Your planned vacation is still far away and you want to extend the time while you wait? Or do you have no days off but still want to enjoy the rest of the summer of 2024?
Whatever the reason, you’ve come to the right place. We have the 7 best weekend getaways in Texas where you can relax without having to travel far and plan ahead.
Hamilton Pool
Are you based in Austin and looking to escape the heat? There is about an hour’s drive from the city center Hamilton Pool – a natural swimming pool with crystal clear water, a beach and a small waterfall.
Sounds perfect, right? Now you’re probably thinking that other people might have a similar idea and the last thing you want to do is lie on a crowded beach. That is not the case at Hamilton Pool. You must book your visit in advance so that it is never too busy.
Also keep in mind that swimming is not always allowed as things like rain affect water quality. Better check their website for updates. Walking and chilling on the beach is usually still allowed.
Horseshoe Bay Resort, Horseshoe Bay
If your way of relaxing includes pampering, we recommend a weekend retreat Horseshoe Bay Resort. It is located on the shores of Lake Lyndon B. Johnson and is easily accessible from Austin and San Antonio.
You can look forward to top-class golf courses, fine dining, tennis courts, an invigorating spa, numerous water activities and a lake-view swimming pool. Plus, they offer several accommodation options, so don’t hesitate to bring your family.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort
Do you prioritize time with your family on weekends? Surprise your children with a day out Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resortwhich is filled with all the attractions you can think of, such as swimming pools, water slides, tube slides or rivers. And as of this year, it is home to the world’s first water roller coaster.
It is conveniently located just outside of San Antonio, making it a perfect option if you are short on time. Not from San Antonio? Fine. The resort offers a wide range of accommodations, including condos, cabins, lofts and vacation homes. Plus, the prices are a deal.
Splashway Water Park
Splashway Water Park is another place where you can enjoy family fun. It offers everything you would expect from such an aquatic world, from water slides, lazy rivers and wave pools to shallow pools and splash pads for the little ones.
There is just so much to do that one day may not be enough. Take your visit to the next level by camping at one of their RV or tent sites. Alternatively, you can rent a cabin or a cottage. Oh, and did we mention this is the top-rated water park in Texas on Google Maps?
Waterloo Adventures and Lake Travis Zipline
Who wouldn’t want a weekend getaway to the lakeside? And if you and your family like to stay active, there’s no better place for you Waterloo Adventures and Lake Travis Zipline.
Make your heart beat faster longest and fastest zipline in Texas. Then take a scenic boat trip to Adventure Island.
Unfortunately, due to very low water levels, the obstacle course is closed this season. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty to do. Play in the water, participate in beach games, swing in a hammock or grab a snack and a drink from a food truck: we guarantee that the weekend trip to Lake Travis will be unforgettable.
JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country
Who said you had to travel far to enjoy a weekend getaway outside the city? JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country is a luxury resort on the outskirts of San Antonio. It features comfortable and well-equipped rooms, a water park with a lazy river, six luxury restaurants, golf courses and a spa.
There is also a beautiful nature reserve in the back garden, ideal for peaceful walks or wildlife watching; deer are quite common to wander around. Or you can explore the Natural Bridge Caverns, which also features a zip rail and ropes course in the trees.
Krause Springs, Spicewood
If you feel like you need a deeper connection with nature, how about spending a few days camping at Krause Springs in Spicewood? This popular camping and swimming spot is about 30 miles from Austin, so you can reach it as early as a Friday afternoon.
Around the property you will find 32 refreshing water springs, an artificial pool and a natural pool. As for accommodation, there are 24 RV sites with water and electricity, as well as primitive tent sites. Reservations are not necessary, but you should arrive early as the site operates on a first-come, first-served basis. In addition, there are picnic tables and hammocks.
