Winter Beaches to Visit - Gulf Coast

Our winter beach vacation suggestions move on to the gulf coast. From gulf breezes and smooth water, our southern beach vacation ideas will give you many things to enjoy.

South Padre Island, Texas

Winter temperatures in South Padre Island are in the high 60s with sunshine. While it may be too cool to swim in the Gulf of Mexico, the beaches are still a great way to relax during the winter. Shelling and strolling or just sitting in the sand and listening to the waves are great ways to enjoy a beautiful day.

Looking to get out on the water, a fishing charter is a perfect way to spend half a day or the whole thing.

Looking for more of a natural escape, birding, nature walks and cruises are a great way to take in the different animals and plants around South Padre Island. For an up close look at some of the animals, you can also visit South Padre Island Dolphin Research and Sea life Nature Center.

A great way to enjoy the beach is on horseback. Island Adventure Park takes you on a ride to remote areas of South Padre, giving you the chance to see parts of the island others may miss. From ziplining to a fun park, you can spend a day enjoying this attraction.

St. Simons Island, Georgia

Part of the barrier islands of the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island is a beautiful destination. Temperatures stay around the mid 60s in the winter allowing you an escape from the cold.

Winter actually offers some great experiences you cannot enjoy other times of the year. The North Atlantic whales and Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and many birds migrate to the area in winter due to the warmer air and water temperature.

Take in a bit of history at the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation or visit a colonial fort at Fort Frederica National Monument.

Because of the close proximity to the other Golden Isles, St Simons is just a day trip away from many other activities.