Texas is the second-largest US state, so it should come as no surprise that there is a lot of things to do if you’re looking to have a little fun with your friends and family! The trouble is, with so much to do, how do you narrow down your choices?
The Lonestar State is fortunate to have good weather for a large chunk of the year, which makes water-based fun a great choice for people of all ages. Especially since there are so many ways to splash around in the water while you’re in Texas!
Here are five of the best ways to have a little water-based fun while you’re in this great state.
Visit Sea World in San Antonio
If you’re anywhere near the San Antonio area, Sea World San Antonio is a must-visit attraction. It combines thrilling rides with exciting adventures and unforgettable encounters with all kinds of marine creatures.
You’ll be kept busy all day long with rides and activities that include:
- Visit Dolphin Cove to see bottlenose dolphins up-close-and-personal
- Say hello to over 100 penguins at the Penguin Encounter exhibit
- Zoom up to 50 miles an hour on The Great White roller coaster
- Get a little wet by riding Journey to Atlantis
- Catch a show, like Pets Ahoy or A Beluga Story
- Grab a bite to eat at one of the many dining opportunities in the park
Go to the Beach
Texas is one of the biggest states, but it is also in the top ten when it comes to the coastline. That means there are tons of opportunities to splash in the waves!
There are a lot of really great beaches in Texas, so you can be fairly sure that there’s one near where you are staying. A few of the best include:
- South Padre Island is the perfect family-friendly spot for walking on wide sandy beaches.
- Boca Chica is all about surfing, snorkeling, and fishing, in addition to swimming.
- Padre Island National Seashore is located just 30 miles southeast of Corpus Christi, which is another good beach vacation.
- Mustang Island is the perfect place to camp overnight or paddle through shallow-water canals.
Visit Dallas World Aquarium
Having a little water-based fun usually means getting wet, but it doesn’t have to! If you like the idea of seeing sea creatures up-close, but you don’t necessarily want to get wet, make a stop in Dallas and visit the Dallas World Aquarium.
It features many creatures, including endangered animals like Orinoco crocodiles, giant river otters, and Antillean manatees. It also features a tunnel tank that kids and adults alike will love exploring.
Why not have a little land-based fun while you’re there too? The aquarium houses additional exhibits that feature animals you won’t find in the water. For example, you can see ocelots, storks, tamarins, and more, ensuring you and your family are busy all day long.
Swim at Schlitterbahn in Galveston
Who knew there were so many ways to have a little water fun, but we’re not done yet. Why not visit Schlitterbahn in Galveston?
The Schlitterbahn is perfect if you love theme parks, but you also want to splash in the water throughout the day. This waterpark is the perfect family destination because it features attractions that are perfect for all ages. The little ones will love splashing around in the lazy river with you, while the older kids will love taking a ride on the Dragon Blaster.
Have Some Fun at the Sam Rayburn Reservoir
The beach isn’t your only option if you want to get outdoors and spend some time in the water a little closer to nature. There are many lakes in Texas, and one of the biggest is the Sam Rayburn Reservoir.
It is located in Angelina National Forest, which spreads over a massive 114,000 acres. There is an amazing array of activities that you can do on the lake. They include swimming, fishing, and boating. There are opportunities to camp if that’s your thing, or you can stay in one of the nearby resorts.
Need a break from the lake? Because the reservoir is located in Brookeland, there are plenty of other things you can do too!
Looking for a way to stay cool in Texas? Skip the kiddie pool in the front yard and visit one of the attractions on this list. From completely submerging yourself in the water at the beach to being just at arm’s length of the water at the Dallas World Aquarium, there’s a way for everyone to have a little water-based fun in this great state!
