We'll admit it. At first glance, the state of Texas beaches is underwhelming. Between the spring breakers and year-round partiers on South Padre Island to beaches that are more dirt than sand, it can be hard to find hidden pockets of real beach. But whether you want to hunt for seashells, windsurf, actually surf (who knew), or just sit out with plenty of layers of SPF and a good book , Texas has a beach for you, with real sand and access to the Gulf.

Padre Island is the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world but its national seashore is one of the state's most underrated areas. Home to sea turtle nesting grounds, 380 bird species, and 70 miles of coastline, these shores are secluded. From Malaquite Beach to South Beach, visitors can camp directly on the sand for a few dollars a night or just find a quiet spot to pitch an umbrella for the day. If you're looking to go to the island's more remote beaches, make sure your car has four-wheel drive.

Located along the the state's Upper Gulf coast on the Bolivar Peninsula, Crystal Beach is for the party set. Sunbathers can pull their cars (and trucks) directly onto the edge of the sand, set up barbecues, and walk right out to the water. Plan a trip here later in the season, since strands of seaweed brought in by the current pile up in the early summer months.

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Windsurfing at Bird Island Basin.

You won't spend much time on the beach along Bird Island Basin. You'll be in the water, thanks to some of the best windsurfing conditions in the U.S. A part of the Padre Island National Seashore, the basin has steady breeze, warm Gulf waters, and shallow depths, making it perfect for beginners and experienced windsurfers alike. Plus, there's plenty of room for other water activities, like kayaking and fishing. There's a boat ramp for access to Laguna Madre if you want to explore other areas of the protected seashore.

Across the ship canal from Port Aransas, San Jose Island is accessible only by boat. A ferry travels hourly between here and nearby Mustang Island. Since the island is privately owned, visitors are restricted to beach areas. But fishing along the jetty for speckled trout, redfish, and flounder, beach-combing, and birding along the shore are all welcome. In February, avid birders visit for the annual Whopping Crane Festival .

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A view of Mustang Island State Park's coastline at sunrise.

Named one of the "prettiest, cleanest swaths of publicly owned land on the Gulf" by Texas Monthly , Mustang Island State Park has something for everyone. There are tide pools, hiking and mountain bike paths, Texas-sized waves for surfers, white sand, and car-free beaches. If you're up for even more, rent a kayak and head out on the paddling trail, which offers more than 20 miles of wildlife watching and shallow-water fishing.

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Best Beaches in Texas - Cond Nast Traveler - Cond Nast Traveler