The Upper Texas Coast offers must-visit biking trails that wind through picturesque landscapes, from coastal marshes to sandy shores. Explore these must-visit biking trails in Jefferson, Galveston, Brazoria, and Matagorda Counties. All of these locations are included in our Balancing Act Trip Plan. Read on and enjoy the ride.  Jefferson County: Sea Rim State Park […]

If you have a penchant for ghost stories or a fascination with rich historical tales, the Upper Texas Coast has plenty to offer. Here is our list of Must-See Ghost and History Tours on the Upper Texas Coast.  Jefferson County Starting in Jefferson County, make your way to the McFaddin-Ward Historic House at 1906 Calder […]

Aerial view of Quintana Beach County Park in Brazoria County.

In celebration of man’s best friend, we wanted to share some dog-friendly stops to explore on the Upper Texas Coast. We know leaving your faithful canine companion at home is hard, so why not travel with him by your side? From Jefferson to Galveston, Brazoria, and Matagorda, you’ll find plenty of dog-friendly stops to make […]

If you’re looking for must-do events on the Upper Texas Gulf Coast in the fall, this region offers everything from dog festivals to county fairs to Oktoberfest events. Festivals are a great way to explore a new destination and enjoy the local charm of a community.     Must-Do Events for the Fall on the Upper Texas […]

Imagine arriving to work in the morning with coffee in hand and seeing hundreds of dead birds at your feet. This happened on Thursday, May 4, 2017, when workers found 395 dead birds lying on the plaza of Galveston’s American National Insurance building. Only three birds survived.  Originally launched in 2017 by Houston Audubon, Lights […]

While we all remember the long, sometimes miserable car rides during family vacations, we also treasure the memories. So what better way to celebrate Family Fun Month than planning your next trip to explore the Upper Texas Coast? Picture that backdrop of picturesque landscapes, state parks, and engaging museums of Jefferson, Matagorda, Brazoria, and Galveston […]

What are you planning for Labor Day Weekend? How about spending Labor Day Weekend on Upper Texas Coast? Our new Trip Plans make it easier than ever to explore this beautiful region of Texas. The great thing about the Upper Texas Coast is there’s something for adventurers who enjoy the beauty of nature along with […]

Fun Fact: Studies show that being outside in nature relaxes us and reduces our stress and cortisol levels, muscle tension, and heart rates. While June is National Great Outdoors Month, don’t you think you should enjoy the “great outdoors” year-round? We have some ideas for enjoying the great outdoors on the Upper Texas Coast.   […]

A fascinating mystique surrounds the Upper Texas Gulf Coast. If you’re expecting cowboys and barbecue, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to experience the diversity, the seafood, the expansive natural areas and the music. Many nationalities and cultures have influenced this area, from the indigenous Karankawa to the Spanish, French, Mexican, Anglo-Americans, Europans, formerly enslaved African Americans, […]

The history of the Upper Texas Coast is one of the many things that makes it attractive to visitors and residents. As part of your visit to the region, learn more about Galveston’s history as the birthplace of Juneteenth by stopping by the Absolute Equality Mural on 22nd and Strand. Lone Star Coastal Alliance asked […]

Summer on the Upper Texas Coast is hot and fun. Plan your trip with these not-to-miss summer events. Grab the kids or your favorite travel partner, pack the car, and explore the Upper Texas Coast this summer. Check our new Trip Plans for ideas for stops geared toward nature lovers and history buffs.  Juneteenth Celebrations. […]

What if you could get local experts to help you plan your next trip? And, rather than focus on one city as the destination, you’d have ideas for extending that trip to explore a region. Lone Star Coastal Alliance encourages you to take a few extra days and explore the Upper Texas Gulf Coast, and […]

“As we explore and enjoy the Upper Texas Gulf Coast, it is important to remember that birds need beaches, too! Good stewards Share the Shore.”

