Rockport Beach
Rockport, TX

Rockport Beach in Aransas County splits into three distinct areas: an open bay beach, a calm enclosed swimming lagoon locals call the salt water pool, and a bayside loop nicknamed the racetrack that circles a small island. The lagoon is the draw for families since it has no waves and stays clean and shallow.
The enclosed lagoon is a genuine local favorite for families, though the ten dollar daily parking fee is a real deterrent for a quick visit.
How we score beachesHead straight for the lagoon if you're bringing small kids or want to skip the wind that can kick up along the open bay side.
Parking runs ten dollars a day or forty dollars for an annual pass, first come first served across the lot.
A paved path and a large pavilion with showers and restrooms make this one of the more accessible beaches on the middle coast, with covered picnic areas throughout.
Dogs are not permitted on the beach.
Winter brings flocks of migrating birds and mild, walkable weather, while summer is the season for the swimming lagoon, with water staying comfortably warm into September.
More Gulf Coast beaches

Siesta Key Beach
Siesta Key, FL · Gulf Coast
Fine quartz sand that stays cool underfoot even in summer, sloping gently into calm Gulf water, and consistently rated among the best family beaches in the country.

Clearwater Beach
Clearwater, FL · Gulf Coast
A lively Gulf-front strip with a fishing pier, a nightly sunset celebration at Pier 60, and calm, shallow water that makes it an easy family favorite.

Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach, FL · Gulf Coast
Sugar-white sand within the Gulf Islands National Seashore, with dunes protected from development and water clear enough for snorkeling near the jetties.
