7 of 51

Write now Article Tools

Some of the most fun and relaxing natural vacation destinations are located in Texas. The Lone Star State has breathtaking national and state parks and beautiful islands with sandy beaches. While many people associate Texas with flat plains, there are actually several mountains and a vast hilly region in the state.

South Padre Island is one of the most popular beach destinations in Texas. This island jewel, nestled in the Gulf of Mexico just off the southern tip of the Lone Star State, offers beautiful white sand beaches and sapphire waters. The peak times of spring and summer are balmy and pleasant. The island is often even more enjoyable in the fall and winter months when traffic is low, as the temperature in South Padre rarely dips below 70 degrees.

You can spend your days in South Padre Island boating, fishing, parasailing, kayaking, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving or jet skiing. Sea Turtle, Inc. offers daily turtle shows through the Meet the Turtles Program. Events are planned year round, including Market Days, the Winter Texan Golf Classic, and Kitefest. Birding and wildlife watching are a popular activities. Guides are available from Captain Toddie's Pelican Services and the Dolphin and Nature Research Center. Many fine restaurants dot the island, including Louie's Backyard, Sheraton's Beachside Bar and Grill, Pirate's Landing Restaurant, Sea Ranch Restaurant, Tom and Jerry's Beach Club Bar and Grill and Dorado's Baja Bar and Grill.

South Padre Island features a wide array of vacation rental properties at reasonable prices. Tropical Texas Vacation Rentals offers property rentals starting at as little as $50 per night.

The mountainous Big Bend country offers breathtaking sights such as the Chisos Mountains Basin, which is in the center of Big Bend National Park. The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive cuts through the Chihuahuan Desert, leading to the Castolon Historic District and the Santa Elena Canyon. Big Bend also offers some of the best hiking in Texas. The Ernst Tinaja is a short but interesting trail which leads up to a canyon. The Pine Canyon Trail is somewhat longer, leading gradually upwards into the piney woods. Don't forget to check out the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail near the Rio Grande Village.

The best time to visit Big Bend National Park is between the months of November and April. Luxury lodging can be obtained for prices starting around $129 per night, from Lajitas Vacation Rentals, Marathon Vacation Rentals, or Terlingua Vacation

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Best vacation destinations for a nature-filled getaway?
We want to hear your view. Write now!