Everything about Sailing - Everything you need to know about sailing all around the world https://sailingyes.com/ Everything you need to know about sailing all around the world Thu, 15 Oct 2020 23:06:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.4 7 tips for Universal Orlando first timer family visitors https://sailingyes.com/7-tips-for-universal-orlando-first-timer-family-visitors/ https://sailingyes.com/7-tips-for-universal-orlando-first-timer-family-visitors/#respond Thu, 15 Oct 2020 23:06:00 +0000 https://sailingyes.com/?p=1158 7 tips for Universal Orlando first timer family visitors Visiting Universal Orlando for the first time is one of those journeys which will mean that the entire family has a truly enjoyable experience. There is plenty around every corner for us to learn and experience. Families from around the world plan vacations every year to …

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7 tips for Universal Orlando first timer
family visitors

Visiting Universal Orlando for the first time is one of
those journeys which will mean that the entire family has a truly enjoyable
experience. There is plenty around every corner for us to learn and experience.

Families from around the world plan vacations every year to
visit Universal
Orlando
for days of traveling, biking and enjoying wonderful family
moments.

What is the secret for having a fantastic time and for
ensuring you enjoy what Universal Orlando has to deliver the rest of your time?
Be prepared for your visit normally before time.

All would be amazing on your visit to Universal Orlando, but
here’s just some fantastic tips to take your ride from nice to fantastic! Here
are our 7 best tips when you visit Universal Orlando.

1.   Take a visit from the off-season time of the year

When you’re looking to escape traffic, preferring off-season
time is a smart way to do so. Typically, the crowds are less crowded during the
months of September, as many people just get back into school swings and don’t
travel as much.

The next two months to remember that the crowds can be fewer
are January and October. Weekdays are much quieter, but if you can go for a
ride during the week, you’ll be able to stroll around the park very easily!

https://orlandojourney.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Try-to-avoid-special-days-so-that-you-are-not-encountered-with-such-a-crowd.jpg

2.   Stay in at one of Orlando ‘s Universal Resorts

Universal Orlando has several hotels, both theme parks and
Universal CityWalk
are within walking distance. It is recommended that pack your things, grab your
suitcase and stay for a few days in one of the on-site hotel resorts in
Universal Orlando. The facilities you can use is much more than the other
hotels near universal Orlando.

You can get unique perks, such as early park access to Harry
Potter’s The Wizarding World, while you live in one of its resorts. Be sure to
add one of these resorts to your reservation so you can save ever more on your
Universal Orlando vacations!

https://orlandojourney.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Universal-Orlando%E2%80%99s-Loews-Sapphire-Falls-Resort-Orlando.jpg

3.   Map out the major sights and rides you want to see
in advance

It might seem a little stupid to be prepared to plan the
attractions and rides, but once you enter the theme parks of Universal
Hollywood Studios, Universal ‘s Adventure Islands, or Volcano Bay, you’ll want
to have a plan.

There’s so much to do and do and if you don’t keep on track,
you may not have enough time to do or do it all.

Universal Studios Florida

Orlando has a wide variety of interactive content, from
relaxing sports to the most entertaining games in the world. Family-oriented
attractions and special amusement parks are only a small aspect of Orlando’s
entertainment. It is highly recommended that short-term visitors tour Universal
Studio Orlando.

After you’ve spent some time in Harry Potter’s The Wizard
World, you’ll want to take the Hogwarts Express to Hollywood’s Universal
Studios.

You will spend a whole day walking around, enjoying and
riding all the rides available at Universal Studios Hollywood. This section of
the theme park is perhaps one of the most exclusive and enjoyable and enjoyable
for all ages of the family.

From the moment you arrive at Universal Studios Hollywood,
you ‘re practically transported and feel like you’re really “inside”
the movie … it’s an experience you can’t afford to skip!

One thing that’s particularly cool about the Universal
Studios Hollywood attractions is that there’s a lot of 3D and motion
attractions instead of roller coasters.

It’s very fun and special to be able to walk into another
“country” and experience the rides that way! (Bear in mind that if
you get motion sickness quickly, 3D and motion enhancement rides won’t be the
ones you want to ride.)   Universal Studios Florida Attractions, Universal
Studios Ride

·
Transformers: The Ride 3-D

·
Jurassic Park: The Ride

·
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

·
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem

·
The Simpsons Ride

·
Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride

https://orlandojourney.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Despicable-Me-Minion-Mayhem-Ride-At-Universal-Studio-Florida.jpg

Universal’s Islands of Adventure

 islands of adventure are displayed for the visitors by the
tour of discovery. This means that attendances go on a tour in which they can visit
different islands of this park. At first, this park just has 6 islands but
after some time in the year 2010, they added The Wizarding World of Harry
Potter as a seventh island in the park but of course, this themed island added
as a franchise. 

As most of you know, Universal Orlando was found in the year
1990, and since then this project was the biggest investment of Universal
authorities. As a result of this expansion, the number of attendance was
increased considerably. So finally in the year 2013, this park (islands of
adventure) hosted almost 8.1 million visitors and as a result, it ranked 7th
domestically and 11th internationally. 

Adventures are just waiting for you and your family Here. Universal
Islands Of Adventure rides are fantastic and the attractions and sound are
electrifying. There’s so much anticipation and enthusiasm flowing through this
park area that you’re going to be surprised by how time just goes.

From superheroes to supernatural beasts, there’s always a
surprise dimension, or a fun ride waiting for you to explore! The Universal
Adventure Islands have been the number one theme park in the world for the past
four years, according to the vote of the visitors!

Make sure you don’t take a run on the:

The Incredible Hulk Roller Coaster

The Incredible Hulk Coaster in Universal Orlando Resort Florida

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

There are some rides that you will surely have on your plan!
Harry Potter’s Wizarding World is one of the newest parks in Universal Studios,
so it’s got some pretty impressive rides.

Join the Gringotts bank where you’ll see a fire-breaking
dragon at the other end of Diagon Alley.

You ‘re not going to miss Harry Potter and Escape from
Gringotts. This one has to be a must on your list! Even if you’re not a Harry
Potter fan, this trip is going to be one of your favourites!

https://orlandojourney.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Christmas-in-The-Wizarding-World-of-Harry-Potter-Universal-Orlando-Resort-Florida-1.jpg

4.   Having water with you is vital

You and your friends at Universal Orlando walk a lot, and
these taste buds have been easy to thirst.

Let everybody in the family carry their own water bottle and
during your stay in the park you can refill them for free.

It’s an incredible saver of energy and a perfect way to get
everybody in the family hydrated.

5.   The purchase of a Universal Express Pass is a must!

Universal Orlando Resort is made up of two theme parks and a
nighttime entertainment complex – Citywalk. The complex located between theme
parks. Universal Resort has created a service called Universal Express system
to help guests manage their time. The system has some similarities and
differences to Walt
Disney World
’s Fast Pass program. It is very important to get enough
information about Express and decide whether it is cost-effective for you or
not.

No one likes to wait in line for a ride, and with the
Universal Express Pass, no one’s going to have to. It’s a great add-on to
purchase because it allows you, and anyone in your family who has one, to skip
the regular lines for most of the rides indefinitely, for the whole time you
‘re in the park.

If you and your family have a beloved ride and you have the
Universal Express Ticket, you will practically ride it again and again, never
having to get up and spend your time in queue!

https://orlandojourney.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Universal-Express-Pass-Entrance-Orlando-1.jpg

6.   Do not miss Butterbeer

Butterbeer is a famous beverage in the wizarding world. J.K. Rowling, the
author of the 7 Harry Potter books, has a special emphasis on this drink in her
writings. Some believe this is not a fictitious drink and it is based on a
Butterbeer that was popular in the 16th century. Rowling describes the magical
drink with these words: less-sickly butterscotch.

This drink has an interesting flavor between cream soda and
butterscotch with a sweet, frothy topping usually firmly in place.
Despite its name, this drink is completely alcohol-free. The sweet taste
is the mold taste in Butterbeer. For some visitors, this beverage is too sweet
but fortunately for most people it is not.,” Chef Steven Jayson said, “We soon
found out that Butterbeer is an overnight home run and we create it in
Universal Orlando Resort”.

Just buy one or two and sitting down with your family to
give your feet a rest!

https://orlandojourney.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Frozen-Butterbeer-And-Cold-Butterbeer.jpg

7.      On your way to Universal Orlando, enjoy
great dining options

Feel assured realizing that if you and your family are
hungry at Universal Orlando, there are plenty of food choices to fill your
bellies. Many of the best locations to find dining will be:

Bubba Gump – Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. provides tasty
seafood choices and a fantastic lunch or dinner menu.

Toothsome Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen – Brunch
all day, anybody? Plus great steaks and, of course, all the candy you might
imagine!

NBC Sports Grill and Brew– A healthy family experience,
a friendly environment and an vast menu that’s guaranteed to meet everyone’s
food needs.

Voodoo Donuts – Everybody likes donuts, doesn’t they?
At Universal, they do so the queue appears to still be out of the gates. For
over 50 different kinds of donuts, you know the flavor and choices are going to
be fantastic.

These 7 tips will help guarantee a great experience for you
and your guests at Universal Orlando!!

https://orlandojourney.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/NBC-Sports-Grill-Brew.jpg

Reference:

https://orlandojourney.com/

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Sailing at South Padre Island in Texas: Weather Analysis https://sailingyes.com/sailing-at-south-padre-island-in-texas/ https://sailingyes.com/sailing-at-south-padre-island-in-texas/#respond Tue, 15 Oct 2019 09:40:37 +0000 https://sailingyes.com/?p=1146 Sailing at South Padre Island in Texas: Weather Analysis General Information What’s the Best Season for Sailing at South Padre Island? In this article of Sailingyes, we will analyze the meteorological conditions of one of the much-loved towns in Texas, South Padre Island. We’re going to see what’s the best season for sailing at South …

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Sailing at South Padre Island in Texas: Weather Analysis

Sailing-at-South-Padre-Island-in-Texas--Weather-Analysis

In this article of Sailingyes, we will analyze the meteorological conditions of one of the much-loved towns in Texas, South Padre Island. We’re going to see what’s the best season for sailing at South Padre Island in Texas according to meteorological information.

So, read on if you’re planning to navigate on the charming waters of this amazing island on the Gulf of Mexico.

But before getting into details, here’s an introduction to this resort town. The following is a list of some basic info that you should know about before heading for the town.

General Information

Full name: South Padre Island. It’s named after José Nicolás Ballí (Padre Ballí), a Catholic priest and settler.

Coordination: 26°6′43″N 97°10′11″W

Access: the only road that connects the Island to the land is the Queen Isabella Causeway.

Main Industries: Tourism

Water Area: 0.2 square mile

What’s the Best Season for Sailing at South Padre Island?

What’s the Best Season for Sailing at South Padre Island?

Early-January to April is the best time to visit South Padre Island in Texas for sailing. This is when the windiest period of each year. Plus, you get to have enough daily sunlight and clear sky. Since the rainfall average is ignorable throughout this period, people also opt to visit South Padre Island for watersports.

However, below you can find a detailed analysis of the meteorological changes on the island. This guide will help you decide which of the year is best to sail at South Padre Island.

  1. Wind

The windiest part of the start starts from early-January and continues until late-June. This is when the average airstream speed increases to 13.7 MPH, which makes the island one of the windiest places among all other Texas cities.

During this 6-month cycle, watersports are very popular in the area—through the water temperature drops.

However, if you’re not planning to experience high-speed sailing sessions, early-August to early-October is a great time to visit the island. This is actually when the wind speed drops to 10.5 MPH but the water temperature increases due to the longer sunlight.

  1. Rainfall & Precipitation

South Padre Island is a rainy city. However, if you opt to visit it from early-January to early-May, nothing will bother you. That’s because the average rainfall is only 1.0 inches per month and it’s very suitable for sailing purposes.

On the other hand, if you start your sailing journey in September, things may easily go wrong. According to Weather Spark, the average rainfall for this month is 4 inches, making it somewhat risky for sailors to navigate on the Island waters.

  1. Temperature

Since the island is considered a resort town, people choose it as a destination from late-February to early-May. This is a warm period of the year with an average temperature of 80 degrees.

However, the warmest months in this resort town are July and August—with an average temperature of 90 degrees. But since it’s more likely to face rainy days during these months, people don’t show any interest to visit the island at that time.

Choosing the best time for sailing at South Padre Island depends on your specific needs and expectations. Some people like to sail under a clean sky on calm water and during a warm season. Some others are just the opposite and would prefer a bit more challenging conditions. So, before making any decisions, get your mind together and make sure that you’re planning the whole trip based on your own desires.

  1. Sunlight & Solar Energy

June and July have the longest days in South Padre Island. You can have nearly 14 hours of daily sunlight during these months. So, in case your watercraft equipment needs solar energy to operate, this is the best time to navigate on the island waters.

But you have to keep in mind that June is considered to be slightly more rainy month compared to July. So, it’s best to plan accordingly. (The average rainfall in June is 2.0 inches whereas July has 1.3 inches of rainfall annually.

Sunlight is a very important element when it comes down to sailing. However, you must consider other factors as well. the wind speed and precipitation, for instance, are some of the most vital factors for choosing the best sailing season.

So, Sailingyes suggests sailors navigate on the waters of South Padre Island from early-January to April. During this cycle, you get to have less daily sunlight (12 hours per day) but instead, you can be sure that the wind speed and precipitation won’t cause any problem.

  1. Water Temperature

Water Temperature

From June to early-October, the island offers the warmest water. You can opt to swim in the water or go for other water activities without being worried about the water temperature. The regular hotness of the water during this period is nearly 80 degrees.

However, as we suggested earlier, this is not the best time to stay in South Padre Island if you’re a sailor.

The best season for sailing at the island is also the season when the water temperature is at the lowest level possible. According to Weather Spark, from early-January to April, you will experience cold water with an approximated temperature of 70-65 degrees.

So, if you’re going to navigate on the waters at that time, it’s best to prepare yourself for a cold-water situation.

Have every necessary piece of safety equipment on the deck and try to inform the crew of the emergency protocols before heading out on the water.

Reference (s):

Sailing Fundamentals

 

 

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Sailing at Corpus Christi, Texas | Best Sailing Season and Sailing Codes https://sailingyes.com/sailing-at-corpus-christi-texas/ https://sailingyes.com/sailing-at-corpus-christi-texas/#respond Tue, 15 Oct 2019 09:29:57 +0000 https://sailingyes.com/?p=1139 Sailing at Corpus Christi, Texas | Best Sailing Season and Sailing Codes General Information Fun Facts About Sailing at Sparkling City by the Sea When to Visit Corpus Christi If You’re a Sailor? What’s the Weather Like in This City? What Are the Sailing Codes in Corpus Christi Texas? We are talking about a sparkling …

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Sailing at Corpus Christi, Texas | Best Sailing Season and Sailing Codes
Sailing at Corpus Christi, Texas | Best Sailing Season and Sailing Codes
Sailing at Corpus Christi, Texas | Best Sailing Season and Sailing Codes

We are talking about a sparkling city by the Sea—actually, THE SPARKLING CITY BY THE SEA. Corpus Christi has always been one of the Sailingyes favorites when it comes down to near-sea cities in Texas. And of course, sailing at Corpus Christi tops our beloved water activity.

We’ve tried to cover everything about sailing in Texas so far. But this time, we’re going to analyze the shining star of the Lone Star State to see where you can sail. Plus, we’re going to give you every legal information you need to know before heading out on the city’s wild waters.

General Information

Full Name: Corpus Christi

Nickname: Sparkling City by the Sea

Acres of water: 329.0 sq. mi (852 km2)

Coordinates: 27°44′34″N 97°24′7″W

Fun Facts About Sailing at Sparkling City by the Sea

  • In 2018 the city hosted the Youth Sailing World Championships.
  • In 1990, Corpus Christi hosted the Windsurfing World Championships
  • There’s a weekly race that tops the list of oldest weekly race in the United States
  • Every Wednesday you can head for the Coastal Bend and participate in an adrenaline-boosting race.

When to Visit Corpus Christi If You’re a Sailor?

If you own a sailboat and want to navigate on the Gulf of Mexico, plan to visit Corpus Christi from October 28 to July 15. This is when the city gets the fastest winds.

So, you have an 8.6-month period each year to visit this place and enjoy riding windblown vessels.

However, it’s best to avoid sailing at Corpus Christi from July 15 to October 28. According to Weather Spark, the average wind speed during this 3.4-month period is only 9.3 MPH. That’s while the windiest seasons offer at least an average wind speed of about 12.3 MPH.

Some people believe that the sparkling city of Texas is heaven for anyone owning a windblown vessel. That’s so because it’s one of the windiest cities among the Gulf State towns.

When to Visit Corpus Christi If You’re a Sailor?
When to Visit Corpus Christi If You’re a Sailor?

What’s the Weather Like in This City?

If you’re a normal tourist, opt to holiday at Corpus Christi from late-April to mid-June. Of course, this is an offer to hot-weather-activity lovers. During this period the temperature is 88 °F (on average).

However, since everyone has a different taste for the weather conditions, here’s a full analyze. The following list shows how the Corpus Christi’s weather is like during a normal year—with no unexpected meteorological change.

  1. Wind

As mentioned earlier, this is the windiest city among other places in the Gulf States. So, you must expect a windy climate for most parts of the year. However, if you own boat and want to spend the holidays sailing along the Port of Corpus Christi, it’s best to be there from late-March to mod-May.

The regular airstream speed (i.e. 12.3 MPH) creates the finest condition for sailors. Plus, you can have a kayak or canoe with you to experience other types of wind-oriented water activities.

But in case you’re a windy weather fanatic, try the late-August to mid-September. This is when the airstream speed drops to 9.3 MPH.

  1. Rainfall

Rainfall is a casual part of the climate in this near-sea city. So, you better be prepared for rainy days throughout the year. But if getting wet sounds like a bad idea to you, avoid visiting the city for 31 days after September 18.

According to Weather Spark, the rainfall increases for a 31-day period after September 18. However, it’s just an approximation and not an exact prediction.

The best time to visit the city while avoiding serious rainfall is from late-December to late-February. The rainfall is only 1.2 inches during this time.

  1. Temperature

From early-May to early-October, the city undergoes the hottest time. This is when the temperature sometimes increases to 94°F. By contrast, the coldest segment of each year starts from late-November and ends in early-March.

The lowest temperature of Corpus Christi is approximately 50°F. And it’s not normal to experience below-37°F temperatures.

What Are the Sailing Codes in Corpus Christi Texas?
What Are the Sailing Codes in Corpus Christi Texas?

What Are the Sailing Codes in Corpus Christi Texas?

  • Registration

any vessel navigating on public waters of Texas must be registered. The titleholder should get the Texas Certificate of Number before letting the craft sail across the Port of Corpus Christi.

If you own an under-14-feet sailboat, a non-motorized craft (canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and rubber rafts), there’s no need to register it.

Moreover, if your craft has a registration of another state and you will leave the Corpus Christi in less than 90 days, registration is not necessary.

  • Skippering Age Limit

As long as there’s a certified adult on the deck, anyone can skipper a boat. Consequently, solo skippering is illegal for children of the age of 12 or younger.

When the skipper is older than 13, there’s a chance to try solo navigation only through getting a TWPD-approved pass. That is the navigators 13-17 years of age must pass the Boater Safety courses and get a license to handle the boat by themselves legally.

Plus, you must always carry the license on you no matter how old are you. Otherwise, the Coastal Guard officers can apply punishments right away.

Note: people behind the helm of a boat who have an exempted adult onboard do not need any pass.

  • Boater Safety Course

TWPD urges all the navigators born after August 31, 1993, to own a boater safety license. This would approve that the overseer of the craft on the water can navigate it by the book.

The code applies to all personal watercraft captains and those skippering a motorized, above-14-feet vessel. Crafts that are under 14 feet in size, windblown, and/or having less than 15 horsepower are exempt from the code.

Reference (s):

Sailing Fundamentals

 

 

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2019 Galveston Island in Texas Sailing, Surfing, And Fishing Codes https://sailingyes.com/2019-galveston-island-in-texas-sailing/ https://sailingyes.com/2019-galveston-island-in-texas-sailing/#respond Wed, 21 Aug 2019 11:52:46 +0000 https://sailingyes.com/?p=1124 Texas Parks & Wildlife Outdoor Annual indicates every change in the sailing, angling, and hunting codes each year. We reviewed the 2019 issue of this magazine to extract the latest sailing, surfing, sightseeing, and fishing regulations in Galveston. Plus, we added a sightseeing guide for the first-timers visiting Galveston Island in Texas. 2019 Galveston Island …

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Texas Parks & Wildlife Outdoor Annual indicates every change in the sailing, angling, and hunting codes each year. We reviewed the 2019 issue of this magazine to extract the latest sailing, surfing, sightseeing, and fishing regulations in Galveston. Plus, we added a sightseeing guide for the first-timers visiting Galveston Island in Texas.

2019 Galveston Island in Texas – Sailing, Surfing, Sightseeing, And Fishing Guide

2019 Galveston Island in Texas – Sailing, Surfing, Sightseeing, And Fishing Guide

It’s go-to when it comes to recreation. Galveston Island has been a public choice during recent years due to offering great sailing, surfing, sightseeing, and angling opportunities.

So, in this article of Sailingyes, we’ll tell you every detail about codes, regulations, and restrictions on sailing, surfing, and fishing. Plus, there will be a guide on sightseeing waiting for you at the end.

