Whether you're looking for family fun, a romantic getaway, or an adventurous weekend trip, Matagorda has something to offer everyone. Let's explore the top things to do in Matagorda, TX, to ensure your trip to the Lone Star State is unforgettable!
16 Fun Things to Do in Matagorda, TX
Dreaming of a relaxing escape on the Texas Gulf Coast? Look no further than Matagorda, TX — a charming coastal town full of natural beauty and rich history.
Whether you're looking for family fun, a romantic getaway, or an adventurous weekend trip, Matagorda has something to offer everyone. Let's explore the top things to do in Matagorda, TX, to ensure your trip to the Lone Star State is unforgettable!
Kid-Friendly Activities in Matagorda
1. Fishing Excursions
Introduce your kids to the joy of fishing with a guided excursion in East Matagorda Bay. The calm waters make it an excellent spot for beginners to catch redfish, flounder, and speckled trout.
2. Matagorda County Museum
Learn about local history with interactive exhibits that are fun and educational for kids at the Matagorda County Museum. This museum often hosts special events and activities perfect for younger visitors. Here, you can also learn about the La Belle Shipwreck, one of North America's most significant archaeological discoveries.
3. Horseback Riding on the Beach
For an unforgettable experience, take your family horseback riding along the beach. Several local companies can accommodate all ages and experience levels, giving the whole family a unique opportunity to see Matagorda's scenic coastlines.
4. Matagorda Bay Nature Park
Spend a day at Matagorda Bay Nature Park, a 1,600-acre gem that lines the Gulf of Mexico and the Colorado River. It offers miles of beautiful beaches, fishing spots on public piers, nature trails, and great Matagorda birding spots. Matagorda Bay Nature Park also has a nine-hole mini golf course, perfect for kids more interested in competitive sports than nature observation.
Romantic Activities for Couples in Matagorda
5. Sunset Cruising
Matagorda is perfect for a romantic retreat for couples looking to reconnect with nature and each other. Many local charter companies will let you customize a ride, such as taking a sunset cruise across Matagorda Bay. Bring drinks and snacks for a romantic and relaxing night on the water!
6. Romantic Picnics
Want to enjoy a meal over good conversation and even better company? Enjoy a picnic on one of Matagorda's secluded beaches. You can pack your meal or grab takeout from one of the best local restaurants and enjoy it while listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
7. Nighttime Stargazing
After sunset, take advantage of Matagorda’s clear skies by going stargazing. Find a quiet spot away from the city lights and marvel at the beauty of the Milky Way stretching across the night sky. This beautiful experience doesn’t cost a dime!
8. Kayaking Adventures
Rent kayaks or sign up for a guided tour through the coastal marshes surrounding Matagorda or down to where the Colorado River meets the Gulf of Mexico. Kayaking is a peaceful way to explore the area's natural beauty (including wildlife!).
Weekend Activities Near Matagorda
9. Farmers’ Markets
Find small local farmers’ markets around town on Saturday and Sunday mornings. At these markets, you can find fresh produce, handmade goods, and delicious treats sourced from nearby farms and artisans. Enjoy some of the freshest flavors of Texas while supporting the community!
10. Historical Tours
Learn about Matagorda’s rich history with guided tours through local museums or historical societies. Discover stories from the state’s past as you visit historic homes, courthouses, and landmarks that tell tales of early settlers, pirates, and the state’s Native American heritage. If you’re visiting Palacios, be sure to visit the historic Luther Hotel and the City by the Sea Museum.
11. Weekend Trips
Take a short drive to Bay City, where the historic courthouse square is full of charming shops and delicious restaurants. If you're looking for a bigger city adventure, both Houston and Corpus Christi are within driving distance. Both have many museums, cultural experiences, and lively city atmospheres.
Budget-Friendly Adventures
12. Matagorda Beach
Spend a day soaking up the sun and sand on Matagorda Beach. This beach has miles of pristine coastline, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, sandcastle building, and beachcombing. Keep an eye out for seashells or driftwood along the sand. The calm waves are also great for young swimmers!
13. Bird Watching
Matagorda is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The Matagorda Bay Nature Park is a prime spot for bird watching, where you can watch a diverse array of migratory and local bird species in their natural habitat. Bring binoculars and a field guide to help find the colorful variety of birds that call this place home, or grab a birding trail map to bring along from Texas Parks and Wildlife.
14. Hiking and Biking Trails
For those who love to stay active, explore the numerous hiking and biking trails around Matagorda, including those in Matagorda Bay Nature Park. These trails have scenic views of the Texas landscape, including wetlands, estuaries, and beaches. It's a great way to exercise while exploring nature and spotting local wildlife.
15. Fishing on the Pier
Grab your fishing gear and head to one of Matagorda’s public piers. While a license is required for fishing in Texas, using the pier is free. Fishing in Palacios and other oceanfront communities around Matagorda Bay is an excellent pastime for both beginners and avid fishermen!
16. Community Events
Keep an eye on local community boards and websites for free events happening in Matagorda. From outdoor concerts and festivals to farmer’s markets and parades, there’s always something fun (and free!) happening in town!
Extend Your Matagorda Escape: Discover the Laid-Back Lifestyle at Beachside
Matagorda has plenty to offer visitors, including sunny beaches, interesting museums and historic sites, beautiful natural parks, and a vibrant local culture. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family adventure, or just some time to relax and unwind in nature — you’re bound to have an unforgettable time in Matagorda County.
But what if you could turn this unforgettable experience into everyday life? You can when you build your dream home at Beachside — a peaceful waterfront community in Palacios and the Hidden Gem of the Texas Gulf Coast.
Schedule a tour to learn more about the community perks and laid-back lifestyle at Beachside and make your dream coastal lifestyle a reality!