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Is lounging on the beach listening to the calming sounds of the waves your favorite activity? In that case, Surfside Beach is an ideal spot.

Most days, you'll find me hiking either in a national or state park. But every so often, I like to mix it up and enjoy a long walk on the beach listening to the rolling waves. And Surfside Beach, Texas, is one of my ideal go-to places. Plus, it's only about an hour south of Houston and has several miles of shoreline.

Things To Do While Visiting Surfside 

Surfside Beach

The small town of Surfside has four miles of beautiful coastline chock-full of seashells and marine life. And while Surfside Beach is splendid for walking, lounging and swimming, it's also well known for the consistent waves providing some of Texas's best surfing.

Rather not walk along the shoreline but still need to get your steps, jog, or bike ride in. Try the Bluewater Highway Trail, a paved 3-mile footpath that begins at the main entrance of Surfside Beach (Hwy. 332 and Bluewater) and goes all the way to the edge of town.

This easy access trail right off the main parking area of Surfside Beach passes local restaurants and many vacation rentals. And makes it easy to view the community.

Plus, along certain portions of the beach, you can drive, find your ideal spot and then park.

Be sure buy a $12 annual pass, follow all speed limits, directional signs, and parking requirements. The drive-on beach does allow for two-way parking -at the water's edge and the dunes. But on weekends, major holidays, or very high tide, one-way parking along the dunes is required.

Read the complete list of beach rules here. Surfside Beach Rules

Forgot some beach equipment or necessities at home; no worries—Head over to Surfside Beach's local shops. 

• Surfside Food Mart is the closest thing to a grocery and is located at Fort Valesco Dr, Surfside Beach, TX 77541 

• Breaker Sports has surf and boogie board rentals as well as souvenirs, apparel, and clothing. 405 TX-332 E, Freeport, TX 77541

• Surfside Liquor 430 Bluewater Hwy, Freeport, TX 77541

  • FYI - The State of Texas's alcoholic beverage law prohibits public consumption of alcoholic beverages from 2:00 am until noon on Sunday. 

  • And you must be at least 21 years of age to legally consume alcoholic beverages in Texas.

Wildlife In The Surfside Beach Area

Surfside is a treat for a birding enthusiast. The community is near the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge's southern border. Where more than 200 species of birds have been spotted - like the roseate spoonbills, herons, sandhill cranes, and egrets, to name a few.

Whether you visit in the summer or winter to observe all the migratory birds, you'll possibly witness one you haven't encountered before. But don't forget to bring your camera or binoculars.

The Crabbing Pier - Surfside Beach, Texas

Ever try your hand at crabbing? Check out the Crabbing Pier located directly across from Stahlman Park. The pier is on the marsh side of Bluewater HWY.

And a hot spot for catching blue crabs. Never crabbed before, tie a chicken neck to a string and drop it in the water. When you feel a slight tug on the line, slowly pull the string out of the water and scoop the crab with a net.

FYI- Adults need a fishing license to crab in Texas

Where To Eat When Visiting Surfside Beach

There are several local eateries located in Surfside. Choices range from beachfront cafes to no-frills dining. Most of these establishments double as bars, providing informal spots to relax long after sunset.

A few of my favorites are:

• The Jetty Shack ($) 412 Parkview Rd, Surfside, TX 77541 My go-to when I'm in the mood for a beer and burger. But don't let the low prices fool you. Their burgers are the best around.

• Kitty's Purple Cow ($) 323 Ocean Ave, Surfside Beach, TX 77541 The classic relaxed hole-in-the-wall establishment. Their slogan - 'No Shirt? No Shoes? No Sweat!' Grab yourself a frosty beverage and head out to the outdoor seating area.

• Red Snapper Inn ($$) 402 Bluewater Hwy, Surfside, TX 77541 Greek-influenced menu will not disappoint. I'm a total fan of their Gumbo.

• Seahorse Bar & Grill ($$) 310 Ocean Ave, Surfside, TX 77541   A casual restaurant with patio views of the beach. And you'll love the seafood options available.

Where To Stay When You’re In Surfside Beach

RV, trailer, and primitive camping on the beach is permitted, outside of the village proper, and always a favorite. Enter through Beach Access Entrance #1, about 3.0 miles east of HWY 332 Bluewater HWY, and find a spot. 

But I understand these types of accommodations are not for everyone. There are plenty of beach house rentals and several RV parks located in Surfside for those who prefer the not-so- rustic idea of camping.

For RV and trailer full-service amp hookup, water, and sewer, you can't go wrong with Beachfront RV Resort or Surfside Beach RV Park.

There are also beach vacation homes listed on Airbnb or VRBO. If you're new to Airbnb, get up to $65 off your first trip by using this link, airbnb.com

Or if you prefer working with a realtor, try Surfside Beach Vacation Rentals. 

Wrapping Up

The small town of Surfside, with its four miles of beautiful coastline, is a short car ride from Houston. And while the beach is splendid for lounging and swimming, other activities make Surfside Beach a fun place to hang out for the day or a weekend.

If you know someone who lives or is visiting Houston and would find this article helpful, please share it with them. Know of any other favorite activities in Surfside, let me know in the comments. I would love to try them.

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