A Big ‘Ol Texas Spring Break with Family

Going on spring break in Texas is like stepping into a big, sun-soaked episode of Duck Dynasty meets Jersey Shore—but with more BBQ and cowboy hats. The Lone Star State offers countless spring break destinations for the whole family, from the Texas Hill Country to miles of beaches along the coast. Spring breakers and college students may crowd the popular destinations, but don’t overlook the family-friendly gems waiting for your road trip! Learn how long 8 seconds can last as you try to ride a mechanical bull, clinging for dear life (spoiler: the bull always wins), and get ready for nights filled with live music and “trying” to two-step at a honky-tonk bar, which might not even be a bar at all! Texans 2-step everywhere! You’ll eat your weight in Tex-Mex, swear off tacos, and then devour a breakfast taco the next morning.

But one thing is for sure: you will walk away from a Texas spring break talking with that same part Texas drawl, part panhandle twang, part Tex-Mex spice that everybody has come to know as the Texas accent. That sweet-as-tea southern accent with a twist.

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South Padre Island

An island in Texas? Sure, why not? Spend spring break in South Padre Island. This resort town and barrier island is known for its beaches! Where else can you take a sandcastle-building class? Here, you can hone your upside-down bucket maneuvers and challenge your family to a sandcastle competition.

Just a short drive from Port Aransas and Mustang Island, this excellent place offers plenty of spring break packages for visitors. You can take birdwatching to a whole new level here, 5 levels actually, thanks to the 5-story watchtower at South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, which puts you on a perfect perch to watch the migrating birds. Since you’ll be basking in the beauty of Laguna Madre Bay, take to the sea! The South Padre Island Dolphin Research & Sealife Nature Center offers dolphin boat tours and touch tanks teaming with sealife. Of course, no trip is complete without stopping by the infamous WannaWanna Beach Bar for a “virgin” daiquiri (because you’re with your kids, obviously). You might not be catching a wild party vibe, but you’re definitely getting your fill of good food, great company, and maybe even a weird seagull encounter that’ll make for great family stories.

As for adrenaline-filled adventure, South Padre Island’s got that, too. The Island Adventure Park is the place for horseback riding, parasailing and ziplines, ziplines and more ziplines! There is even a go-kart track and mini golf to round out your high-octane day! If you need more water, hit up the Schlitterbahn waterpark for water slides, lazy rivers, and the occasional wave of regret after too much funnel cake. Just remember to put on sunscreen. Lots of sunscreen. You’ll thank us when you’re not the lobster of the family by the end of the trip.

Where to Stay 

With proximity to Isla Blanca Beach, the waterpark, and quick access over to Port Isabel Lighthouse, Margaritaville Beach Resort is a great family hotel and the perfect starting point for all the adventures on your spring break list. 

Standing tall and soaking in the sea breeze—this South Padre local knows how to beach in style. ©Photo by Anna Brown on Unsplash

San Antonio

You’ll remember a lot more than the Alamo when you’re in San Antonio. This great place that’s part of the United States’s founding story is like stepping into a fiesta of Texas history, culture, and if you’re me… too many churros. The first stop, as mentioned, is the Alamo, where you’ll proudly pose for photos in front of this historic site, pretending you remember what actually happened there. Do a quick Wikipedia search before you get there and look like a real history buff in front of your family. 

After exploring the Alamo, take a short drive to Natural Bridge Caverns for an underground adventure. Aside from the history, you can practically hear the mariachi bands playing as you feast on tacos, tamales, and enchiladas. Don’t worry, though—you’re definitely not in the middle of a spring break crowd. Instead, it’s just you and your family, surrounded by people who are equally confused – and secretly delighted – by the idea of Texas-sized margaritas before noon.

Next, head over to the River Walk (hi, it’s free!), glide along the canals on a boat tour, and then shop for cowboy boots that you totally need, even though you live nowhere near a ranch. You’ll get a good dose of culture, taking in the sights and sounds of San Antonio, even if deep down, you know you’re just there for the food and the shopping. Another spring break stop while you’re in San Antonio is to the Buckhorn Saloon and Museum and Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, especially if you have cowboy-loving kiddos! There are animal exhibits of all kinds, an Old West gift shop filled with cowboy hats, bowie knives, and western wear, and it’s loaded with legends of Teddy Roosevelt, Pancho Villa…maybe even the Lone Ranger!

