The Ultimate Guide to the Best Resorts in Texas
Texas, the Lone Star State, is a vast tapestry of diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the rugged beauty of Big Bend National Park to the sandy shores of the Gulf Coast, Texas embodies the saying, “everything is bigger in Texas.” This grandeur extends to its array of world-class resorts, offering unparalleled experiences that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, relaxation, or family fun, Texas has a resort that’s perfect for your next getaway.
Luxury Retreats: Indulgence and Elegance
The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa
Nestled among 27 acres of towering pines and oak trees in the heart of Houston, The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa is an urban oasis that tops the list of Texas resorts. Praised by readers in the 2024 “World’s Best Awards” survey by Travel + Leisure, this resort offers award-winning spa services, beautiful wooded grounds, and impeccable service. Guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations while being just minutes away from the city’s vibrant attractions. Imagine sipping a cocktail by the pool after a rejuvenating spa treatment, then heading into the city for world-class dining and entertainment.
Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection
In Austin, the Commodore Perry Estate stands as a testament to historic charm and modern luxury. This boutique hotel, lauded for its exceptional service and design, offers a tranquil escape within the city. Guests can relax amid elegant architecture and lush gardens, with the vibrant music scene of Austin just beyond the gates. The estate’s European-inspired decor and personalized experiences make every stay unique. For those interested in exclusive insights into luxury stays in Austin, consider exploring an in-depth guide to Austin’s most luxurious accommodations .
Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek
Dallas’s Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek exudes sophistication and Southern hospitality. The hotel offers opulent rooms, fine dining with French-influenced cuisine, and a serene atmosphere perfect for a romantic getaway. It’s an ideal base for exploring Dallas’s cultural attractions, from the Dallas Museum of Art to the bustling Bishop Arts District. Guests often remark on the mansion’s timeless elegance and the personalized service that makes each stay memorable.
Wellness and Spa Resorts: Rejuvenate and Revitalize
Miraval Austin Resort & Spa
Perched on 220 acres overlooking Lake Travis, Miraval Austin Resort & Spa is a top wellness retreat in Texas. This all-inclusive resort focuses on holistic relaxation, offering luxurious spa services, wellness classes, and healthful gourmet meals. Guests can participate in yoga, meditation, cooking classes, and outdoor activities designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit. The serene environment encourages guests to disconnect from daily stresses and reconnect with themselves. To delve deeper into wellness travel options in Texas, you might find a comprehensive overview of Texas’s best wellness retreats insightful.
Lake Austin Spa Resort
Another gem in the Texas Hill Country is the Lake Austin Spa Resort. This all-inclusive sanctuary provides a peaceful escape with its lakeside location, offering a variety of spa treatments, fitness activities, and gourmet dining. Guests can unwind with waterfront yoga or indulge in treatments at the award-winning spa. The resort’s garden-to-table dining philosophy ensures that meals are both nutritious and delicious, featuring ingredients from their own organic garden.
Family-Friendly Destinations: Fun for All Ages
Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa
Located near San Antonio, the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa is a family favorite. The resort features a five-acre water park complete with a lazy river, multiple pools, and waterslides. Families can enjoy golf, tennis, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for fun and relaxation. Children can partake in the Camp Hyatt program, offering interactive games and crafts, while adults unwind at the spa or on the golf course. For tips on maximizing family fun in Texas resorts, check out the ultimate family guide to Texas’s top resorts .
Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center
In Grapevine, the Gaylord Texan Resort offers a wealth of entertainment options. This expansive resort boasts an indoor and outdoor water park, a variety of dining venues, and seasonal events. Its central location provides easy access to the Dallas-Fort Worth area’s attractions. The resort’s stunning atrium is a sight to behold, featuring lush gardens and a replica of the San Antonio River Walk. Seasonal events like ICE! and the Lone Star Christmas make it a year-round destination.
Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine
Adjacent to the Gaylord Texan, the Great Wolf Lodge is a haven for families seeking adventure. This resort features a massive indoor water park, interactive games, and themed suites. With numerous activities under one roof, it’s designed to provide a memorable experience for children and adults alike. Evening story times and character appearances add a magical touch to any stay. For more on planning the perfect family vacation, consider reading a parent’s guide to family-friendly resorts in Texas .
Ranch Resorts: Embrace the Cowboy Spirit
Wildcatter Ranch & Resort
For an authentic Texan experience, the Wildcatter Ranch in Graham offers a blend of Western activities and modern comfort. Guests can partake in horseback riding, skeet shooting, and historical Jeep tours during the day, then relax in luxury cabins or the infinity pool overlooking the scenic Brazos River Valley. Evenings can be spent under the vast Texas sky, sharing stories by the fire pit. To immerse yourself further in ranch life, explore an insider’s look at Texas’s premier ranch resorts .
JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa
Located in Sonora, the JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa spans 13,000 acres of picturesque landscapes. This rustic yet luxurious resort provides opportunities for adventure such as hunting, ATV tours, and archery. Its upscale accommodations and fine dining make it a unique destination for those seeking both excitement and relaxation. The private airstrip adds an extra layer of convenience for guests arriving by private plane.
