Move over, Galveston — Surfside Beach has the same water, the same sand, less crowds and — for Sierra Vista residents — a shorter drive!

In fact, beach-loving residents can shoot down Highway 288 in less than an hour to wade in the water and search for seashells. Of course, if you stop at Buc-ee’s in Lake Jackson for snacks, it might take you a little more than an hour. (Fun note — this is the original Buc-ee’s!)

Surfside Beach has four miles of coastline — perfect for lounging, wading in warm Gulf waters and searching for seashells. Another popular pastime at Surfside Beach? The name offers the biggest clue — surfing! Texas surfers frequent the shore — particularly the shoreline near Texas Street — for its consistent waves.

Birding is another popular activity along the Texas Gulf Coast, and birders will find plenty to watch at Surfside Beach. Roseate spoonbills, sandhill cranes, snow geese, herons and egrets can be found at Surfside during the year. The community is also along the southern border of the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge, which reports more than 200 varieties of birds. Regardless of when you visit Surfside, make sure to pack your binoculars!

Surfside Jetty Park

Many beachgoers enjoy the convenience of Surfside Jetty Park. At the foot of the East Jetty off Fort Velasco Drive, Surfside Jetty Park is a 15-acre day-use park with a paved parking area, a playground and bathrooms. The paved jetty is more than a half-mile long. Many anglers can be found fishing its edge in an attempt to hook redfish, sheepshead, shark and spotted sea trout.

Of note to Texas historians, the park is also home to the Velasco Town Battery which dates to before the 1860s. The battery — which features an emplacement with two brass cannon — was turned over to the Confederacy in 1861. Historic Fort Velasco is just outside the park.