One of the interesting things about the Upper Texas Gulf Coast is how much history has happened here. Each county in the region offers museums with insight into its past residents, its historical significance to Texas, and more. Just think about what life was like for the Karankawa Indians. And, imagine the Upper Texas Coast […]

Who doesn’t love a little quiet time in nature with a fishing pole in hand and baited with your favorite lure or bait? The Upper Texas Gulf Coast offers great fishing spots for anglers to enjoy. So if you’re looking for easy-to-reach fishing spots on the Upper Texas Coast, we’ve got you covered.  Don’t forget […]

City Nature Challenge 2023: Houston-Galveston Get out in nature, have fun and help keep the Houston-Galveston Region in its #1 rankings in the City Nature Challenge! Join Texas Parks and Wildlife, The Nature Conservancy in Texas, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Bayou Land Conservancy, Audubon Society, Texas Master Naturalists, and many others in a […]

Win $100 in Road to 1,000 Followers Contest and Spread the Word on Upper Texas Coast ExploreLoneStarCoastal.com is a project of the Lone Star Coastal Alliance (LSCA) created to preserve and promote the Upper Texas Coast as a national treasure and a point of pride for Texans. This website offers more than 300 points of […]

Calling all History Lovers! Here are some ideas for History Tours on the Upper Texas Coast. From historic homes to museums, these are just a few suggestions for suggested stops on the Upper Texas Coast. Let’s start in Jefferson County at the McFaddin-Ward Historic House, 1906 Calder Avenue in Beaumont. This home was built in […]

The Upper Texas Coast offers the best spots for birding during Spring Migration and hosts several birding festivals for avid and novice birders. See our list below for more ideas to enjoy the Upper Texas Coast during Spring Migration.   Birding Festivals in the region include the following: March 24 – 26, Matagorda Bay Birdfest in […]

Did you know the Upper Texas Coast is one of the best places to be during Spring Migration?  The Upper Texas Coast offers the best spots for birding during Spring Migration and birding festivals for avid and novice birders. We encourage you to grab your favorite birding gear, clean your binoculars, pack your field guide […]

Spring on the Upper Texas Coast is a popular time to explore parks and enjoy spring-themed events. To make your tour planning easier, below is a list of not-to-miss spring events and activities on the Upper Texas Coast, highlighting Jefferson, Galveston, Brazoria, and Matagorda Counties. We encourage you to check for current dates and details. […]

February is a great time to reflect on the contributions of African Americans in and from this region. In honor of Black History Month, we’ve compiled a list of stops on the Upper Texas Coast that are worth a visit. Black History Stops on the Upper Texas Coast: Museum of the Gulf Coast, 700 Proctor […]

It seems odd to describe this time of year as “winter” since the average high temperature during this time of year ranges from 62 to 71 degrees. Some days, you’ll be wearing shorts and flip-flops, while on other days, it’s a coat and boots. Whatever the temperature, it’s always fun to experience the not-to-miss festivals […]

It’s always amazing to see what a talented artist can create out of blank space, dead trees, or even trash. These artistic expressions remind us to appreciate what we have and maybe even give it another look. The Upper Texas Coast, like other parts of Texas, is discovering ways to give typically mundane objects another […]

The Upper Texas Coast is a treasure trove for birders, so dust off your binoculars, grab your favorite birding gear, and don’t forget your field guide and download that favorite app. Then, it’s time to participate in the Texas Christmas Bird Count (CBC). We’ll note the locations below in the Christmas Bird Count, which is […]

Kayakers love the weather on the Upper Texas Coast. It’s kayak-friendly nearly year-round. So if you’re wondering what the best kayak spots on the Upper Texas Coast are, we’ve got you covered.  Let’s start with Jefferson County with the Big Thicket National Preserve, operated by the National Park Service. This park offers three paddling trails […]

Tis’ the season for holiday tree lightings, holiday festivals, and Santa sightings across the state, and the Upper Texas Coast won’t disappoint. To make your tour planning easier, below is a list of holiday events on the Upper Texas Coast. (check for current dates and details) Nov. 12 – Jan. 1, Galaxy Lights at Space […]

