Winter Texans – Snowbirds

Welcome to Bolivar Peninsula and Crystal Beach, Texas — a warm and welcoming winter retreat on the Upper Texas Coast for those traveling south to escape colder northern climates. Each winter, visitors arrive from across the country and happily call Bolivar home from late fall through March or April, enjoying mild temperatures, coastal breezes, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. This hidden gem stretches 27 miles along the Texas coastline, bordered by the Gulf of Mexico to the south and East Galveston Bay to the north, with the Intracoastal Waterway weaving through its scenic landscape. From the birding haven of High Island and the fishing history of Gilchrist and Rollover Pass, to Caplin, Crystal Beach’s beach homes and RV parks, and the historic roots of Port Bolivar, each community offers its own charm. With easy ferry access to Galveston, short drives to Kemah and Beaumont, and Houston within a comfortable day trip, Bolivar Peninsula is the perfect place to settle in, relax, and truly enjoy winter on the Texas coast.

Crystal Beach, Texas on Bolivar Peninsula is a welcoming winter home for travelers from northern states seeking discounted vacation rentals and RV resorts from late fall through early spring. After Labor Day and through early May, beach house vacation rentals are offered at some of the lowest rates of the year, with many local realtors providing flexible weekly and monthly options for extended winter stays. RV travelers of all sizes will find a wide selection of RV parks and resorts, both beachfront and bayside, offering everything from covered pads and bathhouses to washer, dryers, and scenic water views, all designed to make your seasonal stay comfortable, relaxing, and truly feel like home.

Bolivar Peninsula and Crystal Beach, Texas offer a rich coastal history that often surprises first-time visitors. From early settlements and legendary storms to preserved landmarks, there is plenty to explore during your stay. Visit Fort Travis Park to walk among historic gun bunkers and read interpretive markers while taking in sweeping views of the Houston Ship Channel and Galveston Bay. Anglers also flock to nearby Rollover Pass, a popular fishing spot where you can cast a line for flounder in the fall and early winter, with speckled trout and redfish available year-round.

Just across East Galveston Bay, a short drive brings you to the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge, home to thousands of wintering ducks and geese and a favorite destination for birdwatchers and photographers. No trip to Bolivar Peninsula is complete without a photo at the iconic Bolivar Lighthouse, a welcoming sight near the ferry landing. The free, 24-hour Galveston–Bolivar Ferry offers a scenic 15-minute ride to Galveston Island, making it easy to enjoy a day trip while staying on the Upper Texas Coast.