The Beach

We know we are living the good life when we can drive to the beach after work, put our toes in the sand and still be home by bedtime. Matagorda County lies on the Texas Coastal Bend long known for its recreational fun and natural beauty. The County's 55-mile coastline is located along the inter-coastal waterway where we enjoy windsurfing, kayaking, beach combing, fishing or crabbing.

Sargent and Matagorda are beachside communities within a few minutes' drive of Bay City. A few miles southwest of Bay City is the City of Palacios, on Matagorda Bay, where we sail, kayak or fish off the piers along the public seawall.

Local Beaches

Bay City is located 20 miles away from the gulf coast and Matagorda Beach. After crossing the Intracoastal Waterway, you will find 22 miles of accessible beach. Matagorda Beach is a favorite place for both locals and visitors for soaking up the sun, fishing, gathering seashells and simply spending time with family and friends in the salt air.

Places to Stay

On Matagorda Beach you can find the perfect beach house to spend the weekend or bring your RV or camper to the large campsites right outside the beach's entrance. The jetty walk way on the beach is a popular fishing spot, or use your boat to access the bay's fish abundant waters. Whether you stay for a day or the weekend, relax and enjoy the beautiful wildlife scenery just miles away from home. Beach permits are required for driving on the beach and can be purchased at the beach entrance and some area stores.

Matagorda Bay Nature Park

Matagorda Bay Nature Park provides many amenities as you explore the beaches and marshes. It is a 1,600-acre park with many educational activities.

• Angler classes
• Beginning birding
• Boater safety
• Guided kayak trips
• Kindergarten through 12 educational programs
• Nature science center
• Playground, picnic shelters and a group pavilion
• Restrooms and outdoor showers
• RV Park/Utility Hookups
• Scouting youth programs

Sargent

Locals also enjoy visiting Sargent, 30 miles south of Bay City, for a quiet alternative to the busy Matagorda Beach. Sargent is home of Texas' last swing bridge. Experience the nostalgia of the small town with beach access and fishing.