Don’t you love a good ghost story? The kind that gives you chills. Or maybe you prefer a good history tour. Either way, you’ll find plenty of options on the Upper Texas Coast.  Let’s start in Jefferson County at the McFaddin-Ward Historic House, 1906 Calder Avenue in Beaumont. This home was built in 1905 and […]

So you think you’re a foodie? What you’ll love about the Upper Texas Coast is that we’ve got something for everyone. And every one of these stops is a “foodie must-do” on the Upper Texas Coast.  Let’s start our Foodie Tour of the Upper Texas Coast in Jefferson County. Our first stop is at J. […]

If you’re looking for must-do events on the Upper Texas Coast in September and October! This region offers everything from dog festivals to county fairs to Oktoberfest events. Festivals are a great way to explore a new destination and enjoy the local charm of a community.  Must-Do Events for September (check for current dates and […]

One morning in May 2017, 400 dead birds lying on the plaza of Galveston’s American National Insurance building greeted employees. Warblers, grosbeaks, and passerines flew into the floodlights and crashed into the 32-story building’s windows. Only three birds survived and were assisted by the Galveston Bay Injured Bird Response Team, run by Audubon Texas and […]

When people think about exploring Texas as part of a road trip, they often think about Big Bend, the Hill Country, or even the Panhandle. Have you thought about exploring the Upper Texas Coast? Lone Star Coastal Alliance is focused on making those travel plans a little easier with travel ideas and trip plans created […]

It’s not too late to make your plans for Labor Day Weekend. Have you thought about spending Labor Day Weekend in the Lone Star Coastal region along the Upper Texas Coast? Options include live country music, food, and the great outdoors. The great thing about the Lone Star Coastal region is there’s something for adventurers […]

As a coastal city, Freeport has some of the best fishing in Texas. A number of offshore charter boat services are available for large and small groups, taking both day and overnight trips. There are two marinas, numerous boat ramps, and bait and tackle shops making fishing a breeze in Freeport. For those who prefer […]

R.A. Apffel East Beach Park in Galveston on June 4, 2022. The ocean is beautiful and alive! It’s oceans of fun, and it will inspire you to protect our seas and the Texas Coast! Enjoy a fun and educational good time! Partner organizations will host interactive activities to help ocean-lovers of all ages learn about the […]

Celebrating Black History & Culture in Galveston – the Birthplace of Juneteenth – June 19th, 2022 When you head to Galveston this summer, you’ll be coming home to where it all began as the island hosts festivities to celebrate Juneteenth – a holiday that originated in this historic beach town. The Birthplace of Juneteenth, Galveston […]

City Nature Challenge 2022: Houston-Galveston Join The Nature Conservancy in Texas, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Bayou Land Conservancy, Audubon Society, Texas Master Naturalists, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and many others in a fun challenge to observe and record wild species from April 29 – May 1, 2022. It is easy to participate by […]

What’s Special About FeatherFest? If you’re a serious or casual bird-watcher or nature photographer…..an experienced or new outdoor enthusiast…..or someone who wants some exercise, fresh air and sunshine and something different to do…..you’ll want to join us at FeatherFest. There’s no need to be shy – the majority of our guests are not birding or […]

Galveston Restaurant Week brings the island’s vibrant food scene to life from January 17 to February 13, 2022. Several Galveston restaurants will participate in this event, which is a once-a-year opportunity for diners to try top dishes on prix-fixe breakfast, lunch and dinner menus at attractive price points. HOW GALVESTON RESTAURANT WEEK WORKS: The 11th […]

From….Bay City Tourism Council / Visit Matagorda County Matagorda Beach is a favorite place of both locals and visitors for soaking up the sun, walking along the Gulf of Mexico shoreline and gathering seashells. Travel and Leisure Magazine declared it one of the “Best Secret Beaches on Earth.” Matagorda Beach stretches about 55 miles along […]

