away. Whether I was a child in the backseat looking out the window or now as a young adult driving down with my girlfriends, I will always head south to the ocean.
Cinnamon Shore
A town straight out of a rom-com, Cinnamon Shores is the perfect girls trip. The white boardwalks, pink homes and bright blue ocean views encompass an elegant trip. Cinnamon Shores is for the girls and their needs. I recommend staying near or in the Pearly White homes. The salty breezes on the balcony, soft mornings and outdoor spaces make a full experience. The homes are complete with multiple rooms, full kitchens and squares for all your desires.
Shore Cafe is always the go-to for beachy coffees and cool matchas while you roam the boutiques and catch a glimpse at all the pastel homes.
My personal favorite is an iced “sand dollar” latte and their blueberry latte. Take the time to rent out a golf cart to stroll along for the best social media pictures. The beach is a perfect shade of light yellow/white sand that stands out against the shimmering ocean.
For dinner, why not pizza from Dylan’s? The coal oven pizza experience is great for a view catching straight from your table or to go down for a picnic with your crew. The boardwalks are perfect for strolling slowly in the mornings and evenings catching glimpses of the Texas sun or scoping out a lounge chair to take a much needed breather from the excitement of exploring.
Rockport Beach
The most colorful town I have seen on the south shore of Texas has to go to Rockport. The artistry, color and overall excitement seeps into the walls of Rockport.
Stop into the Wind Way Gallery to explore the rich, local history and artistry that stems from Rockport. The beautiful creations are unique from paintings to statues that capture the town. If you want to see more local and outsourced art, step into the “Rockport Center for the Arts” where exhibits are shown to show the curated art that the beach inspires.
If you get inspired by the local art you can make your own! This creative center allows you to explore your own pottery, painting on the waves and different mediums of art works that is great for the family, singles trip or even just you with the ocean. Rockport isn’t like Galveston or Cinnamon Shores with its soft colors, Rockport is loud with their art and loud with their experiences. Rockport is for those who want to explore culture, art and get your hands a little dirty while making memories.
Rockport is perfect for those who may love seeing the beach but aren’t the sand and swim type. The rocky views give Texas an almost Gothic, yearning sense of environment that is breathtaking at night when only the few neon signs and string lights are your guide.
Galveston Island
No one can leave out the most iconic beach in Texas. The devastating history of the island and the massive comeback it has demonstrated would be disrespectful to not include. Walking around the old neighborhoods full of 1900s architecture and symbolism is heart wrenching to see it frozen in time, yet Galveston continues to persist.
Discover downtown Galveston for its historic architecture, attractions, local restaurants, art galleries, shopping and more. Here are my go to spots that you simply can’t miss. Bel Pri Jewelry and Gifts is the perfect place to find your unique beach souvenir that you can hold onto and remember your time. Going through each section of jewelry to find the pieces that speak to you is so essential for a vacation and Bel Pri is where you can do this. Salty Southern Chic is where I have gotten more of my beach outfits than I care to admit. The bright colors and patterns in blues and pinks are perfect for styling your coastal grandmother’s preppy chic dreams. Finally, the Simple Twisted Boutique is great for those who like more classic styles for home and style. This boutique is full of classics in neutrals and jewelry that makes a statement without being flashy.
A coffee shop that I have to grab from for my beach walks is the Harbor’s Edge. It is a hidden little spot inside an old courthouse that has the best salted caramel cold foam I have ever had. The whites and blues everywhere, along with a simplistic beach menu curates a gentle coffee environment. No rushed drive-thru or burnt espresso, just a salty, sweet atmosphere that gets you ready for a full day.
Now shifting into the Galveston eats, I absolutely recommend the Rainforest Café, especially if you are going with your children. It is the only restaurant in Texas with an attached roller coaster and if you have ever been to a Rainforest Cafe you know how amazing the experience is for littles. The robotic animals, rainforest sounds and simulations as well as the food isn’t to be beat. For a more adult food experience The Spot is always an immediate yes. The two levels of balconies, connected bar experience and great classic American dishes are worth the long line outside. The restaurant has such an amazing neon party vibe while having spectacular views of the seawall.
Kemah Port
Kemah is Galveston’s less visited sister, but is just as stunning and busy. A secluded island compared to the bustling tourist crowds of Galveston, but it’s a short drive away with a big change in experiences. Each rental property seems to be curated to a beach vibe ranging from the iconic pastel colors and balcony front views straight into the cove.
Take a stroll on the Kemah boardwalk that has something for everyone in the family. Thrilling roller-coasters, great eats and shopping can’t be beat. The rides have several levels for all those wanting to roll over the ocean, including tour boat guides that take you through the Galveston Bay. The speed boat attraction is great for those that enjoy going out onto the water while the salty air whips around you. While on the boardwalk, stop at Aquarium Dining for a flavorful seafood experience while being surrounded by views on one end to tropical fish all around. The fish are all given names and the staff will answer any questions about them from species to personalities. Not only are the location and traditional seafood dishes spectacular, but their drink menu includes creative cocktails to enhance the beach vibes. Shifting towards the shopping sector of the boardwalk, you’ll find many shops that include Simply Southern, Kendra Scott, video game merchandise and an arcade for the littles. The perfect spots to find your souvenir for your own keepsake and to give to friends and family after. Each shop has its own personal theme that way you aren’t repeating products and experiences.
Kemah is for the beach lovers who want a more private affair with the waters. A fantastic addition to the beach towns of Texas as it stands.
Texas is a wild state with something for everyone, but if you’re someone who loves the beach, then you are in the right state. It is a full experience no matter what you are looking for. The ocean is calling for you whether you need a girl’s trip, artistic culture or time away from the busy day to day routine. These spots are beautiful, fun and family-friendly. Hours and prices may vary depending on group and times, so please check accordingly with your plans.
