Families love vacationing in Crystal Beach, TX, year-round. With soothing small-town vibes and fewer crowds than most beach towns, it’s easy to see why people love our coastal oasis even during the colder months. There’s a variety of fun, educational, and relaxing things to do in the winter on Bolivar Peninsula.
Between fun activities, beautiful sights, and delicious food, you’re sure to have a winter vacation to remember. Keep reading to learn more about all the fun waiting for you!
Be sure to get your free copy of our Vacation Guide for a roundup of our favorite area recommendations and to stay up to date on all things Bolivar Peninsula vacation.
One enticing reason to plan a winter vacation on the Bolivar Peninsula is the mild weather. Daily highs in December, January, and February are typically in the low 60s°F, making it comfortable enough to enjoy a wide range of fun activities. The temperatures rarely dip below 40°F, with the average lows in the 50s°F.
Pack a few moderate layers, and you will be comfortable during any activities you pursue. From walking on the beach to fishing in the Gulf, winter is an excellent time of year to experience the coast without the heat of summertime weather.
Bolivar Peninsula Winter Activities
Below are thirteen great activities you can enjoy during the winter months that are just minutes away from your Crystal Beach vacation rental.
Bird Watching
Calling all the bird watchers! You will love observing and identifying the various bird species that grace our shores. Pelicans, seagulls, terns, egrets, spoonbills, and more can be seen. Be sure to bring your binoculars and pick up a bird identification book at one of our local shops. High Island is known for its excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Check out our blog and learn why High Island, Texas, is a bird watcher’s dream.
Visit Fort Travis Seashore Park
For several years, Fort Travis served as a garrison for troops during World War I. The troops stationed there were responsible for defending the Port of Galveston. Today, the Galveston County Parks Department operates the Fort Travis Seashore Park, which includes the fort, playgrounds, and picnic area. Grab your family, pack a picnic, and make an afternoon out of your visit!
Beachcombing
Walking the miles of the pristine coastline is a favorite pastime for locals and visitors alike. When the weather is cooler, all you have to do is add a few layers, and you’re ready to enjoy a relaxing stroll on the beach. You can look for seashells, sea glass, and other beach finds. Be sure to bring along a small, zippered bag or pouch to keep any special treasures!
Rent a Golf Cart
Zipping around Crystal Beach in a golf cart is so much fun! Golf carts can be rented at numerous vendors throughout the Bolivar Peninsula and are a great way to get around, see our local area, and have a blast.
Fly a Kite
Constant gulf breezes make kite flying a true wintertime treat. Let your kites soar as you rest and relax during your winter escape on Bolivar Peninsula. Kites come in beautiful shapes and colors, so grab one that you love and enjoy watching it dance in the Gulf breeze.
See the Historic Bolivar Point Lighthouse
This historic landmark was built in 1872 and reaches 117 feet above sea level. Like all coastal beacons, this light was a navigational guide for mariners until 1933. Don’t miss this local sight during your vacation! If you enjoy historical outings, bookmark our blog about historical sights in Bolivar Peninsula so you can visit even more amazing local attractions.
Ride the Bolivar Ferry
Even if you have no reason to ride the ferry, it’s still a delightful and unique thing to do. Over the last half-century, many ferries have been replaced by bridges, making them a rare and fun sight. This approximately fifteen-minute mini-cruise is thrilling for both children and adults.
Go Fishing
Fishing on the Bolivar Peninsula is great year-round. You can surf fish, take a deep-sea fishing tour, or fish from the North Jetty. Be sure to have the appropriate fishing permits and know the state fishing regulations and limits. Don’t miss our Bolivar Peninsula Fishing blog post for more great fishing info.
Kayaking
Paddle your cares away with a relaxing kayak adventure! Whether you bring your own kayak or rent one here, kayaking is an excellent way to spend a winter day. East End Lagoon Nature Preserve is an excellent place to kayak, hike, and take in the natural beauty of Texas.
Play Golf
From novice to pro, there are golf courses for all skill levels and ages within minutes of your Crystal Beach vacation rental. You can enjoy the Ranch Wallis Smith Community Golf Course, or you can spend an afternoon playing a round of putt-putt golf at The Gulf Range, “where golfing meets the gulf.”
Sample Some Seafood
No coastal vacation would be complete without a sampling of delicious seafood. Check out our Best Seafood on Crystal Beach blog post for mouth-watering inspiration and a list of restaurant recommendations. Winter on the Gulf Coast brings its own fresh catch, including oysters and a variety of fish.
Walk the North Jetty
A quick trip to the North Jetty, located on the south end of the peninsula, is a great place for a walk or a little fishing. Get a unique view of the bay and waterways from this free vantage point and enjoy nature’s offerings. Learn more by watching the above video!
Break Out of an Escape Room
Gather your friends and family for a fun afternoon at the Bolivar Escape Room. Put your teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test as you crack the code and decode clues to secure your escape. This is a fun indoor activity during winter on Bolivar Peninsula.
Book Your Winter Stay in Crystal Beach, TX
From hot tubs to gourmet kitchens, our rentals offer a wide range of amenities to suit your needs and preferences. If you would like to dine al fresco, be sure to choose a vacation home with a large deck and patio furniture. For those who want instant access to the beach, browse through our Crystal Beach oceanfront rentals.
Browse our selection of rentals, offering accommodations for up to 62 guest! If you don’t see what you are looking for, give Swedes Real Estate a call. Our team of vacation professionals is standing by to assist you with your next getaway.
We can’t wait for you to discover all the best things to do in winter on Bolivar Peninsula. Book today and get ready for the vacation you’ve been dreaming of.
Q) Does it ever drop below freezing or snow during winter on the Texas Gulf coast?
A) Temperatures do drop below freezing from time to time during the winter months, but not for long periods of time. Snowfall is a rare event, and melts quickly when it does occur.
Q) Does Swedes Real Estate offer winter specials or off-season rates?
Yes. The best way to discover our off-season rates is to browse our inventory or to give us a call.
From hot tubs to gourmet kitchens, our rentals offer a wide range of amenities to suit your needs and preferences. If you would like to dine al fresco, be sure to choose a vacation home with a large deck and patio furniture. For those who want instant access to the beach, browse through our Crystal Beach oceanfront rentals.