THE OFFICIAL 2018 VISITOR’S GUIDE

YourYour AdventureAdventure Awaits...Awaits... MATAGORDA COUNTY WHAT TO DO • WHAT TO EAT • WHERE TO STAY COMPLIMENTARY COPY VISITMATAGORDACOUNTY.COM 2 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 3 4 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 5 The Official Matagorda County Visitor’s Guide is a joint publication of the Matagorda County Convention and Visitors Bureau and The Bay City Tribune. This guide is designed to lead you to the treasures on land, water and in the air across Matagorda County.

Matagorda County Convention and Visitors Bureau 1901 Fifth Street • Bay City, Texas 77414 Matagorda County Museum www.visitmatagordacounty.com [email protected]

“Preserving our County’s Heritage” *Renowned Children’s Museum *A La Salle Odyssey Museum Publisher * Historical Research Facility Brenda Burr Wed. - Sat. 1-5p.m. Online Admission Fees: $ www.baycitytribune.com facebook.com/baycitytribune 2 - 3 years and older twitter.com/baycitytribune instagram.com/instatrib $4-Adults and $3 - Seniors over 50 2100 Avenue F • Bay City, Tx 77414 • 979-245-7502 Offline www.matagordamuseum.com The Bay City Tribune 2901 Carey Smith Blvd. Bay City, TX 77414 979.245.5555

The Official Matagorda County Visitor’s Guide is published annually by The Bay City Tribune © Copyright 2017 No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without written permission of the publisher. Editorial content does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher of this magazine. Editorial and advertising does not constitute advice but is considered informative.

Information in this publication is as correct as possible at the time of publishing, but is subject to omissions and errors. The Tourism Coalition of Matagorda County assumes no responsibility for any and all errors of this publication. Editorial, photos, advertisements and free listings that appear in the Official Matagorda County Visitor’s Guide are for the sole purpose of providing useful information for tourists and travelers to Matagorda County. CHAMBER INFORMATION

Bay City Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture 201 7th Street, Bay City, TX 77414 (979) 245-8333 | (800) 806-8333 www.baycitychamber.org

Matagorda Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 103, Matagorda, TX 77457 (979) 557-6526 www.matagordachamber.com

Palacios Chamber of Commerce 420 Main Street, Palacios TX 77465 (361) 972-2615 | (800) 611-4567 www.palacioschamber.com

Sargent Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 4052, Sargent, TX 77404-4052 (979) 429-3002 www.sargentchamber.com 6 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com Welcome! Welcome to beautiful Matagorda County!

We’re so glad you’ve decided to pay us a visit! We invite you kick your shoes off, bury your toes in the sand and stay awhile. There’s plenty of fun to be had in our neck of the woods, and we hope you’ll experience it all. Those who stop by always find reasons to keep coming back.

Matagorda County is a vibrant community just a few miles southwest of Houston. We’re famous for our bays, beaches, birds and business. It’s an outdoorsman’s paradise and a traveler’s delight.

We have unique accommodations for those looking to escape from the daily grind, and enough adventure to fill multiple lifetimes. The Texas Gulf Coast affords us the very best fishing around and our unspoiled beaches allow you to experience the Gulf of Mexico in a way that is unlike anywhere else.

If birding’s your pleasure then you’ve come to the right spot. For nearly two decades Matagorda County has been the top-ranked birding spot on the globe. Enthusiasts from across the nation and planet travel to Matagorda County to see more than two hundred species of birds in a single trip.

This jewel of a community is home to some of the best dining you’ll find anywhere. From fresh seafood to homemade tamales, gourmet dining and world-famous chicken fried steaks we’ve got it all. No one ever came to Matagorda County and left hungry.

So again, we welcome you to our little home. We hope that you find the same thing that we have, that we’ve been blessed with nature’s beauty and proximity to the very best that Texas has to offer.

You’ll find that we really are the best kept secret in Texas. Your adventure is out there waiting, go find it!

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 7 Communities

Wadsworth, Van Vleck, Pledger and Sargent. STP Nuclear Plant, Lyondell-Basell and Oxea Matagorda County Bay City, located at the junction point of Chemical. three railroad lines at the time, flourished after The increasing population has been a boon Matagorda County is a picturesque commu- 1900. for the economy, as evidenced by the packed nity on the Texas Gulf Coast with a rich history Devastation of Matagorda by major hurri- parking lots and larger consumer base at local and access to the great outdoors. canes caused the county seat to be moved to businesses. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy out- Bay City. Along with population growth has come an door sports such as golfing, fishing and boating You don’t have to drive far to come across influx of new businesses. The county has seen or take a stroll through one of the many parks one of the more than 100 Texas Historical new hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, Markers found throughout the county. and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature that housing and gas stations built and opened over There are six sites listed on the prestigious abound in the number one birding spot in the the last few years. National Register of Historic Places, with one of nation. Spend some time shopping in one of The temperate climate throughout most of those sites being an entire district in Bay City. the unique locally owned shops found through- the year makes it possible for visitors to enjoy With three of the county’s main communities out the county. breathtaking sunrises and sunsets or observe a – Palacios, Matagorda and Sargent – on the variety of bird life in the estuaries and marshes The county, with a population of 36,702, was water, fishing and watersports are a big draw found throughout the county. once home to the Karankawa Indians. in the spring and summertime. Whether your Settlement by Anglo-Americans began in passion is kayaking, boating, skiing, riding jet The Matagorda County-Mad Island Marsh 1822, when the schooner “Only Son” landed skis or spending a lazy day on the beach, the Wildlife Management Area is a 7,200 acre immigrants for Stephen F. Austin’s colony at the county has you covered. coastal wetland habitat for wintering waterfowl. mouth of the Colorado River. The major industrial plants in the county The annual Christmas Bird Count has been The Republic of Texas organized Matagorda bring in hundreds of contract employees during number one in the USA for number of species County as one of the first 23 counties. planned outages, shutdowns or expansions. seen in one day, eighteen times in the last 23 While the town of Matagorda was the only TenarisBayCity has brought in both executive years. Reservations are required for tours of the major town in the county in 1890, but by 1913, level and contract employees, many of whom wildlife. railroads had helped establish or expand many have made the county their home, either tem- Matagorda County is quickly growing and towns and villages to include Bay City, Pala- porarily or permanently. expanding. It is a booming county and a desir- cios, Blessing, Collegeport, Markham, Midfield, Other large industries in the county include able destination to visit or to make a home.