General Information

Full name: Galveston Island

Location: 50 miles (80.5 km) southeast of Houston, Gulf of Mexico

Coordinates: 29°17′08″N 94°49′38″W

County: Galveston County

Most populated settlement: Galveston City

Economy: based on tourism, health care, shipping, and financial industries

Fun Facts About Galveston Island in Texas

  • The Island was named after Bernardo de Gálvez y Madrid, Count of Gálvez who never visited the Island himself.
  • Some believe that the pronunciation of Galvez’ Town transformed into Galveston in time.
  • The Port of Galveston was the capital of the Republic of Texas in the 1830s.
  • Since it became one of the largest ports in the USA, people started calling it the “Queen of the Gulf.”
  • Galveston Hurricane of 1900 destroyed everything on the Island. And it took almost 19 years to change things back.
  • The Free State of Galveston was a nickname that referred to the illegal gambling businesses running the island. Gambling became a major attraction for visitors after the hurricane—up until the 1950s.
  • The Island, however, is now one of the main tourist attractions in Texas not because of the casinos but the actual sightseeing potentials. Below you can find out what are the top 4 Galveston attractions in 2019.

Best Season for Sailing in Galveston

According to Weather Spark, starts are from late-March to mid-May and from mid-October to mid-November.

During the first phase (late-March to mid-May), the average temperature drops to 60- 70°F. Plus, the rainfall decreases to less than 4 inches while the precipitation chance remains 25-30%. However, the most important part is that from late-March to mid-May, there are 12-14 hours of daily sunlight available for the sailors. This is a very important factor as navigating a PWC is illegal from sunset to sunrise.

However, mid-October to mid-November is also a great period for sailing in Galveston Island. That’s because you get to have 10-12 MPH wind speed and an average temperature of 60°F. So, the period will make a great deal for summertime doings—especially sailing, kayaking, and kite or windsurfing.

Galveston Island and Texas Coast Sailing Guide

Galveston Island and Texas Coast Sailing Guide

The TWPD boating codes apply to all boaters and sailors navigating on Galveston Bay, Offatts Bayou, and West Bay. So, the skippers must be aware of the TWPD codes and regulations before sailing on the Island. Below you can find a list of all compulsory actions and rules one must consider.

  1. Age Restriction

There’s no age limit on the Texas waters for skippers while there’s a TWPD-approved certified adult on the deck. So, if you have a person, 18 or older, who are passed the Boater Safety Test and is currently capable of skippering the vessel, age restricting laws are unnecessary to obey.

However, if the present adult is exempted from the license-related regulations, the current operator (of any age) is exempted, too.

Navigators 13 to 17 years of age can get behind the helm solo only if they have a TWPD-approved Boater Safety License. Otherwise, it’s NOT legal to allow a person who’s 13 or younger to operate a watercraft on their own.

  1. License

TWPD urges all the skippers born after August 31, 1993, to own a boater safety license. This would approve that the overseer of the craft on the water can navigate it by the book.

The code applies to all personal watercraft captains and those skippering a motorized, above-14-feet vessel. Crafts that are under 14 feet in size, windblown, and/or having less than 15 horsepower are exempt from the code.

Note: navigating on private waters requires NO license.

Plus, since June 1, 2017, operators of party boats navigating on inland waters, carrying more than 6 passengers, and are larger than 30 feet must own a TWD-approved Party Boat Operator License.

However, skipper owning a USCG Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel License (aka OUPV) do not need to have the Part Boat Operator License.

  1. Equipment Codes Table (2019 Edition)

This is the table showing every detail about the compulsory equipment regulations according to the 2019 TWPD report.

Find the column to the right which applies to your vessel. A dot (•) in that column indicates a specific applicable requirement. A letter indicates either a specific exception to the requirement or specific additional requirements for the associated equipment.

Note: the meaning of each letter is explained under the table.
 

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

 

POWERBOATS (Including electric motors)

 

SAILBOATS (If any type of propulsion)

MANUALLY PROPELLED (No motor or sail)
 

 

 

PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES

 

One Type I, II, III or Type V wearable device for each person on board.

PWC Class A Class 1 Class 2 Class 3 Class A Class 1 Class 2 Class 3 Canoes, punts, rowboats, sailboats, rubber rafts, racing shells, rowing sculls, kayaks, and other paddle craft
B C C · · C C · · C
One additional Type IV PFD (throwable device) onboard · · · · · ·
 

 

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

One type of B-1. · D D
Two types of B-1 or one type B-2. ·
Three types B-1 or one B-2 plus one B-1. ·
 

 

 

LIGHTS

Red and green sidelights, white masthead light and stern light. ·
Red and green sidelights and white all-round white light. · · ·
Red and Green lights and stern light. F F · · F
 

 

VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNALS

Federal waters and waters under USCG authority. E · · · · · · E
Inland waters under State authority.
 

SOUND-PRODUCING DEVICES

Whistle or horn, or some other sound-producing device · · · ·
Whistle and a bell. ·
VENTILATION · G G G G
BACKFIRE FLAME ARRESTOR · H H H H
EXHAUST WATER MANIFOLD · · · · ·
ENGINE CUT-OFF SWITCH LANYARD I
MIRRORS J J J J J
A: Does not apply to canoes, kayaks, punts, rowboats, rubber rafts (regardless of length) or other vessels under 14 feet in length when paddled, poled, oared, or windblown.

B: PFDs MUST be properly worn by all occupants.

C: Passengers under 13 years of age must wear a Type I, II, or Type III wearable PFD while underway on vessels less than 26 feet in length.

D: Fire extinguishers not required on outboard motorboats less than 26 feet in length, of “open construction” with no permanently mounted gas tanks.

E: Visual distress signals not required on boats under 16 feet in length, unless operated between sunset and sunrise.

F: If sidelights and stern light are not practical, it must have and exhibit at least one bright light, lantern, or flashlight from sunset to sunrise in all weather.

G: Applies to all vessels, except a vessel of “open construction,” using as fuel any liquid of a volatile nature.

H: Backfire flame arrestor not required for outboard motors.

I: Cut off switch or lanyard must be attached to the operator, operator’s clothing, or operator’s PFD, if equipped.

J: Rearview mirror of a size no less than four inches in width and height must be present when towing a person unless an observer, other than the operator, 13 years of age or older is present onboard and acting in that capacity.

  1. Title & Registration

According to the 2018-2019 Texas Parks & Wildlife Outdoor Annual, you MUST avoid purchasing a used vessel/ boat or outboard motor without receiving an original title (signed on the front and back) along with a bill of sale from the person(s) listed on the title or from their legally documented representative.

That’s because having the title application, bill of sale, and either a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) for new vessels/boats and outboard motors or an original signed title for used vessels/ boats and outboard motors is compulsory to obtain title in applicant’s name.

Plus, if your watercraft falls into one of the three categories below, titling is vital.

  • All motorized vessels, regardless of length (including any sailboat with an auxiliary engine);
  • All non-motorized vessels (including sailboats) 14 feet in length or longer
  • All internal combustion (gasoline/diesel/propane powered) outboard motors.
Note: trailers are registered/titled through the applicant’s local county tax office.

Moreover, any vessel navigating on public waters of Texas must be registered. The titleholder should get the Texas Certificate of Number before letting the craft legally sail across Galveston.

Crafts that do not require the registration card are under-14-feet sailboats, and non-motorized watercraft including canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and rubber rafts.

Any vessel owning the registration card of another state that will leave the Galveston Island in less than 90 days is exempt from this rule.

Below you can see the fees for registration, getting the Texas Certificate of Number and Title.

 

CERTIFICATE OF NUMBER (registration ID card)

 

Fee

Transfer of Ownership (any Texas-registered vessel) $11
Replacement Certificate of Number Card Corrected $11
Certificate of Number Card $11

 

 

TEXAS CERTIFICATE OF TITLE

 

Fee

Certificate of Title- Vessel / Outboard Motor $27
Certificate of Title- Transfer of Vessel / Outboard Motor $27
Certificate of Title- Vessel / Outboard Motor $27
Certificate of Title- Correction Transaction $27
Certificate of Title- Bonded Title $37
“Quick” Title (To expedite the replacement of lost or destroyed titles only $64

 

 

VESSEL REGISTRATION

 

Fee

Less than 16 feet in length (Class A) $32
16 feet but less than 26 feet in length (Class 1) $53
26 feet but less than 40 feet in length (Class 2) $110
40 feet or more in length  (Class 3) $150
Livery Boat less than 16 feet in length  (Class A) $32

 

  1. Slow, No Wake Zone in Galveston Island

Wake Zones indicate that the vessels in such an area must always keep the ideal speed. So, you should not cause a wake more than idle speed. The No Wake Zones in Galveston Island are:

  • All boat dock/launch areas.
  • The canal connecting the bodies of water known as Offatts Bayou and Lake Madeline.
  • The area between day-markers ten (10) and eleven (11) in the entrance into Offatts Bayou to day-marker twenty-eight (28) in Offatts Bayou.
  • The entire beachfront from the shoreline to fifty (50) yards out.
  1. Jamail Park and Mooring

Mooring any watercraft at the public boat ramp called Jamail Part is limited to 15 minutes. It’s illegal to moor a boat more than this time limit, and the vessel MUST leave 15 minutes past when it first became moored.

  1. Unlawful Practices for PWCs

These are actions that are prohibited by Texas boating codes.

  1. You Must not operate a PWC at night.
  2. You can’t navigate such a craft within 50 feet of another PWC, motorboat, vessel, platform, person, object, or shore except at headway speed without creating a swell or wake. (Headway speed—slow, idle speed, or speed only fast enough to maintain steerage).
  3. operate a PWC and jump the wake of another vessel recklessly or unnecessarily close.

Gulf of Mexico Surfing and SUP Fundamentals

Gulf of Mexico Surfing and SUP Fundamentals

In short, “If you can surf in Galveston, you can surf anywhere.” It’s a popular saying among the surfers who opt to surf on the Texas coast. The reason why they believe so is that the currents are slow, choppy, unpredictable in the area most of the time. And this simple fact makes surfing so hard that only the A-grade surfers can handle it.

However, wind and kite surfing enthusiasts find the Texas coast the finest spot as the zone is exposed to strong winds all the time. However, it’s not easy to determine the right spot and period for surfing in Galveston—especially when it comes to first-timers.

So, below you can find a guide on the best surfing seasons coupled with a list of the most consistent spots on the Island.

Best Surfing Season in Galveston Island

November and December are the windiest months of the year with the average wind speed of 12 MPH. So, if you’re a kite or windsurfing fan, this period is the best season. This is the time where most of the nonmotorized, aquatic recreational device owners opt to come to Galveston Island for watersports activities.

However, the windy period lasts until the late-April of each year with a slight drop in the wind speed (10 MPH on average). So, you get to have 6 months of blowy weather conditions for your surfing attempts.

Where to Surf?

You should opt to surf in one of the spots mentioned below.

  • Along the Seawall, where there are 15 rock jetties and several fishing piers.
  • The breaks near 25th Street, and the 37th, 47th, 51st, and 61st Street jetties.

If surfing in summer, surfing is permitted at the west end of the island at the beach access roads and between the Flagship pier and 53rd Street. These parts are called “multi-use areas” and have specific codes to be followed by the surfers. (See below).

Amateurs and beginner should surf at the area near the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier at 25th. That’s because the waves in this spot are slow and controllable, making it easier for the beginners to handle the situation. However, the 37th street is, by contrast, the finest spot for performance-oriented activities due to its more hard-hitting waves.

List of the 7 Multi-Use Areas

  1. That area from the west end of East Beach Park to the east end of Stewart Beach Park, including the area known as the “Special-Use Area of Stewart Beach.”
  2. That area south of the seawall from the west side of the 17th Street groin to the east side of the 21st Street groin.
  3. That area south of the seawall from the west edge of the Galveston Flagship Pier at 25th Street to the east side of the 29th Street groin.
  4. That area south of the seawall from the west side of the 29th Street groin to the east side of the 39th Street groin.
  5. That area south of the seawall from the west side of the 39th Street groin to the east side of the 53rd Street groin.
  6. That area south of the seawall and westerly of a line drawn perpendicular to the seawall and three hundred (300) feet west of the westerly end of the T-head of the 61st Street Fishing Pier, to the centerline (extended) of 89th Street located approximately three hundred (300) feet east of the easterly end of the T-head of the Gulf Coast Fishing Pier.
  7. That area south of the seawall and westerly of a line drawn perpendicular to the Seawall and three hundred (300) feet west of the westerly end of the T-head of the Gulf Coast Fishing Pier, to the end of the seawall, and from the end of the seawall to the most westerly corporate limits of the city.

Surfing Codes in Galveston Island

Surfing Codes in Galveston Island

According to Galveston, Texas – Code of Ordinances, A multi-use area shall mean a defined area of beachfront that allows the use of hard-bottomed, nonmotorized, aquatic recreational devices including surfboards, hard-bottomed boogie boards, wind-surfers, kayaks, surf-skis, surf boats, canoes, or other aquatic devices that are specifically approved by the Galveston Beach Patrol for use in multi-use areas. These devices shall not be allowed within fifty (50) yards of the shoreline in areas outside of the multi-use areas.

Illegal multi-use activities are:

  • Activities are done in spots which are not a multi-use area during the period May 15 through Labor Day of each year only.
  • Closer than 100 feet of either side of the rock groin at 10th Street at any time.
  • Closer to the fishing piers at 61st Street and 91st Street in that submerged area.
  • It’s not legal to lay or leave any surfboard upon the sidewalks of the Seawall if it’s restricting pedestrian passage.
  • Any surfing contest without the approval of the park board director or his designee is illegal in Galveston Island.
  • Life Guards
  • Having surf leashes is compulsory on all surfboards entering Surfing Areas 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, during the period May 15 through Labor Day of each year, only. Surf leashes are not required in Surfing Area 6 at any time

How to Know if an Area is a Multi-Use one?

All areas designated as multi-use have a sign indicating “DESIGNATED MULTI-USE AREA. SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK.” So, any spot without such a sign is not a multi-use area and, therefore, not treated as such.

Kayak Renting: A) all the rental kayaks must be of the “sit on top” variety. B) you must operate this craft only on beach areas designated “multi-use” by the city council. C) renting a kayak to a person under 16 is NOT legal. D) kayakers must remain at least one hundred feet from all rock jetties, piers, and structures that extend offshore. E) wearing a PFD at all times is obligatory.

Waterskiing: towing or attempting to tow any other person upon water skis, upon an aquaplane or upon any other device designed to support and carry a person over the surface of the water is NOT legal in the Canalway which connects Offatts Bayou and Lake Madeline. So, waterskiing prohibited on Offatts Bayou-Lake Madeline Canal.

Angling Regulations Overview

Angling Regulations Overview

Everyone angling on Texas public water must own a license. You can get a license online or purchase one from TWPD-approved places. (Visit TWPD official website for a list of places to buy such a license).

If you own private waters, fishing requires no license. However, fishing on privately-owned waters or in public water from private land without the permission of the owner or the owner’s agent is illegal.

Any angler, 17 and older, must carry a verifiable ID such as the driver’s license or personal identification certificate issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Nonnative fishers must have similar documents issued by the agency in their state or country.

According to the 2018-2019 Texas Parks & Wildlife Outdoor Annual, “in addition to the criminal penalty for hunting and fishing violations, the department will seek the civil recovery value for the loss or damage to wildlife resources. Failure to pay the civil recovery value will result in the department’s refusal to issue a future license, tag, or permit. Hunting or fishing after failing or refusing to pay civil restitution is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by a $500 – $4,000 fine; punishment in jail (not to exceed one year); or both.”

Violating fishing codes in Galveston may result in:
  • be fined for misdemeanors
  • Class C – $25-$500
  • Class B – $200-$2,000 and/or 6 months in jail
  • Class A – $500-$4,000 and/or 1 year in jail)
  • be fined for state jail felonies ($1,500-$10,000 and/or up-to 2 years in jail)
  • face automatic suspension or revocation of licenses for up to five years
  • forfeit hunting gear, including firearms, used to commit a violation

Note: taking, killing, or disturbing sea turtles in the Gulf of Mexico is NOT legal. If you accidentally catch a sea turtle, call (866) 887-8535 for information on how to help without injuring yourself or causing further injury to the animal.

TWPD has some regulations about the tools and devices anglers utilize to catch the fish. Below you can find a table that includes all the information about fishing tools in Galveston Island.

(The table is based on the 2018-2019 Texas Parks & Wildlife Outdoor Annual).

Tool/Device Restrictions
 

CAST NET

For nongame fish and crabs, crayfish, and shrimp.

It must not be greater than 14 feet in diameter.

In SALTWATER, nongame fish may be taken for bait purposes only.

CRAB LINE No Restrictions
CRAB TRAPS (Saltwater Only) Only six crab traps at a time may be fished for non-commercial purposes.

May only remove crab traps from the water during the period from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.

DIP NET For taking NONGAME fish and crabs, crayfish, and shrimp.

Helping the landing of fish caught by other legal devices.

In SALTWATER, nongame fish may be taken for bait purposes only.

FOLDING PANEL TRAPS For crabs only.

The overall surface area (including panels) may not exceed 16 square feet.

GAFF For helping the landing of fish caught by other legal devices, means, or methods.

Fish landed with a gaff MAY NOT be below the minimum, above the maximum, or within a protected length limit.

HANDFISHIN For taking channel, blue, and flathead catfish in freshwater only. No person may intentionally place a trap (including such devices as boxes, barrels, or pipes) in public freshwater to take catfish by handfishing.
JUGLINE For use in FRESHWATER and taking NONGAME fish, channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish only.
OYSTER DREDGE It may not be more than 14 inches in width
PERCH TRAPS Legal only for taking NONGAME fish and crayfish and shrimp.

It may not exceed 18 cubic feet.

Must have a mark with a floating visible orange buoy not less than 6 inches in height and 6 inches in width.

The buoy must have a GEAR TAG valid only for 10 days attached.

Must have a degradable panel.

Buoys or floats may not be made of a plastic bottle(s) of any color or size.

It is unlawful to place any type of trap within the area where the pass empties into the Gulf of Mexico.

SAND PUMPS For manual operation and non-commercial purposes.
SEINE Legal only for taking NONGAME fish crabs, crayfish, and shrimp.

It may not be longer than 20 feet.

It shouldn’t have mesh exceeding 1/2-inch square.

For manual operation only.

In SALTWATER, nongame fish may be taken by seine for bait purposes only

SHAD TRAWL Legal only for taking NONGAME fish and crayfish and shrimp.

Shad trawl should not be longer than 6 feet or with a mouth larger than 36 inches in diameter.

It should have a funnel or throat and must be towed by boat or hand.

SAIL LINE  Nongame fish, red drum, spotted seatrout, and sharks may be taken with a sail line.

Using more than one sail line per fisherman is illegal.

The sail line must always be attended the line is fishing.

Sail lines may not be used by the holder of a commercial fishing license.

Sail lines may be used seven days a week

SPEAR GUN For NONGAME fish only

Not a legal means to take fish in a community fishing lake.

THROWLINE For NONGAME fish, channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish only.

It must be used with a valid gear tag attached. Gear tag is valid for 10 days after the date set out.

SPEAR For NONGAME fish only.
TROTLINE Nongame fish, channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish. Red drum, spotted seatrout, and sharks caught on a trotline may not be retained or possessed.
 
TRAWL (Individual Bait-Shrimp Trawl Only one trawl per boat.

Must have an individual bait-shrimp trawl tag in one’s possession while trawling.

It must not be greater than 20 feet in width between the doors. Mesh size must not be smaller than 8-3/4 inches over a consecutive series of five stretched meshes.

Boards must not be larger than 450 square inches each. Nongame fish (EXCEPT those species regulated by bag or size limits) taken incidental to legal shrimping operations may be retained.

 

UMBRELLA NET Only for taking NONGAME fish and, crayfish, and shrimp.

The net should not have within the frame an area that exceeds 16 square feet.

MINNOW TRAP Legal only for taking NONGAME fish and crayfish and shrimp. The trap may not exceed 24 inches in length.

The throat may not exceed 1 inch by 3 inches. GEAR TAG (pg. 99) valid for only 10 days must be visibly attached.

GIG For NONGAME fishing only

Most Common Fish Type in Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico

When angling at the Gulf of Mexico, you should expect to catch Amberjack, Gag, Gray Triggerfish, King Mackerel Southern Zone (Gillnet), Black, Yellowmouth, Scamp, Yellowfin, and Red Groupers, as well as Red Snapper.

However, when trying to catch some fish in Galveston Bay, the “Big 3” game fish species (i.e. redfish, specks, and flounder) will be waiting for you.

Saltwater Fishing Codes for Those Angling in the Gulf of Mexico

Saltwater Fishing Codes for Those Angling in the Gulf of Mexico

According to the 2018-2019 Texas Parks & Wildlife Outdoor Annual, “It is unlawful to anchor or moor a vessel, barge, or structure for a period exceeding two consecutive days within the area in Cedar Bayou between a department sign erected where Mesquite Bay flows into Cedar Bayou and the department sign erected near the point where the pass empties into the Gulf of Mexico.”

In addition to that, Outdoor Annual also states that “anglers fishing more than 9 nautical miles off the coast of Texas are in federal waters and are subject to rules and regulations that may differ from those in state waters. One example is the federal requirement to use non-stainless circle hooks when fishing for reef fish.”

The Bag and Length Limit for Saltwater Fishing

TWPD urges all the fishers on the Gulf of Mexico to follow the bag and length limit to preserve the under-water life of Texas. According to this code, each angler can only catch a restricted amount/number of fishes per day. Below you can see what are the specific limitations for fish types in the Gulf of Mexico.

Fish Type DAILY BAG LIMIT LENGTH IN INCHES
Minimum Maximum
Amberjack 1 38 ❌
gag 2 24 ❌
Triggerfish – gray 20 16 ❌
Grouper – black 4 24 ❌
Mackerel – king 3 27 ❌
Snapper – red 4 15 ❌

Top 4 Galveston Attractions That You Shouldn’t Miss When Sightseeing

  1. Moody Gardens (3 Pyramids)

If you approach the Island form the Offatts Bayou, soon you’ll see 3 giant pyramids on the right. These fascinating structures form the Moody Gardens, which is believed to be the main reason why many families visit the Island each year.

