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Nicole Long, Demand Media

Texas island vacations offer fabulous beaches to dip your toes in. (Photo: Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images )

When you think of island vacations, you think relaxation, sun and sand. Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, Texas provides visitors with just that, and more. Texas island vacations allow travelers to enjoy the beach, delve into history and admire unique wildlife. The island communities of Texas are located along the coast and offer not only a respite for the weary traveler, but also a place to let loose, love the climate and enjoy the company of friends.

Featuring 32 miles of sandy beach, this small romantic island offers vacationers a chance to relax as they soak in the sun and dip their toes in the warm Gulf of Mexico waters. And though the beaches are an attraction all on their own, Galveston Island has much more to offer. With more than 2000 homes and buildings featured on the National Registry of Historic Places, Galveston Island continues to charm visitors with distinctive Victorian architecture. Historically the area is significant, because it served as the location of the state's first post office and opera house, among other firsts. Downtown, a section designated as "The Strand," is bustling with travelers savoring the fresh seafood of the region, shopping in the area's many specialty boutiques and enjoying horse-drawn carriage rides. Galveston Island galveston.com

Much more than a popular spring break location, South Padre Island entertains and welcomes over one million visitors annually. Situated off the tropical tip of Texas, the barrier island of South Padre is 34 miles long. Originally named "White Sand" by a Spanish explorer, the island has a strict policy regarding proper island attire. No ties are allowed. Visitors violating the ban are given a polite warning and handed a free South Padre Island T-shirt. The island features retail shops, resorts, and outdoor adventures, such as kiteboarding, windsurfing and parasailing. South Padre Island is also an excellent birding area, with more than 306 recorded species of birds. South Padre Island sopadre.com

Mustang Island State Park, a coastal barrier island, offers vacationers five miles of beach and a unique island ecology to explore. The island, originally settled by the Karankawas Indians, offers excellent opportunities for birding, hiking and swimming. Ecological tours of the island are available and showcase the island's plant and animal life, including the estimated 600 species of saltwater fish that inhabit the coastal waters. Primitive camping is available on the beach, while more traditional campgrounds with electricity and water can be found closer to park headquarters. Restrooms and showers are located throughout the park for visitor convenience. Mustang Island truly offers a retreat from hectic schedules and daily responsibilities. Mustang Island tpwd.state.tx.us

Nicole Long is a freelance writer based in Cincinnati, Ohio. With experience in management and customer service, business is a primary focus of her writing. Long also has education and experience in the fields of sports medicine, first aid and coaching. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from the University of Cincinnati.

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Texas Island Vacations | USA Today