From Jalopnik · Ted Ladue · · 1m
Texas Beaches Are Public Highways
Texas public beaches are legal highways where you can drive, with 200+ miles of drivable sand.
In brief
Texas public beaches are legal highways where you can drive, with 200+ miles of drivable sand. Texas law allows driving on 200+ miles of public beaches, with access fees and seasonal restrictions. Originally reported by Jalopnik.
Texas Beaches Are Public Highways
Texas law allows driving on 200+ miles of public beaches, with access fees and seasonal restrictions.
Legal Foundation for Beach Driving
The Open Beaches Act of 1959 made beaches public domain from low tide to vegetation line.
State Constitution Expansion
Texans voted 76.9% in 2009 to add beach access to the state constitution.
Beach Driving Rules
All beaches are state highways with traffic laws, including seatbelts, and flip flops are allowed.
Access Fees and Free Beaches
Most beaches charge $15 daily, but some like Boca Chica and West End beaches offer free access.
Longest Undeveloped Beach Drive
Padre Island National Seashore offers 66 miles of beach driving with no services.
At a glance
Texas law allows driving on 200+ miles of public beaches, with access fees and seasonal restrictions.
