Texas is a state of immense diversity, from rolling hills and vast ranches to bustling cities and sandy coastlines. As a traveler with a deep appreciation for rich experiences, I’ve explored many corners of the Lone Star State, always seeking destinations that offer a unique blend of natural beauty, engaging activities, and genuine Texan charm. Finding the absolute best vacation spots in texas depends on what you’re seeking, whether it’s a family adventure, a romantic retreat, a solo escape, or a quick weekend getaway.
Whether you’re drawn to outdoor recreation, seeking relaxation, or eager to explore local culture, Texas has a spot that fits. Let’s dive into some of the most remarkable destinations I’ve discovered across various regions, offering insights into what makes each one a truly special place to visit. Many of these locations also make for fantastic [texas vacation spots] suitable for various types of travelers. If you’re looking for ideas on [where to go this weekend in texas], several options on this list provide excellent opportunities for a quick escape filled with adventure or relaxation.
Texas Hill Country: Nature, Relaxation, and Ranch Life
The Texas Hill Country is renowned for its scenic beauty, wineries, and charming small towns. It’s a region that invites you to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and connect with nature.
Mayan Dude Ranch | Bandera, TX
Located in Bandera, proudly known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” the Mayan Dude Ranch offers an authentic Texas ranch experience. Operating since 1951 on the banks of the Nueces River, this family-owned gem is a truly all-inclusive retreat. Your stay covers activities, food, and drinks, making it incredibly affordable for families. Guests can fill their days with horseback riding, fossil hikes, swimming in the pool or river, and evening entertainment like trick rope shows, two-step lessons, and stargazing. A fascinating highlight is the presence of twenty dinosaur tracks on the property, including a T-Rex track, allowing for a tangible connection to ancient history.
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A boy aiming a BB gun at targets
Children gathered around a magician during an evening show
Mo-Ranch | Hunt, TX
Nestled deep in the heart of the Hill Country, Mo-Ranch is a serene retreat open to the public, offering a truly laid-back vibe. With lodging options ranging from hotels and cabins to campgrounds, it caters to various preferences. The core appeal lies in connecting with the beautiful natural surroundings—spending time by the river, swimming in the pool, hiking the numerous trails, and simply letting kids explore the vast terrain. Amenities like disc golf, canoeing, sand volleyball, and tennis courts provide plenty of activities. It’s a place where cellular service is often spotty, offering a welcome opportunity to truly disconnect.
Children climbing on rocks by a river
Jellystone Hill Country | Canyon Lake, TX
A popular destination for campers and RVs, Jellystone Park near Canyon Lake (or the larger Guadalupe location) offers a fantastic mix of outdoor fun and waterpark excitement. Renting a cabin provides a comfortable base to enjoy the numerous kid-friendly activities and impressive water play areas. The location near Canyon Lake offers easy access to the charming towns of Wimberley and Gruene for dining and exploration, making it one of the versatile best vacation spots in texas for active families.
A colorful water park area with slides and splash features
River Bluff Cabins | Leakey, TX
Situated near Garner State Park along the pristine Frio River, River Bluff Cabins offers a simple, family-friendly vacation spot prioritizing river access. While the cabins might be basic, the premium location right on the river makes it worthwhile, providing the perfect area for swimming and relaxing. Each cabin includes a full kitchen, allowing for self-catering. Additional amenities like a splash pad, pool, and sports courts cater to kids, and the proximity to Garner State Park means easy access to hiking and the iconic Garner dance. This spot is all about embracing the natural water playground of the Frio.
People relaxing in shallow water by the Frio River
Horseshoe Bay Resort | Marble Falls, TX
For a touch of luxury that remains family-friendly, Horseshoe Bay Resort on Lake LBJ is a fantastic choice. This resort boasts extensive amenities, including multiple pools, a beach area, poolside service, tennis, pickleball, and three golf courses. They offer a robust activity program and a kids’ club, making it easy for parents to relax. Lake activities like sunset cruises or boat rentals add another layer of fun. With various lodging options, including dog-friendly condos, and special holiday events, it’s a versatile and appealing destination among the best vacation spots in texas. It also offers a luxurious setting for [honeymoon destinations texas].
Kids playing miniature golf at a resort
A lakeside beach area with chairs and umbrellas
Cypress Falls Lodge | Wimberley, TX
Dating back to 1949, Cypress Falls Lodge in Wimberley boasts a rich history and an ideal location for enjoying summer activities. While the rooms are simple, the access to the Cypress Falls Swimming Hole is a major draw. Guests can enjoy tubing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming just a short walk from the lodge. An on-site cafe and a fun tavern (that welcomes kids and dogs) provide convenient dining options. Being only five minutes from downtown Wimberley means easy access to the town’s charming shops, restaurants, wineries, and other swimming holes, adding cultural flavor to the natural exploration.