8 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com Communities

is accessible by car or kayak/canoe. Call (979) in Matagorda County. Known as the Shrimp Bay City 245-3336 for information. Capital of Texas, the Port of Palacios is home Bay City is a town with a strong, historical Two community pools, Valiant Pool at 2624 to more than 400 commercial shrimp, crab and presence and the county seat of Matagorda Carey Smith Blvd and Hilliard Pool at 3020 Le oyster boats that operate in Matagorda Bay County. The community — named for its Tulle offer swimming in the summer; starting and the Gulf of Mexico. location on Bay Prairie, between the richly after Memorial Day. Valiant Pool also offers lap Palacios is a popular spot for “Winter Tex- productive bottomlands of the Colorado River swimming at designated times year round. ans” and year round vacationers alike. Visitors and Caney Creek — was established in 1894. Skateboard enthusiasts have a place to hang can enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets or It is located at the crossroads of Texas 35 and out and hone their skills at a 6,600-square-foot observe a variety of bird life in the estuaries and Texas 60 and is within a short drive of anything facility at Hardeman Park on 12th Street. Roll- marshes found in Palacios. in Matagorda County. erbladers and rollerskaters also are welcome at Whether you have a sailboat, canoe or a The town is home to a large public library the park. fishing vessel, there are numerous public boat and a state-of-the-art medical center, thriving The Matagorda County Museum is housed in ramps and three marinas available for launch- town square and many activities to enjoy. Bay the town’s original 1918 U.S. Post Office. The ing and docking. A 1.5-mile long concrete light- City is a place you can get outdoors and relax museum offers four permanent exhibits and ed seawall allows for a quiet stroll or exercise and enjoy hours of refreshing fun year round. several temporary exhibits each year, giving alongside the bay while enjoying the view. Golfers can enjoy the 18-hole course fresh attractions for returning visitors. Families can relax and spend time in the cov- designed by Gary Player at the Rio Colorado In the museum’s basement, “Our Town” is a ered picnic areas and playgrounds located on Golf Club. This picturesque public course is turn-of-the-century playroom, complete with both the East and South Bay parks. On some carved around the beautiful Colorado River and a corral, general store, barber shop, jail, craft days, schools of porpoises can be spotted surrounding wetlands. For further information, room and an opera house that allows children a feeding along the coastline! call (979) 244-2955. taste of pioneer life. Lodging options are abundant, whether you Riverside Park offers walking/running trails, The Bay City Public Library provides books, prefer an RV park, a cozy bed and breakfast, a 10-station exercise course, a boat ramp, video tapes and DVDs, audio tapes and a vacation rental, a stay at a local motel or fishing, playground and a day pavilion. They compact discs. The library has several special historical hotel there’s an option for everyone. also feature 40 campsites with full-service RV features, including a genealogy section, Inter- With all these wonderful amenities, it’s surpris- hookups. net workstations, large print books, and books ing that Palacios is the best-kept secret on the Le Tulle Park has two open-air pavilions and on tape. The library is at 1100 Seventh St. and Gulf coast. one enclosed pavilion, restrooms, two lakes, can be reached at 979-245-6931. playground, picnic tables with grills, and an 18-hole disc golf course. Matagorda The Matagorda County Birding Nature Cen- Palacios The town of Matagorda is Texas’ third oldest ter covers 34 acres along the Colorado River The coastal community of Palacios, along city; at one time the state’s third largest — and in Bay City. It has six botanical gardens and Tres Palacios Bay in the southwestern corner the second port established in Texas after Gal- three major eco-systems for visitors to enjoy. It of Matagorda County, is the second largest city veston. 60 immigrants aboard the first sailing

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 9 Communities vessel to pull into Matagorda Bay on Jan. 27, 1829 settled Matago- rda. The historic Matagorda Cem- etery was established in 1830. Historic figures buried there in- clude: Ira Ingram, the first speaker of the Texas House; Albert Clinton Horton, the Republic of Texas’ first lieutenant governor; Samuel Rhoads Fisher, a signer of the Tex- as Declaration of Independence; and George Morse Collinsworth, commander of the Texans who captured the Mexican garrison at Goliad in 1835. Matagorda’s many attractions include the Matagorda Beach with span bridge. west-central Matagorda County. a suspension bridge leading to a a covered picnic area, the Matago- In the 1960s, canals were The town was founded in the gazebo in the center. rda harbor, the LCRA Nature Park, dug to connect the Intracoastal early 1900s and was first named kayak trails and ample fishing Waterway with Caney Creek, “Thank God” in gratitude for the opportunities. giving many home sites waterfront coming of the railroad, but the Van Vleck Much of Matagorda’s busi- access. U.S. Post Office rejected that Van Vleck, originally known as ness community caters to beach Most of Sargent’s business name. The name Blessing was the Hardeman, resides adjacent of visitors; with restaurants, souvenir community caters to beach visi- second choice, and the post office Bay City to the east on Texas 35. shops, bait camps, motels, rentals tors; with restaurants, bait camps, opened in 1903. The township has its own post and numerous RV parks. a motel, numerous RV parks, and Blessing is home to the historic office and a school district that marinas. Hotel Blessing, built in 1906. The services a large rural area of east- Sargent also offers ample op- hotel was restored in 1978, and ern Matagorda County. Sargent portunity for birding enthusiasts to in 1979 the Hotel Blessing was The estimated population is Sargent is a small coastal spot several different species with entered into the National Register about 2000, up from 1400 re- community at the end of FM Matagorda County having the larg- of Historic Places, the first official corded in the 2000 census. Many 457, 30 miles south of Bay City. est Bird Count in North America! listing for Matagorda County with residents live in rural areas on the The Intracoastal Waterway runs this distinction. outskirts of the community. through Sargent providing access Popular with locals is Heffelfin- Van Vleck is located only one to the Gulf of Mexico, as well as Blessing ger Memorial Park. The park half mile from Tenaris Bay City, East Matagorda Bay. Texas’ last Blessing is at the junction of includes lighted baseball fields, a a state-of-the-art seamless pipe remaining swing bridge adds a Texas 35 and FM 616, 20 miles walking track, basketball and ten- mill and just three and one half touch of nostalgia to the town, but west of Bay City on the west nis courts, playground equipment, miles from the Bay City Municipal soon will be replaced by a new side of the Tres Palacios River in picnic areas and a small lake with Airport.