However, this is a 242-acre amusement park with hotel & attractions including an aquarium, zip line & paddlewheel boat. So, the 3 pyramids are just the tip of the iceberg—pone intended.

Each of the pyramids is a themed environment offering new experiences to visitors of all ages. The two smaller ones are the Discovery and Aquarium Pyramids while the bigger one is the Rainforest Pyramid. Below you can find out more about each pyramid.

Top 4 Galveston Attractions That You Shouldn’t Miss When Sightseeing

The Discovery Pyramid:

Being the smallest in the group of three, this toddler- and the kid-friendly museum is a must-see. There are several fun exhibits like the Dora/Diego that you can attend with your children. And the best part is that the kids can touch the stuff in the museum. So, no more try-to-keep-them-away thing will bother you!

Plus, the attendance fee is half the other two pyramids and you can cut back on the budget—just in case. However, the most popular part of this museum is the SpongeBob Subpants’ Adventure. (It includes a 4D show for kids and adults).

Note: The Discovery Pyramid is not a good choice for groups that consist only of adults. You’d better off without visiting this place if there are no kids or toddlers with you.

Aquarium at Moody Gardens:

Located at 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, this outstanding aquarium is an extraordinary underwater life exhibit. There are hundreds of fish types such as jellyfish, stingrays, and starfish stocked in the tanks.

But the most noteworthy part of visiting the Aquarium Pyramid is that you get to touch the fishes. Yes, you read it right. Some tanks have no cover and all you need to do is to gently put your hand in the water to see how touching a fish feels.

The tickets are $65 but you get to have great exhibits of seals, sea lions, and 2 different penguin exhibits on top of all the fish and other ocean tanks.

Friendly Advice: follow the fish paths so that you don’t miss any of the exhibits.

Rainforest Pyramid:

being within the walking distance to the other 2 pyramids, the Rainforest is home to sharks, seahorses & other animals. This attraction features a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium. And you may even want to exclude visiting the Aquarium at Moody Gardens as this one will be amusing enough to satisfy you.

This is a place to bond with different animals and be a quest in their environment. If you’re an animal lover, this pyramid will be the ultimate fun things-to-do in Galveston Island. That’s because some of them are free in the parking area and you may have the chance to get close to them.

Note: the entry fee is $25 per adult and the walking path will take approximately 1-2 hours to finish. So, you’ll pay the fee for a 2-hour walk within nature, visiting the spectacular animals such as monkeys, sharks, and sloths.

  1. Schlitterbahn

Being only 400 miles away from the Aquarium at Moody Gardens, Schlitterbahn is a water amusement park with outdoor attractions open seasonally and heated indoor park open year-round.

In case you’re a water-activities fan, this park will leave you out of breath. There are nearly 31 unalike attractions/doings available for people of all ages. And you get to experience some of the most fun on-water events too.

Check out their website as they allow you to filter the doings by their intensity (or thrill) level, ride type, age and physical requirement, and park section. Plus, they have separate maps for indoor and outdoor waterparks available on their website so that you know what’s what before setting things off.

It’s located at 2026 Lockheed Rd, Galveston, TX 77554, operating from 10 A.M. to 6 P.M.

  1. Seawolf Park

At 100 Seawolf Park Blvd, Galveston, you can find this city park for fishing (sunrise to sunset), picnicking, and touring 2 retired naval vessels on display. The park is on the Pelican Island right n front of the west end of Galveston Island. So, you need to take the Pelican Island Causeway to have access to it. (Or get there with your PWC).

For angling fanatics, rental rods are accessible year-round and you can also opt to buy baits for the local supply shops in the area. However, bear in mind that the park is under control of the TWPD and, therefore, you’ll need a fishing license for angling. Plus, the Bag and Length Limit is applicable in the area for each specific fish type.

However, the main reason why many first-timers like Seawolf Park is having 2 naval vessels on display. You can check out the interior of submarines and warships to see what it would be like to live in such tiny spaces to protect your country!

  1. Pleasure Pier

On the south end of the Island, at 2501 Seawall Blvd, here’s an old-fashioned waterfront amusement area with rides for all ages, games of skill & boardwalk eat. A quick-and-dirty tip for visiting the Pleasure Pier is to enjoy scenic views, fun rides & games, and bumper cars all day long. And at the end of the day, eat some ice cream, win toys, ride the Ferris wheel, and drive back home as a thrilled child!

The park is also home to several events each week, spicing things up enormously. (Landry’s Select Club Weekend, Live on Stage, Homeschool Day, and Crawfish Crazy Weekend just to name a few).

There’s also a 5D theater ride across the street, offering to different movies—the Mysterious Underworld and the Shark Attack. But the tickets are cost-effective ($7) so that you can even watch both in a row.

Pleasure Pier

Extra Fun Things to Do in Galveston That You Didn’t Know About

Most of the attractions introduced so far are located in or around the Moody Gardens. So, you can tell the first-timers will spend their time in this district for the most part. However, the good news is that there are even more things to do in this section of the Island than you could imagine.

The following, therefore, is a list of 5 extra fun doings within 10 miles to the Moody Gardens to help you make the most of your stay in this district.

  1. Become the Legend of the Gulf

Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast at 2313 Harborside Dr, is an interactive themed hunted house. It’s the place to see the ghosts and pirates in historic downtown Galveston.

The place contains the deck of a pirate ship, a captain’s cabin and actors portraying the notorious Jean Laffite and his brother Pierre. So, it would be like watching a movie in real life.

There’s also a gift shop in the area with pirate and ghost-themed books, costumes, toys, and games as well as paranormal equipment.

The admission fee for adults is $10 while kids 5-13 can attend the adventure for $6.75. (Toddlers under 5 are free-of-charge).

  1. Visit La King’s Sweet Territory

Within the walking distance to the Pirates and Ghosts, at 2323 Strand St, an old-school candy maker is offering traditional sweets amid a 1920’s soda fountain & arcade games – called La King’s Confectionery.

The owners believe that “La King’s Confectionery and Ice Cream Parlor is a throwback to the 1920s when folks came out to enjoy a treat and visit. We cordially invite you, your family and friends, to Galveston, to experience the atmosphere of days gone by.”

They offer more 50 old candies made with original old recipes to bring back the nostalgia of being in a candy shop. But That’s not even that; they have an old-fashioned soda fountain drink, made with their special Purity ice cream. And this is a must-try as La King’s own the title of the first ice cream manufacturer of Galveston Island!

If you’re a sweet tooth, attend their Toffy Demonstration event on the weekends. This is a custom-like program allowing the customers to watch how taffy being pulled, spun out and packaged.

  1. Go on a Tour with Ghosts!

At 1522 Seawall Blvd, you can spook up yourself on a bus. And if it sounds creepy wait to hear the theme! The Galveston Ghost Bus Tours offers a bus ride with audio/video displays about ghosts. Yes, you read it right. This company shows you interviews with real local people who claim to have encountered paranormal activities on the Island. After all, being haunted is what Galveston is known for.

Although it’s not going to be an informative trip (as ghosts are—you know—not real), the whole ride is absolute fun. You will have the chance to drive by some of the famous attractions while listening and watching spooky stories.

It’s highly recommended doing when it comes down to rainy days. The buses are all air-conditioned and you’ll face no weather-related issues while having the tour.

  1. Refresh Yourself in a Spa

Walking around all day long, trying to get to the destinations, dealing with the time limits, and trying to have fun will tire you. But don’t worry at all as Galveston knows how to make it up for you. Just head to one of the 2 luxury spas on the Island and get yourself refreshed in the drop of a hat.

The Spa at the Hotel Galvez at 2024 Seawall Blvd, offers treatments, including herb and floral extracts, essential oils, and minerals spanning the seven seas. So, even a single visit will be enough to remove all the toxic energies and rejuvenating your body and soul. Plus, the Mediterranean-inspired décor will boost the relaxation and boost the treatment processes for you.

There are seven separate facilities in this spa such as massage rooms, hydrotherapy room, Vichy shower room, and couple’s massage room. But the Relaxation Room, outdoor Meditation Garden, and a private lounge for parties are also included to keep the customers satisfied.

If, for any reason, this one is not your cup of tea, head to the Spa San Luis at 5222 Seawall Blvd. This place has combined the traditional treatments with the essence of nature, taking the spa experience to a whole new level.

Since the spa is in a hotel, you can opt to spend the night in a luxury room and double the joy after treatment. (The rooms’ prices start from $178).

  1. Drink the Galveston Local Beer

Galveston Island Brewing at 8423 Stewart Rd, is where you can taste the very traditional beer of this Island. The owner, Mark Dell’Osso, is a former tugboat captain and of course a beer expert. So, the drinks you grab at his place are far from being a normal homemade brew.

Just visit the place on a rainy day and let the bartender serve you with a special beverage and make you forget about the bad weather. Or, grab a drink on a boring weekend day, get a card/board game from their great selection. And start having fun with a friend or a nice stranger right away.

 

References:

  1. Legal Devices, Methods & Restrictions. (2019, August 14).
  2. (n.d.). Galveston, Texas – Code of Ordinances Chapter 8 – BEACHES AND WATERWAYS.
  3. (2019). Texas Parks & Wildlife Outdoor Annual, 25-31.

 

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Kemah, TX – What-to-Dos & How-to-Dos https://sailingyes.com/kemah-tx-what-to-dos-how-to-dos/ https://sailingyes.com/kemah-tx-what-to-dos-how-to-dos/#respond Fri, 16 Aug 2019 13:03:46 +0000 https://sailingyes.com/?p=1107 Kemah City in Texas has always been a public choice when it comes to recreation. But we wanted to make sure all the first-timers know what to do and how to do things to make the most of their trips. And that’s why we opted to create this travel guide for visiting Kemah, TX. Kemah, …

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Kemah City in Texas has always been a public choice when it comes to recreation. But we wanted to make sure all the first-timers know what to do and how to do things to make the most of their trips. And that’s why we opted to create this travel guide for visiting Kemah, TX.

Kemah, TX – What-to-Dos & How-to-Dos

Kemah, TX – What-to-Dos & How-to-Dos

It’s a city that has been through a lot! It was being run by a criminal syndicate, it got hit by a horrible hurricane, then it got hit by another one. But through all these years, Kemah has survived, rebuilt, and moved on. And now, it’s the main tourist attraction in Texas.

At Sailingyes, we care about the first-timers and regulars who’d want to make the most of their trip to the Lone Star State. That’s why this time, in this article, our team will tell you what to do and how to do things when in Kemah. Our guide includes every detail about sailing (aka the most popular on-water activity), fishing, hunting, and having fun in the formerly-called-Evergreen city!

General Information

Full name: Kemah City

What does Kemah mean? It’s derived from the Indian term “Karankawa” meaning wind in my face

Former names/titles: Flanders Grove or Flanders Labor, Evergreen, and Shell Siding

Land area: 1.84 sq. miles

Water area: 0.07 sq. miles (3.55%)

Coordinates: 29°32′33″N 95°1′13.08″W

Top 10 Attractions within 50 Miles

Top 10 Attractions within 50 Miles

Kemah city in Texas is a part of the Bay Area Houston. This area contains several admired tourist destinations such as Seabrook, El Lago, Clear Lake City, etc. So, it’s not a good idea to restrict your trip to only visiting Kemah as there are lots of attractions located within the walking distance.

To help you see the bigger picture and plan a trip to cover all the Bay Area Houston’s attractions, we’ve made the list below. It consists of the top 10 attractions within 50 miles from Kemah.

  1. Space Center Houston

Just 5 miles away from the city center, there’s a must-see spot offering lots of interactive doings to its visitors. The Space Center Houston is a well-known attraction near Seabrook that has always topped the list of fun places to visit in Bay Area Houston.

The tickets are not cost-effective, but considering the amenities and hands-on experiences offered by this place, it’s worth it. Right now, you can get an adult ticket for $29.95 whereas the prices for minors (4 to 11) start from $24.95. Plus, elderly visitors (65 or older) can get a ticket for $27.95. And the good news is that children younger than 4 can enter the area with no need to pay for tickets.

Expert advice: get Houston City PASS (it only costs $62), allowing you to visit Space Center Houston and 4 more H-Town attractions.

One of the main reasons why many people love this place is the Tram Tours. Right now, you get to choose between two tours, Mission Control Center and Astronaut Training Facility Tour. The earlier is a 60-75-minute trip to check out the areas that were used as the main control facilities for space missions. However, the latter allows you to check out the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility.

If you’d like to see the Apollo Mission Control Center, get a timed ticket (available at the ticket booths, ticket kiosks, and the Guest Services Desk).

For those who love rockets, there’s a must-see called the Rocket Park. This is where you can see the real Saturn V rocket that was involved in the Apollo mission.

During the tours, you’ll see a gigantic shuttle mounted on top of a Boeing 747. And that will indicate you’re at Independence Plaza. The space shuttle on top of the airplane is known as Independence and there are exhibits inside the aircraft all the time.

If you’re looking for more information about NASA and its cool plans, head for the Destiny Theater & Space Center Theater & Blast-Off! Theater. These places will provide you with short films and visualized diagrams, explaining how the International Space Station is working and what are the upcoming space-related missions.

There’s also a virtual reality simulation right next to the Destiny Theater that would let you see the space in person—while standing on Earth!

Plan at least 6 hours if you want to see everything here (ideally come before 11 AM or 12 PM). A 3-hour trip would only give you enough time for one tram tour and selectively picked exhibits or short clips you want to see here.

Location: 1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston.

Butler Longhorn Museum

  1. Butler Longhorn Museum

Located at 1220 Coryell St, League City, Butler Longhorn Museum is devoted to a breed of beef cattle mainly known as the longhorn. This is where you can find out how important this breed was for Texas after the Civil War and how it almost went extinct.

A short film will welcome you and give some general information about the museum. Then, the 2nd and 3rd story viewing will introduce the memorabilia, history, and art of the Lone Star City—all related to longhorns, of course.

You’ll learn about how Texas has the genuine breed of Longhorns that are native to the land, and how a few ranches have preserved this type of cattle. So, if you are even slightly interested in longhorns, you’ll find the museum informative and interesting.

They’ll also let you know the economic impact the longhorns had on Texas after the Civil War. Plus, you’ll finally realize how they survived a possible extinction going into the 20th century.

It’s a family-friendly spot that can be very informative for adults and children who’re curious about the longhorns of Texas. Just have in mind that the museum closes at 4 P.M. and since each tour lasts for one hour, you might want to get there before 3 P.M. Otherwise, you may lose the chance of visiting the longhorns for the day.

  1. Armand Bayou Nature Center

ABNC is the largest urban wilderness preserve in the U.S. with 2500 acres of the natural wetlands, forest, and prairies. SO, if you’re a nature-lover type of person, this is your dreamland. They have over 370 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians and the wildlife is very active in year-round.

This nature center is located at 8500 Bay Area Blvd, Pasadena, offering dozens of hands-on experiences and fun activities such as Sundays in Nature, Canoe Tours, Pontoon Boat Cruise, Guided Photo Hike, and Guided Trail Hikes.

Moreover, there are several annual events & programs available at this nature center that keep the yearly schedule busy. World Migratory Bird Day, Prairie Pandemonium (a prairie restoration project), Creepy Crawlers (Halloween special), Martyn Farm Harvest Festival, Christmas Bird Count, and ABNC’s Fundraising Dinner and Auction are just a few examples of these annual events.

Other features of this park are:

  • Having 3 walking trails around a mile each that have benches along the trails.
  • A spot for observing alligators.
  • An area to learn about different reptiles and a platform to see the bison.
  • Plenty of parking area available.

 

  1. Pelican Trail

According to the Seabrook government, this city has 13 miles of hike and bike trails filled with various bird species and other wildlife, 1,000 ft. pier, 15 parks, 2 splash pads, swimming pool, indoor rental facilities, and multiple rental pavilions and cabanas. So, Pelican Trail is just one of the attractions you’ll find in this city.

This trail is a part of the Pelican Path is indicated by multiple pelican statues all over the city. These statues will guide you through the path, uniting all the Pelicans in Seabrook.

Right now, most of the businesses in Seabrook have their own customized Pelican to help the city extend the trail. So, following this path will let you visit almost every must-see place as the Pelicans are everywhere now.

However, there are some rules to obey while using Pelican Trails. The following list will show you what is acceptable and what’s not.

  • No alcohol or other controlled substances
  • Park hours are sunrise to sunset unless posted differently
  • All animals must be on a leash
  • No unlawful firearms
  • No glass containers
  • No open fires
  • No parking on grass or unpaved areas
  • No motorized vehicles on the trails
  • Bounce Houses must be registered with the City
  • No fishing, crabbing, or casting nets from footbridges, marine nursery areas, or any designated area
  • No metal detectors
  • No cutting, digging up or removing objects
  • No animals in the water of the Municipal swimming pool or splash pads
  • Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult

 

  1. Lone Star Flight Museum

After Hurricane Ike, this Texas Aviation Hall of Fame, with vintage aircraft & rides on warplanes is now located at 11551 Aerospace Ave, Houston, TX 77034. And not only does it contain lots of airplanes, motors, propellers, it also has great, interactive displays. And you can get close to many of the airplanes—just to feed your curiosity.

They operate from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. (except for Sundays that they open at 12 P.M.). The entrance fee for adults is $15 and you’ll not need to pay the fee for kids 3 or younger.

They have a couple of flight simulators that allow the kids to have some hands-on experiences. This would be a great chance to let them see how it would feel if they were a pilot. (And maybe they wanted to become a real pilot in the future, who knows?).

Most noteworthy, former pilots and other experienced personnel were patrolling the exhibits, frequently stopping by, and sharing concepts and experiences with genuine zeal. So, if you have a family member who is obsessed with aeronautics, this is the place to be. They have a membership program for locals to keep them up-to-date regarding the aeronautics and airplanes.

There’s also a gift shop in the museum area that sells very cost-effective souvenirs. So, you can spend an extra $3-5 to buy your loved ones a gift and show your love to them.

Visiting the Lone Star Flight Museum would be interactive for school-age kids. Plus, it would be a great interactive field trip to learn about the history of airplanes.

Note: the center has activities set up for pre during & post educational STEM activities.

San Jacinto Museum of History & Battleground State Historic Site

  1. San Jacinto Museum of History & Battleground State Historic Site

Museum of History at 1 Monument Cir, La Porte, TX 77571, is a free showcase of artifacts, documents, books & images from points throughout Texas history. And the TWPD has done a marvelous job in the management of this property, presentation of the facts, an outstanding display of artifacts, pictures and paintings, period clothing and tools.

There are several displays inside the museum on the bottom floor of the monument. However, there’s even a 3+ mile path you can walk to retrace the different battleground and significant moments.

Note: the museum operates from 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. all week long—and it’s free for the visitors.

Within the walking distance to this museum, there’s San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site at 3523 Independence Pkwy, La Porte, TX 77571. It’s the Circa-1939 obelisk & museum commemorating the battle that marked Texas’ independence from Mexico. And you can opt to visit it every day from 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. for free.

It’s a great starting place for your visit (either here or the Texas museum in Austin) as you will understand the history and people of Texas. Buy the whole ticket and ride the elevator to the top to learn about the Texas oil and gas industry and its importance to the United States.

If you are tight on cash, you can see them both for free without going to the top or getting on the ship. However, going to the top will give you the chance to gain valuable information about the Ship Channel and its role in creating jobs and helping Houston’s economy.

  1. Galveston-Port Bolivar Ferry

You’re probably thinking why would one include a ferry in an attraction list. Well, hold on there; this one is a bit different. Besides providing an actual service Galveston-Port Bolivar Ferry is a great site seeing activity.

You can ride the ferry to watch the dolphins, seagulls, and pelicans as well as the big ships and tankers arriving into port. You are also allowed to get out of your vehicle and walk the ferry while underway. Plus, air-conditioned indoors and has restrooms are available for all the passengers.

Better yet? It’s all free! So, you don’t have to pay a penny to get your vehicle carried. Just head to Texas 87, Port Bolivar, TX 77650 and wait in the lines until it’s your turn to get into the ship.

  1. Houston Area Museums

The area between Pasadena, Bellaire, and Aldine is full of the museum. That’s why you can find roughly 18 museums with various themes and fields in this district.

However, the most popular ones among the Houston Area Museums are the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Children’s Museum of Houston.

The museum of natural science is located at 5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030 and operates from 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. every day. This is where you can find multiple exhibits with various scientific themes for kids and adults. However, bear in mind that each exhibit will cost you an extra fee unless you join the membership program or get a city pass.

The city pass will enable you to watch the exhibits for free and have access to 4 other H-Town attractions such as the Houston Zoo. Plus, an annual membership costs only $120 whereas a single visit (parking included) may cost you $150! ($67 per adult and $50 for kids).

The museum itself has so much to offer to appease the senses of people of all ages. The Butterfly Exhibit, for instance, will create a magical environment where the butterflies are flying all around you. Moreover, the planetarium with reclined seats will make you learn anything from the stars to the true history of the titanic watching the displays above your head.

  1. Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

This 155-acre urban green space offering nature trails, exhibits, workshops & events in various habitats is located at 4501 Woodway Dr, Houston, TX 77024. And you can plan an almost 12-hour trip to this amusing nature center as they operate from 7 A.M. to 6:30 P.M.

You will see lots of native trees as well as active wildlife in a quiet setting. The park has several trails too so that you can walk your dog or just jog around among the plants, tree, and cute animals.

Plus, a gift shop is in the park, offering some budget-friendly souvenirs and tokens. So, make sure to get something for those who didn’t get the chance to see the park.

Since there’s no admission fee required in the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, you can visit it for free. However, the regulations for parking lots have changed since 8/4/2019. And now, you must pay $1.35 per hour to park your vehicle.

