Explore the Shores of Texas

Expansive sandy beach fronts and outdoor recreation combined with the social atmosphere of two RV resorts make this an ideal winter retreat for Snowbirds.

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Words by Steve Fennell

The second largest state in the Lower 48, Texas is known for its crude oil, rustic southwestern lifestyle, the Alamo, even the Dallas Cowboys and heaping bowls of hearty chili. All can be enjoyed while travelling through its many select regions - from Big Bend and Hill countries to the Prairies and Lakes area. But the Gulf Coast is another calling for countless Canadian snowbirds who visit the area every winter.

With 400-plus km (300-plus mi) of sandy shoreline, the Texas Gulf Coast entices southbound RVers with its peaceful communities, barrier islands and kilometres of beaches. It’s not impossible to see the whole coast during a winter trip, but taking your time and visiting one or two destinations will inspire return visits to explore more of this popular region. It’s often the less populated cities and towns that are the most alluring.

A good example is Freeport, located south of Houston and practically in the middle of the huge coast of the Gulf of Mexico. There are a lot of activities and a vibrant social atmosphere, but there are also many opportunities to enjoy quiet times.

Accommodations for RVers are by no means limited considering Freeport’s number of options. The Blue Water RV Resort is one of the choices where you can enjoy cool ocean breezes, relaxing strolls along its expansive beach, and some peaceful moments at one of its full-service RV sites or among its expansive grounds.

Learning about the facilities and services at an RV park is pertinent for any trip and the amenities at Blue Water RV Resort are impressive. The sites can accommodate large rigs with the option of 30-/50-amp power, plus there’s water, cable and high-speed WiFi. What also makes it popular is the modern clubhouse that houses shower rooms, clean laundry facilities and activity games; the events centre is another space to socialize and is ideal for hosting RV rallies or large family gatherings.

Not sure what to do here? Day-to-day schedules can include lounging at the inground pool and pavilion, participating in any one of the scheduled social events or accessing the water to enjoy a myriad of additional activities.

For example, the Blue Water Resort has seven piers/docks (shared by four campsites) as well as a boat launch to easily explore the inlet with a kayak or SUP. You can even go further in a powerboat to Christmas Bay or Cold Pass, which leads out to the open Gulf.  No boat in tow? Freeport has a number of fishing charter companies where you can catch snapper, grouper, Mahi Mahi, and tuna. The area is known to offer some of the best fishing in the state.

Although there are many dining options in Freeport, Lake Jackson or Surfside Beach, you don’t have to venture far to enjoy a relaxing dining experience. The Blue Water Grill and General Store are the latest additions to the property. The latter has many necessities including groceries, sundries and gifts (plus frozen bait for anglers) while the licensed Blue Water Grill is the perfect establishment to enjoy a cool beverage (including local craft beer from Galveston breweries), lunch or dinner.

It also has indoor/outdoor seating and the casual fare includes made-to-order pizzas, hamburgers, and fresh salads. Perhaps try some of the southern classics such as shrimp po'boys, street tacos, and homemade desserts. Hours of operation are Tuesday to Sunday from 11 am to 8 pm.

In true Gulf Coast style, attractions abound off its grounds. Bryan Beach is ideal for day trips (and about 30 minutes away) and if you’re a birder, visit the Freeport Wetlands Trail & Bird Observatory, which is popular for bird watching all year. Other attractions include The Freeport Historical Museum - commemorating the area’s history - the Freeport Municipal Park Complex, and two challenging golf courses.

Further up the Gulf Coast is Galveston on the island of the same name, which is a hallmark of shoreside cities in Texas. It’s commonly ranked on many top ten lists of the most beautiful beach towns in the state and with many accommodations, the Stella Mare RV Resort is one of the premiere RV parks. It, too, is found on many top ten lists.

Stella Mare can accommodate upwards of 200 RVs and is considered one of the larger resorts of its kind on the island. Nevertheless, the spacious grounds and facilities provide a private but social atmosphere. The sites - set on pull-through concrete pads - range from 21 to 27 m (70 to 90 ft) in length and there’s an option of 50/30/20 amp power. Water/sewer, WiFi, a patio and even space double parking are other niceties.

What’s more, the maximum occupancy at each site is six guests. If you have a larger group, two vacation rentals are available. They are furnished with modern decors and appliances, in addition to heat, A/C, wraparound decks and more. The three- or four-bedroom rentals can comfortably sleep 10-12 people.

Another convenience is the sites and vacation homes are steps away from the heated indoor pool that’s complemented with patio loungers and a hot tub, while modern and clean washrooms/showers and laundry facilities are centrally located as well. Two dog parks, a multi-use playground, a huge splash pad and the guest centre - known as the Seabreeze Room - are additional features.

But what you can’t enjoy on the grounds can be discovered in Galveston. The closest beach to the resort is Pocket Park 1. As it’s a little more secluded than other beaches on the island, it’s the perfect area to cool off, enjoy strolls, and relax the day away.

In true Texas style, dining is popular here and there are many choices. Driving east on Seawall Blvd. leads to seafood establishments, steakhouses and casual fare restaurants. Also along Seawall Blvd are Babes and Galveston beaches, the 61st Street Fishing Pier, and Galveston Island Pleasure Pier.

If exploring nature is more your thing, Galveston Island State Park is a well-known birding location. It also has a sand beach, hiking/paddling trails, and fishing. Enhance your visit by renting a kayak, SUP, and even a cabana from local outfitters. Other attractions include the Moody Gardens Aquarium and Discovery Museum, the Tall Ship ELISSA, Galveston Island Railroad Museum and The Strand, which is Galveston’s historic district with shopping, and dining.

Galveston and Freeport are exciting communities to visit whether you’re passing through for a few days or spending a few months over the winter. With reasonable rates, several amenities, and nearby attractions, Stella Mare and the Blue Water resorts will enhance your Texas experience. They may also land on your own top ten destination list to visit season after season.

For more information about availability, rates and more visit www.stellamarervresort.com or www.bluewaterrvpark.com