10 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com Communities

population of 500. Today, Markham has its own bay and there are many unique homes sitting Cedar Lane volunteer fire department, several businesses along the waterfront. This small town set in a Cedar Lane, at the intersection of FM 457 and a population over 1,100. remote area of southwestern Matagorda Coun- and FM 521 in east central Matagorda County ty is a hidden treasure. on Caney Creek, is a small community, with an identity tied to the church and a long history. Midfield The community has had three names — Midfield, 16 miles west of Bay City at the in- Pledger originally known as Sugar Land, then Bowieville tersection of FM 2431 and Texas 71, is named Pledger, whose town site was platted and and now Cedar Lane. for the community’s location, which is equal filed in 1902, rests in the northern corner of Sugar Land dates back to the mid 1800s, distance from El Campo, Palacios, Bay City Matagorda County at the junction of FM 1301 when sugar plantations thrived along the and Ganado. and FM 1728, 19 miles northeast of Bay City. Caney. Bowieville was a farming community The first post office opened in 1904 and It has links to Texas’ first settlers brought by on FM 457. The original settlement clustered remains in operation today. Stephen F. Austin. around the Bowie store with an approach Midfield was originally a stop on the Texas During most of its history, the area has been through a lane of cedars, providing today’s and New Orleans Railroad in 1914, when the primarily an agricultural community. The rich name. town had two general stores, a lumber com- bottomland on Caney Creek yielded crops In 1912, Cedar Lane had its own post office pany, a bank, a telephone connection and a of sugarcane, cotton and corn in addition to and was a stop on the Texas and New Orleans population of about 300. pecans, turf grass, grains, soybeans, hay and Railroad. livestock. Cedar Lane is halfway between Bay City and the beach in Sargent. Collegeport Formed in 1909, Collegeport is another small Wadsworth Matagorda County town with a rich history. It is At the junction of Texas 60, FM 521 and Markham located at the southern end of FM 1095, on the FM 2078 in south central Matagorda County, Markham sits six miles west of Bay City, eastern shore of Tres Palacios Bay, two miles Wadsworth sits halfway between Bay City and where FM1468 and FM 2431 cross and just northeast of Palacios. the coastal town of Matagorda. It is an active north of Texas 35. The combination of a port and a college, Gulf community that serves as home to a chemical The town was first named Cortes, for the Coast University of Industrial Arts, gave the plant, an agriculture industry and is just minutes community’s largest employer, the Moore settlement its name. from a nuclear plant. Cortes Canal Company. The name was A community center — the Mopac House — Wadsworth sees traffic from area farmers and changed in 1903 to Markham, in honor of C.H. was built from lumber from the Missouri Pacific ranchers, workers at the LyondellBasell chemi- Markham, an engineer for the Southern Pacific depot during the depression in 1935 and has a cal plant and the South Texas Project. A steady lines. Registered Texas Historical Marker. stream of people headed for Matagorda and By 1914 Markham had become a stop on The waterfront views from Collegeport are the warm waters of the Gulf Coast also pass the Texas and New Orleans Railroad and had a spectacular. Palacios can be seen across the through this town.

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 11 What to do APRIL April 14 April 1 • MEHOP's Rock & Roll Annual Fund- raiser at 6:30 p.m. at the Bay City Civic • Resurrection Sunday + Easter Center Egg Hunt at 10:30 a.m. at High Five Church (2707 Ave F) • Boys & Girls Club Colorful 5K by the April 7 Bay • 2nd Annual Party in the Park for April 18 Prevention 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Le • Palacios Chamber of Commerce Vol- Tulle Park unteer Appreciation Dinner at Outriggers April 7-8 April 20-21 • Palacios Trail Riders Association • 54th Annual Chamber Live Oak Tree Annual Trail Ride Sale Friday, April 20 from 1 – 5 p.m. at April 8 HEB Green Space & Saturday, April 21 • Palacios Rotary Club Golf Tour- from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Courthouse nament Square April 9 April 21 • Easter Cantata at First Baptist • 2018 LEPC Block Party at the WCJC Church – Palacios Bay City Campus from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. April 13-14 • Sargent Area Wide Garage Sale • Andrew Vasek Memorial • Market Day on the Square 9 a.m. - 4 Scholarship BBQ Cook-Off at The p.m. Matagorda Fireman's Hall at 5 p.m. April 26 Scholarship fundraiser for students • POWER of the Purse at The Bay City of Matagorda County, Silent Auc- Civic Center 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. tion, Raffle and plenty of good food!