Is that it? Uh-uh… not at all. The main reason why most of the families in Texas love visiting this place is their educational programs. The park offers 4 different educational programs for families, adults, children, and schools. And in addition to that, it holds numerous special events year-round.

So, if you’d like to make the most of your time and have an interactive field trip while enjoying the quiet environment, this is the ultimate choice. Your kids will have a lot to learn and see in this park and you’d be able to spend some quality time with your loved ones.

Bear in mind that the park is also available for rental as they offer wedding & birthday parties, family events, meeting, conferences, receptions, and memorial services.

Sea Center Texas

  1. Sea Center Texas

Located at 302 Medical Dr, Lake Jackson, TX 77566, Sea Center is a marine museum with touch tanks, an aquarium, a hatchery & an outdoor wetland with a boardwalk trail. People love their touch tank which is where you can pat the under-water life. It allows you (and the kids) to touch the fish and see how it feels to pet them.

But the most fantastic part about this museum is that it’s free. Yes, you read it right. There’s no admission fee included—no matter how many people are in your group. However, this place accepts donations. So, if you went there and enjoyed the experience, don’t forget to donate.

Kemah Entertainment District

Several years after the Maceo crime syndicate shut down, the Landry’s Restaurants established the Kemah Boardwalk (in the 1990s). The district soon became a tourist attraction as the increasing number of brand-new restaurants, shops, and retails seemed tempting to travelers at the time.

Right now, it’s known as one of the main reasons why people choose Kemah over other cities in Bay Area Houston. And it helped the whole city to gain the title of the top tourism spot in the Greater Houston area in 2012.

Some of the well-liked activities and amenities in the Kemah Entertainment District are amusement rides, shopping, and eating at the high-end restaurants.

It’s a great place to have a family outing as there’s so much to do. However, you must know that it’s usually crowded and finding a parking spot may take some time. So, plan your trip accordingly.

The water fountains in the back by the aquarium are a great spot to let the kids run around and cool off in the heat. Live bands usually play songs week long as well. Plus, inside the aquarium, you can feed the stingrays.

The toy shop is another great place to visit when you have kids and minors in the group. You’ll enjoy watching the train going around the ceiling of the store! (And yes, there is such a train in the shop). But don’t let it make you feel it’s just a good place for kids. By contrast, it’s a great experience for people of any age as there’s a lot to do whether you are 5 or 95.

Visiting the Kemah Boardwalk at Halloween or Christmas will give you the chance to see the themed decorations. There’s even a haunted house designed for those Halloween enthusiasts.

Where to Stay in the Kemah Entertainment District?

Since there’s only one hotel in Kemah Boardwalk, you’ll have a few options when it comes to staying. However, the Boardwalk Inn will fulfill all your needs single-handedly. The rooms at this place are very clean and well-maintained and you’d face no issues as they have a satisfying customer service.

This 3-star hotel is located at waterfront #8, Kemah, TX 77565. But you can call (281)-334-9880 for reservation.

Where to Eat in Kemah Boardwalk?

Because Landry’s Restaurants Inc. is a food industry giant, Kemah Boardwalk has become a tourist attraction for gourmets. Right now, 14 restaurants are active in the district and the number is expected to increase soon.

However, here we have a list of the top 3 restaurants in the Kemah Entertainment District for those who don’t have time for cherry-picking.

Note: the list below is based on the customer votes on the scale of 1 to 5.

  • Aquarium Restaurant (4.2 out of 5). Located at 215 Kipp Avenue Boardwalk #11.
  • Landry’s Seafood House (4.1 out of 5). Located at Boardwalk #1.
  • Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. (4.1 out of 5). Located at Boardwalk #5

Extra Adventurous Things to Do

Extra Adventurous Things to Do

Kemah Boardwalk is full of fun things to do and new stuff to experience. So, if you don’t want to miss out on the most iconic things-to-do, read on. That’s because we have a list of extra adventurous doings.

  1. Eat inside an Aquarium

Turning your head around is enough to find a restaurant or eatery at Kemah Boardwalk. However, not all of them are as irreplaceable as the Aquarium Restaurant. Yes, you read it right; it’s an aquarium that serves food! How? Well, they have an indoor area surrounded by 50,000 gallons of water. So, technically, you’ll be sitting in a tank.

They have a wide variety of fish, sharks, stingrays, and other sea creatures to make you fill it’s an under-water eatery. And guess what? Your kids will love this place in the blink of an eye.

So, if you’re bored of eating at ordinary restaurants, this is the one you must try. Just head to 215 Kipp Avenue Boardwalk #11, Kemah, TX 77565, for a second-of-none type of experience.

  1. Charter a Luxury Yacht

Don’t have a boat and don’t even know how to skipper one? No worries at all. Boardwalk Fantasea, located at #8 Kemah Boardwalk Suite G Kemah, TX. 77565, is there for you. It’s a yacht charter company capable of providing you with private & public cruises, leisure cruises, and corporate event arrangements.

But that’s not it; you can also count on Fantasea for dinner voyages, historic sightseeing along the water and unforgettable party cruises as well as weddings or special occasions.

Give them a call via (281)-538-9600 or check out boardwalkfantasea.com for more information, booking, and/or buying tickets.

  1. Escape Kemah at the Escape Kemah

This one is the best bonding activity in the district. Escape Kemah allows visitors to create groups and work together to solve the mysteries and escape the rooms. They have designed several themed rooms such as the Fear room (detective/murder), Star Wars, and Bomb room (a disgruntled person has planted sa bomb).

However, the most interesting thing about this place is that they update the rooms constantly. So, you can rely on the novelty of the games and trust the Escape Kemah’s team’s creativity for having fun every single time.

Since some rooms require teamwork, you’ll bond with your friends and/or coworkers during the escape. For instance, the Fear Room divides a team into 2 groups and asks them to solve the puzzles in separate rooms before merging. During this period the 2 groups will communicate via two-way radios and help each other. Once each team gets out of the first room, they then work together as a larger group to escape two more rooms. The two teams combined get a total of five clues from the host and they are given 60 minutes to escape the room.

Find them at 609 Bradford Ave, Ste 213, Kemah.

  1. Learn How to Sail

South Coast Sailing Adventures at 502 Texas Ave, Kemah, TX 77565, is an ASA-approved school right next to Clear Lake. So, in case you have enough time to take a sailing course, don’t hesitate to call them.

They are operating since 1993, offering all sorts of hands-on experience on the Clear Lake or Galveston Bay waters. Plus, they are able to issue an ASA-approved certificate, which may come in handy when navigating on your own.

SCSA is also a well-known broker and chartering company. So, if you don’t have time to learn sailing, just buy one of their boats or hire one to head out on the water right away.

Fun Things to Do on Water for Free

  • Swimming:

It’s not a mega-fact that swimming in Kemah (i.e. Clear Lake and/or Galveston Bay) is free. However, you should know that it’s a great chance to get wet and brush up on your swimming skills as the water temperature is almost always inviting.

According to Weather Spark, the average water temperature during a 4-month period starting from early-June to early-October increases to 80°F. That’s while the coldest water temperature in this area is 64°F, which is still warm enough for swimming!

So, Kemah is a great spot for free swimming all year long.

  • Fishing:

Angling in public waters of Texas is NOT free and you must purchase a license before catching any water creature. However, it’s considered as a free-of-charge activity when done in Texas State Parks.

So, if you don’t want to pay for the fishing license, head to one of the many state parks near Kemah. (Galveston Island SP or Sheldon Lake SP & WMA just to name a few).

Note that having a fishing license is not obligatory in state parks. But that doesn’t make other rules such as the Freshwater Bag and Length Limits discretionary. Any angler in Texas—regardless of the fishing spot and location—must follow the bag and length limit rules. And any attempt to violating this code will cause punishments for the violator.

  • Watersports:

All you need is to bring your watersports equipment and set things off. You can either use your own vessel or higher one (it’ll cost some money though). However, since no type of license is required for doing watersports in Kemah, it’s considered as one the well-liked free on-water activities.

Best Spots to Stop for a Meal in Kemah, TX

Best Spots to Stop for a Meal in Kemah, TX

Ever since the Landry’s Restaurants Inc. started to run the Kemah Boardwalk, the number of restaurants and eateries increased rapidly. However, most of them are licensed by the Landry’s Restaurants Inc. and working as a partner of the Kemah Entertainment District. And we already covered the most popular ones earlier on this post. (See above).

But now, we want to introduce the top restaurants, eateries, fast-food spots other than those you find on the boardwalk. The city has plenty of must-try places hidden in the shadow of the Kemah Boardwalk. And it’s not fair to focus only on those in the entertainment district. Below, therefore, you can find the list of the top 7 spots to stop for a meal in Kemah City.

  • T-Bone Tom’s

We’re talking about a place with deep-fried eats that rule the roost for Southern fare such as steak, BBQ & burgers. The T-Bone Tom’s is a family-friendly spot with dozens of delicious dishes such as the armadillo eggs, French Dip sandwiches, and Prime Rib.

They have provided a nice and cozy patio as well to make sure those outdoor-stuff fans are having fun as well. Additionally, there is live music being played all week long (except for Mondays).

Find them at 707 TX-146, Kemah, TX 77565.

  • Tookie’s Burgers

Here’s a down-home joint serving signature burgers & other casual fares at 406 Texas Ave, Kemah, TX 77565. They have a homemade ranch and some spicy dishes to satisfy the Texan desires.

You must try the buffalo chicken sandwich which is huge, crispy, and ultra-delicious. The double burger and the buffalo chicken strips are favorites as well. So, make sure to give them a try if there was still someplace left!

  • Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack

Want some live music, good food, and fun? Then, head to 310 Texas Ave, Kemah, TX 77565, where you can find the Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack. As the title explains, you must be ready to face some crazy Cajun-style seafood and meat plates in upbeat digs with live music & a roof deck.

If you had the chance to eat at this place, try the Grilled Fish, fried oysters, shrimp, and the boiled crabs.

  • Chick-fil-A

It’s not possible to live in Texas not having heard of the Chick-fil-A. This chain fast-food restaurant is one of the most well-liked eateries in the state having several branches all over it.

The Kemah spot has nothing less than the other spots in Texas, and you can get the finest chicken sandwiches here. They are located at 321 Marina Bay Dr, Clear Lake Shores, TX 77565, operating from 6 A.M. to 10 P.M. every day (except for Sundays).

Note: this place offers some vegetarian-friendly options.

  • Joe Lee’s Seafood Kitchen

At 1108 Marina Bay Dr, Kemah, TX 77565, there’s a must-try eatery for seafood lovers. The Joe Lee’s Seafood Kitchen is known for robust portions of fried, grilled & blackened fish in a waterfront setting.

So, give them a try to meet the seafood-oriented Texan cuisine right next to Clear Lake.

  • Whataburger

This one is one of the old spots in the area being close to Amarillo Texas. However, you can still grab a burger, find a picnic table at Amarillo, and eat outdoors!

They are currently located at 305 FM 518, Kemah, TX 77565, operating 24/7!

Where You Can Sail? (Water Access)

Where You Can Sail? (Water Access)

Kemah City offers access to two of the largest and most-known sailing areas in Texas, Clear Lake and Galveston Bay. And thanks to having several marinas and harbors in the district, you have access to two of them all the time. So, you just need to plan a route and head for one of the plenty destinations around Clear Lake and Galveston Bay.

Below you can find a list of marinas and public facilities in Kemah, where you can launch your boat and head off.

Marinas and Public Access Facilities

  • Kemah Boardwalk Marina

Looking for a secure place for your boat? Then head to 555 Bradford Ave. This is where you can find a well-maintained marina, offering boat storage and launching services.

They operate from 8 A.M. to 6-7 P.M. each day, and the fun fact is that you can call the staff to bring ice on your deck!

  • Portofino Harbour Marina & Yacht Club

1 Portofino Plaza, Clear Lake Shores, is where you can find a very well-maintained harbor with great facilities such as a pool, laundry, several clubhouses, and showers. They also have some floating docks that survived hurricane Ike with no damage. So, it’s still a go-to when it comes to a safe place for moored boats.

The upside of using this marina is it’s very close to the outlet on to Galveston Bay; so, you’ll need a very short trip to begin sailing. Plus, you can park close to your boat so getting gear and food aboard will cause no problems at all.

Just keep in mind that they operate from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M all week long.

  • Marina Bay Harbor

At 323 W 6th St, Clear Lake Shores, you can find this marina, offering an indoor storage space. Marina Bay Harbor can handle your boat’s maintenance and you can let your vessels be in their safe hands. But the most noteworthy detail is that they can launch your vessel just by a phone call.

So, if you want to keep your craft ready for sail/cruise, this is the best bet. They are very close to Clear Lake and Galveston Bay which shortens your traveling distance—and reduces the fuel expenses!

They operate every day from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M.

Things to Know About the Rules Before Sailing in Kemah

  1. Skippering Age Limit

  • There are no restrictions on skippers age as long as there’s a certified adult (18 or older) on the deck.
  • Navigators of any age who are accompanied by an exempted adult are automatically exempted from this rule.
  1. Boater Safety License

  • boaters born after August 31, 1993, must own a TWPD-approved Boater Safety license.
  • The rule also applies to all the overseers (captains) of over-14-feet windblown vessels, crafts with 15 or more horsepower, and all PWCs.
  • In order to have a solo skipper who’s 13-17 years old, having the Boater Safety license is obligatory. Otherwise, the navigator is not allowed to skipper a vessel alone.
  • Note: having the license on you is compulsory. The USCG officers may want to check your certifications on a random basis. So, not having them will not be excused. And the overseer will face punishments.
  1. Registration

  • Any vessel that is not an under-14-feet sailboat or a non-motorized craft must be registered before navigating on public waters of Texas. The rule doesn’t apply to crafts that have registration of other states unless they’ll stay in Texas for more than 90 days.
  • The Texas Certificate of Number (aka registration card) must be printed on both sides of the bow of a watercraft.
  1. Safety Equipment

  • Any craft that is navigating, floating, or cruising on public waters of Texas must have at least one PFD for each person on the deck.
  • The rule applies to canoes, kayaks, rafts, etc. as well. So, there are no exceptions.
  • However, vessels larger than 16 feet must have at least one Type IV PFD besides normal ones. This is a throwable PFD that allows the people on the deck to rescue those experiencing an over-board situation.
  • Canoes, kayaks, and other comparable crafts do not need to have a throwable PFD.
  • Below you can find a detailed table, showing all the necessary pieces of equipment for vessels—based on their size.
Texas Required Equipment PWC Boats Less Than 16 Ft. Boats 16 Ft. to Less Than 26 Ft.
Boater Education Certification Card and
Photographic Identification on Board
✓1 ✓1 ✓1
Certificate of Number on Board
Validation Decals Displayed
PFDs: Type I, II, III, or V ✓2 ✓3 ✓3
PFD: Type IV
Type B-I Fire Extinguisher 1 B-I 1 B-I 2 B-I or 1 B-II
Engine Cut-Off Switch
Backfire Flame Arrestor
Ventilation System
Muffler
Horn, Whistle, or Bell
Daytime Visual Distress Signals ✓5
Nighttime Visual Distress Signals 6 ✓5 ✓5
Navigation Lights 6

 

  1. Size and Capacity Considerations

  • All crafts have a capacity limit that indicates how many passengers or how much weight they can carry. Therefore, any attempt to carry extra passengers or cargos is illegal. And the overseer of such a vessel will face punishments immediately.
  • Some rules such as having a throwable PFD are based on the size of the vessels. So, you must know the size of your craft before heading off. Otherwise, you may violate some regulations unintentionally.
  • The size (length) of a boat is the distance between its bow and stern. However, bear in mind that additional mechanisms such as the rudder are not included when measuring the length of a boat.

Best Campsite for RV and Trailer Owners

Best Campsite for RV and Trailer Owners

Located at 925 Marina Bay Dr, USA RV Resorts Marina Bay is a go-to for RV fans. They have a well-equipped site offering all sorts of amenities for a fair price. Below you can find a list of amenities one can have residing/camping in this resort.

This is where you get to have cable and wi-fi as already-included amenities. Plus, you’ll be able to choose among small-, mid- and large-sized cabins—in case you’re a long-term guest.

All the sites include full 30/50 hook-ups, and pull-throughs are there to make big rigs be welcome. All-concrete drives and pads will assure a safe drive whether you’re an RV or trailer owner. Plus, having a huge parking lot makes a cakewalk to find a spot for your vehicle.

There are several luxury options available at the site such as a fitness room and three swimming pools. So, it’s not going to be ordinary camping for you.

In case you’re more interested in family-oriented activities, you can use the covered BBQ picnic areas. All of them are well-maintained and well-equipped.

The 2 community rooms create a space for large meetings and gatherings. And that’s why you can opt to hold meetings, parties, and reunions at this place.

USA RV Resorts Marina Bay also has 3 laundry facilities and several showers & restrooms to ensure comfort for its guests. However, the most noteworthy detail is that there are dog walking areas and a dog washing station to help your little friends have the best time as well.

Note: since this campsite has 400 feet of bayou frontage, you can go for fishing. So, bring your fishing rod and some baits to catch some for breakfast.

The Best Season for Sailing in Kemah

According to Weather Spark, the best seasons for sailing in Kemah, TX, start from late-March to mid-May and from early-October to early-November. These two periods are when you get to have the ideal temperature, sunlight, wind, rainfall, and water temperature.

Below you can find more details about the weather conditions in Kemah, regarding sailing and boating.

  1. Temperature

The hottest period of each year starts from late-May and ends in late-September. This is when the average temperature of the area raises to 86°F, making the summertime activities more convenient for the visitors.

However, the coldest time in this district lasts for about 2.8 months, starting from early-December and ending in late-February. During this period, the average temperature drops to 68°F, allowing people to choose indoor activities over outdoor ones in general.

Since sailing is somewhat a summertime doing, you better opt to schedule your trip from late-May to late-September.

  1. Clouds

If sailing under a clear sky is a concern, mid-September to early-December is the ideal period to visit Kemah. That’s because, during this time, the sky is clear 50-60% of the time.

According to the cloud coverage diagrams powered by Weather Spark, the worst time for sailing in this city is early-December to mid-September. Of course, this is only true for those who consider a clear sky as a priority.

  1. Precipitation & Rainfall

Late-May to late-September is when the precipitation chance increases to 31% for each day. That means, through this period, there’s a 30% of getting more than 0.04 inches of rain per day. So, activities such as kayaking and rafting are not recommended during this time.

However, the driest time of the year in Kemah starts from late-September and lasts until late-May. It means you get to have 8.0 months of dry weather each year where the average precipitation chance drops to 21%.

Regarding the rainfall average, January to early-May is the driest time. Thru these 5 months, the rainfall is only 3.0 inches per day, making it an ideal time for sailing, kayaking, and even rafting.

  1. Sun

If you want to make the most of the sunlight, opt to be into Kemah during late-May to early-July when each day has 14 hours of sunlight to offer.

By contrast, for those who’d like to experience nighttime sailing on Galveston Bay or Clear Lake, November through January is the best bet. Thru this 3-month phase, the average sun presence drops down to 10 hours per day, allowing you to have longer nights.

  1. Humidity

The humidity comfort level in Kemah is pleasing for almost 7.4 months. A period starting from late-March to mid-November is when you get to have the most comfortable humidity level 29% of the time.

In case humidity is a concern, opt to visit the area in July. That’s because the humidity comfort level raises to 99% this month, making it a very comfy situation for boaters and sailors.

  1. Wind

Windier parts of the year last for 7.9 months, creating the ideal sailing condition for navigators.

The windy period starts from mid-October to early-June with the approximate airstream speed being 10-11 MPH. This is when you can navigate a windblown craft with the highest speed on Clear Lake or Galveston Bay.

  1. Water Temperature

The average water temperature during a 4-month period starting from early-June to early-October increases to 80°F. This is the warmest water temperature throughout the year, offering the ideal swimming time.

However, the temperature drops to 64°F from December 11 to March 19, making it harder for visitors to have in-water activities such as swimming.

 

Boat Repair Shops (Phone Number and Address)

Boat Repair Shops (Phone Number and Address)

This is a list of boat repair shops in the area to help you with emergencies. In case you don’t know what to do or how to fix a problem, just call one of these numbers or head to their location. They will take care of the rest!

  • Cosmetic Boat Repair

Address: 1005 Sue Dr

Phone Number: (281)-334-2929

  • The Boat Yard

Address: 1145 FM518

Phone Number: (281)-334-3300

  • Kemah Boat Repair

Service area: Clear Lake, Kemah, Galveston, and surrounding areas. (They work at your boat’s home location)

Phone Number: (281) 698-7752

  • Yacht Equipment Service Centers, LLC

Address: 828 Marina Bay Dr

Phone Number: (281)-538-9377

  • A & E Marine Repair, LLC

Address: 1000 Anders Ln

Phone Number: (832)-864-2475

  • Advanced Marine Service Clear Lake

Address: 518 Seminole Dr

Phone Number: (281)-332-1929

  • OJ’s Marine

Address: 1900 Shipyard Dr, Seabrook

Phone Number: (281)-474-5186

Top 3 Watercraft Rental Shops

You may not be a boat or yacht owner but that shouldn’t stop you from being a navigating enthusiast. There are several shops in Kemah and Bay Area Houston that offer rental crafts for not-fancy-at-all prices.

Here, we have a list of the top watercraft rental shops in Kemah to help you find the right place in the drop of a hat.

  • Houston Party Boats

Address: 2500 South Shore Blvd, League City

Phone Number: (281)-334-3400

  • South Coast Sailing Adventures

Address: 502 Texas Ave, Kemah,

Phone Number: (281)-334-4606

  • Windward SeaVenture

Address: 100 Admiralty Way, Kemah

Phone Number: (281)-467-2279

Angling Opportunities in the Area

Kemah was a fishing town before becoming a tourist attraction. Even after the removal of the criminal syndicates in the 1950s, it was the shrimp business that helped the city survive. When major commercial fishing ships chose this area for its great shrimp, the whole city got a new chance to rebuild from scratch.

