As Texas transitions from the warmth of summer into the vibrant colors of fall, the state’s coastal and city escapes continue to offer an inviting retreat. 

Whether you’re looking to extend your summer with a seaside getaway at South Padre Island, the charm of Cinnamon Shore in Port Aransas, or the restorative power of WorldSprings’ mineral pools near Dallas, each location promises an experience that blends relaxation and wellness. Below, we explore three of the top spots in Texas for your next water wellness retreat.

Margaritaville South Padre Island

We might not be full Parrotheads, but we sure do enjoy some Jimmy Buffett tunes and respect his laissez faire attitude to life. We’ve brought you articles in the past about his Margaritaville brand (Lake Conroe, Key West, cruise line). We recently ventured all the way down to the bottom of our great state to check out Margaritaville South Padre Island. 

Part of the beach club

It’s a bit farther to head to the bottom of our great state of Texas than it is to visit some of the other beaches. However, South Padre Island, at the southern tip of Texas, is known for having clearer water than any of our other Texas beaches. This sliver of an island is filled with hotels, condos, restaurants and other fun activities for the entire family.

Margaritaville Beach Resort sits on a prime section of beach with its own stretch of beachfront property, a large pool in the center and here, it’s always 5 o’clock (ode to Jimmy Buffet).

Searching for my lost shaker of salt

LandShark Bar and Grill serves breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. Breakfast consists of morning Chilaquiles, Carne Asada bowl, an ultimate omelet, and banana stuffed French toast, to name a few choices.

Another option for a quick breakfast is Joe Merchants Coffee and Provisions near the lobby on the bottom floor. A to-go coffee shop, you can get a wide variety of coffee drinks and pastries, and even sit out by the pool if you desire.

If you’re hanging out in the pool, enjoy Salty Rim Bar. There is a food truck nearby that you can order appetizers and snacks such as nachos, tacos and sandwiches.

We recommend that you bring your beach chairs. However, you can rent them right there on property at Sonny’s Beach Service, but they cost over $40 a day per chair with an umbrella. Bring your own if you can, along with a cooler that you can take down to the beach (there’s no food/beverage service at the beach).

Use the towel kiosk by the pool with your wristband to get your pool or beach towels. There are cabanas for rent and also hammocks just outside the pool area.

You have your choice to valet your vehicle for $24 per night or self-park at the nearby parking lot or parking garage for a daily fee of $15.

Head into town for an array of restaurants, such as The Meatball Café, serving a large menu of Italian favorites for lunch or dinner. Enjoy housemade pastas, pizzas, and other cheesy favorites.

Cinnamon Shore, Port Aransas

For a picturesque beach escape, Cinnamon Shore in Port Aransas delivers on all fronts. Located on the Texas Gulf Coast, this master-planned beach community is ideal for families, couples, and friends looking for a getaway filled with coastal charm, top-tier amenities, and a wide range of activities.

A Coastal Community Like No Other

Cinnamon Shore offers its guests more than just a beach stay—it’s an experience. The community is designed with walkable streets, beautiful homes, and multiple pools, giving you the option to relax or explore. With a private beachfront, you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or simply strolling along the coast. The town center features shops, restaurants, and even live music, creating a lively yet relaxing atmosphere.

Where to Stay: Southern Anchor & Sunkissed Palms

Cinnamon Shore has an array of stunning rental properties. Two standout options include:

• Southern Anchor: This charming home is perfect for a family or group getaway. With cozy coastal décor, large living spaces, and a beautiful porch to enjoy the sea breeze, it’s a prime option for comfort and style.
• Sunkissed Palms: Just steps from the beach, this luxurious home offers modern amenities and lush palm trees surrounding the property, making it a private haven for relaxation.

For guests looking to explore the community in style, golf cart rentals – or, as they call them, Beach Buggies — are a must. These rentals from Sage Beach Carts offer a convenient and fun way to get around the property, adding to the lively yet laid-back vibe that Cinnamon Shore is known for. You’ll often see families and friends cruising along in their carts, music playing, creating a vibrant atmosphere while still maintaining a relaxing beachside charm.

WorldSprings, Dallas

Located just north of Dallas, WorldSprings is a wellness retreat like no other, offering visitors the opportunity to reconnect with their bodies and minds through the age-old practice of soaking in mineral-rich waters. September is Self Care Month, making it the perfect time to experience this one-of-a-kind destination that draws inspiration from some of the world’s most famous mineral springs.

A Holistic Wellness Experience

Spanning over 10 acres, WorldSprings features 46 expertly formulated mineral pools, Finnish saunas, cold plunges, and a world-class spa. Each aspect of the retreat is designed to provide a 360-degree wellness experience that nourishes both body and soul. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at The Springs Kitchen & Bar, making it easy to spend the whole day immersed in tranquility. Entry fees start at $55 for adults and $40 for those under 18, making it an accessible luxury for all ages.

For a more intimate experience, WorldSprings offers Date Nights & Evening Soaks. Couples can enjoy a 3-hour soaking pass after dark, with options to rent a private cabana or indulge in spa services for a more luxurious evening.

Dining at WorldSprings is an extension of its wellness philosophy, offering fresh and nourishing options at the outdoor café. The menu includes light fare such as hummus, Muhammara, and salads, with refreshing beverages and cocktails available for a complete wellness experience.

WorldSprings offers membership packages. These very limited memberships will sell out. Here’s the breakdown of the 2 packages: 

VIP: Only 100 VIP memberships available. Valid for one year, these give you no-wait, no reservation needed access to WorldSprings anytime during opening hours as well as 10 single use guest passes. $1,499.

Monday-Thursday: 250 of these memberships will give you no-wait, no reservation needed access to WorldSprings Monday through Thursday anytime during opening hours as well as 5 single use guest passes. $699.

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Cover photo courtesy Margaritaville Beach Resort

Marika Flatt, Outstanding Austin Communicator 2021, is the Travel Editor of Texas Lifestyle Magazine. She began her travel writing career in 2002, and can be seen as a contributor on TV shows across Texas, such as Great Day Houston, San Antonio Living, Spectrum News, Good Morning Texas, KVUE, Daytime (FOX), and Studio 512! Follow Marika’s travels here.

Madi Hise is a Public Relations student at the University of Texas, minoring in business. She currently serves as the Editorial Intern for Texas Lifestyle Magazine and is also a Publicity Intern for PR by the Book.