Best Texas Coast Getaway?
While the Texas coast leaves much to be desired, there are still beautiful getaway spots to enjoy with your family, like this one.
A beach-cation can quickly add up no matter where you are. Travel costs, lodging, eating out, and family-friendly entertainment are all considerations when planning your trip.
My family's favorite spot along the Texas coast is the Rockport/Fulton area. Roughly 2.5 hours from San Antonio, ~3 hours from Houston, and 6 hours from Dallas/Fort Worth. Rockport is not as busy as Corpus, cleaner than Galveston, and cheaper than North or South Padre.
(Pssst, here’s some additional tips)
Nearest airport: Corpus Christi Airport (CRP)
The nearest major airport: is San Antonio International Airport (SAT)
Best affordable car rental for a Texas coast getaway: Turo
Best Texas Coast Getaway Recommendations
These are my recommendations for a weekend (or week!) Texas coast beach getaway, in the Rockport/Fulton area.
Where to stay:
The Lighthouse Inn, Rockport
Why? This three-star lodging has so much to offer, making it a great deal. They have a standard double queen bedroom, one-bed king room, or a king suite with a living room and full kitchen. The couch in the living room pulls out into a bed which is ideal for smaller families.
All 78 guest rooms have rocking chairs on a small porch overlooking the pool or bay. There's not a bad view of the whole property. The inn has a well-maintained pier for fishing and plenty of lounging areas around the property.
Every morning the inn serves a complimentary, full, hot breakfast that's nearly as good as home. Enjoy coffee, and brunch from their beautiful seating area overlooking the pier. Hint: keep an eye out for the dolphins that frequent the property. In the evening this charming eating space turns into an affordable restaurant serving basic seafood fare along with a full bar.
There is also a complimentary library on site with books and games perfect for some wholesome relaxation. A small mercantile with snacks and drinks is affordable and perfect for a late-night snack.
The staff is friendly and accommodating-
From local suggestions to anything you may need on-site. The pool and hot tub area has plenty of room for everyone with lots of chairs and a good mix of sun and shade. They kept the towels well stocked and we enjoyed several hours of just playing in the water. There's also a BBQ pit area if you feel like grilling your day's catch.
Cons: On an older property, the ACs are pretty loud, and the walls can be thin depending on your neighbor's activities. You will want to bring your pillow from home as the ones in the room or somewhat flat. The TVs have a guide for basic channels but are reminiscent of the days before smart TVs.
Pros: Full kitchen option with a full-size refrigerator, oven and stove, and dishwasher. Multiple amenities are included in the cost. Minimal need to leave the property if you're looking for a one-stop spot. Clean facilities throughout.
Best Area Attractions:
A few blocks up the road is the Fulton Pier with lots of free fishing areas, bait shops, and a playground, plus pavilions.
Heading in the opposite direction is the Rockport Art District with shopping, dining, and entertainment. We spent a morning exploring local businesses and thoroughly enjoyed our findings.
Best shop: The Coastal Merchantile
Of all the shops we explored, this one was my favorite. Lots of things to browse, fairly affordable prices (for the area), a bathroom for customers, and if you need some mid-day refreshments they have a robust bar.
A local artist was present that day and he shared a wonderful story about a small card with a drawing of a lighthouse that I purchased. While Texas has gotten rid of its lighthouses in favor of jetties, this artist captured his favorites in ink. He even signed my small card and it was a highlight of my day.
Best coffee shop: Daily Grind
This sweet coffee shop has a great selection of beverages and light refreshments. They also had a welcoming outdoor patio area by a city mural. Local art is also displayed in this coffee shop and the interior is more spacious than it first appears.
Best Seafood Restaurant: Wild Prawns
I'm not adding this for affordability but if you're looking for some of the BEST seafood in the area, this is it. The service was good, some menu items (like the pre-entree salad) were subpar but the seafood dishes and presentation earned a 10 out of 10 from us. Very fresh and flavorful.
Note: (if you’re looking for traditional seafood fare like fried combo platters this is not your spot - but take a look at BenchWarmers).
Close to HEB and Walmart
Only a block from the town's main drag, we used the large HEB and Wal-Mart for some shopping. But there are plenty of options in this coastal town for fast food and essentials.
*Rachel is part of the Journeying Mom’s duo. Two sisters curating travel content for working parents, families on a budget, couples, and individuals with time restraints. Enjoy more content on our Instagram account or pin with us on Pinterest. A like or share is also a free way to support us, thank you!