Even now, after all these years, Kemah is still one of the public choices when it comes to angling opportunities. Below you can find more details about the stocked fishes, current angling codes, and limitations in the district.

Most Common Fish Types in Kemah – Clear Lake & Galveston Bay

According to TWPD, the most common fishes are:

  • Black bass
  • White, Striped and Yellow Bass
  • Carp, Catfish
  • Crappie
  • Gar
  • Sunfish
  • Trout

Fishing Codes and Regulations

Fishing Codes and Regulations

All anglers on Clear Lake or Galveston Bay must be aware of the Freshwater Bag and Length Limits. This is a restricting rule that prevents excessive fishing in public waters of Texas.

However, the most noteworthy detail is that each species has its own specific limits. So, you, as an angler, must know what are the specific rules/codes before catching any type of fish in Kemah.

To help with that, we created a table that shows what are the limitations for catching fishes in Kemah. (All the information included in the table below is based on the latest TWPD reports).

Fish Type Daily Bag Limit Minimum Length Limit
 

 

Black Bass

5 fish for all black bass species For largemouth and smallmouth bass = 14 in.

 

No minimum length for Alabama, Guadalupe, or spotted bass

White Bass 25 10 inches
Striped and Yellow Bass 5 18 inches
Carp No Limit No Limit
Channel and Blue Catfish 25 12
Flathead Catfish 5 18
Crappie 25 10
Alligator Gar 1 fish of any size No bag limits on other species of gar
 

Trout

5 No limit for rainbow and brown trout, their hybrids, and subspecies
Sunfish No Limit No Limit

 

Reference (s):

Sailing Fundamentals

 

 

 

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Sailing in Seabrook, Texas Review https://sailingyes.com/sailing-in-seabrook-texas-review/ https://sailingyes.com/sailing-in-seabrook-texas-review/#respond Sun, 11 Aug 2019 20:32:21 +0000 https://sailingyes.com/?p=1093 If you want to make the most of your trip to Seabrook, this is the must-read article. We explained the sailing and fishing codes, introduced the top 8 activities in the area, included a list of the top 5 parks, and determined what is the best season for Sailing in Seabrook. Sailing in Seabrook, Texas …

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If you want to make the most of your trip to Seabrook, this is the must-read article. We explained the sailing and fishing codes, introduced the top 8 activities in the area, included a list of the top 5 parks, and determined what is the best season for Sailing in Seabrook.

Sailing in Seabrook, Texas Review

Sailing in Seabrook, Texas Review

You know what they say about this city, right? “As grand by land as by bay, and why many choose to stay.” Yes, Seabrook is one of the most popular near-lake cities in Texas. And due to having direct access to Galveston Bay without any sandbars to transverse, sailing in Seabrook has become the main attraction for skippers.

In this article of Sailingyes, therefore, we’ll give you every bit of information you need to set up a vessel in this district and enjoy sailing on Clear Lake or Galveston Bay. But that’s not it; we also provided a list of the top 8 activities, a guide on fishing codes and tips, and even more!

Geographical Details

Location: Texas City / Chambers, Harris Counties

Coordinates: 29°34′7″N 95°1′21″W

Water Access: Galveston Bay, Clear Lake

Water Area: 15.9 square miles (41.3 km2), or 74.97%

Best Season for Sailing in Seabrook, Texas

Best Season for Sailing in Seabrook, Texas

According to Weather Spark, the best seasons for sailing in Seabrook, TX, start from late-March to mid-May and from early-October to early-November. These two periods are when you get to have the ideal temperature, sunlight, wind, rainfall, and water temperature.

Below you can find more details about the weather conditions in Seabrook, regarding sailing and boating.

  1. Temperature

The hottest period of each year starts from May and ends in late-September. This is when the average temperature of the area raises to 86°F, making the summertime activities more convenient for the visitors.

However, the coldest time in this district lasts for about 2.8 months, starting from December and ending in late-February. During this period, the average temperature drops to 68°F, allowing people to choose indoor activities over outdoor ones in general.

Since sailing is somewhat a summertime doing, you better opt to plan your trip from May to late-September.

  1. Clouds

If sailing under a clear sky is a concern, mid-September to early-December is the ideal period to visit Seabrook. That’s because, during this time, the sky is clear 50-60% of the time.

According to the cloud coverage diagrams powered by Weather Spark, the worst time for sailing in Seabrook is early-December to mid-September. Of course, this is true for those who consider a clear sky as their priority.

  1. Precipitation & Rainfall

Late-May to late-September is when the precipitation chance increases to 31% for each day. That means, through this period, there’s a 31% of getting more than 0.04 inches of rain per day. So, activities such as kayaking and rafting are not recommended during this time.

However, the driest time of the year in Seabrook starts from late-September and lasts until late-May. It means you get to have 8.0 months of dry weather each year where the average precipitation chance drops to 21%.

Regarding the rainfall average, January to early-May is the driest time. Thru these 5 months, the rainfall is only 3.0 inches per day, making it an ideal time for sailing, kayaking, and even rafting in Seabrook.

  1. Sun

Daytime sailing is the most popular navigation method in North America. So, if you want to make the most of the sunlight, opt to be into Seabrook during late-May to early-July when each day has 14 hours of sunlight to offer.

By contrast, for those who’d like to experience nighttime sailing on Galveston Bay or Clear Lake, November through January is the best bet. Thru this 3-month phase, the average sun presence drops down to 10 hours per day, allowing you to have longer nights.

  1. Humidity

Lots of sailors worry about the humidity of the area that they choose for sailing. However, the good news is that the humidity comfort level in Seabrook is pleasing for almost 7.4 months. A period starting from late-March to early-November is when you get to have the most comfortable humidity level 29% of the time.

In case humidity is a concern, opt to visit the area in July. That’s because the humidity comfort level raises to 99% this month, making it a very comfy situation for boaters and sailors.

  1. Wind

The wind is one of the main items every sailor wants to have on their side when it comes to navigating a windblown vessel. So, it’s understandable that lots of them want to know about the average wind speed in Seabrook before heading out on the water. Fortunately, windier parts of the year last for 7.9 months, creating the ideal sailing condition for navigators.

The windy period starts from mid-October to early-June with the approximate airstream speed being 9-10 MPH. This is when you can navigate a windblown craft with the highest speed on Clear Lake or Galveston Bay.

  1. Water Temperature

This factor mainly concerns swimmers. But it’s always wise to have some extra information about the water on which you’ll be sailing. The average water temperature during a 4-month period starting from early-June to early-October increases to 80°F. This is the warmest water temperature throughout the year, offering the ideal swimming time.

However, the temperature drops to 64°F from December 11 to March 19, making it harder for visitors to have in-water activities such as swimming.

Sailing Codes in Seabrook (Harris County)

Sailing Codes in Seabrook (Harris County)

  1. License

Anyone born after August 31, 1993, must own a valid boater safety pass. This is an obligatory condition and includes all the operators of 15-feet and larger vessels. Plus, the rule applies to all skippers of the windblown vessel over 14 feet and all the PWC captains.

Note: those with a TWPD-approved licensed issued in another state can sail on Seabrook waters with no need to get a new pass.

  1. Age Limits

There is no age limit for skippering a PWC so long as there’s a certified adult (18 or older) on the deck. According to the sailing codes of TWPD, anyone under 13 years of age must be accompanied by a certified adult when navigating the craft. However, if a navigator is 13 or older and has a Boater Safety License, having a certified adult is not compulsory.

Bear in mind that if there’s an adult on the deck who’s exempted from this rule, the skipper (of any age) is exempted as well. Plus, navigating on private waters requires no need to follow the rules mentioned above.

  1. Equipment

Anyone sailing on Canyon Lake must wear a PFD. This is an obligatory condition with people of all ages. The only exception is that minors (under 13) can take it off while the vessel is not navigating.

Plus, according to BoatEd, vessels 16 feet or longer (except canoes and kayaks) must have one Type IV (throwable) USCG–approved PFD on readily accessible board.

Below you can find a detailed table, showing all the necessary pieces of equipment for vessels—based on their size.

Texas Required Equipment PWC Boats Less Than 16 Ft. Boats 16 Ft. to Less Than 26 Ft.
Boater Education Certification Card and
Photographic Identification on Board
✓1 ✓1 ✓1
Certificate of Number on Board
Validation Decals Displayed
PFDs: Type I, II, III, or V ✓2 ✓3 ✓3
PFD: Type IV
Type B-I Fire Extinguisher 1 B-I 1 B-I 2 B-I or 1 B-II
Engine Cut-Off Switch
Backfire Flame Arrestor
Ventilation System
Muffler
Horn, Whistle, or Bell
Daytime Visual Distress Signals ✓5
Nighttime Visual Distress Signals 6 ✓5 ✓5
Navigation Lights 6

 

  1. Boat Registration

Every navigating watercraft must be registered in Texas. Otherwise, it’ll be considered as an illegally circumnavigating vessel. The only exceptions are windblown vessels under 14 feet, non-motorized crafts (e.g. kayaks, canoes, etc.), and those vessels who are registered in another state and will stay in Texas for less than 90 days.

Texas Certificate of Number or registration card must be printed on both sides of the bow of a vessel after being obtained.

Fishing in Seabrook

Angling is not just a hobby in this district, it’s the main reason why Seabrook exists. Right now, people admire this place for its fish markets on Waterfront Drive where resident shrimpers and anglers bring in their catches daily. But back in 1903, the main residents of Seabrook where only anglers and shrimpers who found it a nice place to work and live.

The fact that Seabrook attracts anglers has remained the same since the very first day. And even now, after being a part of Bay Area Houston for more than a century, people still benefit from its fishing opportunities. See below for a detailed review of the angling aspects of this district.

The Most Common Fish Types in the Area

According to TWPD, Black bass, White, Striped and Yellow Bass, Carp, Catfish, Crappie, Gar, Sunfish, and Trout are the most common fish types in Seabrook.

Angling Regulations in Seabrook

Angling Regulations in Seabrook

TWPD urges every angler to follow the Freshwater Bag and Length Limits to preserve the wildlife in Texas. This a regulation that indicates a daily limit for catching each specific fish type in public waters of The Lone Star State.

You can find a table down below that shows the limitations for each specific fish type in Seabrook.

Fish Type Daily Bag Limit Minimum Length Limit
 

 

Black Bass

5 fish for all black bass species For largemouth and smallmouth bass = 14 in.

 

No minimum length for Alabama, Guadalupe, or spotted bass

White Bass 25 10 inches
Striped and Yellow Bass 5 18 inches
Carp No Limit No Limit
Channel and Blue Catfish 25 12
Flathead Catfish 5 18
Crappie 25 10

Alligator Gar

1 fish of any size No bag limits on other species of gar
 

Trout

5 No limit for rainbow and brown trout, their hybrids and subspecies
Sunfish No Limit No Limit

Top 8 Activities in the District

  1. Visit the Space Center

Just 5 miles away from the city center, there’s a must-see spot offering lots of interactive doings to its visitors. The Space Center Houston is a well-known attraction near Seabrook that has always topped the list of fun places to visit in Bay Area Houston.

The tickets are not cost-effective, but considering the amenities and hands-on experiences offered by this place, it’s worth it. Right now, you can get an adult ticket for $29.95 whereas the prices for minors (4 to 11) start from $24.95. Plus, elderly visitors (65 or older) can get a ticket for $27.95. And the good news is that children younger than 4 can enter the area with no need to pay for tickets.

Expert advice: get Houston City PASS (it only costs $62), allowing you to visit Space Center Houston and 4 more H-Town attractions.

One of the main reasons why many people love this place is the Tram Tours. Right now, you get to choose between two tours, Mission Control Center and Astronaut Training Facility Tour. The earlier is a 60-75-minute trip to check out the areas that were used as the main control facilities for space missions. However, the latter allows you to check out the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility.

If you’d like to see the Apollo Mission Control Center, get a timed ticket (available at the ticket booths, ticket kiosks, and the Guest Services Desk).

For those who love rockets, there’s a must-see called the Rocket Park. This is where you can see the real Saturn V rocket that was involved in the Apollo mission.

During the tours, you’ll see a gigantic shuttle mounted on top of a Boeing 747. And that will indicate you’re at Independence Plaza. The space shuttle on top of the airplane is known as Independence and there are exhibits inside the aircraft all the time.

If you’re looking for more information about NASA and its cool plans, head for the Destiny Theater & Space Center Theater & Blast-Off! Theater. These places will provide you with short films and visualized diagrams, explaining how the International Space Station is working and what are the upcoming space-related missions.

There’s also a virtual reality simulation right next to the Destiny Theater that would let you see the space in person—while standing on Earth!

Plan at least 6 hours if you want to see everything here (ideally come before 11 AM or 12 PM). A 3-hour trip would only give you enough time for one tram tour and selectively picked exhibits or short clips you want to see here.

Location: 1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston.

  1. Escape Kemah at Escape Kemah

If you have a group of friends who want to spend some time having fun or a group of coworkers who need to bond, this is the best bet. Escape Kemah is a great thing to do with a group of friends or coworkers. They have three different themed rooms where your team must solve various clues to escape in less than an hour.

They have the Fear room (detective/murder), Star Wars, and Bomb room (a disgruntled person has planted a bomb) available at the moment. But they update the rooms constantly and change the themes or stories.

The Fear room, for instance, is an ideal choice for large groups. It is divided into two smaller rooms where players split randomly into them. The two rooms are forced to communicate with each other via two-way radios. Once each team gets out of the first room, they then work together as a larger group to escape two more rooms. The two teams combined get a total of five clues from the host and they are given 60 minutes to escape the room.

Find them at 609 Bradford Ave, Ste 213, Kemah.

  1. Ride a Cycleboat with Friends

There are several fancy non-personal and somewhat formal cruises offered by companies in Bay Area Houston. However, Bayou Boone is not one of them. It’s a low-key, small-setting, and cozy place for a fun day, sunset, and private cruises in Seabrook.

They have a 15-passenger pedal powered party-boat and a floating bar where you supply the drinks and snacks. It’s a perfect choice for sunset cruises, birthdays, team building events, bachelor and bachelorette parties or a cruise around Clear Lake!

You can find them at 2517 Nasa Road 1, Seabrook.

Rent a Kayak at Pinky’s and Head Out on the Water Solo

  1. Rent a Kayak at Pinky’s and Head Out on the Water Solo

If you’re looking for some fun on the water, this is the place to be. Pinky’s Kayak Rental is a well-known business just above the Clear Lake—at 4106 E NASA Pkwy #1, El Lago. This is a place where you can rent a kayak, get ready, and head out on the water for a solo adventure in less than 10 minutes. Plus, they also have paddleboards and jet skis if that’s your style!

Whether you doing a single float or a group, they will take care of your needs. And their website contains all the necessary info you’ll need prior to hiring a craft. So, pay the website a visit and pack your stuff—because the renting process will be quick!

The upside of renting a craft here is there are some great places to grab food, drinks, and desserts after your paddling is done.

Expert advice: Since you’ll get wet, bring extra clothes, and dry bags. Plus, have some water with you as you’ll get thirsty on the water while being far away from the land.

  1. Embrace Nature at Armand Bayou Nature Center

According to their official website, ABNC is the largest urban wilderness preserve in the U.S. with 2500 acres of the natural wetlands, forest, and prairies. They are home to over 370 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Moreover, they offer dozens of hands-on experiences and fun activities such as Sundays in Nature, Canoe Tours, Pontoon Boat Cruise, Guided Photo Hike, and Guided Trail Hikes.

Moreover, there are several annual events & programs available at this nature center that makes it a must-see year-round. World Migratory Bird Day, Prairie Pandemonium (a prairie restoration project), Creepy Crawlers (Halloween special), Martyn Farm Harvest Festival, Christmas Bird Count, and ABNC’s Fundraising Dinner and Auction are just a few examples of annual events.

Find them at 8500 Bay Area Blvd, Pasadena. And make sure to book your place before heading out to attend the events.

  1. Spend Some Quality Time at Clear Lake Park

They have a community center with classes. So, you can participate in yoga, Zumba and/or walking classes. The park outdoors has a playground, baseball area, outdoor fitness equipment, and a fishing pier. Also, there is a historic museum that has a very traditional, beautiful architecture.

This park offers amazing views of Nassau Bay. There are several places where you can camp out, namely a Spanish mission-like picnic shelter. They boast some new features like a suspended chain where you can pull yourself across, a pirate ship, very steep slides, to a seesaw raft. Some of the other things like the jeep or some of the seesaws are all metal but the playground nearest to the splash pad has some shading.

Dolphin Lagoon at the end of the park boasts dolphin slides, shooters, fountains and more. It also offers a patch of shade for the parents who are watching their kids playing.

Additionally, if you’re here for sailing in Seabrook, there’s a launch to help to send your craft on the water.

Find them at 5001 Nasa Pkwy, Seabrook.

  1. Become an Axe Master

Axe Masters Texas is the Bay Area of Houston’s only indoor ax-throwing arena! Located at 400 Hobbs Rd, Ste 209, League City, this place will give you the chance to wear yourself out by throwing axes for more than 2 hours!

The idea is simple, pass the tutorial phase, grab an ax, and throw it as hard as you can. It would rid you of anger and tension, allowing you to brush up on throwing skills at the same time.

  1. Go Hike and Bike!

According to the official Seabrook government website, this city has over 13 miles of hike and bike trails that connect many of the parks within the district. Since the lowest temperature in the area is 62°F and the highest is 92°F, hikers opt to utilize Seabrook trails all year round—especially during fall and spring.

There’s a system that interconnects Seabrook parks with just over ten miles of trails. So, you’ll get the chance to visit most must-see places throughout your one-day hiking or biking schedule!

Seabrook, TX Parks, and Facilities

Seabrook, TX Parks, and Facilities

There are 18 parks in Seabrook. So, visitors may find it confusing to choose among them—especially when they are first-timers. But here, we have a list of top 5 parks and their amenities to help you find the one that suits your needs and desires the best.

  1. Pine Gully Park

It’s a large park located at 605 Pine Gully Rd, with a fishing pier on Galveston Bay plus nature trails, playgrounds & picnic facilities. Several picnic tables have a shade structure and a charcoal grill.

Pine Gully is the best spot for hiking, walking dogs, and/or spending quality time with the loved ones.

  1. Clear Lake Park

Located at 5001 E NASA Pkwy, this one is the most known city park in Seabrook. Archaeological features are everywhere on 59 acres with fishing pier, boat launch, playground, and trails available for visitors.

There are so many places where kids can just blow off steam, and as many where you can relax by the coast. The breeze from the lake makes summer days there more bearable and there’s a long dock where you can walk out onto the lake and fish.

The park is entirely family- and pet-friendly, and your kids will also enjoy feeding the little ducks along the coastline.

  1. Bayside Park

In short, it’s a peaceful waterside community park with a gazebo, picnic tables & a walking trail. You can find it at 1000 2nd St, and opt to walk your dog, sit in the gazebo, and/or enjoy watching wildlife as the Seabirds and jumping fish are everywhere.

  1. Rex L Meador Park

Head out to 2400 Hammer St, for a very nice scenery! This park is ideal for taking pics and walking your dog. There’s also a small botanical garden at the end of one trail that will surprise you.

  1. Hester Garden Park

The park is beautiful, with lots of flowers and scenery. There are long trails for walking, some have no shade in summer. However, there are shaded forest paths. Two small fishing piers are on the opposite sides of the park, one of which has many fiddler crabs’ nests that are fun to watch.

Find the park at 3029 Todville Rd.

Seabrook Marinas and Public Access Facilities

Seabrook Marinas and Public Access Facilities

This city is a popular choice when it comes down to boating and sailing. That’s because you can dock your boat in Seabrook and have direct access to Galveston Bay without any sandbars to transverse.

Since sailing in Seabrook is a well-liked activity, there are four marinas ready to serve the navigators year-round. (Below you can see what each of them have to offer).

  1. Endeavour

It’s sited at 3101 NASA Road 1, ready to serve from 8:30 A.M. to 6 P.M. every day. They have a dry-stack boat storage facility. You can give them a call and they’ll have your boat in the water, waiting for you by the time you arrive. Plus, the ship store has snacks, drinks, ice, hats, sunscreen, clothing, GAS, and other supplies.

      2. Lakewood Yacht Club

Not only is this place a private club for yacht enthusiasts but it’s also one of the main marinas in Seabrook. You can utilize their boat storage or opt to launch your vessel using their slideway.

But that’s not even that; they have an annual boat & car show called Keels & Wheels. You can find the latest cars and PWCs in this event for a fair price, get quotes, or purchase a vessel/car right away.

The Lakewood Yacht Club is located at 2322, Seabrook, TX 77586

       3. Blue Dolphin

It’s the best place to set up a boat if you’re interested in sailing on Galveston Bay. That’s because it’s located at the east end of Clear Lake where it joins the Galveston Bay. An upside to docking at this marina is that they provide you with a washer and dryer for the liveaboard. Plus, you can use the piers for angling on Clean Lake.

Find them at 500 Blue Dolphin Dr, Seabrook

         4. Seabrook Marina & Shipyard

Another marina near the Galveston Bay—but still on Clear Lake. Seabrook Marina & Shipyard is the right spot to keep your boat or set it up for a sailing trip. It’s at 1900 Shipyard Dr, Seabrook, TX 77586 serving boaters every day from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. (except for Sundays).

Best Eateries and Restaurants in Seabrook, TX

Best Eateries and Restaurants in Seabrook, TX

  • Boondoggle’s

The owner believes that it’s a “roomy gathering spot for hearty pub grub & wood-fired pizzas, plus a large selection of craft beers.” But Boondoggle’s, located at 4106 E NASA Pkwy, El Lago, is a favorite in the Clear Lake area.

