Let’s face it … vacations can be expensive! The cost can add up quickly between the food, activities, accommodations, and traveling. However, there are ways to save and still have a fantastic vacation. Dive in with us as we explore the best free things to do around Crystal Beach, TX, and highlight how you can have that vacation you’ve been dreaming of without breaking the bank.
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The Best Free Things to Do Around Crystal Beach, TX
Take a Walk on the Beach
This one may seem obvious, but isn’t relaxing the day away on the beach what you’ve been dreaming of anyway? There are so many fantastic ways to enjoy the beach, but a simple walk along the shoreline will always be one of our favorites! Slow down, stroll, and truly take in the beauty of the Texas coast. Enjoy the salty air and sunshine on your skin. It’s good for the soul.
Hunt for Seashells
Hunting for seashells (aka beachcombing) is a fun way to spend a morning or afternoon on the beach and is a free activity that the whole family can get involved with. You only need a few buckets, small shovels, and a zippered bag to store your treasures. The best times to go shelling are during low tide, after a storm, and during new or full moon phases. During these times, the ocean will have washed up all kinds of fascinating finds that you might not have discovered otherwise.
Pro tip: Bring a mesh bag with you! Place what you find in the mesh bag, run it through the water, and all of your treasures are instantly cleaned for you. Check out this handy chart showing what you may find on the shores of Crystal Beach.
Go Birdwatching
Birdwatching can be super fun and even educational for your family’s little ones. It’s fun to sit back and watch how birds behave. There are many great spots for birdwatching around Crystal Beach, such as on the beach, in a local park, or from your Crystal Beach vacation rental. Before you arrive for your vacation, we recommend picking up a birdwatching book like this one to help identify the different species and of course, don’t forget the binoculars. If you would like more information regarding birdwatching, we have created a fantastic guide to help you make the most out of your Crystal Beach birdwatching adventures.
Visit the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge
The Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge is a must if you enjoy nature and observing wildlife! This 37,000-acre refuge is home to tons of different animal species, including alligators, eagles, fish, birds, coyotes, bobcats, and an extensive list of more. There are numerous different walking trails and paths of various lengths, and they are all dog-friendly to leashed dogs. There are other activities like fishing, hunting, crabbing, and boating. We have an excellent guide for the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge. Click here to check it out and bookmark it for your upcoming visit!
Enjoy a Local Park
Local parks are great for birdwatching (mentioned above), taking a walk, letting the kids burn some energy, enjoying a picnic, or just taking a moment to sit quietly and enjoy the sights and sounds. Crystal Beach is home to dog-friendly Noble Carl Park, which features a playground for kids and a picnic area. There are plenty of other great parks in the surrounding areas, click here to learn more.
Have Fun at Your Crystal Beach Vacation Rental
Sometimes, you just feel like staying in. This creates the perfect opportunity for fun at your Crystal Beach vacation rental! We suggest bringing a few board games, card games, and a craft activity when packing for your vacation. Not only are these excellent ways to save money and have fun with your family, but they are also perfect for rainy days. We have a fantastic selection of vacation rentals just waiting for you. Take a look at what’s available and start planning your relaxing vacation on the Texas Gulf Coast today.
Participate in Local Free Events
One of the best ways to enjoy free things around Crystal Beach, TX, is by participating in local free events and gatherings! Something fun and exciting is always happening in and around Crystal Beach year-round. Whether dancing the night away, marveling at a Christmas tree lighting, or viewing an exciting sailboat race, there is something for everyone. Click here to check out all the upcoming community events, and be sure to enjoy a few during your Crystal Beach vacation!
As you can see, there are plenty of fantastic ways to have a great time and make lasting memories during your Crystal Beach vacation for free. After all, your family won’t remember how much money you spent on your getaway. They’ll remember the fun times. This is how precious memories are made.