A river swimming hole with rocks and trees
San Antonio Area: Resort Luxury Meets Historic Charm
The San Antonio area offers a compelling mix of high-end resort experiences and the historic, cultural attractions of San Antonio itself.
JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa
Set amidst 600 acres of picturesque oak-covered hills, this luxury resort is a destination in itself. Its nine-acre water park, complete with a lazy river and slides, is a major highlight. The availability of cabana rentals and poolside service elevates the relaxation factor. With six on-site restaurants, bars, and a luxury spa, guests have little reason to leave. The resort also excels at providing engaging kids’ activities, especially during holidays, offering unique experiences like petting zoos, Santa visits, and light shows alongside traditional resort fun. Its blend of luxury and family activities makes it one of the premier best vacation spots in texas, and certainly suitable for [honeymoon destinations texas].
Lazy river at a resort water park
Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa | San Antonio, TX
Located just 20 minutes from downtown San Antonio’s famous Riverwalk, this secluded resort offers a vast array of amenities rooted in authentic Texas hospitality. Its five-acre water park features a unique FlowRider wave machine, alongside nature trails, complimentary bicycles, sports courts, and a video arcade. With six on-site restaurants and poolside service, it provides a comfortable and entertaining retreat while still being close to San Antonio’s historical attractions like Natural Bridge Caverns, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, and Sea World. This balance of retreat and accessibility solidifies its place among the best vacation spots in texas.
Aerial view of a resort water park with pools and slides
Tapatio Springs Resort | Boerne, TX
North of San Antonio in the charming town of Boerne, Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort offers a blend of relaxation and recreation. Co-owned by country music star George Strait, it has a distinct Texas feel. While perhaps less focused on overt kid-centric activities than some resorts, it provides ample space, an award-winning golf course, two pools (one adult-only), hiking trails, and a spa. The restaurant patio overlooks the stunning Hill Country and often features live music, perfectly capturing the regional ambiance. Its proximity to downtown Boerne adds opportunities for exploring a picturesque Texas town with unique shops and restaurants. This resort could be a peaceful setting for [taking a solo vacation].
Golf course with rolling hills in the background
A welcome sign for Boerne, Texas
Camp Fimfo | New Braunfels, TX
Another great family spot on the Guadalupe River, Camp Fimfo in New Braunfels is a camping resort offering a multitude of amenities. Though pricier than traditional campgrounds, it justifies the cost with a water playground, mini-golf, gem mining, scheduled activities, hot tubs, water slides, and sports courts. It’s an ideal location for tubing on the Guadalupe River. Guests can choose from RV sites, tents, or cabin rentals, making it a versatile choice among the best vacation spots in texas for those who love river recreation combined with resort comforts.
Port Aransas: The Quintessential Texas Beach Town
While the Texas Gulf Coast offers several destinations, Port Aransas stands out for its “beachy” town vibe, excellent dining and shopping, and beautiful coastal communities.
Beachgoers and cars on a wide sandy beach in Port Aransas
Cinnamon Shore | Port Aransas, TX
This large beach community is instantly recognizable by its colorful, picturesque beach homes. Cinnamon Shore provides a meticulously manicured environment with a strong focus on family-friendly amenities. Guests enjoy access to restaurants, poolside bars, coffee shops, multiple pools, a pirate ship playscape, and a rotating calendar of free activities like live music, movies on the lawn, and sandcastle lessons. Optional paid activities range from fishing tours and bike rentals to bonfires on the beach and water sports lessons. The individually owned vacation rentals are beautifully decorated and feature full kitchens, making them ideal for larger groups looking for the best vacation spots in texas with a coastal flair. Renting a beach buggie is highly recommended for easily navigating the community and carrying beach gear.
Colorful beach houses in a planned community
Kids gathered around a person teaching sandcastle building
Palmilla Beach Resort | Port Aransas, TX
Similar in concept to Cinnamon Shore but on a slightly smaller scale, Palmilla Beach Resort is another luxury beach community in Port Aransas. It features beautifully decorated individual vacation rentals and boasts Texas’ only True Links style golf course. Amenities include a large resort pool (with a second under construction), cabanas, poolside and beach food/drink service, and two on-site restaurants. While offering fewer scheduled activities than Cinnamon Shore, it provides a luxurious and relaxing beach escape. Direct beach access via a pier is available, but a beach buggie is still recommended for convenience. This refined atmosphere could also be considered for [honeymoon destinations texas].
