Galveston

With a laid back atmosphere and an ideal year-round climate, Galveston Island beaches have something for everyone.
Named one of the "10 Best Beaches for Families" by Family Vacation Critic in 2013, Stewart Beach is Galveston's premier family beach park. Along with splashing in the waves and flying kites, here kids can have high-sea adventures on a ship-themed playground while parents enjoy concessions, restrooms, showers, chair and umbrella rentals and more.

Galveston's famous East Beach offers free concerts every Sunday during summer and is host to a variety of other events and festivals all year, including one of the world's largest sandcastle competitions.

For adventurous beachgoers, try a surf lesson from Ohana Surf and Skate on the Seawall; or if you're not quite as daring but still want to ride the waves, go for a paddle board instead. Also on the Seawall, fishing enthusiasts can fish free of charge off the rock groins or breakwaters. Here you can catch Flounder, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, Sand Trout, Bull Reds and Gafftop Sail.

Whether you're looking to relax and soak up some rays or participate in a high-flying game of sand volleyball, Galveston Island is the ultimate beach lover's destination.