Best Beach Towns in Texas to Live or Visit (2025 Edition)

When most people think of beach towns, they imagine California’s cliffs or Florida’s white sands. But Texas—yes, Texas—is home to some of the most underrated beach destinations in the U.S. With over 350 miles of Gulf coastline, the Lone Star State offers charming, laid-back beach towns where you can find affordability, culture, fresh seafood, and sun-drenched days without the massive crowds.

Whether you're looking for a second home, an investment property, or simply your next vacation destination, here are the best beach towns in Texas to live or visit in 2025.

1. Port Aransas – The Crown Jewel of the Texas Coast

• County: Nueces County

• Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly, golf cart community

• Median Home Price (2025): ~$525,000

• Why It’s Great:
  Port Aransas, affectionately called “Port A,” is one of Texas’s most beloved beach towns—and for good reason. Located on Mustang Island, Port A offers 18 miles of beaches, world-class fishing, and a walkable, welcoming downtown filled with local shops and restaurants.

Real estate in Port Aransas continues to perform well, thanks to a healthy mix of short-term vacation rentals and second homes. You’ll find everything from beachfront condos to luxury island homes with boat slips.

 Bonus: There's easy ferry access from Aransas Pass, making the journey part of the experience.

2. South Padre Island – Texas’ Premier Vacation Spot

• County: Cameron County

• Vibe: Lively, resort-style living, nightlife & nature

• Median Home Price (2025): ~$400,000

• Why It’s Great:
  South Padre Island is Texas’ most tropical-feeling beach town, with wide stretches of golden sand, warm Gulf waters, and an island lifestyle that feels far removed from the rest of the state. Known for its spring break scene, SPI also offers family-friendly fun, nature preserves, kite festivals, and beautiful sunsets over Laguna Madre.

Thanks to ongoing development and improved infrastructure, SPI has become a smart place to invest in vacation rental properties or retirement homes.

Don’t Miss: Sea Turtle, Inc., a world-famous turtle rescue center right on the island.

3. Rockport – A Charming Coastal Escape

• County: Aransas County

• Vibe: Artsy, peaceful, historic

• Median Home Price (2025): ~$390,000

• Why It’s Great:
  Rockport is a gem of a town that mixes history, natural beauty, and culture. Its picturesque waterfront and protected bay make it a favorite among boaters, bird watchers, and retirees. It’s also one of the few beach towns in Texas that wasn’t completely overdeveloped post-hurricane—leaving behind a more authentic small-town coastal vibe.

Rockport Beach is the only Blue Wave certified beach in Texas, known for its clean, family-safe environment.

Local Highlight: The town hosts monthly art walks and an annual Seafair with music, food, and coastal culture.

4. Galveston – Historic and Bustling

• County: Galveston County

• Vibe: Historic charm meets modern beach fun

• Median Home Price (2025): ~$340,000

• Why It’s Great:
  Galveston is one of the most well-known coastal towns in Texas, and it's a place where history and beach life collide. From the iconic Seawall Boulevard to the colorful homes of the historic Strand District, Galveston is full of character.

With strong rental demand, cruise ship tourism, and major events like Mardi Gras and Dickens on the Strand, Galveston makes sense for both investors and full-time homeowners.

Historic Note: Galveston was once the richest city in Texas before the 1900 hurricane. Its preserved architecture still tells that story.

5. Surfside Beach – The Locals’ Secret

• County: Brazoria County

• Vibe: Quiet, rustic, uncrowded

• Median Home Price (2025): ~$285,000

• Why It’s Great:
  Tucked between Galveston and Freeport, Surfside Beach is a hidden treasure. With a smaller population and fewer tourists, it’s ideal for those who want a quiet escape just a short drive from Houston.

Beach homes here are surprisingly affordable, and the town’s laid-back, low-density development means you can often find homes right on the sand without breaking the bank.

Pro Tip: Bring your fishing gear. Surfside’s jetties and offshore waters are prime fishing spots.

6. Crystal Beach – Family Fun on the Bolivar Peninsula

• County: Galveston County

• Vibe: Casual, family-oriented, wide open beaches

• Median Home Price (2025): ~$320,000

• Why It’s Great:
  Accessible via ferry from Galveston or highway from Beaumont, Crystal Beach is a favorite among Houston-area vacationers and weekend warriors. It boasts wide, drivable beaches where bonfires, BBQs, and golf carts are part of everyday life.

This area is increasingly popular with RV travelers, vacation rental owners, and families seeking a more laid-back alternative to Galveston.

Fun Fact: You can drive your car directly onto most of the beach areas—no parking meter stress!

7. Corpus Christi – Big City by the Sea

• County: Nueces County

• Vibe: Urban beach living with amenities

• Median Home Price (2025): ~$285,000

• Why It’s Great:
  Corpus Christi is a larger coastal city with beach town vibes. It offers the best of both worlds: urban convenience with a coastal setting. Residents and visitors enjoy white-sand beaches, kiteboarding, an aquarium, shopping, and waterfront dining.

While it’s not a traditional small-town beach getaway, it’s perfect for those who want year-round coastal living with job opportunities, healthcare, and education.

Extra Value: Home to Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, which adds youth and vibrancy to the city.

8. Matagorda – Off the Beaten Path

• County: Matagorda County

• Vibe: Untouched, natural, fisherman’s paradise

• Median Home Price (2025): ~$240,000

• Why It’s Great:
  Matagorda is one of the last frontiers of Texas beach towns. Its undeveloped coastline and quiet vibe make it ideal for those seeking solitude or true beachfront at a lower price point. With some of the best fishing in the state and a location where the Colorado River meets the Gulf, it’s a nature lover’s dream.

Don’t expect luxury—expect peace, simplicity, and raw coastal beauty.

Final Thoughts: Which Texas Beach Town Is Right for You?

Whether you're looking for an affordable second home, a vibrant investment property, or your forever beach retreat, Texas has a beach town that fits your goals and lifestyle.

• If you want a vibrant nightlife and tropical island vibe, go for South Padre Island.

• If you’re into charming small towns with art and culture, Rockport is ideal.

• Want historic appeal and rental income potential? Galveston should be at the top of your list.

• For peace, privacy, and budget-friendliness, you’ll love Matagorda or Surfside Beach.

No matter which town you choose, owning a piece of Texas coastline is not only a lifestyle upgrade—it’s a smart long-term investment.

Work with VIP Realty to Find Your Dream Beach Home

At VIP Realty, our agents are experts in Texas coastal markets. Whether you’re buying a vacation home, relocating to the coast, or investing in short-term rentals, we’ll help you find the perfect beachfront property at the right price.