12 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com What to do

Crap Camp ages 6-8; Anglers Ahoy! • Matagorda Bay Nature Park Stingray Camp ages 9-12; Cast Away! June 15 • Strawberry Moon Concert downtown from 8 – 11 p.m. June 16 • Antique Car Show downtown from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. • Full Moon Food Truck Festival from 5 – 9 p.m. at the Matagorda County Birding and Nature Center June 18-22 • Matagorda Bay Nature Park Ghost Crap Camp ages 6-8; Aquanut Adventure! • Matagorda Bay Nature Park Stingray Camp ages 9-12; S.S. Explorers! June 23-24 • Palacios Cannonball Run Youth Sailing • Palacios Community Hub Pirate Festival June 25-29 • Matagorda Bay Nature Park Hammer- head Camp ages 13-15; Adventure Quest! 7 p.m. at The Van Vleck Auditorium June 30 MAY May 25 • Market Day in the Bay City Civic Center May 5 • BCHS Class of 2018 Commence- from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. • Chalk Walk & Flower Moon Concert ment, 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium downtown from 3 – 11 p.m. • Palacios High School Class of 2018 May 7 Graduation • Light It Up 5 will be held at 6 p.m. at May 26 The Fat Grass • Matagorda VFD Annual BBQ Fund- May 10 raiser, Raffle, & Auction from 11 a.m. – 5 • Runway for Life Fashion Show will p.m. benefit the Women’s Pregnancy Center May 26-27 of Matagorda County with the social • 6th Annual Memorial Weekend BBQ starting at 5:30 p.m. and the event start- Cook-off & Co-Ed Kickball Tourney ing at 6:30 p.m. at The Bay City Country May 28 Club • Palacios Area Historical Association May 13 Chicken Dinner • Cottonwood Creek Mother’s Day May 31 Concert showcasing the LoneStar Blue • VVHS Class of 2018 Commence- Grass Band. The concert will start at 3 ment, 7:30 p.m. at Burl McKinney p.m. Stadium May 17 May 31 & June 1, 2 & 7-9 • Denim & Diamonds Beneath the Oaks • CAST presents “Shakespeare in 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. Hollywood” 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 at the May 18 Bay City Civic Center • Tidehaven High School Class of 2018 Graduation JUNE May 19 June 2 • Market Day on the Square 9 a.m. - 4 • 7th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament p.m. at 8 a.m. at the Rio Colorado Golf Course May 20 June 11-15 • BCHS Class of 2018 Baccalaureate, • Matagorda Bay Nature Park Ghost

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 13 What to do

August 5 p.m. at Bay City Memorial September 22 JULY September 15 July 4 • St Anthony’s Shrimporee • Bay City Heritage Fest of Seafood Dinner – Palacios • Market Day on the Square the Americas • Sparks in the Park at LeT- August 11 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. September 23 ulle Park starting at 5 p.m. • MRMC Foundation Golf • 9th Annual Jason Ander- • Chamber Foundation • Palacios Lion’s Club 4th of Tournament at 8 a.m. son Memorial Golf Tournament BBQ Cook-Off and Arts/Crafts July Celebration August 18 at Rio Colorado Golf Course Booths at South Bay Park July 14 • 18th Annual Rotary Sum- • Poker in Palacios & Sea- mer Concert at 7 p.m. at the food Dinner at The Recreation Bay City Civic Center. Headline Center July 21 performer to be announced in the Spring – visit www.baycity- • Market Day on the Square rotary.com for information. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. AUGUST SEPTEMBER August 4 September 11 • St Anthony’s Golf Tourna- • Matagorda County Patriot ment Day 2017 at 6:30 p.m. - 10

14 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com What to do

September 28 DECEMBER • Palacios Community Medical Center December 1 Box Supper Fundraiser • Palacios Chamber of Commerce OCTOBER Seaside Holiday October 4 – 7 • Christmas Tour of Homes – Palacios Area Fund • The Annual Bay City Lions Club Rice Festival at The Matagorda County Fair- December 4 grounds • Bay City Chamber Lighted Christmas October 13 Parade starting at 7 p.m. Downtown at • Friends of the Sargent Kayak/Fun Run the Courthouse Square October 20 December 9-10 • Palacios Harvest Moon Library Fund- • One Bethlehem Night at First Baptist raiser at Recreation Center Church – Palacios • Market Day on the Square 9 a.m. - 4 December 15-16 p.m. • Christmas Market Day 2 Day Show October 27 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Bay City Civic • Pedal Palacios Bike Ride Center (201 7th Street) • Palacios Monstrous 5K Run Bash by December 25 the Sea 5 – 9p.m. • Merry Christmas! NOVEMBER JANUARY 2019 November 11 January 1 FEBRUARY • CDA Turkey Dinner at K C Hall • Happy New Year! February 14 November 24 January 26 • Happy Valentine’s Day! • Sargent Boat Parade • Wild Game and Wine Camofest in November 22 Historic Downtown Bay City & Wolf Moon MARCH • Happy Thanksgiving! Conert • “Rodeo Time”

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 15 What to do Top 10 birding hot spots for Matagorda County

knowledge. The Top 10 list is presented in de- scending order beginning with #10. The ranking is based primarily the total number of species list- ed in eBird for the hot spot, and secondarily by accessibility (somewhat subjective). The hot spot ranking will perhaps it aid birders in narrowing their options when birding in Matagorda County. So, if you are a county lister, need to pad your Texas list, are a visiting birder and need to add a much needed ‘lifer’ to your list or photo library, then here are the……

Top 10 Birding Hot Spots for Matagorda County #10 – Palacios Waterfront and Lookout Point (127 species) – The small town of Palacios sits at the top of Tres Palacios Bay, part of the Matago- rda Bay complex. It is known as the “Shrimp Capital of Texas” because of the large fleet of gulf shrimpers that call the port home. In addition to the port activity, the open bay and adjacent salt Matagorda County Birding Nature Center entrance marsh habitat offer good birding. During win- ter, Lookout Point (GPS coordinates 28.6961, and maintained by the Cornell Lab of Ornitholo- By BOB FRIEDRICHS -96.2309) is a good place to glass and scope for gy, suggests that it is possible to see 377 species diving ducks and loons on the bay. Shorebirds of birds in Matagorda County. Obviously, some and waders may be found on nearby exposed Why Matagorda County? of these records are accidental and rare occur- reefs and in the marsh. Matagorda County is a great year-around rences. Still, there are over 300 regularly occur- Also in the winter, you may get close views birding destination! The county is located on ring species that may be seen in the county. of Common Loons diving for fish that seek the the midcoast of Texas approximately 100 miles A further testament of the richness of avifauna deeper, warmer water of the port turning basin. southwest of Houston. It is bordered by Brazo- in the county is the success of the Matagorda Be sure to look the loons over carefully since Pa- ria County on the east, Wharton County on the County Christmas Bird Count (CBC), conducted cific Loon has occurred here. Other good plac- north, Jackson and Calhoun County on the west each year on the first Monday of the CBC count es to scan the bay are the dock at the south end and the Gulf of Mexico to the south. The deltas period that runs December 14- January 6. Di- of 12th Street, along South Bay Blvd and from the of the Colorado and Tres Palacios Rivers are lo- versity of habitat, access to that habitat thanks to end of the Pavilion Pier. cated in the county and contribute fertile riverine the generosity of local landowners, skilled birders Another good spot in Palacios is Trull Marsh and estuarine habitats. There is grain, cotton in the field and outstanding planning and orga- (GPS coordinates 28.7112, -96.2107) along Hwy and rice cultivation; also thousands of acres in nization by Matagorda County CBC leaders has 35. It can hold shorebirds and Clapper Rail any turf grass production. Fish and shrimp farms made this count #1 in the nation for most of the time of the year, as can the Palacios Prairie Wet- provide valuable foraging and stop-over sites for last 20 years! tired, hungry and thirsty shorebird and waterfowl migrants. There is bay, beach and gulf habitat and even some unique thorn scrub habitat along How and Where to Start the Inter-coastal Waterway (ICWW) near the town eBird is a great place to find birding hot spots of Matagorda. and there are over 30 listed. Also, the Texas The good news is that a lot of this diverse Coastal Birding Trail on-line resource and bro- habitat is publicly available to birders and other chure describes suggested birding stops in outdoor enthusiasts. There are fee-based parks Matagorda County. And birders may have ac- open to the public like the Matagorda Coun- cess to additional hot spot resources. This ty Birding Nature Center near Bay City. Public article draws on the above listed resources and roadways border much of the crop and fish farm personal experience to offer a “Top 10 Birding production. The beaches and bays are available Hot Spots for Matagorda County”. For each of to everyone with the outer reaches of these ac- the birding hot spot his article shows a site name, cessible to folks with 4x4s, boats or kayaks. GPS coordinates, rough driving directions, target Data from eBird, the on-line database created species by season and other tips based on local Bay-breasted Warbler at Chinquapin Road during a Spring fall-out