Where to Stay

Hotel Valencia Riverwalk is equal parts elegant and comfortable, with a Mediterranean vibe that can’t be beaten. Plus, the terrace overlooks the river, and as you can guess by the name, it’s conveniently located by the Riverwalk. 

Big smiles, little feet, and endless adventures along the San Antonio River Walk! ©Photo by Shelly Collins on Unsplash

Sweetwater

If you’re looking for the ultimate Spring Break destination that’s full of adventure and a little bit of charm, look no further than Sweetwater, Texas. First stop: the famous Sweetwater Rattlesnake Roundup. It’s the world’s largest rattlesnake festival, which means you get to see snakes, pet snakes, and probably question all your life choices when you come face-to-face with one. No need to fear – the rattlesnakes are more interested in the crowds than they are in you. While you’re there, make sure to grab some snake-shaped souvenirs and bask in the glorious Texan hospitality, which means…eat some barbeque.

After surviving the snakes (and honestly, you can brag about that for years), head over to Lake Sweetwater for a more serene escape. Rent a paddleboard or kayak, or if you’re feeling especially daring, just float and enjoy the sun like you’re in a tropical paradise (minus the palm trees). Sweetwater may not be your typical beach getaway, but it’s the quirky Texas adventure you never knew you needed!

Where to Stay 

While you’re spring breaking in  Sweetwater, Texas, check into the Hampton Inn, Sweetwater. They have pet-friendly rooms for Fido and even an indoor pool. It’s centrally located, so you can make it to college football games, town parades and pageants, and of course, the Rattlesnake Roundup. 

El Paso

El Paso, where desert meets adventure and a whole lotta fun. First up, make sure to hit up the Scenic Drive Overlook. You’ll get a view so stunning you’ll feel like you’re standing on top of the world (or at least on top of El Paso). It’s the perfect spot for that ‘I’m on vacation’ selfie, or maybe just a good ol’ fashioned photo of the family…how many takes will it take? Then, after you’ve soaked in all the breathtaking views, take a trip to the El Paso Zoo. The zoo is home to some seriously cool creatures, but beware—if you make eye contact with a sloth, you might feel like you’re being judged for taking a nap on your vacation.

Once you’ve explored the sights, it’s time to put the kids in front of a Disney movie with big sis in charge, and hit the El Paso nightlife scene! Head over to San Jacinto Plaza, where you can try the famous margarita made with cactus juice—because nothing says “Spring Break” like a drink made from something you usually avoid touching. If you’re feeling adventurous, end the night with some local Tex-Mex, where tacos are always on the menu, and the salsa will make you question every decision you’ve ever made about spice.

Where to Stay 

If you’re into made-to-order breakfast included in your room rate – and who isn’t – book your stay at the Embassy Suites, El Paso. This hotel also offers free transportation to/from the airport, and it sits near the El Paso Zoo, Fort Bliss, and the Fountains shopping area. 

Rolling through El Paso, where the desert meets the sky in a swirl of golden light and mountain views. ©Photo by Aiden Frazier on Unsplash

Galveston

Galveston is the perfect spot for a family Spring Break. There’s sun, there’s sea, there’s attractions galore. Start by hitting up the famous Moody Gardens and peer through giant glass pyramids that house sharks, monkeys, and other animals; check out the aquarium or even take a trip to the 3D IMAX theater. And for a more thrilling family adventure, amusement rides, and restaurants line the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, where you can scream your way through a rollercoaster or just indulge in classic carnival treats like cotton candy and funnel cakes. Warning: expect a lot of sugar-induced chaos and at least one kid with sticky hands by the end of it.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed family trip, head to the shores of Galveston’s beautiful beaches. My personal favorite is “babe beach” –  named after a former Texas state legislator but…roll with whatever your teen brain conjures up when you hear the word babe and beach in the same sentence. 

In Galveston, you can lounge in the sand, build sandcastles that the next wave will probably demolish (but that’s part of the fun), or let the kids splash around in the water while you sit back with a Texas-sized vacation drink. When you’re ready for a break from the beach, take a stroll down the Strand Historic District, where you can shop for quirky souvenirs, grab a bite to eat at one of the local eateries or just people-watch, our personal favorite pastime while the family debates who gets to ride in the front seat of the car next.

