Overview

Houston’s Bay Area presents access to an easygoing coastal lifestyle that isn’t often associated with the city. Kemah and Seabrook sit at the entrance to Clear Lake from Galveston Bay, which offers plenty of opportunities for aquatic adventures and affordable waterfront properties on both salt and fresh water.

History

In the days of the Prohibition, the Bay Area was home to infamous casino operations that served as an outlet for Houston residents looking for nightlife. In the 1950s, the Texas Rangers cracked down on the vice empire, paving the way for wholesome growth. Through the 1960s and 1970s, the Bay Area progressed after the establishment of Johnson Space Center and has grown into today’s leisurely delight for family fun and laid-back getaways.

Schools

Seabrook and Kemah are served by the Clear Creek Independent School District. Students in both areas are zoned for Clear Falls High School, which had their first graduating class in 2013. CCISD is home to the Living Materials Center, with more than 60 species of animals available for students to gain hands-on experience with the likes of chinchillas, bearded dragons, and tarantulas.

Shopping

Kemah Boardwalk

With 60 acres of shopping, restaurants, and attractions, Kemah Boardwalk offers enough entertainment for an entire day with the family. Thrill-seekers will love The Boardwalk Bullet, a wooden roller coaster that boasts a 92-foot vertical drop and speeds up to 51 miles per hour. Animal lovers will delight in meeting live stingrays at the Stingray Reef touch pool. At sunset, you can leisurely walk the boardwalk and enjoy views of the bay.

Restaurants

Throughout the Bay Area, there are a plethora of restaurants to sate any craving. Since 1974, T-Bone Tom’s has been serving up genuine southern cooking, from hand-battered chicken fried steak to smoked barbeque. For lighter bites, stop by the eclectic Art of Coffee, which features pieces from local artists all over its walls. Further north, Seabrook Waffle Company offers liege waffles with an impressive selection of toppings.

Recreation

Space Center Houston

Visitors of all ages can get a taste of space exploration at the NASA Johnson Space Center. While you’re there, interact with mission control, discover how astronauts train for space travel, and even meet an astronaut in person. There are many exhibits and hands-on activities, so you can learn all about how Houston earned its nickname, “Space City”.

Pine Gully Park

Located right on Galveston Bay, Pine Gully Park has some of Seabrook’s best views of Galveston Bay. Many species of local wildlife call the restored woods and marshes of the park home. The park is part of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, and nearly 300 bird species have been found in the area. In addition to traditional park amenities, the park also features a 1,000-foot fishing pier.