16 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com What to do land just north of Trull Marsh. During migration, it is generally in good condition even when wet but might be worth a slow drive or walk down Collins drive slowing to minimize vehicle damage from Drive; it borders the south side of the Palacios potholes. During migration, the loop road just cemetery (GPS coordinates 28.7066, -96.2284). past Franzene Road, called LeTulle Lane (GPS This trees and scrub bordering the south side of coordinates 28.6813, -96.1629) can be good for Collins Dr. can be productive for warblers, vireos, passerines. The shrimp farm on the opposite orioles, buntings and grosbeaks. To get to Pala- side of Oyster Lake Road from LeTulle Lane and cios take Hwy 35 northeast for 29 miles from Port along Franzene Road west of Oyster Lake Road Lavaca or Hwy 35 southwest for 29 miles from can have dabbling ducks, shorebirds and wad- Bay City; it’s the same distance from both towns! ers. If any of the shrimp farm tanks are drained, #9 – South Citrus Road Turf Farm area (143 these can be especially good for shorebirds. species): Matagorda County has thousands of Continuing south on Oyster Lake Road, in win- acres in turf production and turf farms are usu- ter watch the crop fields for Sandhill Cranes and ally large, wide-open places, along gravel roads. falcons and during migration watch for passer- This turf farm at South Citrus Road (CR 383) is ines hop-scotching along the hedge rows. no exception and is one of the most productive Oyster Lake at the end of Oyster Lake Road for birding. has salt marsh, a large salt flat and views of both In March and April, it is a great place for Tres Palacios Bay and Oyster Lake. In the winter American Golden-Plovers. April and May bring and during migration this area can be good for Buff-breasted Sandpipers and Pectoral Sand- American Oystercatcher at Tres Palacios diving ducks, American Oystercatcher, terns and pipers. Where large numbers of shorebirds con- Bay gulls and shorebirds. gregate, a Peregrine Falcon or Merlin can’t be far Look for small plovers on the salt flat on the away; look for these falcons perched on the turf and Ladder-backed Woodpecker have occurred southeast side of the bridge and Nelson’s Spar- or irrigation pipes. Another good indicator of their here and the marsh can harbor Black Rail and row, Seaside Sparrow and Clapper Rail in the presence is when all of the shorebirds flush at Yellow Rail. Obviously, the rails are very secre- marsh grass on both sides of the bridge. (GPS once. tive and a tough find. coordinates 28.6139, -96.2116) Horned Larks are resident here and usually FM 457 continues south across the InterCoast- Another place to try for passerines during mi- reliable. In winter, the turf and grassy edges of al Waterway (ICWW) and then to the Gulf beach. gration is the community of Collegeport. You can the road are good for Sprague’s Pipit. Mountain The bridge over the ICWW is a drawbridge and find this small, quiet, close-knit community by Plover is occasionally found here from January a short wait may be required if barge traffic is continuing down FM 1095 after passing the turn- through early March; the best place is the field heavy. It is interesting that the collection of hous- off for Oyster Lake. Beware of dogs in the area where Henry Rd intersects South Citrus Road. es on the beach here is called Bay City; not to and respect private property. (GPS coordinates A scope is a valuable tool when birding this and be confused with the county seat of Matagorda 28.7221, -96.1840) any turf farm. To get here, turn south onto Hen- County that lies about 30 miles northwest at the To get to Oyster Lake Road and Oyster Lake, ry Road (CR 383) from FM 521 just west of the intersection of Highway 35 and Highway 60. at the 4-way stop intersection of FM521 and FM STP Nuclear Plant. Go 1.5 miles south on Henry The Sargent beach is very ‘natural’, meaning 1095, turn south on FM 1095 which curves west Road until is dead ends onto South Citrus Road. that it is tough to drive, even with a 4x4. Never- at about the 4mile mark. After about 6 miles Turn left and follow South Citrus Road around theless, FM 457 parallels the beach for about a (from FM 521), turn south on Oyster Lake Road. until the turf ends at the wooden bridge over the mile down to West Moring Dock Park (GPS coor- (GPS coordinates 28.7255, -96.1661) irrigation canal. A word of caution: please stay dinates 28.7633, -95.6302). This drive provides #6 – East Gulf Road (196 species): This paved on the public, gravel road and pull off to the side good views of the beach and the avian denizens road just east of the town of Matagorda, runs if you get out to scope. The dirt roads into the here. Look for Red Knot and Lesser Black- past the cemetery and along the ICWW over a turf are private property and the owner will not be backed Gull during migration and in the winter. crabbing bridge, turns north and eventually dead kind to trespassers. (GPS coordinates 28.7434, To get to this hotspot, take FM 457 south from ends at private property. The road is bordered -96.1002) Bay City or from FM 521. After passing through #8 - Sargent Beach and environs (188 species) Sargent, FM 457 dead ends at the Gulf of Mex- – The town of Sargent, southeast of Bay City, is ico. named for George Sargent, a cattleman who im- #7 - Oyster Lake Rd and Oyster Lake Bridge migrated to Texas from England in 1834. It lies on area (188 species) – Oyster Lake Road runs Caney Creek and about 5 miles inland from the north-south from near the community of College- Gulf of Mexico. Riverbend Road and Creekside port in southwest Matagorda County and dead Dr which are on opposite sides of Caney Creek, ends at the ‘bridge to nowhere’. The fairly sub- run through riparian habitat. Though this habi- stantial concrete bridge across the west opening tat is fragmented in places with nice homes and to Oyster Lake from Tres Palacios Bay, was built yards along the Creek, drive slowly during migra- to allow local ranchers to access cattle ranging tion looking for warbler, vireos, orioles, buntings on the island south of Oyster Lake. The habitat and grosbeaks. along Oyster Lake Road is pasture and crop land Sargent Ranch Road runs east from FM 457, as well as hedge rows, shrimp farms and salt Sandhill Cranes are abundant during the just south of Sargent. This road can be good for marsh. The road goes from paved to gravel, 0.5 winter at Mad Island Marsh Preserve (pho- marsh and scrub birds. Common Ground Dove miles after leaving FM 1095. The gravel portion to taken elsewhere in Matagorda County)