DON’T MISS! 7 Best Beaches in Galveston for Families

Where to Stay 

When you’re in Galveston, bunk up at the Hilton Galveston Island Resort. It’s steps from the Gulf of Mexico (aka now as the Gulf of America) and a hop, skip, and a 2-step from the beach and fishing pier. Oh, did we mention there’s an outdoor pool area and swim-up bar? 

Galveston beach days don’t get any sweeter! ©Photo by Tamara Bellis on Unsplash

Corpus Christi

Start your adventure by visiting the Texas State Aquarium, where you’ll meet sea turtles, dolphins, and a variety of fish that make your kids wish they could switch places and live under the sea. After that, head over to the USS Lexington, a retired aircraft carrier turned museum, where your family can pretend they’re on a mission to save the world while exploring the decks and learning about naval history. 

Bonus points if your kids start calling the ship their new home, and you get a peaceful moment to enjoy some quiet time (at least until they start yelling, “Man overboard!”).

Of course, no trip to Corpus Christi would be complete without hitting up the beach, where you can spend hours getting sand in every possible place and attempting to keep your beach gear from blowing away in the wind. For a truly memorable experience, take a family trip to the Padre Island National Seashore, where you can spot sea turtles hatching. Awwwww! When you’re done with the sun and sand, round off the day with a visit to the Wildflower Ridge Butterfly Garden—because what’s a Spring Break without a few butterflies landing on your kids’ heads, making them feel magical?

Where to Stay 

The Holiday Inn Corpus Christi Downtown Marina has the most picturesque views of the bay and the marina, plus an indoor/outdoor pool perched on the 3rd floor so you can take in the views in between laps. It is also right across the street from the historic seawall and near attractions like the aquarium, USS Lexington, and Whataburger Field.

The shores of Corpus Christi are always bustling with feathered friends and ocean breezes.
©Photo by Joshua J. Cotten on Unsplash

Austin

Start your trip to Austin by checking out the Texas Capitol, where you’ll marvel at the majestic architecture, and your kids will pose with every statue for their social media feed. The Austin culture is on full display as you explore Fresh Start Austin and catch the latest new exhibitions at various galleries. 

From there, hit up Lake Travis, where luxury cabins with full kitchens make the perfect home base for your family adventure. You can rent a canoe or paddleboard and turn your family into a crew of water adventurers—until someone inevitably ends up in the water and everyone laughs… except for the one who fell in, of course.

For a good time, join the tastemakers Austin crowd at the access exhibition showcasing local artists, or catch some live Austin music at one of the city’s countless venues. For those wanting to explore beyond the city, take a day trip to Johnson City or Garner State Park, or venture further to Big Bend National Park or Lake Texoma for some outdoor adventure. Don’t forget to stop at the Dr. Pepper Museum for a taste of Texas history! As the day winds down, take the family to see the famous Congress Avenue Bats fly out from under the bridge at sunset—it’s a spectacle that will sum up Spring Break in Austin perfectly: weird, wild, and wonderfully fun.

Where to Stay 

Austin is home to the East Austin Hotel, a modern boutique hotel that is locally owned and has its very own resident hotel cat, Wally. This is the perfect place to lay your head before sightseeing at the Texas capital or heading out to the University of Texas to get your Longhorn fix.

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I am a master brand storyteller, creative ringleader and kick-a content creator, based in Park City, Utah, where I live with my three incredible kiddos, my guy, and three of the goofiest doodle doggies you’ll ever meet. My specialties include copywriting, content creation, word smithing, editing, proofreading, SEO marketing, brainstorming, and picking brains. I’m also very good at multitasking, single-tasking, and “I’ll just do it myself” tasking. Last, but certainly not least, I specialize in spontaneous bursts of sheer brilliance. I traded life near the Pacific Ocean for mountain town living in Park City, which actually feels like a chill beach town…so, it’s a pretty even trade, except for the snow – obvi!

Laura Kent

. I am a master brand storyteller, creative ringleader and kick-a content creator, based in Park City, Utah, where I live with my three incredible kiddos, my guy, and three of the goofiest doodle doggies you’ll ever meet. My specialties include copywriting, content creation, word smithing, editing, proofreading, SEO marketing, brainstorming, and picking brains. I’m also very good at multitasking, single-tasking, and “I’ll just do it myself” tasking. Last, but certainly not least, I specialize in spontaneous bursts of sheer brilliance. I traded life near the Pacific Ocean for mountain town living in Park City, which actually feels like a chill beach town…so, it’s a pretty even trade, except for the snow – obvi!