2021 TEXAS CHILDREN IN NATURE NETWORK SUMMIT Join us for our 2021 Summit. Dates: December 2-3 Location: Fort Worth, TX Hosts: Botanical Research Institute of Texas and Fort Worth Botanic Garden The 2021 Texas Children in Nature Network Summit: Inspiring Leaders for Healthier, Happier, and Smarter Kids will take place on December 2-3, 2021. The Summit […]

One of the few remaining lighthouses on the Gulf Coast, the Bolivar Point Lighthouse is a living piece of the history of Texas. Built in 1872, the lighthouse shined every day but two until its retirement in 1933. Since it was auctioned in 1947, the Bolivar Point Lighthouse has been privately owned and maintained by […]

One of the great joys of traveling is experiencing the local cuisine. Along Lone Star Coastal locally caught seafood is one of many of the abundant varieties of cuisine to be explored. But, as we learn from the September 2021 issue of Coast Monthly, “There’s a time and a season to enjoy locally caught seafood […]

Galveston has taken wing once again, earning designation as a Bird City Texas community! We’re one of three Texas cities to achieve the prestigious hallmark this year. Thank you to our dedicated team, partners and advisors who helped make this happen. Bird City Texas is an initiative of Audubon Texas and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. […]

In the early 2000’s research was emerging that showed that children were spending less time in the outdoors and more time with media; while at the same time childhood obesity rates were increasing at an alarming rate. Within just a matter of one generation, our society was radically changing to an increasingly indoor focused world […]

Houston’s position on the Central Flyway makes it a hotspot for fall migration. The Upper Texas Coast witnesses a steady flow of migratory birds beginning as early as July and lasting through November. Many species hug the coastline on their way to South and Central America for the winter. Read more on the Migratory Flyways […]

Included in the Explore Lone Star Coastal website, and representative of the diverse ecosystems of our region, are 60 parks and natural areas, including 8 National Fish and Wildlife Service Refuges and 9 dedicated bird sanctuaries. This diversity in habitat also makes for a diversity of recreation – fishing, hunting, biking, kayaking, boating and, yes, […]

The Bryan Museum has collaborated with esteemed community partners to recognize Juneteenth on Galveston Island through The Art of Equality: Art and Literacy Contest. The contest invites middle school, high school, and college undergraduate students to submit poetry, spoken word, and visual art with the focus of equality, in celebration of the Juneteenth Mural Project […]

This year marks the 156th anniversary of Juneteenth, and Galveston has several events to celebrate its historic connection to this important holiday. See Visit Galveston for information on Juneteenth events and activities. Galveston is the birthplace of Juneteenth and the home of many historical stories. In 2020, Juneteenth became very popular throughout the United States […]

Join The Nature Conservancy in Texas, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Bayou Land Conservancy, Audubon Society, Texas Master Naturalists, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Lone Star Coastal Alliance and many others in a fun challenge to observe and record wild species from April 30 – May 3, 2021. It is easy to participate by making […]

The Christmas Bay Foundation will sponsor an Earth Day activity at Christmas Bay. We will have a kayaking nature tour of Drum, Christmas Bay and surrounding estuaries led by renowned Naturalist, Bruce Bodson, President of the Christmas Bay Foundation. This tour will touch on what an estuary is, the benefits of estuaries and their importance to the environment […]

Spring migration is beginning in Texas! We’ll see as many of 25% of the world’s migrating birds cross the state from approximately March 1 to June 1. Approximately 1 of every 3 birds migrating through the U.S. in spring, and 1 of every 4 bird migrating through the U.S. in the fall, or nearly two […]

By Galveston Bay Foundation THIS APRIL, GALVESTON BAY FOUNDATION IS HOSTING OUR INAUGURAL OYSTER MONTH. WE HAVE SEVERAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOU TO ENJOY SOME DELICIOUS OYSTERS AT ONE OF OUR PARTNER RESTAURANTS. SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS AND LET’S SHELLABRATE! For event information, tickets, list of participating restaurants visit our website at HoustonOysterMonth.com THIS APRIL, GALVESTON […]