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 17 What to do by a mix of wetlands, pasture and on private property in the East Gulf at the ICWW. Enjoy the quiet drive for much of the way. During Spring thorn scrub. The thorn scrub is Road area. Contact the compiler and look for migrating raptors, pas- and Fall migration, this is a great especially interesting because it for the CBC, Brent Ortego (bor- serines and shorebirds in the fields. place for all manner of passerines regularly produces Long-billed [email protected]) for more infor- At Big Boggy NWR, stop at the such as warblers, vireos, orioles, Thrasher. It is suspected that the mation. Otherwise, you will need nice wetland on the east side of the tanagers, grosbeaks and flycatch- species breeds here. Try the thorn to bird from the road and watch for road (GPS coordinates 28.7835, ers. In the winter, the brushy areas scrub patch on the north side of the fast-driving fishermen in a hurry to -95.8264) and listen for rails. South on the east side of the road are road at GPS coordinates 28.7082, catch that first fish of the day. of the wetland a mile or so, you good for sparrows. Groove-billed -95.9226 or the one on the south To get here, take Hwy 60 south will see trees on both sides of the Ani’s have been reported here too. side of the road at GPS coordinates from Bay City or FM 521. Just be- road. This is the place to stop and One of the best ways to bird this 28.7067, -95.9362. fore reaching the town of Matago- walk along looking and listening for road is to drive slowly watching for Keep your eyes open for rda at GPS coordinates 28.6989, migrating passerines. This spot is movement (foraging activity, birds Brown-crested Flycatcher and -95.9575, turn east on this great only a few miles from the Gulf and that flush or fly over) and then stop Painted Bunting during breeding little birding road. during ‘fall-out’ conditions, one of to play screech owl calls. Birds will season. #5 - Chinquapin Road and Big the places that passerines can be come to the owl call and attempt The small wooden ‘crab- Boggy NWR area (220 species) – found in good numbers; more than to mob the offending owl; be ready bing bridge’ at GPS coordinates This is another one of those great 15 species of warblers have been with your binoculars and camera. 28.7109, -95.9145 is usually good Matagorda County birding roads report here in one outing. (GPS co- Take special note of the brush at for a mix of terns, shorebirds and that runs for about 12 miles from ordinates 28.7707, -95.8118). the school bus. It is about 30 yards waders. American Oystercatchers FM 521 south, ending at the fish- Continuing south, trees give way back in the trees; easily seen in the have also been reported loafing ing community of Chinquapin on to wide open marsh. At the cul- winter when the trees are leafless. here. During the summer, keep an the ICWW. It is a narrow gravel vert, stop and look for shorebirds, Not so much in the summer. (GPS eye on tugboats pushing barges road the entire length with a high Seaside Sparrow and in winter Nel- coordinates 28.7752, -96.0814). down the ICWW; they could have crown toward the end; be careful if son’s Sparrow (GPS coordinates The road and brush line is some- Magnificent Frigatebirds soaring it is wet. Chinquapin Road passes 28.7602, -95.7816). what exposed so a stiff wind can above them. through pastures and crop fields for To find Chinquapin Road, drive keep the small birds under cover. The Matagorda County Christ- the first 8 miles. After that -it bor east from the town of Wadsworth And, the early morning sun can mas Bird Count is a great way to ders the Big Boggy NWR with fresh on FM 521 for about 2 miles. Chin- sometimes make birding the brushy access unique birding opportunities and brackish marsh, finally ending quapin Road runs south out of east side of the road more difficult; the ‘S’ curve at GPS coordinates afternoons provide better light con- 28.8350, -95.8889. ditions. #4 - W STP Road (222 species): At the end of W STP road where This gravel road runs along the the road makes a sharp right turn f*\ PROSPERITY western boundary of the South Tex- and the name changes to Corporon ® as Power (STP) nuclear plant. The Road, is the Saha Fish Farm. This is east side of the road is a mix of rose good for waterfowl, gulls and terns, MemberFDIC '-... :BANK hedge, deciduous trees and viney especially during the winter months. undergrowth. The west side of the The roads on the levees of the fish road is bordered by pasture and ag- farm are private so do not drive on ricultural fields. An irrigation canal them unless you want a lesson in runs along the west side of the road Texas trespassing laws. � bankers. .. notjust a bank�

979.245.4200 1600 7th Street • Bay City, TX 774 14

www.prosperitybankusa.com Shorebird line-up in tidal pool along the birding trail at Matagorda Beach Jetty Park

