One of the best perks of staying at Gulf Coast 5 Star RV Resort is how close you are to the Texas Gulf Coast's most accessible and uncrowded beaches. Surfside Beach is just about 15 minutes away — and it's the kind of beach that rewards repeat visits.

Whether you're here for a weekend, a month-long work contract, or a full winter stay, Surfside Beach deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Surfside Beach sits at the southern tip of Follets Island, where the Gulf of Mexico meets the mouth of the Brazos River. It's a classic Texas beach town — low-key, unpretentious, and genuinely beautiful.

Unlike the more commercialized beaches further up the coast, Surfside has:

• Wide, flat beach with hard-packed sand (great for walking and driving)
• Relatively uncrowded even on weekends
• Excellent fishing access from the beach and the jetties
• A relaxed, small-town atmosphere
• Affordable local restaurants and bait shops

It's the kind of place where you can spend a full day without spending much money.

From our resort at 2501 FM 523 Rd. in Oyster Creek, Surfside Beach is a straightforward 15-minute drive:

1. Head south on FM 523
2. Turn right (west) on TX-332
3. Cross the Intracoastal Waterway bridge
4. You're on the island — Surfside Beach is straight ahead

Parking is free and plentiful along the beachfront road. You can drive your vehicle directly onto the beach in designated areas — a classic Texas beach experience.

The Surfside Jetties are one of the most productive fishing spots on the upper Texas coast. The rock jetties extend into the Gulf at the mouth of the Brazos River, creating a natural fish highway.

What you'll catch: Redfish, speckled trout, flounder, sheepshead, black drum, and seasonal Spanish mackerel. The jetties are accessible on foot and are especially productive at dawn and dusk.

What to bring: Medium-heavy spinning or baitcasting gear, live shrimp or cut mullet, and a valid Texas fishing license.

Texas law allows vehicles on most Gulf beaches, and Surfside is no exception. Drive your truck or SUV down to your favorite spot, set up your chairs, and enjoy the Gulf breeze without hauling gear a quarter mile.

The beach is also excellent for shelling, especially after a storm or strong north wind. Look for lightning whelks, moon snails, and the occasional sand dollar.

The Gulf water at Surfside is warm from May through October — typically 80–85°F in summer. The beach has a gradual slope, making it safe for wading and swimming. There are no lifeguards, so swim with a buddy and watch for rip currents.

Surfside Beach sits on the Central Flyway, one of North America's major migratory bird routes. During spring and fall migration, the beach and nearby wetlands can be spectacular for birding. Look for shorebirds, terns, skimmers, and the occasional rare vagrant.

Kitty's Purple Cow — A Surfside institution. Burgers, seafood, and cold drinks right near the beach. Cash-friendly and always busy on weekends.

Jetty Shack — Casual seafood near the jetties. Great fried shrimp and fish tacos.

Freeport restaurants — Just a few minutes back across the bridge, Freeport has a wider selection including Mexican food, BBQ, and fast food options.

Fall (October–November): Ideal weather, excellent fishing, and far fewer crowds than summer. Water is still warm enough to swim.

Winter (December–February): Cool and peaceful. Perfect for long beach walks, birding, and fishing. Rarely crowded.

Spring (March–May): Warming up, wildflowers blooming inland, and good fishing. Spring break brings more visitors in March.

Summer (June–August): Hot and humid, but the Gulf breeze makes it bearable. Busiest season — arrive early for parking.

• Bring sunscreen — The Gulf Coast sun is intense even on cloudy days
• Check tide charts — Low tide is best for beach driving and shelling
• Bring cash — Some local spots are cash-only
• Pack a cooler — Keep drinks and snacks cold for a full day out
• Respect the beach — Pack out everything you bring in

Surfside Beach is one of those places that feels like a reward for choosing the right home base. From Gulf Coast 5 Star RV Resort, it's close enough for a spontaneous afternoon trip or a full day adventure. We'll see you out there.