Top 10 Summer Destinations in Texas

When it comes to summer vacation activities and destinations, Texas has something for everyone. From sweeping beaches to rushing rivers, from huge metropolitans to mountain peaks, vacationers can always find "just the right spot" in the Lone Star State.

01 of 10

San Antonio

The Alamo City is Texas' number one tourist destination all year around. In the summer, San Antonio offers visitors a number of fun activities, with such attractions as the San Antonio Zoo, Sea World San Antonio, and Fiesta Texas, as well as historical sites such as the Alamo.

02 of 10

South Padre Island

View Of Sea Against Cloudy Sky — Billy Cortez / EyeEm / Getty Images

Considered to be the "Texas tropics," South Padre Island offers visitors world-class beaches, a variety of watersports, nightclubs, restaurants and quick access for visitors wishing to take a day trip into old Mexico.

03 of 10

New Braunfels

There is no shortage of things to do in New Braunfels. Visitors enjoy Schlitterbahn Water Park, floating or fishing on the Guadalupe River, horseback riding, touring local vineyards and more.

04 of 10

Galveston

Galveston Island is truly a year around destination. With plenty of attractions, world-class hotels and restaurants, and, of course, miles of sandy beaches, Galveston is a perfect vacation spot any month of the year. However, this historic island really shines in summer.

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05 of 10

Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi is one of the most popular vacation destinations on the Gulf Coast. Besides miles of beautiful beaches, Corpus is home to a number of interesting attractions, such as the Texas State Aquarium and USS Lexington.

06 of 10

San Marcos

Home to Texas State University, San Marcos is also home to great watersports on the San Marcos and Guadalupe rivers, Wonder World, Aquarena Springs, and many more attractions, not to mention a huge Outlet Mall.

07 of 10

Canyon Lake

Due to its location on its namesake lake and the Guadalupe River, the town of Canyon Lake proclaims to be the "Water Recreation Capital of Texas" and offers visitors numerous water and outdoor recreational opportunities as well as quick access to a number of Hill Country attractions, towns, and cities.

08 of 10

Del Rio

The Texas border town of Del Rio is located on the shores of Lake Amistad and the Rio Grande, offering birders, boaters, and fishermen plenty of options. However, Del Rio is also home to a number of top-notch museums as well as the oldest winery in Texas, the Val Verde Winery.

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09 of 10

Austin

There is really never a bad time to visit Austin. With a variety of museums and historic sites, as well as a wide array of outdoor recreational activities, the Capitol City is a great summer vacation destination.

10 of 10

Port Aransas

The ferry ride over sets the mood for a relaxing visit to Port Aransas. Birding, nature watching, fishing, shopping, and surfing are just a few of the activities located on this enchanting middle coast island.