Cibolo Creek Ranch
Set near Marfa, the Cibolo Creek Ranch combines history with outdoor exploration. Guests can explore historical sites dating back to the 1850s, enjoy guided tours, or engage in activities like hiking and wildlife viewing. The resort’s adobe forts and secluded location offer a distinctive and immersive experience. The star-gazing opportunities are unparalleled, thanks to the remote West Texas skies.
Golf and Leisure: Courses with a View
Omni PGA Frisco Resort
Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the newly opened Omni PGA Frisco Resort, which claimed the top spot in the 2024 “World’s Best Awards” survey by Travel + Leisure. Featuring two 18-hole championship golf courses and state-of-the-art facilities, this resort is a premier destination for golfers of all levels. The resort also offers instruction at the PGA Coaching Center and a variety of dining options overlooking the greens. For those looking to plan the ultimate golf trip, consider a golfer’s guide to Texas’s top golf resorts .
La Cantera Resort & Spa
Overlooking the Texas Hill Country, La Cantera Resort & Spa in San Antonio offers not only stunning views but also two world-class golf courses. The resort provides luxury amenities, including an expansive spa and multiple dining options. It’s an ideal place for those looking to combine leisure with recreation. The resort’s golf academy offers lessons for those seeking to improve their game amidst beautiful surroundings.
Horseshoe Bay Resort
Situated on Lake LBJ, the Horseshoe Bay Resort is a year-round destination for golf and water activities. With three championship golf courses, a full-service marina, and a variety of accommodations, it caters to guests seeking both adventure and relaxation in a beautiful lakeside setting. Sunset cruises and lakeside dining add to the resort’s charm.
Beachfront Escapes: Sun, Sand, and Sea
Grand Galvez
On Galveston Island, the historic Grand Galvez offers beachfront elegance with modern amenities. Known as the “Queen of the Gulf,” this resort combines historic charm with contemporary luxury. Guests can enjoy the on-site spa, outdoor pool, and direct access to the Gulf Coast beach. The hotel’s rich history and reported ghost sightings add an element of intrigue. For a deeper dive into beachfront destinations, consider reading a detailed review of Texas’s best beachfront resorts .
Isla Grand Beach Resort
Located on South Padre Island, the Isla Grand Beach Resort provides an oceanfront paradise for visitors. The resort features two swimming pools, tennis courts, and live entertainment. It’s an excellent destination for those looking to enjoy coastal views and a variety of recreational activities. The Quarterdeck Lounge hosts live music and dancing, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere.
Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island
The Margaritaville Beach Resort offers a relaxed island vibe with fun activities and coastal views. Guests can indulge in beachside dining, unwind at the spa, or participate in water sports. It’s a perfect spot for a laid-back vacation by the sea. The resort captures the essence of island life, encouraging guests to kick off their shoes and embrace the slower pace.
Unique Stays: Boutique and Historic Hotels
Hotel Emma
In San Antonio’s Pearl District, the Hotel Emma stands out with its industrial-chic design and rich history. Formerly a 19th-century brewery, the hotel now offers luxurious accommodations and culinary experiences. It’s surrounded by trendy shops, restaurants, and the famous River Walk. The hotel’s library and rooftop pool provide serene spaces to unwind. To explore more unique accommodations, check out a curated list of Texas’s most unique hotel stays .
The Driskill Hotel
Austin’s oldest operating hotel, The Driskill, exudes historic charm and elegance. Built in 1886, it offers a blend of classic architecture and modern amenities. Located on Sixth Street, guests can easily access the city’s renowned live music venues and nightlife. The hotel is also known for its collection of artwork and historical memorabilia.
Hotel ZaZa
With locations in Houston’s Museum District and Uptown Dallas, Hotel ZaZa provides an eclectic boutique experience. Each room is uniquely themed, and the hotels feature upscale dining and spa services. They’re ideal for travelers seeking something different and stylish. The playful atmosphere is complemented by art installations and attention to detail in decor.
All-Inclusive Resorts: Hassle-Free Vacations
Rancho Cortez
For an all-inclusive ranch experience, Rancho Cortez in Bandera offers guests a blend of cowboy charm and wellness focus. Packages include horseback riding, ranch activities, and access to fitness programs. It’s perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the Texan countryside. Guests can learn to lasso, participate in cattle drives, or simply enjoy the open spaces. For guidance on choosing the right all-inclusive resort, consider reading tips for selecting the best all-inclusive resorts in Texas .
Sage Hill Inn & Spa
Situated in Kyle, the Sage Hill Inn & Spa provides a hill country escape with luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining. The all-inclusive resort offers spa services, hiking trails, and stunning views, making it ideal for a romantic or solo retreat. The inn’s commitment to sustainability and locally sourced ingredients enhances the overall experience.
Final Thoughts
Texas’s resorts reflect the state’s diversity and grandeur, offering experiences that range from opulent luxury to rustic adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the cultural richness of its cities, the serene landscapes of the hill country, or the sun-kissed shores of the Gulf Coast, there’s a resort waiting to make your stay unforgettable.
Planning your next vacation? Follow us back to BoardingArea for more travel inspiration and detailed planning advice. From award-winning spas and world-class golf courses to family-friendly water parks and authentic ranch stays, the Lone Star State truly has it all.
