Texas provides something for everyone in terms of summer vacation activities and attractions. We love Texas for it’s Southern hospitality and delicious cuisine.
From broad beaches to rushing rivers, from massive urban areas to mountain summits, visitors and locals in Texas are seriously spoilt for choice. Don’t forget to pack the right beach supplies for a perfect summer getaway.
These 7 best summer vacation destinations to visit in Texas will make your holiday one to remember.
South Padre Island
Over the last few years, South Padre Island has evolved from its spring break reputation to a popular summer destination.
There are several activities to choose from, including world-class beaches, a range of watersports and boating activities, nightclubs, international restaurants, and easy access to ancient Mexico for cultural day trips.
South Padre Island should be your first stop if you’re looking for the perfect beach holiday this summer.
September to February is your best bet for a less crowded holiday and the perfect time for family vacations. Spring breakers flock to the area in March which can make it unpleasant for those looking to relax on their holiday.
San Antonio
San Antonio is Texas’ most popular tourist destination and many travelers flock here for its beautiful history. The Alamo inspired the Texas Revolution and is by far one of the best attractions in the area.
Climb the 952 steps of The Tower of The Americas for a spectacular view of Alamo City from the observation decks. Visit during Free Happy Hour for affordable drinks and just in time for sunset.
In the summer, San Antonio has a variety of entertaining activities for tourists, including the San Antonio Zoo, thrilling theme parks, marine education at SeaWorld San Antonio, and historical landmarks like the Alamo.
The peak season in San Antonio is from May to October. The extended stay hotels are significantly more favorable from November to April due to fewer tourists and fresher time, so coming in that period is recommended. Between November – April, there are a lot of fun festivals like the Alamo Bowl, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and the Fiesta San Antonio. The Fiesta San Antonio is a remarkable 11-day celebration of culture and history, while the rodeo is one of the largest indoor rodeos in the world.
Stroll the Riverwalk for a delicious lunch, or ride a thrilling roller coaster at Six Flags Fiesta Texas.
With everything from hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurants to sophisticated cuisine found along the Riverwalk, San Antonio is the perfect destination for foodies.
New Braunfels
Every year, hundreds of travelers come to this lovely haven in the Texas Hill Country, ideally situated between San Antonio and Austin.
The tree-lined alleys are filled with interesting boutiques, cafés, and bustling pubs, while intriguing museums and unusual walking tours help keep New Braunfels’ history alive.
Enjoy a bratwurst and a German beer during your summer visit to New Braunfels, which proudly celebrates strong German origins. Historic Gruene (pronounced “Green”), just up the road from downtown New Braunfels, is home to Texas’ oldest dance hall.
Galveston
Galveston is an ideal place to visit all year round, with miles of sandy beaches, warm Gulf water, and world-class hotels and restaurants to keep the whole family entertained.
There are many stunning beaches ideal for sunbathing, surfing, and windsurfing, but Galveston is also home to some spectacular boating spots. You can cruise around in your own boat, or you can easily find boat rentals in Galveston that come with or without a skipper.
If you want a quieter beach atmosphere than Galveston, Corpus Christi is the place to go. Corpus Christi has a lot of activities to offer, including the Texas State Aquarium, the South Texas Botanical Garden, and the USS Lexington.
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Austin
There is much to see and do in Texas’ capital city with a variety of museums and historical monuments and a variety of outdoor leisure activities.
Austin is known as The Live Music Capital of the World, and music fans will discover live music performers during June, July, and August.
During your summer vacation in Austin, don’t miss the bat colony beneath the South Congress Bridge at twilight, browse the electric boutiques along South Congress Avenue, and sample various food truck cuisine.
The Canyon Lake
Canyon Lake is known as the “Treasure of the Texas Hill Country” due to its prime location at the Guadalupe River. It provides guests with several water and outdoor activities such as swimming, scuba diving, tubing, and fishing.
Hiking routes and parks are available for nature lovers and outdoor enjoyment. White-tailed deer, foxes, roadrunners, and other animals are seen all along the Guadalupe River.
The Guadalupe River also contains eight park sections for visitors to camp, swim, boat, and picnic. All of these parks also allow bank fishing.
Del Rio
Del Rio is located on the beaches 150 miles west of San Antonio and is a mile from the Rio Grande and Ciudad Acuña, providing many opportunities for birders, boaters, and anglers.
Del Rio has a unique combination of American and Mexican culture, which is reflected in its people’s warmth and beautiful art.
Swim in the clear water of Texas’ third biggest lake, examine some of the earliest Native American cave paintings, or enjoy a glass of cabernet sauvignon or Sangiovese at the state’s oldest winery.
