Beaches & Waterfront Activities in Houston, Texas, United States

Houston, United States, Houston, Outdoor & Adventure, Beaches & Waterfront Activities

Beaches & Waterfront Activities in Houston, Texas, United States

1. Galveston Island Beach

A popular coastal getaway offering miles of sandy beaches and a historic downtown district.
  • Historic Downtown: Explore unique shops, museums, and restaurants in the preserved Victorian-era buildings.
  • Moody Gardens: Visit an aquarium, rainforest pyramid, and a tropical atrium, all within this amazing complex.
  • Beach Accessibility: Easy access to various beaches for different activities like swimming, fishing, or sunbathing.

2. Kemah Boardwalk

An entertaining waterfront complex featuring shops, restaurants, and attractions, with a stunning view of the Galveston Bay.
  • Stingray Reef: Interact with stingrays in this hands-on, shallow water exhibit.
  • Water Taxi Service: Take a relaxing ride around the boardwalk and enjoy scenic views of the bay.
  • Live Music Venues: Enjoy live music performances at various venues throughout the boardwalk.

3. Buffalo Bayou Park

Urban park along Buffalo Bayou featuring hiking trails, dog parks, and an art installation called the Water Roulette.
  • Suspension Bridge: Cross the scenic suspension bridge offering breathtaking views of the park.
  • Art Installations: Discover multiple art installations scattered throughout the park, adding a touch of creativity.
  • Buffalo Bayou Partnership: Learn about the history and conservation efforts of Buffalo Bayou through educational programs.

4. Hermann Park

A large urban park featuring a golf course, Japanese garden, and the Houston Zoo.
  • Miller Outdoor Theatre: Enjoy free performances of music, dance, and theater at this outdoor venue.
  • Houston Zoo: Get up close with over 6,000 exotic animals from around the world.
  • Mary Gibbs and Jaguar Junction: Meet jaguars, ocelots, and other big cats in this expansive exhibit.

5. Pier 62 at Clear Lake

A marina with a pier offering fishing, boat rentals, and scenic views of the lake.
  • Fishing Pier: Cast a line from the pier and catch a variety of fish in the Clear Lake.
  • Boat Rentals: Rent a kayak, pontoon boat, or stand-up paddleboard to explore the lake.
  • Scenic Views: Take in stunning views of the sunset over the lake and surrounding wetlands.

6. West Bay Common Ground Park

A waterfront park with a pier, playgrounds, and picnic areas along the West Bay in Houston.
  • Pier and Boardwalk: Walk along the pier or boardwalk to enjoy scenic views of the bay.
  • Playgrounds: Kids can have fun on various play structures while parents relax nearby.
  • Picnic Areas: Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal in one of the park's designated areas.

7. Seawall Urban Park at East Beach

A coastal park offering beach access, volleyball courts, and concessions.
  • Beach Access: Enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, or building sandcastles on the beach.
  • Volleyball Courts: Play a game of volleyball at one of the park's courts.
  • Concessions: Pick up snacks, drinks, and beach essentials at the on-site concession stand.

8. Galveston Seawall

A seawall promenade offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and access to restaurants, shops, and attractions.
  • Sea Turtle Inc: Learn about sea turtles at this rehabilitation center and education facility.
  • Restaurants and Shops: Enjoy a meal or shop for souvenirs at the numerous establishments along the seawall.
  • Sunset Views: Watch a beautiful sunset over the Gulf of Mexico while strolling along the promenade.

9. San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site

Historic site commemorating the Battle of San Jacinto, with a museum, monument, and scenic bay views.
  • Museum: Explore exhibits showcasing Texas history, the battle, and samurai sword collection.
  • Monument: Visit the 570-foot tall monument symbolizing freedom and independence.
  • Scenic Bay Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the San Jacinto River Bay System from the site.

10. Bass Island Bat Colony

An island sanctuary where thousands of bats reside, offering nightly bat-watching exhibits.
  • Bat Watching Exhibit: Watch as the bats emerge from their roost and take to the skies at dusk.
  • Lake Conroe: Explore this scenic lake for boating, fishing, or swimming activities.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Spot other wildlife such as raccoons, armadillos, and birds during your visit.

11. Lake Houston Wilderness Park

A park offering hiking trails, camping, and kayaking on Lake Houston.
  • Hiking Trails: Explore various trails through the woods and wetlands, keeping an eye out for wildlife.
  • Camping: Pitch a tent and enjoy a night under the stars in one of the campsites.
  • Kayaking: Rent a kayak to paddle around the lake and take in the scenic beauty.

12. Elena's Park at the Boardwalk

A small waterfront park offering picnic areas, a playground, and scenic views of the Ship Channel.
  • Playground: Kids can enjoy the various play structures while parents relax nearby.
  • Picnic Areas: Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal in one of the park's designated areas.
  • Scenic Views: Take in scenic views of the bustling Port of Houston from the park.

13. Horsepen Bayou Hike and Bike Trail

A hiking and biking trail that winds through wetlands, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for alligators, birds, and other wildlife during your hike or bike ride.
  • Hiking and Biking: Choose between hiking or biking on the trail to suit your preference.
  • Park Accessibility: Access the trail from various points along the bayou, making it easy to find a starting point.

14. Greens Bayou Park and Trail

A park with a hike-and-bike trail running along Greens Bayou, offering scenic views and wildlife opportunities.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for birds, turtles, and other wildlife during your hike or bike ride.
  • Hiking and Biking: Choose between hiking or biking on the trail to suit your preference.
  • Scenic Views: Enjoy scenic views of the bayou, bridges, and the city skyline from the trail.

15. Lynchburg Ferry

A ferry service offering crossings of Lynch Waterway, connecting various waterfront attractions.
  • Water Transportation: Use the ferry as a convenient way to travel between different waterfront attractions.
  • Scenic Ride: Enjoy scenic views of the waterway and surrounding areas during your ride.
  • Historic Attractions: Access various historical attractions, such as the Battleship Texas and San Jacinto Monument, via the ferry.