Rockport Beach

In southeastern Texas, Rockport Beach overlooks Aransas Bay. Vacationers will find volleyball courts, picnic tables, and a fishing pier at this crescent-shaped beach. Travelers can also take a stroll along the promenade that runs alongside the sands or set up chairs for relaxing and sunbathing on the beach, which previous sun-seekers praised for its overall cleanliness. In fact, the beach is so beautiful that the Clean Beaches Coalition named it Texas' first Blue Wave Beach.

Cars, dogs, bonfires, fireworks, and beach camping are all prohibited on Rockport Beach, ensuring that the sand (and water) is as clean as possible. These strenuous efforts paid off handsomely: this was Texas' first "Blue Wave Beach", an environmental certification that recognizes clean, well-managed beaches worldwide.

Locals enjoy swimming, volleyball on the beach courts, fishing off the pier, and relaxing in the thatch-roof palapas that line the crescent-shaped sand. Families particularly enjoy the shallow waters and the available amenities, which include picnic tables, restrooms, and showers. Parking costs $5 per day.