An outdoor restaurant patio overlooking a golf course and ocean
Port Royal Ocean Resort | Port Aransas, TX
Wrapped around the largest lagoon pool in Texas, Port Royal Ocean Resort offers a more affordable option for a beachfront family vacation in Port Aransas. The resort provides easy walking access to the beach via a pier, making buggie rental less essential here. While the individually owned condos may be older, the resort compensates with abundant family-friendly activities like waterslides, sandcastle lessons, dive-in movies, and aqua Zumba. Dining options include a swim-up bar, food truck, and restaurant, providing convenience right on site.
Large lagoon-style swimming pool area at Port Royal Ocean Resort
The Mayan Princess | Port Aransas, TX
Consisting of 60 beachfront condos, The Mayan Princess is another option for direct beach access in Port Aransas without needing a buggie. The condos, available in 1, 2, or 3 bedrooms, feature large patios or balconies with views of the three lagoon pools and the Gulf of Mexico. Each is equipped with full kitchens and laundry facilities. Though an older property, updates have been made to the units. Located about 10 miles from downtown, it offers a quieter, no-frills beach experience, valued for its simplicity and proximity to the sand and waves.
Exterior view of a condo building with pools and beach in the background
Austin Area: Vibrant City Life and Hill Country Retreats
Austin, known for its “Keep Austin Weird” motto and vibrant live music scene, is surrounded by beautiful Hill Country landscapes, offering resorts that blend urban access with natural escapes.
Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa | Bastrop, TX
Located on a vast 405 acres along the Lower Colorado River near Bastrop, Hyatt Lost Pines offers an authentic Texas resort experience just outside of Austin. The extensive property features unique activities like horseback riding, shotgun trap shooting, archery, family fishing, alongside an 18-hole golf course, a waterpark with a lazy river, and a high-end spa. Multiple on-site restaurants and bars cater to all tastes. The resort also hosts special holiday events. Its blend of adventurous activities and relaxing amenities makes it a compelling option among the best vacation spots in texas, especially for those seeking both outdoor fun and comfort. The spa and various activities could make this a nice option for [vacations for single women] or those [taking a solo vacation].
People floating in a lazy river at a resort
Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa | Austin, TX
Secluded within 4,000 acres of rolling Hill Country, the newly renovated Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa provides an upscale retreat near Austin. This resort focuses on refined leisure with four award-winning golf courses, a spa, and seven distinct restaurants and lounges. Family-friendly touches include golf and tennis lessons for kids and seasonal events like poolside crafts and nature walks. Its serene setting combined with high-end amenities makes it suitable for a luxurious family trip or a relaxing adult getaway, potentially fitting the description of [honeymoon destinations texas] or a serene spot for [taking a solo vacation].
Lakeway Resort & Spa | Lakeway, TX
Overlooking Lake Travis, Lakeway Resort & Spa offers a beautiful setting in the Texas Hill Country, just 25 miles from Austin’s city center. The resort features a dedicated kids’ pool with an adventure slide and splash pad, heated during winter weekends. Family activities include outdoor movies and evening s’mores. Access to the Lakeway marina allows for boating on the lake. With an on-site spa and a southern restaurant, it provides a classic resort experience with a focus on waterfront enjoyment, making it a charming option for a Texas getaway.
Resort pool complex overlooking a lake
Kalahari Resort | Round Rock, TX
Home to the largest indoor waterpark in America, Kalahari Resort in Round Rock is a massive entertainment complex where you truly never need to leave. It boasts over 20 dining options, a sprawling indoor waterpark with numerous pools, whirlpools, and slides, and the 80,000 sq. ft. Tom Foolery’s Adventure Park offering arcades, laser tag, and indoor rides. A full-service spa and retail space add to the convenience. Waterpark admission is included with a room booking, making it an excellent option for family fun regardless of the weather, securing its place among the best vacation spots in texas for guaranteed indoor excitement.
Interior view of a large indoor waterpark with slides and pools
Georgetown, TX
My hometown, Georgetown, is a quaint and charming destination that serves as an excellent base for a family getaway, especially if you’re looking for smaller, more local experiences rather than a large resort. The historic downtown square is incredibly picturesque, especially during seasonal events like the Christmas lighting or the Annual Poppy Fest, which celebrates the town’s vibrant poppy blooms with live music and markets. While there isn’t a single large resort, options like the Sheraton Hotel in Rivery Park offer convenient lodging with amenities like a pool and bike rentals, close to trails, shops, and restaurants.