They have a fantastic brunch where you can sit on the patio and watch the boats go by. Not fancy, just a good old pub with an amazing beer list. The selection of draft beer is satisfying and you can find one to serve your desire for sure. Plus, the food tastes great!

  • Gabacho’s Mexican Grill

There are Mexican plates served in a laid-back setting with festive accents in this restaurant. But their covered patio is where most people opt to eat the meals. That’s because the view is great and you get to enjoy your food by the lake—in chilly weather.

Gabacho’s favorite meals are shrimp enchiladas, solid margarita, salsa, and beans. So, head out to 4449 NASA Road 1, El Lago, to taste their authentic cuisine.

  • Valdo’s Seafood House

Being an on-water seafood house, this Mexican-influenced eatery offers some huge portions to the customers. It’s located at 4106 E NASA Pkwy, El Lago, having several much-loved dishes such as shrimp scampi and shrimp scampi.

Reference (s):

Sailing Fundamentals

 

 

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Lake Ray Roberts in Texas – Activities, Codes, and More! https://sailingyes.com/lake-ray-roberts-in-texas-activities-codes-and-more/ https://sailingyes.com/lake-ray-roberts-in-texas-activities-codes-and-more/#respond Sat, 10 Aug 2019 17:36:31 +0000 https://sailingyes.com/?p=1077 Let the Sailingyes tell you what are the sailing, boating, and fishing codes in Lake Ray Roberts, Texas. We’ve provided a guide that will allow you to get to know the area and plan your trip accordingly. We have a list of the best public facilities, eateries, and campsites as well as a guide on …

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Let the Sailingyes tell you what are the sailing, boating, and fishing codes in Lake Ray Roberts, Texas. We’ve provided a guide that will allow you to get to know the area and plan your trip accordingly. We have a list of the best public facilities, eateries, and campsites as well as a guide on visiting the Lake Ray Roberts State Park!

Lake Ray Roberts in Texas – Activities, Codes, and More!

Lake Ray Roberts in Texas – Activities, Codes, and More!

This is a Corps lake, which means that there are no houses or businesses built on the lake… It’s just a peaceful place to be. And yes, in this article of Sailingyes, we’re going to cover everything about Lake Ray Roberts!

General Information

General Information

Full name: Lake Ray Roberts, formerly called Ray Roberts Lake. It’s named after a local congressperson who supported the creation of the lake.

Location: Denton, Cooke, Grayson counties, Texas

Coordinates: 33°21′53″N 97°03′05″W

Establishment year: 1945, after the U.S. Congress approved the River & Harbors Act

Purpose: Supplying water to Cooke, Grayson, and Denton counties and recreation

Surface area: 29,350 acres

Current water level: 632.35 Feet MSL

2019 highest water level: 637.71 Feet MSL (May 30)

2019 lowest water level: 632.44 Feet MSL (April 11)

 

The Trendiest On-Water and in-Land Activities

The Trendiest On-Water and in-Land Activities

  • recreation and tent camping: There are nearly 8 well-kept campgrounds near the lake that visitors/boaters can choose for an overnight stay. (See below). The entry fee for most of them is $7 per adult. However, you better check the prices in advance as there might be slight pricing differences.
  • fishing: Right now, the stocking programs of TWPD are paying off and there are 5 species found effortlessly in the lake. (Largemouth Bass, Catfish, and Crappie just to name a few). There’s also one park near Lake Ray Roberts where you can angle for free—with no need for any sort of license. (See below).
  • horseback riding: The equestrian trails in Lake Ray Roberts State Park are an ideal path for riding horses. The park has created a natural rustic environment for horse lovers to enjoy themselves riding near the calm waters of the lake.
  • hiking: This is a place with several hiking/climbing paths. All you need to do is to find the right one utilizing TWPD maps, pack up your stuff, and head off.
  • deer watching: Thanks to the active wildlife of the district, it’s not hard to encounter the deer. They are almost everywhere in the area. So, many people stop by just to get a chance of watching them living their normal lives.
  • Swimming: You may not need to be reminded of this one as you’ll have it on the to-do lists. However, we’d like to restate that the water is almost always crystal-clear and inviting for swimming fans. Just make sure to have life vests when there are kids in the water.

Best Season of Sailing on Lake Ray Roberts

Best Season of Sailing on Lake Ray Roberts

Sailing and boating season usually starts from early June to mid-September. That’s because the temperature during these months drops to 70 °F (on average), allowing the visitors to enjoy summertime doings.

However, below you can find a detailed weather report based on factors that influence your sailing/boating or cruising experience.

  1. Temperature

The warmest month of the year is July, 96°F. June and September are also among the hottest periods with an average temperature of 88°F.

The coolest months in this district are November, December, January, February. The lowest temperature during this cycle is 35°F (Jan 6) while the highest one being 63°F (Nov 25 & Feb 24).

The average temperature should help you get your head around the idea of what to pack. However, if you are still confused, read our guide on Packing for a Sailing Trip on Hot and Cold Days.

  1. Wind

One of the reasons why sailing on Ray Robert Lake is popular is having 7.3 windy months each year. The cycle of blowy days starts from October and lasts until early June. The mid-core airstream speed during these days is approximately 10.0 miles per hour.

However, if you’re willing to operate a windblown craft on the lake, March, April, and May own the windiest days. The windiest day of the year is April 2 with approximate 12.0 mph wind speed.

  1. Sun

Skippers usually prefer daytime navigating over nighttime activities. That’s because being able to observe the surrounding area is a primary success key in navigation. So, that’s why you might want to know which days of the year offer the longest sun presence in this district.

Thru June, you get to have the longest daytimes, 14h per day. So, planning a cruise or sail in this month is the ideal option for sun lovers. However, the shortest days are in November and December—9 hours (approximately).

  1. Humidity

According to Weather Spark, there are some cycles in which the humidity and temperature of this reservoir are very close to “comfortable.”

In the jargon of meteorology, humidity comfort level is a scale of 0-100% with the highest number being the most relaxing condition.

Lake Ray Roberts’ humidity comfort level reaches 83% for 3 months starting from June and ending in August. So, opt to go to Texas in this cycle to avoid struggling with intolerable oppressive or muggy conditions.

  1. Cloud

Clouds are another reason why sailing on Lake Ray Roberts is well-liked. There are almost 5.5 months with a clear sky each year. The clearest time is October; however, you can enjoy navigating underneath the perfect sky from late-May to early-November.

According to Weather Spark, the clearest day of the year is the 5th of October. On this day, the sky is clear 74% of the time.

  1. Precipitation

April through May and early January is the rainiest phase of time each year. Thru these months the chance of having a rainy day is nearly 30-40%. May eventually tops the list of average rainfall with getting 4.4 inches of precipitation each year.

However, the driest months in Lake Ray Roberts are June, July, August, and early-September. This is when the middling rainfall drops to 1.6 inches.

Boating and Sailing Codes

Boating and Sailing Codes

  1. Equipment

  • Everyone on the deck must wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
  • Kids who are 13 or younger may take the PFD off when the vessel is not navigating. However, wearing the PFD is compulsory to everyone else regardless of the boat position and state.
  • Vessels that are 16 feet or larger must carry a Type IV (throwable) PFD. Kayaks and canoes having one skipper are exempted from this rule.
  • All the boats who will be navigating through the night must have Sidelights, Stern Light, Masthead Light, and All-Round White Light.
  1. License

  • Everyone born on or after August 31, 1993, must have a TWPD-approved Boater Safety license
  • Skippers of over 14-feet windblown crafts, PWCs, and vessels over 15 hours power must have this license.
  • Skippering on private waters doesn’t require any sort of license.
  • If there’s at least one TWPD-approved certified adult (18 or older) on the deck, the navigator is automatically exempted from the rule.
  • Boaters who have a TWPD-approved license issued in another state may skipper a craft in Texas as well.
  1. Skippering Age Limit

  • Solo navigation for those who are 13 or younger is illegal. However, if the boater (13 or older) owns a Boater Safety license, they can navigate a vessel on Texas public waters on their own.
  • If there’s an adult on the deck who is exempted from the license law, the current skipper (of any age) is exempted too.

 

  1. Vessel Size & Capacity

  • Vessels larger than 16 feet should have a throwable PFD.
  • You can determine the length of your boat by measuring the distance between the bow and stern, or by checking the boat’s documentation.
  • A Vessel’s capacity is indicated by a number usually typed on a plate attached to the back end of the watercraft.
  • Having excessive passengers or carrying extra weight is illegal on Lake Ray Roberts. And the overseer of such a boat will face punishment.
  1. Registration

  • Any craft that is navigating on Lake Ray Roberts must have a Texas Certificate of Number (aka registration card). This is a serial number that must be printed on both sides of the bow after being obtained.
  • Sailboats under 14 feet and non-motorized vessels such as kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and rubber rafts are exempted from this rule.
  • Crafts owning a registration card of another state can navigate on Lake Ray Roberts—unless they will stay in the area for more than 90 days.
  1. Navigation Rules

All the navigating crafts on Lake Ray Roberts in Texas should follow the navigation rules. These are the sets of regulations helping the skippers to understand what to do when encountering another watercraft.

Fishing Opportunities and Tips

Fishing Opportunities and Tips

TWPD has stocked 5 species in the lake to increase the chances for amateur and professional anglers. Right now, 3 of these 5 are believed to be found effortlessly while the other 2 types are categorized as “good” regarding the quantity. Below you can find more specific information about these fishes.

Most Common Fish Types in the Lake

According to TWPD, anglers may except catching Largemouth Bass, White Bass, Channel Catfish, Crappie, and Sunfish.

The table below shows the quantity of each fish type in Lake Ray Roberts.

Species Good    Excellent   
Largemouth Bass ✔
Sunfish ✔
Crappie ✔
White Bass ✔
Channel catfish ✔

Note: all the info included in this table is according to the latest TWPD report.

Regulations and Limitations for Anglers

All anglers on Lake Ray Roberts must follow the Freshwater Bag and Length Limits rule. This will help the Texas Wildlife & Parks Department to control the fishing activities in the area, stopping extreme angling.

The following table shows the maximum number of fishes one can carry on this Lake.

Species Daily Bag Minimum Length
Largemouth Bass 5 fish (for any combination) 14 inches
Sunfish No limit None
Crappie 25 10
White Bass 25 10
Catfish 25 12

 

Fishing Tips

Fishing Tips

The largemouth is a species that is more likely to get caught up in Spring and Fall. When the weather gets cold in the area, you’re better off with any sort of bait but a jig or jig & pig grouping. Plus, the best zone to find this fish type is around deeply submerged points.

Head for the man flats between feeder creeks in the Isle du Bois Creek arm when the weather is getting warmer in spring. This is where you can find a scholar of fish effortlessly and start angling effortlessly. But bear in mind that jigs are not a common choice in this season. Fishers usually prefer to utilize Carolina rigged worm or lizard.

White bass is everywhere in the river. You just need to buy some surface baits, jigs, spoons, or minnows to catch them instantly.

Channel catfish love cut bait, shrimp, or stink bait while you can utilize a myriad of jigs and minnows for Crappies. Bear in mind that Crappie is an easy-catch in the winter when they school deep and around structures or during the spring when they come in to spawn.

Live earthworms are the favorite lure for Sunfish.

 

Best Spots for Finding Scholars of Fish on Lake Ray Roberts

  • standing timbers in the upper reaches of both major arms
  • the rip-rap along the dam at the south end of the main pool
  • stream channels
  • flooded main-lake points
  • inundated pond dams
  • flooded rocks/boulders/stumps
  • 44 inundated brush piles constructed before impoundment

The Guide to Visiting Lake Ray Roberts State Park

The Guide to Visiting Lake Ray Roberts State Park

  1. Go Geocaching or Rollerblade

If you’re looking for an exciting way of having fun in nature, geocaching most top your list. This is a game that allows you to start a treasure hunt while hiking in the Lake Ray Roberts State Park.

People have hidden several items in the park so that you can find them. Of course, you don’t get to discover pricy stuff in each box as there are only small inexpensive objects. However, “finding” is the fun part regardless of the result.

You better bring some small objects to exchange with the stuff in the boxes. Plus, have a pen in your pocket to sign the logbook, showing off others that you’ve been here before them.

Geocaching.com is a website that has the coordinates of every hidden box in Texas. So, you can check their inventory, search for the Lake Ray Roberts State Park information, and download some coordinates to your GPS.

  1. Enjoy On-Water Activities at Beach Areas

Go for paddling or swimming on a hot day in Texas because the water is always chilly and inviting. But in case you don’t like to get wet, just wet a hook. The kids’ angling pond is where you can spend some quality time with your family and fish.

However, bear in mind that there are no lifeguards in the area. So, do not let minors to swim on their own unless you’re monitoring them precisely. Most importantly, have life vests for kids and ask people to wear a PFD if they don’t know how to swim.

Note: you can fish from the shore or a pier in a state park without a fishing license.

  1. Hold a Group Event

Group events are a great idea to bond with friends, coworkers, etc. In Lake Ray Roberts State Park, you can find group walk-in campsites and lake-overlooking picnic pavilions. Moreover, you can hold conferences in meeting rooms at Lone Star Lodge.

  1. Explore the Trails

From the Ray Roberts Dam to Lake Lewisville, along the Elm Fork Branch of the Trinity River, there’s a 20-mile trail called Greenbelt Corridor. This is one of the most popular paths in the park offering some of the greatest views, landmarks, and landscapes.

12 miles of this trail is available for horse riders while a 10-mile section is devoted to hikers. For more trails, head to Johnson Branch or Isle du Bois where you can find some versatile paths as well.

Bear in mind that using these trails requires some obedience to ethical principles and local codes. The following is a list of accepted behavior and expected actions in the park.

  • First things first, never leave a trace. You’re responsible for what you bring in and take away.
  • For guaranteed safety, you must stay on the trails. Leaving the trails for adventure may result in major threats for you and your companions. So, if you’re the head of a group, keep everyone on the trail for their wellbeing.
  • Do not ride a horse solo. Horse riding is sometimes more hazardous than it seems to be. So, have a companion with you and/or ride in groups for more safety. Plus, never forget to wear a helmet when on the back of a horse. This is a must as falling off the horse can be a fatal accident without a helmet.
  • Remember, according to the codes, all users must yield to handicapped users.
  • If you’re a cyclist, do not pass other not-cyclists in a hazardous way. Try to reduce your speed and pass them slowly—to prevent any unwanted incidents.
  • Hikers and cyclists should always yield to horses and make their presence known well in advance, then move aside to allow horses to pass, if passing from the opposite direction. When passing horses from behind, hikers and bikers should pass on the left after making the rider aware of their presence.
  • Pets can be on the trails but must be under control and on a leash at all times.
  1. Attend a Ranger Program

Rangers oversee several events in the park and you can ask them to arrange a guided nature hike and for group programs at their outdoor classroom. Some of the current programs offered by Rangers are:

  • Isle du Bois Unit | Two Night Event: during this 2-night event, the park will provide you with a basic camping package that includes: a tent for 6 people, lanterns, stoves and fuel, coffee press, pots, fry pan, and cooking utensils, cots and 4 foam pads, and equipment necessary for all activities.

You are responsible for bringing any extra stuff that you need. However, the Rangers have provided a checklist to land a hand with packing.

The cost is $95 per family (up to 6 individuals) which includes all park entry and camping fees. But be aware that the Rangers will not provide you with meals—you’re in charge of the food for your group. Plus, keep in mind that the pets cannot join you in this event.

Extra activities on this trip include Tent setup demonstration, Kayaking, Fishing, Geocaching, Fire building, Sounds of the night presentation, Junior Ranger journal.

  • Pond Dipping: during this event, you’ll see what’s going on under the water surface as the experts will poll a dip net out of it. This program is best for kids who are curious about the underwater life and ecosystem. Better yet, it’s all free after you pay for the entrance.
  • Story Time with a Ranger: here’s another kids-friendly free event, allowing them to get to know the wildlife through fun stories.
  • Trail Biking Basics: this one is the best bet for adult bikers willing to use trails. During this event, a Ranger will teach you the basics of biking on Lake Ray Roberts State Park trails in advance. And then, you’ll be able to start a biking session under the observation of the Ranger. (However, since this program is dependent on the weather conditions, try to contact the office in advance).
  • Archery in the Park: as the title reveals, in this program, you learn how to shoot an arrow. A certified coach will be there to teach every participant (older than 10) to use a bow and shoot. You just need to have closed-toed shoes as all the other equipment is provided by the Rangers.
  • Night Hike with a Ranger: It’s a chance to visit the nightlife of the wildlife in the park. As hiking at night may be a dangerous activity, a Ranger will be with you from the very first moment. So, pack up and ready yourself for a 3-mile hike on the concrete trail.
  • Who’s Scat? Hike: yes, you’ll learn how to extract information from the animal scats. A Ranger will teach you what each different animal’s scat looks like and what you can guess observing the shapes!
  • Back to Squirrel School: learn about these interesting creatures and get to make a squirrel mask on your own.

7 Public Access Facilities in Lake Ray Roberts

7 Public Access Facilities in Lake Ray Roberts

  1. Buck Creek: west side of US 377, 2-lane slipway, parking for 75 vehicles, not free, and open all year.
  2. Jordan Park: 1 mile west of Pilot Point on FM 1192, 4-lane slipway, parking for 75 vehicles, not free, and open all year.
  3. State Park, Isle du Bois Unit: multi-lane concrete slipway with lighted fishing pier boarding pier and parking for 125 cars.
  4. Sanger Park & Ray Roberts Marina: off FM 455 about 3 miles east of Sanger, multi-lane concrete slipway, parking for 75 cars, not free, and open all year long.
  5. Pond Creek: off FM 455, just north of the entrance to Ray Roberts Marina, 2-lane slipway, parking for 75 vehicles, not free, and open all year.
  6. Pecan Creek: 2-lane slipway, parking for 75 vehicles, not free, and open all year.
  7. State Park, Johnson Branch Unit: multi-lane ramp with, parking for 125 vehicles, park fee required, open all year long.

 the Area

Top Campsites in the Area

  1. Isle du Bois

  • Campsites with Electricity: including Deer Ridge sites #45-51 and Quail Run sites #148-150 and #153-155. For 30/20-amp camps head to Deer Ridge sites #71, 75 and 100, and Quail Run #132.

Amenities and facilities offered at these sites are a picnic table, fire ring and/or a grill, 20/30/50-amp electric, restrooms with showers nearby, and Water hookup.

The overnight fee is $25 for 30/20-amp sites and $26 for others. Plus, the daily entrance is free of charge.

  • Primitive Campsites (Walk-in): located in the Hawthorne (#1-40) and Wild Plum (#117-131) camping areas. You get to have a picnic table, fire ring, tent pad, water, lantern post, and restrooms. The fee for overnight camping is $15 while daily access is free.
  • Equestrian Primitive Campsites: these sites are in the Blue Stem Grove area. People without horses can camp in this area as well. You must park your RV on the pavement next to the sites.

The fee for an overnight stay is $15 and daily access is free.

The amenities are a picnic table, water, fire ring and/or grill, hitching/tethering posts. However, there’s no electricity at the site.

  • Group Camps: the site is only available for reservations. Amenities are tent pad, water, lantern post, restrooms, three picnic tables, and fire ring with grill. But there’s no electricity available at these sites.

The fee per overnight stay is $30 but daily access is free.

  1. Johnson Branch

  • Campsites with Electricity: including Juniper Cove sites #5-6 and #36-37 and Walnut Loop sites #41-44 and #87-89 with 20/30/50-amp power.

Sites #1-4, 7-35, and 38-39; Walnut sites #40, 45-86, and 90-104 are equipped with 30/20-amp electric.

The overnight fee is $25 for 30/20-amp sites and $26 for others. Plus, the daily entrance is free of charge.

Amenities you get at these sites are a picnic table, outdoor grill, fire ring, lantern post, restrooms with showers nearby, and water hookup.

  • Primitive Campsites (Walk-in): located in Oak Point, Dogwood Canyon, Willow Cove, Overflow B, and C areas. Must walk up to 1/4 mile to campsites from the parking area. Amenities are a picnic table, fire ring, tent pad, water, lantern post, restrooms, and outdoor grill.

Marinas in the Area

Marinas in the Area

Ray Roberts Marina

Offering boat storage and a repair shop, this is a full-service spot right in the heart of the lake. Whether you want to rent a boat, buy a brand-new vessel, or just refill your craft tank, Lake Ray Robert Marina will cover you.

Most noteworthy, it’s where you can buy fishing licenses, angling equipment, baits, and groceries.

They are at 1399 Marina Cir, Sanger.

Lone Star Lodge Marina

The good news for those boating or sailing on Lake Ray Roberts is that this marina has outdoor electricity. So, in case your boat batteries are dead, stop by and recharge them as soon as possible. However, if you don’t own a craft, no worries, because this place offers boat, jet ski, kayak, and overnight boat slip rentals!

Find them at 2200 FM 1192, Pilot Point.

Top 3 Eateries/Restaurants Near the Lake Ray Roberts

Top 3 Eateries/Restaurants Near the Lake Ray Roberts

  • Ernesto’s Mexican Restaurant

As the title explains, we’re talking about a Mexican chain serving a menu of traditional dishes & Tex-Mex items in a cheery, relaxed setting. To grab a meal at this place, you should go to 10279 Farm to Market 455 E, Pilot Point.

Want a pro tip? Visit them on your birthday to get a free dessert. Plus, bear in mind that it’s a big-enough place to house your parties.

The most recommended food here is Lucy’s platter but you don’t have to worry about the cuisine as everything is worthy of trying.