18 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com What to do

To get here, turn south onto W STP Road from Authority (LCRA) owns and manages much of cially in winter and during migration. FM 521, just west of the STP nuclear plant. (GPS the property at the mouth of the Colorado River. Access to these properties is limited and one coordinates 28.7866, -96.0816) Bonus location: They offer very good outdoor programs, with a of the best ways to see them is to participate in The STP nuclear plant manages the South Tex- bird trail, kayak tours and beach walks featured. the annual Matagorda County CBC. The Mad as Power Prairie Wetland and each Fall they disc Check their website or call 979-863-2603 for Island Marsh Preserve usually hosts dozens of and flood the large field on their property along the latest program offerings, times and meeting birders during the CBC so space is limited. Con- FM 521 at GPS coordinates 28.8052, -96.0377. places. tact Brent Ortego ([email protected]) com- The manmade wetland is a magnet for wintering To get to the Jetty Park, you must drive piler for the count for more information about waterfowl and shorebirds. It is also a great place through salt marsh habitat along FM 2031 from helping with the CBC. Another way to see the to spot Bald Eagles that follow the waterfowl the ICWW to the Gulf. Drive slowly looking for Preserve is to join monthly “Feathered Friday” crowd around. Roseate Spoonbills, Neotropical Cormorants, events. These tours usually meet the third Fri- #3 – Matagorda County Birding Nature Cen- Clapper Rail and Long-billed Curlew. At the day of each month at 8 am at the main gate to ter (238 species): This park covers 34 beautiful beach, especially the lagoon area between the the Preserve. Space is limited and it’s best to acres along the Colorado River west of Bay City. rock jetty and pier, look for Common Tern, Cas- confirm dates and times before coming out by The riparian habitat here features many large Live pian Tern, American Avocet, Marbled Godwit, emailing Cathy Wakefield at cathywakefield78@ Oaks with Spanish Moss and many mature Pe- Snowy Plover, Wilson’s Plover in summer and gmail.com. can Trees. There are six botanical gardens, aswell Piping Plover in winter. To find the Mad Island Marsh Preserve head as freshwater wetland areas with willows, cattails A sea watch from the end of the fishing pier south on FM 1095 from FM 521. One-half mile and duckweed. Also, there are palm trees, fruit can produce Northern Gannet and possibly after FM 1095 bends west toward Collegeport, trees, butterfly gardens, feeders and water fea- Jaeger during the winter months. A sea watch turn south on CR 378 / Brazos Tower Road tures to round-out this interesting park. The well can be especially productive if shrimp boats are for about 2 miles, then turn east on Franzene maintained trails in the park include pretty wood- trawling near shore and culling their catch. Birds Road. This gravel road dead ends at the main en bridges, a pavilion and public bathrooms; truly in the Gulf will usually be seen at long distances gate of the Preserve just after a small wooden a delightful park. and it can get cold in the winter with a strong bridge over Mad Island Slough (GPS coordinates Birding is good here all year. Spring and Fall north wind. Dress appropriately and pack your 28.6888, -96.1108) migrations features many passerine species like patience. buntings, tanagers, orioles, warblers, vireos and If you have a 4x4, then driving the beach to flycatchers. In the Winter, sparrows abound. Pi- 3-mile cut or even the cedars at 7-mile can be More than just 10! leated Woodpeckers and Wood Ducks are resi- productive for migrating shorebirds like Red This Top 10 list is offered as a starting point for dent. Others birds known to nest here in recent Knots in the fall, spring or winter or for fall-out birders wishing to explore the many rich birding opportunities in Matagorda County. Obviously, years are Yellow-crowned Night-Herons, Great passerines in April and May. Use caution be- there other very good places to bird in Matago- Kiskadees and it is suspected that Green King- cause the sand can be very soft in places and if rda County including Selkirk Island, FM 521 Riv- fishers have attempted nesting in the banks of you get stuck, digging out is not much fun and a er Park, Carl Park and Riverside Park to name a the Colorado River. Overhead, in season, you tow can be quite expensive. few. And if you have a boat, the new mouth of may see a Bald Eagle, Mississippi Kite, Broad- To get here take Highway 60 south from Bay the Colorado River from East Matagorda Bay can winged Hawk, cormorants, herons or egrets. City to the town of Matagorda. At the 4-way stop be excellent. There is a minimal $3 entry fee per person or in Matagorda, turn south and go over the high It’s great fun to find new birding locations and $5 per carload. Or you can opt for the annual bridge that crosses the ICWW. This is FM 2031 to learn something new about an old favorite pass for $20. Family memberships are slightly and will take you to the Jetty Park. GPS coordi- hot spot. With at least 377 species possible, more. The fees cover maintenance and a camp nates for the Jetty Park are 28.5976, -95.9774. Matagorda County has something to offer for the host so the park is safe and enjoyable at all times. #1 – The Nature Conservancy’s (TNC) Clive intrepid, the casual and the novice birder. Come To get here, drive west on Highway 35 out of Runnels Mad Island Marsh Preserve and TP&W on down and try all of the hot spots or find your Bay City. Just after crossing the Colorado Riv- Mad Island Wildlife Management Area (294 own birding ‘honey hole’. Either way you’re sure er bridge, there is a bend in the road and on species): The Clive Runnells Family Mad Island to have a great time and likely to find some inter- the south side of Hwy 35 you will see the well- Marsh was part of an expansive coastal wetlands esting birds. marked entrance sign. Once inside the park, and upland prairie system which, 60 years ago, there is a small welcome center staffed occasion- stretched nearly unbroken along the mid- and ally by volunteers. This is where you pay the en- upper-Texas Gulf Coast. In 1989, Clive Runnells try fee and can get more birding information and donated to The Nature Conservancy 3,148 acres even purchase a T-shirt. If no one is there, then of this coastal wetlands and upland prairies. please use the self-serve kiosk. For more infor- TNC obtained additional acreage in 1993 and mation, call 979-245-3336 or go to mcbnc.org today the Preserve totals 7,063 acres. Likewise, (GPS coordinates 28.9842, -96.0129) Bonus: TP&W obtained for management similarly sized Right next door to the Matagorda County Birding properties from generous donors. Nature Center is Tule Park. This is essentially the During Spring migration, a team of bird band- city park of Bay City. Tule Park features a nice ers from the Smithsonian Institute mist nest in the duck pond and more majestic oaks with Spanish thick brush along the ICWW and have document- moss; worth a stop if you’re in the area. ed many species of warblers and vireos. Ducks, #2 - Matagorda Beach Jetty Park and envi- geese, cranes, herons, egrets, bitterns, rails and rons (240 species) - The Lower Colorado River shorebirds are abundant in the Preserve, espe- Groove-billed Ani at W STP Road