For a unique stay, consider a charming cottage rental. Georgetown offers a variety of family-friendly outdoor activities, including kayaking, exploring nearby Natural Bridge Caverns, hiking trails, and swimming at the famous Blue Hole in the city center. Sweet Eats Farm is a perennial favorite for seasonal fun. The town’s friendly atmosphere and diverse local offerings make it one of the most delightful best vacation spots in texas for experiencing authentic small-town life. It’s also a great place if you’re [taking a solo vacation] focused on exploring local culture and food, perhaps checking out local recommendations from sources like Georgetown Bites.
Historic town square in Georgetown, Texas, decorated for Christmas
Families enjoying activities at Sweet Eats Farm, including a large inflatable slide
Houston / Galveston: Coastal Charm and Urban Escapes
Southeast Texas offers vibrant urban centers and coastal retreats, providing diverse options for different travel styles.
The Woodlands Resort | The Woodlands, TX
Located just 30 minutes north of downtown Houston, The Woodlands Resort is a vast property offering a blend of relaxation and active pursuits. It features two championship golf courses, a Lazy River & Waterpark, multiple pools, extensive outdoor and indoor tennis courts, hiking trails, bike rentals, a spa, and several on-site restaurants. Activities like goat yoga and an arcade add unique fun. It’s a comprehensive resort experience close to urban amenities, making it a convenient and amenity-rich option among the best vacation spots in texas for those near the Houston area.
The San Luis Resort | Galveston, TX
Set on a 32-acre beachfront enclave on Galveston Island, The San Luis Resort provides a luxurious coastal getaway. The resort boasts lavish accommodations, multiple pools, private cabanas, and poolside service. With several on-site restaurants, it’s easy to enjoy fine dining without leaving the property. Its prime beachfront location offers easy access to the sand and surf, and it’s also a great base for exploring Galveston’s historic downtown area, known for its Victorian architecture and unique shops. The San Luis Resort is a top contender for [honeymoon destinations texas] or a relaxing beach escape.
Beachfront resort with multiple pools and palm trees
Margaritaville Lake Resort | Lake Conroe, TX
An hour north of Houston on Lake Conroe, Margaritaville Lake Resort offers a waterfront escape with extensive amenities. The resort’s 3.5-acre waterpark includes five pools, waterslides, a lazy river, a splash pad, hot tubs, and a private beach. Lake access provides opportunities for water rentals like boats, jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards. An 18-hole golf course, tennis, pickleball, mini-golf, multiple restaurants, bars, and a monthly calendar of activities ensure there’s always something to do. Offering traditional rooms and larger cottages, it caters well to families and groups seeking diverse recreation.
Aerial view of Margaritaville Lake Resort pool complex and lake
Dallas / Fort Worth: Metroplex Magic and Family Fun
The Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex provides a wealth of attractions and resorts, from themed experiences to luxury stays.
Gaylord Texan | Grapevine, TX
Located on Lake Grapevine, the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center is a massive property perfect for families. Its ten-acre water park and indoor pool provide ample swimming opportunities, while the four-and-a-half acres of indoor garden atriums offer a unique environment to explore regardless of the weather. The resort boasts four award-winning restaurants, bars, and a spa. The highlight is their extensive calendar of family-friendly activities and amazing holiday events, including snow tubing and impressive ice sculptures, making it a spectacular choice for seasonal trips and one of the most comprehensive best vacation spots in texas for varied entertainment.
Great Wolf Lodge | Grapevine, TX
Also in Grapevine, Great Wolf Lodge is designed specifically for families, centered around its 80,000 sq. ft. indoor water park. Beyond the water slides and pools, the resort offers numerous kid-friendly activities, a kids’ spa, character meals, and suites perfect for accommodating families. Adult amenities like the “wine down” service add a touch for parents. Similar to Kalahari, it’s an all-in-one destination where you can stay and play without needing to leave, offering seasonal events for Halloween and Christmas. It’s a highly recommended option among the best vacation spots in texas for a dedicated family waterpark experience.
For those exploring the core cities, Hotel Drover in Fort Worth offers a beautiful Western-themed stay, while the Hilton Anatole in Dallas features the impressive JadeWaters pool area, both providing excellent lodging choices for families in the metroplex.
Texas truly offers a staggering array of vacation possibilities, catering to every interest and travel style. From the rugged beauty of the Hill Country to the sandy shores of the Gulf Coast and the dynamic offerings of its major cities, finding the best vacation spots in texas is an exciting journey in itself. Whether you prioritize outdoor adventure, luxurious relaxation, family fun, or cultural immersion, the Lone Star State welcomes you to discover its unique charm. Start planning your Texas adventure today!