  • Babe’s Chicken Dinner House

Located at 202 N 4th St, Sanger, it’s a relaxed local chain serving fried chicken & homestyle American sides in a rustic setting. However, the best part is that you can find all sorts of chicken dishes one can imagine on their menu. And better yet? All the dishes are served with family-style vegetables and mashed potatoes and gravy and biscuits.

  • Bebo’s and Kathy’s Café

Looking for more than a cup of coffee and ordinary food? This is the place to be then. Bebo’s and Kathy’s Café is at 8470 Hwy 377 South, Pilot Point, with some vibe-passing musing, fair prices, and HUGE dishes.

You must try Catfish—though you’ll not be able to finish it.

 

 

Reference (s):

Sailing Fundamentals

 

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Medina Lake, TX Review: Sailing, Fishing, Recreation https://sailingyes.com/medina-lake-tx-review-sailing-fishing-recreation/ https://sailingyes.com/medina-lake-tx-review-sailing-fishing-recreation/#respond Wed, 07 Aug 2019 18:05:00 +0000 https://sailingyes.com/?p=1064 Our Medina Lake Review will let you plan the best sailing trip possible. We’ve included everything you need to know about the sailing laws and regulations as well as a list of must-see places. So, read on and let us show you the district while you sit back and relax… Medina Lake, TX Review: Sailing, …

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Our Medina Lake Review will let you plan the best sailing trip possible. We’ve included everything you need to know about the sailing laws and regulations as well as a list of must-see places. So, read on and let us show you the district while you sit back and relax…

Medina Lake, TX Review: Sailing, Fishing, Recreation

Medina Lake, TX Review: Sailing, Fishing, Recreation

At Sailingyes, we care about the people who choose Texas for having fun! We do know that The Lone Star State is a potential recreation spot for most of the boaters in the USA. But having so many reservoirs has also made it a confusing location for the first-timers.

So, we provided a Medina Lake Review to reduce the confusion and lend a hand with knowing “what’s what.”

General Information

General Information

Full name: Medina Lake

Location: Bandera / Medina counties, Texas

Coordinates: 29°32′25″N 98°56′01″W

Purpose: providing irrigation water for local agricultural use

Water source: Medina River

Deepest part: 152 Feet

Current water level: 1,063.01 Feet MSL

2019 Maximum water level: 1,064.45 Feet MSL (January 18)

Surface area: 6,060 acres

Approximate coast length: 110 miles

Boating and Sailing Codes

Boating and Sailing Codes

Our Medina Lake review will help you get to know the area properly and plan your onboard trips. However, you will need something more than a review when it comes down to boating and sailing on Medina Lake.

You must be aware of the codes and regulations to make sure that your trip will be completely legal. So, to help you with that, there’s a list of all legal stuff a boater/sailor should know before heading out on the water.

  1. Equipment

According to the state regulations, anyone on the deck of a vessel must wear a PFD. The only exception to this law is that children younger than 13 may take the PFD off when the boat is not navigating.

Note that everyone older than 13 years of age cannot refuse to have a PFD—even if the craft is not navigating.

Plus, every 16-feet and larger vessels must carry a Type IV (throwable) PFD. However, kayaks and canoes are exempt from this rule—regardless of the craft size.

All the boats who will be navigating through the night must have:

  • Sidelights
  • Stern Light
  • Masthead Light
  • All-Round White Light
  1. License

The law urges everyone born on or after August 31, 1993, to have a TWPD-approved Boater Safety license. So, one of the musts for sailing on Medina Lake is getting such a license.

The rule applies to the skippers of over 14-feet windblown crafts, PWCs, and vessels over 15 hours of power.

However, those who will skipper on the private water, or are accompanied by a certified adult (18 and older) are exempt from this code. Plus, boaters who have a license issued in another state may skipper a craft in Texas as well. That said, they don’t have to retake any courses or get a new certification for sailing on Medina Lake.

  1. Skippering Age Limit

There is no age restriction for skippers in Medina Lake. Nevertheless, those who are 13 or younger are not allowed to navigate a vessel solo. The presence of a certified adult on the deck is compulsory when such a skipper is behind the helm.

In case the skipper is 13 or older, they can navigate a vessel solo only if they own a TWPD-approved Boater Safety license.

Note: if the adult on the deck is exempted from the license law, the current skipper (of any age) is exempted too.

  1. Vessel Size & Capacity

The size of a watercraft indicates the necessary equipment that must be carried. For instance, vessels larger than 16 feet should have a throwable PFD while the smaller crafts are excepted. So, you have to determine the length of your boat by measuring the distance between the bow and stern, or by checking the boat’s documentation.

Moreover, the overseer of a boat should be aware of its capacity. This is a number usually typed on a plate attached to the back end of the watercraft. Some capacity signs include the maximum number of passengers to have on the deck as well as the carriable weight.

Having excessive passengers or carrying extra weight is illegal on Medina Lake. And the overseer of such a boat will face punishment.

  1. Registration

Any craft that is navigating on Medina Lake must have a Texas Certificate of Number (aka registration card). This is a serial number that must be printed on both sides of the bow after being obtained.

However, the rule doesn’t apply to the sailboats under 14 feet and non-motorized vessels such as kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and rubber rafts. Added to that, any craft owning a TWPD-approved registration card of another state can navigate on Medina Lake—unless they will stay in the area for more than 90 days.

  1. Navigation Rules

All the navigating crafts on Medina Lake should follow the navigation rules. These are the set of regulations helping the skippers to understand what to do when encountering another watercraft.

There are two main principles to consider when it comes to the navigation rules. First, who’s the stand-on? And second, who’s the give-way? The former is a term that indicates the vessel which doesn’t need to change its course or speed during the encounter. The latter, however, indicates the opposite, meaning that such a watercraft must modify its course and speed to avoid a collision.

So, a sailor/boater must know the rules to determine what’s their vessel’s role in each encounter. Below you can find a guide to three main situations where you must either be the stand-on or become the give-way. (Bear in mind that the type of your watercraft can change your task enormously).

  • Meeting Head-On:

This is the situation where the bows of the two boats are meeting each other. In this case, if both are powered vessels, neither is allowed to be the stand-on. By contrast, the two of them must give way to the other by keeping right.

However, if the situation includes one powered boat and one sailboat, the latter is the stand-on. So, if a sailboat is in the same course with a powered craft, it doesn’t need to change its speed or course as the powered craft is the give-way.

  • Crossing Situations:

It’s a condition where one watercraft is going to cross through the current path of another craft from left or right. If the two of them are powered crafts, the one on the left side of the skipper is the give-way. However, if one of the crafts is a sailboat, the give-way is always the powerboat, regardless of the direction and position.

  • Overtaking:

It’s a situation where one vessel wants to pass the other from behind. In this case, regardless of the boat type, the one trying to overtake is the give-way.

Fishing on Medina Lake

Fishing on Medina Lake

The reservoir was developed to fulfill the need for irrigation water for local agriculture. However, thanks to stocking programs of TWPD, the lake is now one of the main attractions for fishers as well.

Right now, several fish types are living in the Medina Lake waters (see below). Catfish is the most popular one due to being one of the easy catches in the area. But you can find several other species in the lake for sure.

Angling Details and Tips

Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Crappie, White Bass, Hybrid Striped Bass are stocked in the lake.

The following table will show the likeliness of angling each species.

Species Poor  Fair  Good
Largemouth Bass ✔
Smallmouth Bass ✔
Crappie ✔
White Bass ✔
Hybrid Striped Bass ✔
Catfish ✔

Note: the information included in the table is according to the latest TWPD report.

Freshwater Bag and Length Limits

Excessive angling is prohibited in the Medina Lake. The Freshwater Bag and Length Limits helps the Texas Wildlife & Parks Department to control the fishing attempts in the area, preventing extreme activities.

According to this rule, each angler must catch a limited number of fishes each day. The restrictions are based on the type of fishes, and the fishers must check the limitations for each species separately.

The following table shows the maximum number of fishes one can carry on the Medina Lake.

Species

Daily Bag Minimum Length
Largemouth Bass 5 fish (for any combination) 14 inches
Smallmouth Bass 5 14
Crappie 25 10
White Bass 25 10
Hybrid Striped Bass 5 18
Catfish 25 12

 

Places to Visit in Medina Lake District (Lake Hills)

Places to Visit in Medina Lake District (Lake Hills)

The Median Lake review would not be complete without introducing the must-see places. Below, therefore, you can find a list of the several main attractions in the area that would spice up your trip.

  • Bandera County Medina Lake Park

If head to 14444 PR 37, a beautiful waterfront park will be there for you. People opt to choose this place for kayaking, fishing, BBQ parties, and/or hiking. However, since the water is always crystal-clear, you can also add swimming to the available activities.

There are several portable bathrooms in the area for visitors. Plus, you can choose a shady spot in the picnic zone to spend the day near the lake.

The Parking lot is close to the waterfront space; so, don’t worry about your vehicle’s safety while your picnicking.

  • Medina Lake RV Campground

What you get in this campground is a large, level, solid surface, and private spaces in the Ram section. There’s also a community hall with activities and weekly potlucks for the guests.

All the amenities are to guarantee a satisfying stay for you. Having a laundry room, a putt-putt, and a playground in the site shows that the owners want to make you feel at home and have nothing but fun.

You can find them at 215 Spettle Rd, Lake Hills,

  • Paradise Canyon

We’re talking about a must-see in the heart of Rio Medina. It’s a spectacular spot where you can fish, sail, camp, and swim all year long. The entry fee is $40 per car but it’s worth it as you get a pleasing number of amenities.

They have a rustic lodge in a scenic canyon featuring a river and abundant wildlife. So, this is going to be all about nature.

The most well-liked activities are swimming, hiking, barbecuing, and lounging around. That’s why the owners have added some changing rooms and showers to the area. However, having pets and glass containers is not legal in this campsite to assure coziness for all the visitors.

Overnight camping is available, but you better stop by early to find a proper spot as it gets jam-packed soon. The best time to go to avoid crowdedness is on a regular weekend or during the week.

They are at 2220 Co Rd 2615, Rio Medina.

Top 4 Eateries/Restaurants in the Area

Top 4 Eateries/Restaurants in the Area

  • Red Cove Cafe & Marina

Located at 255 Co Rd 2611, Mico, it’s a multifunctional spot that has always find its way up into the Medina Lake reviews – in a positive way. Do you want to grab a burger before heading back into the water? Well, this is the best bet. Do you want to rent kayaks? Just let them know—their prices for renting such a craft starts at $5. But wait; you’d like to launch your vessel for a fair price? Again, this is the place!

They have a boat ramp (slipway) that opens at 7 A.M. and serves the boaters for $15. So, this is one of the most cost-effective locations to launch a vessel.

The food is also great and you get to have cheeseburgers, fries, and sodas for about $20 for 2 people! But the coffee is next in popularity as well. So, give it a try on a clean day because it would be an ultra-refreshing choice.

Bear in mind that pets are not allowed inside the café, but you can have them with you on the patio section.

  • The 4 Way Bar & Grill

Looking for a place to make new friends, play bar games, and grab a meal or drink? Just head to 9742 FM1283, Lake Hills, where the 4 Way Bar & Grill is located. They have an outdoor patio for those who’d like to eat in the open area. Bu their interior design is also a second of none when it comes down to the Texan atmosphere.

This eatery is known for having some of the best burgers, hot dogs, and grilled cheese in the district. So, it’s not surprising that it gets jam-packed in the drop of a hat every day—especially on the weekends.

There are pool tables for people who want to spice up their meals. Better yet, other games up in the back, big screens, and jukebox are accessible as well.

  • La Cabana Café

The good news is that everything you see on the menu is a fresh homemade dish. You must try the breakfast tacos, corn & flour tortillas, and—of course—Tex-Mex food.

They are at 9600 FM1283, Lake Hills.

  • Dancing Bear Cantina

It’s a low-key chilled out bar overlooking Medina Lake with not-fancy, just laid-back atmosphere. You get to order the most delicious Bear Burger and fried mushrooms here while being accompanied by the live music.

They are located at 7794 Co Rd 271, Mico.

Reference (s):

Sailing Fundamentals

 

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Sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard in Texas https://sailingyes.com/sailing-on-lake-ray-hubbard-in-texas/ https://sailingyes.com/sailing-on-lake-ray-hubbard-in-texas/#respond Tue, 06 Aug 2019 18:34:44 +0000 https://sailingyes.com/?p=1050 Is it possible to read one article and get to know every detail about a place? Well, we made it possible! Read on and find out everything about sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard, best eateries and restaurants in the district, fun places to visit, local codes & regulations, and beyond! Sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard …

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Is it possible to read one article and get to know every detail about a place? Well, we made it possible! Read on and find out everything about sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard, best eateries and restaurants in the district, fun places to visit, local codes & regulations, and beyond!

Sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard in Texas

Sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard in Texas

In this article of Sailingyes, we’ll let you know what are the codes and rules of sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard. Moreover, you’ll get some tips for navigating your vessel at this reservoir properly.

But first, let’s take a look at the general information about this Texan lake.

Geographical Information

Title: it’s named after Ray Hubbard, former president of the Dallas Parks and Recreation System. It was once known as Forney Reservoir.

Location: Rockwall / Dallas / Collin / Kaufman Counties, Texas

Current water level: 434.64 Feet MSL

The highest water level in this year: 435.96 Feet MSL (April 25)

The lowest water level in this year: 434.64 Feet MSL (July 31)

Coordinates: 32°47′58″N 96°29′42″W

Deepest part: 40 feet

Surface area: 22,745 acres

Sailing Codes in Lake Ray Hubbard, TX

Sailing Codes in Lake Ray Hubbard, TX

You as the overseer of a vessel must be aware of the navigating rule, regulations, and codes. That is, you should know what to have abroad, how to skipper the craft by the book, and what to avoid while on the water.

So, to help with that, we provided a guide on boating and sailing rules in Lake Ray Hubbard. Down below, you can find out about the necessities of navigating in this reservoir.

  1. Operator’s Age

Like any other lake in the Lone Star State, skippers can be of any age if:

  • There’s a TWPD-approved certified adult (18 or older) on the deck
  • The skipper is accompanied by an exempted adult
  • The overseer/captain is navigating on private waters

However, if the conditions above do not suit the situation, the following rules are applicable:

  • Any skipper 13 or younger cannot navigate a vessel solo
  • If the captain is 13-17 years old, solo navigation is possible only if they own a Boater Safety license.
  • There must be a certified adult with the skippers who’re 13 or younger
  • All the overseers who’re born on or after September 1, 1993, must own a TWPD-approved Boater Safety license.
  • Operators of kayaks, canoes, and other windblown crafts under 14 feet are exempted from having such a license.

Compulsory Equipment      2.Compulsory Equipment

According to local on-water codes in Texas, everyone sailing, boating, or just traveling as a passenger on the water must wear a PFD. The term ‘PFD’ stands for Personal Flotation Device and it is found in any boat supply store.

Not wearing a PFD is not acceptable in any way and the overseer of the craft will face penalties in case of abuse. Violating this rule will cost $25-$500 fine.

All the PWCs that are 16 feet or larger must have at least one throwable PFD (Type IV).

USCG officers can legally perform random inspections and ask for licenses and/or check for the equipment abroad.

  • Daytime: compulsory pieces of equipment for daytime sailing are PFDs (for everyone of any age), throwable devices, photographic identification, and the TWPD-approved license.
  • Nighttime: in addition to all the equipment mentioned above, boats that will navigate in the night must own 1) sidelights 2) stern lights 3) masthead light 4) all-round white light

    3.Navigation Rules

According to these rules, there are two types of crafts on the water, stand-on, and give-way. The former is a term used to indicate the vessel which doesn’t need to change its course and/or speed when encountering another craft. The latter, however, specifies the watercraft that must give way to the stand-on vessel. (This can be either through changing the course or speed).

While sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard, you may encounter 3 different situations. The following, therefore, is a list of what-to-dos on each specific occasion.

  • Meeting Head-On:

This is the situation where the bow of two boats is meeting each other. In this case, if both are powered vessels, neither is allowed to be the stand-on. By contrast, the two of them must give way to the other by keeping right.

However, if the situation includes one powered boat and one sailboat, the latter is the stand-on. So, if a sailboat is in the same course with a powered craft, it doesn’t need to change its speed or course as the powered craft is the give-way.

  • Crossing Situations:

It’s a condition where one watercraft is going to cross through the current path of another craft from left or right. If the two of them are powered crafts, the one on the left side of the skipper is the give-way. However, if one of the crafts is a sailboat, the give-way is always the powerboat, regardless of the direction and position.

  • Overtaking:

It’s a situation where one vessel wants to pass the other from behind. In this case, regardless of the boat type, the one trying to overtake is the give-way.

Vessel Length

  1. Vessel Length

Knowing your vessel’s length is a must. That’s because most of the boating and sailing codes consider the length as a distinguishing factor. In other words, the length indicates the necessary items and pieces of equipment each boat must carry. So, not knowing it will confuse you—as the overseer.

To find out the number, check the documents of your boat or try to measure it yourself. The correct way of measuring a boat’s length is to determine the extent between the bow and the stern.

Note: additional parts such as outboard motors, brackets, rudders, bow attachments, or swim platforms and ladders should not be measured.

     5.The capacity of the Craft

There’s a plate on each boat (usually on the transom) that points out the maximum carriable weight. Some of the capacity plates include the number of people who can be on the deck as well.

The skipper must be aware of these numbers and control the weight (or max. passenger number) before heading out on the water. Carrying excessive passengers or cargo will result in punishment.

      6.Texas Seagrasses

According to BoatED, “seagrasses are plants totally adapted to living underwater. Their canopy of leaves and net of roots create a stable and protected habitat for marine life. It is this habitat that helps make the fishing great.”

So, in order to preserve them from boat damage, a skipper must either 1) Lift: stop the vessel and tilt the motor out of the water 2) Drift: use the wind to drift to and through dense submerged vegetation 3) Pole or walk the vessel out of the shallow area or seagrass bed or 4) Troll: use a trolling motor to navigate the shallow waters.

Tips for Sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard

Tips for Sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard

Use a Pre-Departure Checklist

  • Check the weather forecast and utilize satellite weather (if possible) to get the most accurate prediction.
  • Inspect the lights, throttle, and the tiller/steering systems, making sure they all work by the book.
  • Inspect the tank and engine to see if there’s any water or oil leak.
  • Drain all water from the engine compartment, and be sure the bilge plug is replaced and secure.
  • Give the batteries the once-over and make sure they are fully charged.
  • Check the PFDs’ condition and see if there’s enough of them for everyone abroad.

Fill a Float Plan Before the Departure

This is a piece of paper including the name, size, and the registration number of a vessel. The overseer should write down the detailed route and include departure and return time in it.

Plus, the names of all passengers and their phone numbers must be on the form. This is a good way to make sure at least one person on the land can call for help in case of an emergency.

So, always leave a float plan behind before heading out on the water. Otherwise, no one may be there for you when facing a hazardous situation.

Best Sailing Season

Sailing and boating season usually starts from late-May to mid-September. That’s because the temperature during these months drops to 70-75 °F, allowing the visitors to enjoy summertime doings.

However, below you can find a detailed weather report based on factors that influence your sailing/boating or cruising experience.

  1. Temperature

The warmest month of the year is July, 90°F. The two upcoming months (Aug & Sep) are also among the hottest periods with an average temperature of 88°F and above.

The coolest months in this district are November, December, January, February. The lowest temperature during this cycle is 37°F (Jan 5) while the highest one being 64°F (Nov 25).

The average temperature should help you get your head around the idea of what to pack. However, if you are still confused, read our guide on Packing for a Sailing Trip on Hot and Cold Days.

  1. Wind

One of the reasons why sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard is popular is having 7 windy months each year. The cycle of blowy days starts from October and lasts until early June. The mid-core airstream speed during these days is approximately 10.0 miles per hour.

However, if you’re willing to operate a windblown craft on the lake, March, April, and May own the windiest days.

  1. Sun

Skippers usually prefer daytime navigating over nighttime activities. That’s because being able to observe the surrounding area is a primary success key in navigation. So, that’s why you might want to know which days of the year offer the longest sun presence in this district.

Thru June, you get to have the longest daytimes, 14h per day. So, planning a cruise or sail during this month is the ideal option for sun lovers. However, the shortest days are in November and December—9 hours (approximately).

  1. Humidity

According to Weather Spark, there are some cycles in which the humidity and temperature of this reservoir are very close to “comfortable.”

In the jargon of meteorology, humidity comfort level is a scale of 0-100% with the highest number being the most relaxing condition.

Lake Ray Hubbard’s humidity comfort level reaches 82% for 3 months starting from June and ending in August. So, opt to go to Texas in this cycle to avoid struggling with intolerable oppressive or muggy conditions.

  1. Cloud

Clouds are another reason why sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard is well-liked. There are almost 6 months with a clear sky each year. The clearest time is October; however, you can enjoy navigating underneath the perfect sky from late-May to early-November.

According to Weather Spark, the clearest day of the year is the 5th of October. On this day, the sky is clear 74% of the time.

  1. Precipitation

April through May is the rainiest phase of time each year. Thru these months the chance of having a rainy day is nearly 31%. May eventually tops the list of average rainfall with getting 4.2 inches of precipitation each year.

However, the driest month in Lake Ray Hubbard is June, July, August, and early-September. This is when the middling rainfall drops to 1.5 inches.

Fishing Codes and Regulations

Fishing Codes and Regulations

Statewide Regulation stops anglers from catching excessive amounts of fishes on Texas public waters. According to this law, each species living in public waters of The Lone Star State may only be angled for a specific amount each day.

The Freshwater Bag and Length Limits indicates how many fishes (of what size) a fisher can catch on a regular catch. Below you can find a table that shows the specific limitations for Lake Ray Hubbard fishes.

