As the weather remains hot around the state, many Texans are looking for a getaway to cooler temperatures. Some families head up to the mountains of neighboring states to get away from Texas’ hot temperatures. But Texas offers its own relief from the sweltering heat – the Texas coast.
Stretching from Galveston to South Padre Island, the Texas coast boasts many seashore destinations perfect for a family getaway. Between hip tropical towns, and miles of beaches, the Texas coast offers something for every member of the family.
Rockport and Fulton are two can’t-miss destinations. The towns are situated side-by-side along the Gulf Coast in Aransas County. Together, they’ve got a population of approximately 10,000. So it’s easy to feel the sense of community.
You’re not likely to find many t-shirt-and-taffy shops here. The area is home to many families who make their living fishing and shrimping. In 2017, the small, thriving community of Rockport was voted the No. 2 “best coastal small town” in the U.S. It hosts art festivals throughout the year and is well-known for being home to the only “blue wave beach” in Texas. Rockport Beach is ideal for swimming, fishing and enjoying the famous sunsets on one of the most serene and clean beaches in the state. Rockport Beach was awarded that prestigious designation by the Clean Beaches Coalition.
Traveling to a Texas beach destination makes it easy to slow down and listen to the beat of your own drum. There is something about the cool blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico that recharge the body.
It is impossible to drive into Rockport-Fulton and not be aware of the natural beauty. The area is home to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge and may well be one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the state.. One of the largest and oldest live oaks in the world can be found in Goose Island State Park. It’s known simply as the “big tree.” The tree inspires and invites you to imagine what it must be like to live through more than 1,000 years of Texas history.
There are many places for families travelling to Rockport-Fulton to stay. However, one that tops the list is the Pelican Bay Resort in Fulton. Situated on the Aransas Bay, the cottages are painted in pastel colors, each with white rockers on the front porch. The resort perfectly captures the unique coastal Texas vibe that has made Rockport-Fulton famous.
For a refreshing escape from the Texas summer heat, load up the family into the car and head to Rockport-Fulton. You won’t be disappointed by this coastal destination.
You can learn more about these and other Texas destinations in the travel issue of Texas Lifestyle magazine.
