When it comes to Texas spring break destinations, you’ve got so many awesome options to choose from. Texas is a large and diverse state—you can swim in the Gulf, relax in Hill Country, or enjoy a week of great nightlife at the beach. If you’re not sure where to head for spring break this year, keep reading for the top 12 destinations Texas has to offer!
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Texas Beach Spring Break Destinations
South Padre Island: Beaches + Nightlife
South Padre Island is a popular destination for spring breakers across Texas, and there’s good reason why. With over 30 miles of Gulf coastline and plenty of great nightlife as well as daytime activities, you’ll never get bored on spring break on South Padre.
During the day, spend time soaking up sun at the beach. For those wanting to get out on the open ocean, you can book a dolphin watching tour through the South Padre Island Dolphin Research & Sealife Nature Center or a deep sea fishing trip through one of many local operators. Keep the good times rolling at one of the many popular nightlife spots, including Louie’s Backyard and Clayton’s Beach Bar & Grill.
Port Aransas: Texas Beach Spring Break
Known by many as simply “Port A,” this beach on Mustang Island is a great option for beach-going spring breakers. The white sand stretches for 18 miles and is perfect for sunbathing, fishing, and shell collecting.
Head to Roberts Point Park to enjoy their pavilion and dolphin watching observation tower. Make sure to load up on delicious fresh seafood while in Port A; Tortuga’s Saltwater Grill is a favorite in particular. Afterwards, hit up Back Porch or Shorty’s Place for a night of drinks and fun.
Galveston: Fun in the Sun
Another popular Texas spring break destination is Galveston Island. Whether you just want to drink and relax at the beach, fit in some thrill-seeking, or shop ‘til you drop, Galveston has got you covered.
Head to Pleasure Pier for classic carnival rides or check out Moody Gardens for their rope course and zip line. Make sure to stroll around the Strand for shopping and good food and drink, as well. Bubba’s On The Strand and Patrick’s Bar are both great choices if you want to keep the night going after a day at the beach!
Crystal Beach: Southeast Texas Beach Spot
Located on the Bolivar Peninsula, Crystal Beach is an up-and-coming spring break destination, with sought-after rentals getting booked earlier and earlier each year. This spot is a hit with college students and families alike because it has tons of daytime activities and nightlife options for everyone!
You can take a guided fishing trip, play some golf or mini golf, take a cruise on the Bolivar ferry, or just chill at the beach all day. At night, make sure to catch some live music in Crystal Beach. The Peninsula boasts a variety of venues that draw all sorts of musical acts and performers, so you’re sure to find something you like!
Corpus Christi: Sunny, Beach Fun
For spring break beach fun with all the amenities of a city, Corpus Christi is the Texas spring break destination for you! With over 100 miles of coastline, there’s plenty of beach to explore and enjoy.
Corpus Christi is a great spot for those who love the adrenaline rush of water activities. You can surf, jet ski, wake board, and kitesurf on the beaches in Corpus, or head to Hurricane Alley Water Park for all sorts of heart-racing water rides. For some history or science, check out the USS Lexington or Texas State Aquarium. As the sun sets, make your way to Lazy Beach Brewing & Cafe for refreshing craft beers in their taproom.
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Rockport: Quiet Beach Getaway
Not only is Rockport one of the cutest and quaintest beach spring break destinations in Texas, it’s also one of the cleanest! Rockport is actually one of the state’s only Blue Wave certified beaches, meaning it meets outstanding standards for cleanliness and sustainability.
While this destination is growing in popularity each year, it’ll still be a quieter option than the likes of South Padre Island, Port Aransas, and Galveston. Downtown Rockport is super cute, with a smattering of little souvenir shops and cafes to relax in. After a full day at the beach, grab something to eat and drink at the Rock Bottom Park & Pub or Paradise Key Dockside Bar & Grill.
Texas Lake Spring Break Destinations
Lake Texoma: Spring Break at the Lake
If you’d rather do spring break at the lake, Texoma could be the perfect option for you. This lake is aptly named, as it’s shared between Texas and Oklahoma. As one of the largest artificial lakes in the US, you’ll have plenty of water to enjoy sailing, fishing, swimming, and other lake activities.
You can bring your own boat and launch it from the marina or rent one on the lake. For even more ease, simply hop on the Texoma Bell Riverboat for an unforgettable dinner cruise experience across the lake. You can camp on Lake Texoma for a budget spring break spent in nature, or book somewhere to stay in one of the nearby towns like Denison, Pottsboro, or Cambridge.
Lake Travis: Upscale Lake Getaway
If you’re based in or around Austin, Lake Travis is just a quick 30-minute drive away and offers an unforgettable spring break without having to travel super far. You can rent boats and jet skis at the local marinas or go swimming in one of the many roped-off swimming areas in the various parks located around the lake.
You can’t miss the classic Oasis restaurant for Mexican Martinis and amazing sunset views! For a real treat of a dining experience, book a table at the Apis Restaurant & Apiary in Spicewood, voted one of Austin’s best restaurants!
Canyon Lake: Chill Lake Spring Break
While quieter than Lake Travis, Canyon Lake is another great Texas lake destination for spring break! Only an hour from both San Antonio and Austin, this is a great spot for Central Texans.
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Texas Hill Country Spring Break Roadtrip
If you’re not feeling the beach for spring break this year, switch things up with an epic Texas Hill Country road trip! There are so many cool towns and things to do in this distinctive natural area that your options are nearly endless.
If you want to experience true Hill Country, you’ll want to plan your road trip around Fredericksburg and Boerne to enjoy lots of outdoor activities (and great wine, to boot). Or, you could tour through the Highland Lakes of Hill Country for an adventurous spring break hopping from one swimming spot to another.
See More: 5 Texas Hill Country Road Trip Ideas
New Braunfels: Spring Break on the River
Located in Texas Hill Country, New Braunfels deserves a special shoutout of its own when it comes to the best Texas spring break destinations. This charming city isn’t far from San Antonio and is home to two incredible rivers, the Comal and the Guadalupe, and the infamous Schlitterbahn waterpark!
The most popular spring break activity in New Braunfels is to go tubing and swimming in one of these lovely rivers. On the Comal, alcohol is permitted, but just know that disposable drink containers aren’t allowed so you’ll need to keep your bevs in something reusable.
After a day on the river(s), head to the Gruene Historic District for some live music or check out one of the many microbreweries in New Braunfels.
Big Bend + Marfa: Adventurous Spring Break Trip
Head out to West Texas for a Marfa + Big Bend road trip! Marfa is a super cool town with lots of interesting things to do and places to stay.
After Marfa, head out to Big Bend National Park. With over 150 miles of desert and mountains to explore, you’re in for some incredible hiking and camping. Not much of a camper? Check out these sweet glamping sites nearby. Or this super cool shipping container turned modern Airbnb.
Any spring break destinations in Texas that I’m missing? Let me know by dropping a comment below or sending me a DM on Instagram!
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xx Chels
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