While so many beaches along our Gulf Coast tend to be less than desirable, this little oasis just down the road a piece from Freeport could make you forget you're in Petrochemical Land. In Galveston, the constant whir of traffic along the seawall just steps from your beach towel almost drowns out the calming sounds of the sea at your feet. Go to any of the beaches at Surfside and you've literally got to dodge the traffic, as cars are allowed right on the sand. Not the case at Quintana, where the $4-per-car entry fee keeps out the riffraff, and all vehicles stay in the parking lot. A massive boardwalk jettisons over the dunes that serve as your wall between civilization and solitude, and leads you to the cleanest, most peaceful beach in our region. The park features full-on camping facilities for RVs and tents and even has a few quaint, air-conditioned cabins that overlook the water. Which come in handy, 'cause you'll never want to leave.
Readers' choice: Crystal Beach