Matagorda Beach is one of mine and Kristi’s favorite places to go. There is something about sitting and watching the waves, completely surrounded by the sounds of the wind, the birds, and the water that clears the mind. Below are a few images from different visits.
Our favorite time to go is during the off-season months, when there are few people on the beach. Driving on the beach is allowed, but a 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially if you intend to venture far from the entrance. (Side note, a beach vehicle permit is required. They are inexpensive and available at many of the shops in the nearby town of Matagorda.)
Back in January 2019 we decided to drive the entire length of the East Matagorda Peninsula. This stretch of beach is about 23 miles long and ends at the entrance to East Matagorda Bay. We made the video below on our return trip for those who might be curious what it is like to drive the beach.
Of course, the conditions change daily, if not hourly; so, a stretch that is drivable during one part of the day may be underwater or too dry later on. Always exercise caution and be prepared to get stuck when driving in this type of environment. Bring at a small shovel, a bucket, and something to put under your tires to help you get out of deep sand. A tow strap is not a bad idea, either. And be ready to help others in case they run into trouble.
A few highlights:
2:40 – A cabinet half buried in the sand
10:26 – A tire that looked to be in pretty good condition
24:27 – A dead horse or cow
27:50 – The Nude Beach sign painted on the side of an old tank
30:26 – Driftwood duel
31:18 – Bow of a wrecked boat
33:21 – A dead dolphin
54:34 – A wrecked boat
These videos were made in October 2020. When you can’t go to the beach, bring the beach to you!
We will probably post more images of Matagorda Beach in the future. It really is a beautiful place. For now, though, I will end this post with a sighting of the Flying Spaghetti Monster in Bay City!