Species minimum length limit (inches) daily bag limit (fish)
Largemouth Bass ❌ two largemouth bass less than 18 inches per day
Blue Catfish 12 25
Channel Catfish 12 25
Crappie 10 25
Hybrid Striped Bass 18 5
White Bass 10 25

 

Most Common Fish Types

Right now, Catfish and Hybrid Striped Bass are the species that you can find effortlessly in the water. However, the TWPD has stocked other types of water creatures in this reservoir to make sure the angling opportunities are satisfying.

The table below shows what are the most common fish types in Lake Ray Hubbard. (All the information included in this table is according to the latest information provided by the TWPD).

Species Good Excellent
Largemouth Bass ✔
Catfish ✔
Crappie ✔
White Bass ✔
Hybrid Striped Bass ✔

 

Angling Tips

Angling Tips

Fishes tend to utilize underwater covers to hide from the hunters. However, this gives the anglers a great chance to find a scholar of them effortlessly. The most popular cover for fishes in Lake Ray Hubbard is standing timber located in the spot above Interstate 30. This is the place that is usually home to scholars of fish.

Another sign indicating the presence of fishes is water thyme. It’s a is a submersed perennial herb that lives on the bottom of some reservoirs in Texas. Seeing them near the area means that the Largemouth Bass are there. That’s because this herb attracts them and they utilize it as a cover most of the time.

In case you don’t have a PWC to head out on the water, use ripraps as an angling spot. They are an ideal spot for catching Catfish or Largemouth Bass.

Go to the heated discharge area on the west side south of I30 to find all kinds of fish types altogether. For hybrids and white bass, use the humps that extend into the lake. These fishes love to gather in such areas.

Submerged brush piles in the lower lake are the finest spot to catch Crappie and White Bass. However, these two species tend to school in these locations mainly during summer.

Fun Stuff to Do on Lake Ray Hubbard Without a Boat

Fun Stuff to Do on Lake Ray Hubbard Without a Boat

Not everyone is willing to go sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard. But that shouldn’t mean there’s no entertainment for them in the district. By contrast, the area surrounding the reservoir is full of places that will definitely provide you with the ideal services to have the best time.

We have created a list of things to do while in Kaufman, TX.

  1. Eat at These Places

The following are the top seafood, fast food, and restaurants near the Lake Ray Hubbard.

  • Flying Saucer Draught Emporium:

It’s a chain taproom with more than 200 beer selections. The place is an American pub fare in tavern-like surroundings located at 4821 Bass Pro Dr, Garland. The most interesting thing about its spot is that you can have a great view of the lake sitting on their open seating section.

If you love pretzels and cheese, they have one of the best around. The German plate is also a favorite choice at this eatery.

  • Gloria’s Latin Cuisine

The name is self-explanatory. It’s a Latin eatery with a family-friendly atmosphere near the reservoir. They are located at 2079 Summer Lee Dr, Rockwall, serving brunch, lunch, and dinner.

Their best dish is the mix of Tex-Mex and Salvadorian food, but you can go for drinks as well. Mojitos and margaritas are a public choice at this Latin cuisine. However, they may get jam-packed during the lunchtime; so, be there first to get served first!

  • Chick-fil-A:

Fast-food fans love this place. It’s where you can find the finest chicken sandwiches, strip & nuggets as well as salads and sides. They are currently at 2835 Ridge Rd, Rockwall operating from 6 A.M to 10 P.M. every day—except for Sundays.

The menu is full of satisfying options, but the most important thing is to combine the with Chick fill-A sauce. Yes, they have their own special sauce!

  • Saltgrass Steak House

Positioned at 1649 Laguna Dr, Rockwall, this is an informal Texas-themed chain, offering meat-oriented cuisines. They also have a full bar with some of the most popular drinks in the district.

So, in case you want to get familiar with the Texan dishes, this is the best bet. They have specific interior design, making the customers feel The Lone Star State’s atmosphere.

Make sure to try the chicken fried steak and mashed potatoes. These two have always topped the list of customers as the former is so huge and filling while the latter is extremely creamy.

  1. Visit These Locations

After a nice meal, you can head out on the road and get to see some of the main attractions in the area. Here’s a list to lend a helping hand with finding them.

  • Rowlett Nature Trail

This hiking path is located at 1610 Miller Rd, Rowlett, which is within the walking distance to the south end of the lake. However, you can either choose it as a place for walking, biking, picnicking, and/or fishing.

It’s 1.3 miles of space covered with native trees and accompanied by the creek. That’s why most of the hikers bring a rod to benefit from the calm waters and catch some fishes for lunch.

The trail starts accepting people from 6 A.M. to 11 P.M. So, plan your walk accordingly.

  • San Martino Winery & Vineyards

Take a minute to get off the highway to check this place out if you don’t know how great the Texan wine can be. All those thinking a wine from Texas couldn’t keep up with those in California, Oregon or even France, Portugal and Spain changed their mind after meeting this family-owned business.

You must go to 12512 State Hwy 205, Lavon, every Thursday to Sunday from 1-9 P.M. to get to test their second of none drinks.

They have hit the right mix of comfort laid-back Texas-style with spectacular, well-balanced, full-flavored red wines. So, don’t miss out on the chance to relax and drink in a cozy, friendly place.

  • Rockwall County Historical Foundation Museum

Head out to 901 E Washington St, Rockwall, to visit a Heritage museum in an 1850 house exhibiting historical objects & memorabilia from Rockwall County. This is a nice museum full of history about this little town. You can also see some of the original “Rockwall stones” that were excavated years ago.

They have a restricted schedule allowing them to be open three days per week. So, bear in mind that they are open every Saturday from 10 A.M. to 2 P.M. and every Tuesday and Thursday from 1 to 5 P.M.

  • San Jacinto Plaza

Placed at 101-115 S San Jacinto St, it’s a nice public plaza in Old Downtown Rockwall, Texas south of Rusk Street. This former block of San Jacinto Street is now a red brick courtyard with some live music artists or groups performing on an open stage. Plenty of small tables & seats spread out in the courtyard to sit and chat.

Bonafide Betty’s Pie Company bakery and The Beer Geeks bottled beer to go shop are also located inside this plaza.

Play Games

  1. Play Games

Are you bored? Here are places to play games, have fun, and entertain yourself.

  • Rowlett Wet Zone

It’s a city-owned swim facility & water park offering a playground, slides, swim lessons & aerobics. Located at 7723, 5304 Main St, Rowlett, Wet Zone is a very nice water park for the kids. It’s not over- packed and the lines are not long at all.

There are plenty of lifeguards on duty in the area to guarantee everyone’s safety. Plus, fun music is always being played.

Lots of tables and chairs are available for the visitors and there are pavilions for private parties. The kitchen serves kid-friendly food, but you can bring in your own coolers and outside food and drinks.

  • Escapology Escape Rooms Dallas – Rockwall

Head out to 1290 E Interstate Hwy 30, to get involved in some of the most entertaining mystery-solving games in Texas. Escapology is an escape room with several challenging games for people of all ages.

No matter you want to solve the mysteries solo or within a group, they have something to offer. You just need to be at their place from 12 to 10 P.M. (Saturdays from 10:40 A.M. to 11:30 P.M.).

Some of the games you get to play in this escape room are:

  • ANTIDOTE: You are a team of scientists investigating Dr. Brandt’s abandoned laboratory. You’ve been tasked with finding the only known antidote to virus TS-51 before it gets passed into enemy hands.
  • BUDAPEST EXPRESS: When you arrive, you see a man slumped over a restaurant table. He was Sir Clarence Hayden and he has been murdered!
  • SHANGHAIED: You quickly realize that you have been fooled by the King of the Crimps, Joseph “Bunko” Kelly and forcefully drafted to work with the ship’s company of 12 British and 30 Cantonese sailors
  • TH3 C0D3: You are FBI Agent Alex Vargas, a fresh face in the Cyber Crime Unit. Fueled by optimism and a need for success, you determine that taking down Nitr0 would be the best way to climb the ladder to the top.
  • UNDER PRESSURE: The engines have died and pressure in the cabin is quickly increasing. The hull is cracking under the immense pressure of the seabed and, without power, only 60 minutes of reserve oxygen remains! You and the crew must act quickly so you can continue your mission.
  • SAVING SANTA: The Secret Elves will guide you throughout the game and let you know whether the adults may need to help the youngsters along or keep you informed that they’re doing just fine on their own! (This game is designed for children).

 

  • Magic Fun House Castle

At 4100 Rowlett Rd, there’s a magical place. Wizard Wayne is a craftsman of magic and anyone from 4 to 100 will love his show. The castle itself is an absolute work of art and once you step inside you are transported to another dimension of fun.

Wayne is fantastic with groups and even offers private tours if you don’t like the group thing. The services this place offers to the community are like none other. This is the best spot for kids as the Wizard will never let them down with his tricks.

You can also buy some magic crafts at this place to start becoming a wizard. Wayne probably will teach you some tricks as well.

 

Reference (s):

Sailing Fundamentals

 

 

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The Boater’s Guide for Visiting Grapevine Lake in Texas https://sailingyes.com/boaters-guide-grapevine-lake-in-texas/ https://sailingyes.com/boaters-guide-grapevine-lake-in-texas/#respond Sat, 03 Aug 2019 17:53:18 +0000 https://sailingyes.com/?p=1031 What are the attractions of Grapevine Lake in Texas? How can you have faun in this district without having a boat? How can you rent a boat and head out on the water immediately? Who to call in case of a boat emergency on Grapevine Lake? We’ve covered it all on our Boater’s Guide for …

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What are the attractions of Grapevine Lake in Texas? How can you have faun in this district without having a boat? How can you rent a boat and head out on the water immediately? Who to call in case of a boat emergency on Grapevine Lake? We’ve covered it all on our Boater’s Guide for visiting Grapevine Lake in Texas.

The Boater’s Guide for Visiting Grapevine Lake in Texas

The Boater’s Guide for Visiting Grapevine Lake in Texas

Let the Sailingyes to introduce you to the must-see places, must-eat dishes, and must-do activities of Grapevine Lake. In this article, we’ll cover everything a boater needs to know about this district altogether.

Places to See on the Land

You don’t have to skipper the vessel all the time to have fun. Anchoring at the right place and heading out for some on-land entertainment is also an ideal option to consider. The following is a list of locations that any boater or normal visitor should see in, on, and around Grapevine Lake.

Places to See on the Land

  • SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium

Located in a mall, this is the place you need to be to bond with sea creatures. Kids will love the aquarium as there’s a tunnel that puts them right in the middle of fishes. You just need to pay $22 for entrance (this is per each adult).

Group packages, membership cards, and a most-offer playground are also available for visitors. They operate from 10 A.M. to 7 P.M. and you can find them at Mills Mall, 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, 76051.

  • LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth

Boating on Grapevine Lake while having kids may be a challenging task as they get bored onboard (pun intended). However, if you anchor the vessel near Grapevine Recreation Area, it’ll only take a couple of minutes of walking to LEGOLAND.

This is where your kids (and even you) cannot complain of boredom as there are toy displays, rides, 3D films, and gift shops all over the place. By the way, it’s within walking distance to SEA LIFE; so, why not visit them both?

Find them at 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, 76051

  • Grapevine Botanical Gardens at Heritage Park

Are you tired of being on the deck dealing with the rigging, shrouds, and navigation systems? Well, deck the boat and head out to these botanical gardens near the lake.

You can find absolute peace through walking by the water and watching fishes in the pond. It’s a tranquil spot with sitting areas that offer the finest location for spending some peaceful quality time.

It’s located at 411 Ball St, 76051

  • Grapevine Museums & Galleries

It’s almost 2 miles away from the south end of the lake. But you’ll not regret visiting it no matter what. The place is complex with art exhibits and a couple of museums. So, you will get the chance to get to know different aspects of the city’s history & culture altogether.

They are at 636 S Main St, 76051, operating from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. every day—except for Mondays. Plus, it’s all FREE!

  • Vicky Sunset Pointe Park

Bring your boats and jet-skies, rafts and floaties as this is the right spot to get out on the water. Vicky Sunset pointe is a quiet, exotic, and tropical place to spend some time near the lake and get to watch the sunset from a great view.

Since few people are aware of this gem in Texas, you’ll always find it calm and noiseless.

Find the location at Rd, 76051. (Open 24 hours)

Fun Stuff to Do

Fun Stuff to Do

There is so much fun stuff to do in this district that makes it a cakewalk to find one. However, we cherry-picked the most exciting ones for you. Here we go.

  1. Splash Some Sea

Water parks are the best bet for boaters traveling with their families. These parks offer some fun stuff for a fair price, occupying your leisure time in the most idyllic way. Dove Waterpark at 1509 Hood Ln, for instance, is a well-liked spot.

That’s because the have a pool for minor kids and teen-agers. Plus, you can always find several slides, float islands, and shallow play area for children of all ages.

Another well-know and the popular water-fun park are Paradise Springs Aquatic at 1501 Gaylord Trail. There are some splash pads, slides, and zip lines available for kids. Moreover, they have a big pool to add up to the fun and allow everybody to enjoy splashing some water. However, the better-yet is that there are a bar and grill for parents/adults waiting for their kids on the poolside.

  1. Tease Some of the Grape Wine!

The south end of the lake is where you can find a handful of wineries all in one place. But we made the selection easy for you by cherry-picking the top 3.

Cross Timber Winery at 805 N Main St, is our first suggestion. The rustic atmosphere and not-fancy-at-all prices make it a great stop for boaters.

The BBQ is a must-try and the wine, of course, is worthy of a test. However, they are a wedding venue; so, you can also plan the best day of your life here—again, for a fair price.

Within walking distance to Cross Timber, there is the Messina Hof Grapevine Winery. It’s an old building with very interesting interior design, reminding you of the good old days. There’s room to stroll around and a variety of seating arrangements and areas.

Moreover, having multiple bars and good staff that knows the products has made them a public choice. So, if you’re tired of boating on Grapevine Lake, this is the place to relax!

Umbra Winery, on the other hand, is less than a mile away from the south end of the lake, ready to serve all the boaters 12-11 P.M. The owner describes this place as a “lively tasting room offering house-label & imported wines & tapas in a chic atmosphere.” But they also have dozens of wines, all great quality and 4-time yearly shipments for wine club members.

Expert advice: Look up their website to find out more details about their events if you’ll be around for a long time.

 

Scape the City        3.Escape the City

You may be familiar with the idea of escape rooms. However, here we have two of the trendiest ones near Grapevine Lake for boaters who’re seeking more than on-water entertainment.

The Grapevine Escape at 160 N Main St is our top choice. That’s because the rooms are challenging but not impossible. This is a very vital factor as you may go as a group containing people of all ages. So, an impossible-to-solve would ruin your day rather than making it fun.

“The Wine Vault” and “Focus Tex Labs” are the two rooms which you can choose among. But no matter which one you select; the entertainment is guaranteed. There’s a thorough story woven into each room, alluding to clues, and intriguing the guest. You get to solve plenty of puzzles in the rooms and everyone has a chance to participate.

But wait; that’s not it. The Escape Game Dallas at 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy Suite 604, is another favorite in the town, worthy of trying. They offer a 60-minute adventure where you can either escape the prison, solve the mystery of the playground, or join the gold rush. Book your place as soon as the tickets are sold promptly.

Vessel Rental Stores

Vessel Rental Stores

You don’t have a PWC but like to benefit from the on-water activities? Don’t worry at all because there are dozens of watercraft rental services around the lake. So, you just need to check-in, grab a vessel, and become a boater just like that.

Below is a list of the most trustworthy and popular rental stores in the town.

  • Sam’s Dock Boat Rentals & Party Barges

Located at 2500 Fairway Dr, this store offers Tri-toon, Wave-runners, and other types of vessels. You can also opt to join their cruise tours if you feel like boating is not your thing.

  • Silver Lake Marina

You can find them at 2500 Fairway Dr #1, to enjoy being on CraigCats or rent a skippered boat.

  • Discover Kayak

If large vessels are not your favorite, hire a canoe or kayak at this store. They have brand-new crafts ready-to-use all the time. Plus, the prices are never close to fancy. Visit them at 2100 Lakeview Dr every day from 8 A.M. to 8 P.M.

  • Lonestar Adventure Sports

Positioned at one of the most scenic parts of the lake, Lonestar Adventure rents canoes and kayaks to enthusiasts—at a fair price. They are at Kayak Point, Grapevine, TX 76051. (operating from 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. weeklong.

  • Rockledge Park

“Lakefront recreation area offering swimming, bluff side picnic areas & biking & hiking trails.” This one is the ideal choice for those who want to experience on-water and on-land activities at once.

The address is Rockledge Park, 3600 Pilot Point, 76051.

  • Aloha Hydrosports

If you’re a watersports fan, this is the place you must visit. They have all sorts of necessary equipment for watersports ready to rent all the time. just head out to 101 Lake Park Rd #7, Lewisville, and pick up your gear from their fully equipped arsenal.

Nearby Camping Sites

Nearby Camping Sites

Finding the proper camping site is always a stressful procedure. But we tried to inspect all the options near the lake to create the ultimate campground list for you, making the selection processes easy-peasy.

  • The Vineyards Campground & Cabins

What they give the campers is some warmly furnished cabins, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, living/dining areas, and kitchenettes. Moreover, shared terraces in this place have spectacular lake views.

You can opt to rent an upgraded unit with a full kitchen and private terrace. But some units even have bunk beds, lofts, and/or electric fireplaces. So, you have plenty of choices available.

There’s also a grocery store, fishing supply shop and rental sports equipment in the area. Plus, a playground and direct access to the beach with an RV park is on-site.

It’s located at 1501 N Dooley St, Grapevine, TX 76051, 4 miles from LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth.

  • Meadowmere Park

For a reasonable fee, you get to have access to a large slipway, big beautiful soccer park, RV campgrounds, and RC plane area.

Campers are always welcome and you can even order Pizza onboard. And yes, they’ll deliver it to the deck. So, it’s a nice place for abroad campers as well.

Location: 3000 Meadowmere Ln.

  • MURRELL PARK

“Lakeside location offering a boat ramp & fishing, plus trails, a picnic area & campground,” says the owner about this place.

The lake comes right up to the sandstone shoreline. You can watch the sunset across the lake here or see the fireworks for the 4th of July and during the summer when the Gaylord sets them off on Friday nights.

880 Simmons Rd, Flower Mound.

  • Oak Grove Park

It’s very close to the water with some paved trails, picnic tables, and sports fields. But what makes it a good choice for boaters is that they also have a marina as well as a fishing pond.

So, you can deck your vessel here and spend some time angling for the next day’s lunch.

Top Restaurants and Eateries

Top Restaurants and Eateries

Grapevine is full of small and big eateries that make it hard for the first-timers to choose among. But here, on this part of our guide for visiting Grapevine Lake, we’ve selected the top 3 restaurants where you have to grab a meal at!

  • Big Daddy’s Ship Store

It’s a ship, but you can call it an eatery as well. If you’re into experiencing new stuff, this is the place to visit. They are located on the lake! So, you can watch the calm water of Grapevine while enjoying your warm, delicious meal.

Make sure to try fish tacos. It may be somewhat spicy but there are great flavors with mango chunks in it. Plus, it’s served with a fresh broccoli slaw salad.

2500 Oak Grove Loop S #200. (open 11 A.M.–8 P.M.).

  • Meat U Anywhere

You must go to their 919 W Northwest Hwy, branch to meet the most delicious meat of your life. They are a loyal Texan BBQ with all kinds of meat-oriented cuisines. The owner believes that the Meat U Anywhere is a bustling BBQ specialist offering smoked meats & inventive sides in comfortable surroundings.

Breakfast tacos—that are available all day long—are a must-try. But you will also fall in love with their brisket as it’s always succulent and never dry. In addition to all this, you can also order a smoked chicken or turkey along with some grilled sausages as a side dish!

  • Tolbert’s Restaurant & Chili Parlor

You can feel the free-spirited Texan taste in their dishes as they are historic chili specialists. This place is all about Southwestern fare, steaks & live music in casual environs. You must head to 423 S Main St, sometime between 11 A.M. to 11 P.M. to grab a nice meal.

The original red chili and Dublin pot roast with mashed potatoes are some of the most favorite foods here. So, give them a try no matter what.

  • Fuddruckers

It’s a well-known Family-friendly chain for burgers on house-made sesame seed buns, plus salads & shakes. All the hamburger fixings are at a station so you can help yourself to 2 different kinds of lettuce. Better yet? They have gluten-free bread for those following specific diets.

Visit them every day from 11 A.M. to 10 P.M. in 2001 TX-121, Grapevine, TX 76051.

  • Mi Dia from Scratch

Located at 1295 S Main St, this Mexican eatery has combined traditional dishes with the new ones on the menu. So, it would be a unique experience to eat at their place even though you’re a Mexican cuisine fan.

The outdoor patio allows you to enjoy a meal in the open area and get some fresh air as well. But the interior design is good enough to keep you excited about the food.

You can order Santa Fe & Tex-Mex flair, handcrafted margaritas from 11 A.M. to 10 P.m. every day. However, the trendiest dishes are the shrimp tacos, the salsa with the chips which is a mix of red and green salsas, and the Hatch Tacos.

Local Boat Repair Shops (Addresses & Phone Numbers)

Local Boat Repair Shops (Addresses & Phone Numbers)

PWCs can be troublesome being on the water for a long time. And that’s why every boater must be aware of the nearby repair shops and service providers just in case of facing an emergency.

So, to make the process of finding these places, we included two of the boat repair shops near Grapevine Lake down below.

  1. Taylor Marine Service

Address: 2505 Oak Grove Loop S

Phone Number: (817)-481-8232

  1. Bass Pro Shops Tracker Boat Center

Address: 2501 Bass Pro Dr

Phone Number: (972)-665-8533

 

Reference (s):

Sailing Fundamentals

 

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