Texas' Hidden Island Haven Is A Beachy Gulf Coast Playground To Camp, Swim, And Fish

Hot summers mean that people are flocking to every closest watering hole and beach. However, in the South of Texas on the Gulf Coast there lies a hidden beach on an island lacking those usual masses of visitors. This affordable, tropical beach paradise is where one can peacefully enjoy fishing, swimming, and camping in an unspoiled area. Don't expect any comforts of public restrooms and beach clubs at Brazos Island State Park, but do expect serenity.

Brazos Island State Park has a few different names including the more popular name of Boca Chica Beach State Park, and most locals refer to it as Boca Chica Beach.  When visiting, you'll have the most luck in finding information in it by referring to it as Boca Chica Beach. However, for the purposes of this article, it will be referred to Brazos Island State Park. Just be careful not to confuse this with Brazos Bend State Park, which is another park landlocked in Needville, Texas, or you'll be finding yourself far from the beach. 

Located about 24 miles or about a 45 minute drive by car from the closest city Brownsville, this beach sits close to the Mexican border. Most people would more likely make the drive from a major city such as San Antonio, which is a daunting 296 mile (or about a four and a half hour) drive. Be prepared, as that also means there is likely a security checkpoint as confirmed by some Google reviewers.

With so much open beach, Brazos Island Scenic Park is the perfect space to spread out, relax, and set out a couple of fishing poles right from the shore. No boat needed. Common fish found here include red drum, spotted seat trout, and sheepshead. In order to enjoy fishing, one must have a Texas fishing license with a saltwater endorsement. People also choose to swim here, but it's important to remain cautious of heavy waves on certain days. You can check local tide charts ahead of time to make your swimming decision before arriving.

Another unique thing about this Southern Texas best-kept secret is the opportunity to possibly spot the Kemp's Ridley sea turtles who make their nests here. You'll likely see signs for the nesting areas, so do watch out for those. For campers who love the true exclusivity of primitive camping, you can set up a tent on the beach so long as you have everything you need including water and your own source of power. Don't expect your typical camping hookups since this is an undeveloped area. If you want the comfort of a hotel, you'll have to drive back to Brownsville to sleep overnight.

Beyond the beach, being so close to Brownsville, Texas also offers exciting attractions. The Tex-Mex culture is unlike those found in even some of the more northern cities of Texas such as San Antonio and the food will not disappoint. This area is also the unexpected hotspot that draws birders from around the world and is even known for being one of the best birdwatching destinations in the entire country.

What makes it so special is its relative remoteness and that it's lesser known. With 217 acres of undeveloped land you could drive for miles to spots where you won't encounter anyone else. Just make sure you have enough gas and 4-wheel drive as it's not going to be easy to get help if you get stuck in the sand or find your fuel tank on empty. 

This island has grown in popularity due to SpaceX, and rocket launch days can cause congestion as people drive in from all over –– so note when launch days are to avoid getting stuck in long lines. Still, its distance from major cities means fewer crowds compared to most Texas beaches, and driving a little further can lead to those empty stretches. Apart from that, any time of the year is a great time to visit. For those who want to escape the cold, you can still enjoy South Texas heat even in Winter.

One important thing to note is that since Brazos Island State Park is located within the Gulf of Mexico, water conditions are subject to change. Some days bring in bright blue waters that people don't believe could exist in Texas. Other days bring seaweed and harsh undertows.