Magnolia Beach in Port Lavaca, TX (2019 Photos, Reviews, Info, Map)

About this beach

Warnings and hazards

Bridge's maximum load limit is 10,000 lbs.

Magnolia Beach is a 1.5 miles long stretch of drivable hard-packed sandy beach on the Texas coast, on Matagorda Bay, just 20-25 minutes south of Port Lavaca. The water here is less salty than in the ocean (just 19%) because the Colorado and Lavaca Rivers flow into the bay.

Magnolia Beach isn’t a resort-type-of a beach, but it’s a very peaceful and relaxing place where you can park your RV as close as 15 feet from the ocean, sleep to the sound of waves and wake up to a picturesque oceanfront view. The only considerable drawback is that there’s only one little shop in the town, so you’d better take everything you may need somewhere on your way here, for instance, in Port Lavaca.

Accessibility

The access to this spacious beach is very easy – you can just drive in and find a nice spot for your RV. There is plenty of space and the main advantage is that you don’t have to pay for your stay – it’s free of charge. The sand is hard-packed and there’s a lot of crushed shell in it, so it’s easy to drive on. That said, you’ll hardly enjoy walking barefooted, so make sure you don’t go out without footwear.

It should be noted that there’s a bridge with a maximum load limit of 10,000 lbs. Many rig drivers ignore this limitation; however, if you don’t want to risk paying a hefty fine or ruining your vehicle, it’s better to choose camping on your side of the bridge.

Campground facilities

The campsites are primitive, without hookups, but the beach area has maintained bathrooms with flush toilets and showers. There is hot water and the pressure is good. The toilet paper in the restrooms is re-stocked regularly; the facilities are cleaned weekly, but their condition is far from perfect anyway. Take your flip-flops if you want to have a shower.

If you need to restock drinking water, you’ll have to go to local campgrounds or Port Lavaca, since there is no drinking water here. It takes about 20 minutes to drive to Port Lavaca from Magnolia Beach, and you can replenish your other supplies there as well.

Scenery and relaxation

There are picturesque sunrises and sunsets on Magnolia Beach. The area is clean and spacious and a walk along the shore is going to be pleasant and relaxing. In some part of the beach, you’ll find a row of gazebos. There are enjoyable ocean breezes. You can make use of picnic tables and barbecue grills to cook some food and enjoy picnicking in the fresh air. All in all, Magnolia Beach is a great place to spend a couple of nights or even a week, sleeping to the sound of waves and waking up to see a boundless ocean right in front of you.