By GALVESTON ISLAND NATURE TOURISM COUNCIL Mar 17, 2021 www.galvnews.com/leisure/free/article Photo Courtesy of Dan Lotan Entries continue to be accepted for the FeatherFest PhotoFest Contest, held in the weeks leading up to Galveston’s annual spring birding and nature photography festival, which this year is April 15-18. Individuals are invited to submit images of wild birds, […]

Artist Boat Eco Art Camp – March Dates SPRING BREAK Eco Art Camp 2021 Art meets science in Artist Boat’s 2021 Spring Break camp sessions! Campers will experience true science and art enrichment with the creation of Eco-Art. Each camper will create high quality art projects, which illustrate all that they have learned throughout camp. […]

Beaumont is an affordable weekend getaway that won’t break the bank just an hour from Houston, yet worlds away from big city prices. Centrally located between the beach, pines, and urban core, it’s a choose your own adventure destination with outdoor attractions, museums, and restaurants aplenty. Boasting a 48 hours under $48 itinerary and a […]

Jennie Lyons / NOAA via Marketscreener.com NOAA is expanding Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary from approximately 56 square miles to approximately 160 square miles to protect additional important Gulf of Mexico habitat. The move builds upon the sanctuary’s rich 30-year history of scientific studies and public review of the preservation of this special place. […]

Surfside Beach in the Brazosport area is a recreation area for swimming, sailing, surf fishing, camping, shell collecting and bird watching. Photo by Kevin B. Stillman. Hop in your car and social distance your way through these less-traveled parts of Texas  Written by:  Joe Nick Patoski Published: December 30, 2020 at 2:59 pm The Upper […]

Christmas Bay @ Seidler’s Boat Ramp The Christmas Bay Foundation will meet at 8am on 2/27/2021 at the Brazoria County Parks Seidler Boat Ramp to participate on the TPWD Abandoned Crab Trap Removal Event. We will have several boats and will be supported in this event by the Brazoria County Parks System, Gulf Coast Rescue […]

By WES WOLFE wes.wolfe@thefacts.com Dec 29, 2020 – An effort linking economic development and coastal resilience along the upper Texas Gulf coast launched a website recently, which is devoted to enhancing what the Lone Star Coastal Alliance calls nature and heritage tourism and outdoor recreation opportunities. ExploreLoneStarCoastal.com is meant as the online presence for establishing […]

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Welcomes you to the Big Slough Auto Tour at Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge   Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge There is parking at each tour stop so you can pull off to enjoy it. This 7-1/2 mile loop usually takes about 1-1/2 hours to drive. On this auto tour you will see […]

Update on American Travel in the Period of Coronavirus—Week of September 7th September 6, 2020/in Coronavirus /by Destination Analysts Over one-third of American travelers took a leisure trip in the Summer of COVID-19, with these trips providing a net increase in confidence that travel can be done safely right now. Meanwhile, based on American corporate workers anticipations, a […]

Brazosport is a coastal community comprised of Clute, Freeport, Lake Jackson, Quintana and Surfside Beach and is just 50 miles south of Houston. This quaint area offers friendly hospitality, affordable prices, quality amenities, a wide array of museums, attractions, wildlife refuges, restaurants and shopping venues, the Brazosport Area is perfect for the entire family or […]

An article in the July 29th edition of the Galveston Daily news By KERI HEATH The Daily News reports “Growing popularity among outdoor activities and pent-up desire to get out of the house have charter fishing companies reeling in a good catch of business this summer. Professional fishing guides still are making up for several […]

Why Matagorda County? Matagorda County is a great year-around birding destination!  The county is located on the midcoast of Texas approximately 100 miles southwest of Houston.  It is bordered by Brazoria County on the east, Wharton County on the north, Jackson and Calhoun County on the west and the Gulf of Mexico to the south.  […]