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 19 MATAGORDAThis checklist provides participants of the Matagorda Bay Birdfest with a list of bird species expected during COUNthe event, held in late February. The checklist shows the abundance of the species and is intended for use during event field trips during the weekend. (updated 12/2016)

_____ Double-crested Cormorant Abundant Ducks and Geese _____ Anhinga Rare _____ Black-bellied Whistling-Duck Rare

_____ Greater White-fronted Goose Abundant Herons, Egrets and Ibis _____ Snow Goose Abundant _____ American Bittern Uncommon _____ Ross’ Goose Uncommon _____ Great Blue Heron Common _____ Canada Goose Rare _____ Great Egret Common _____ Cackling Goose Rare _____ Snowy Egret Common _____ Wood Duck Uncommon _____ Little Blue Heron Uncommon _____ Gadwall Common _____ Tricolored Heron Common _____ American Wigeon Common _____ Reddish Egret Uncommon _____ Mallard Uncommon _____ Cattle Egret Uncommon _____ Mottled Duck Uncommon _____ Green Heron Uncommon _____ Blue-winged Teal Uncommon _____ Black-crowned Night-Heron Uncommon _____ Cinnamon Teal Rare _____ Yellow-crowned Night-Heron Rare _____ Northern Shoveler Common _____ White Ibis Common _____ Northern Pintail Common _____ Glossy Ibis Rare _____ Green-winged Teal Common _____ White-faced Ibis Uncommon _____ Canvasback Rare _____ Roseate Spoonbill Uncommon _____ Redhead Uncommon _____ Ring-necked Duck Uncommon Vultures, Hawks and Falcons _____ Lesser Scaup Common _____ Black Vulture Common _____ Bufflehead Common _____ Turkey Vulture Abundant _____ Common Goldeneye Uncommon _____ Osprey Uncommon _____ Hooded Merganser Rare _____ White-tailed Kite Uncommon _____ Red-breasted Merganser Common _____ Bald Eagle Uncommon _____ Ruddy Duck Common _____ Northern Harrier Common _____ Sharp-shinned Hawk Uncommon Quail _____ Cooper’s Hawk Uncommon _____ Northern Bobwhite Uncommon _____ Red-shouldered Hawk Common _____ White-tailed Hawk Uncommon Grebes, Pelicans and Cormorants _____ Red-tailed Hawk Common _____ Common Loon Common _____ Ferruginous Hawk Rare _____ Least Grebe Rare _____ Crested Caracara Common _____ Pied-billed Grebe Uncommon _____ American Kestrel Common _____ Eared Grebe Uncommon _____ Merlin Uncommon _____ Northern Gannet Rare _____ Aplomado Falcon Rare _____ American White Pelican Common _____ Peregrine Falcon Uncommon _____ Brown Pelican Abundant _____ Prairie Falcon Rare _____ Neotropic Cormorant Common

20 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com TY BIRD CHECKLIST_____ Dunlin Abundant _____ Stilt Sandpiper Rare Rails and Coots _____ Short-billed Dowitcher Common _____ Yellow Rail Rare _____ Long-billed Dowitcher Common _____ Black Rail Rare _____ Wilson’s Snipe Uncommon _____ Clapper Rail Common _____ American Woodcock Uncommon _____ King Rail Uncommon _____ Wilson’s Phalarope Rare _____ Virginia Rail Uncommon _____ Sora Common Gulls and Terns _____ Common Gallinule Uncommon _____ Laughing Gull Abundant _____ American Coot Common _____ Bonaparte’s Gull Uncommon _____ Ring-billed Gull Common Cranes _____ Herring Gull Common _____ Sandhill Crane Abundant _____ Lesser Black-backed Gull Rare _____ Whooping Crane Rare _____ Gull-billed Tern Uncommon

Shorebirds _____ Caspian Tern Uncommon _____ Black-bellied Plover Common _____ Royal Tern Common _____ American Golden Plover Rare _____ Sandwich Tern Rare _____ Snowy Plover Uncommon _____ Common Tern Uncommon _____ Wilson’s Plover Rare _____ Forster’s Tern Abundant _____ Semipalmated Plover Uncommon _____ Black Skimmer Uncommon _____ Piping Plover Rare Doves and Cuckoos _____ Killdeer Abundant _____ Rock Pigeon Common _____ Mountain Plover Rare _____ Eurasian Collared Dove Common _____ American Oystercatcher Uncommon _____ White-winged Dove Abundant _____ Black-necked Stilt Uncommon _____ Mourning Dove Abundant _____ American Avocet Uncommon _____ Inca Dove Common _____ Greater Yellowlegs Common _____ Common Ground-Dove Uncommon _____ Lesser Yellowlegs Common _____ Greater Roadrunner Rare _____ Solitary Sandpiper Rare _____ Groove-billed Ani Rare _____ Willet Common _____ Spotted Sandpiper Uncommon Owls _____ Whimbrel Rare _____ Barn Owl Uncommon _____ Long-billed Curlew Common _____ Eastern Screech-Owl Uncommon _____ Marbled Godwit Uncommon _____ Great Horned Owl Common _____ Ruddy Turnstone Common _____ Burrowing Owl Rare _____ Red Knot Rare _____ Barred Owl Uncommon _____ Sanderling Common _____ Short-eared Owl Uncommon _____ Semipalmated Sandpiper Rare _____ Belted Kingfisher Common _____ Western Sandpiper Abundant Rare _____ Least Sandpiper Abundant _____ Green Kingfisher

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 21 _____ Bewick’s Wren Rare Woodpeckers _____ Red-bellied Woodpecker Abundant _____ House Wren Common _____ Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Common _____ Winter Wren Uncommon _____ Ladder-backed Woodpecker Uncommon _____ Sedge Wren Common _____ Downy Woodpecker Uncommon _____ Marsh Wren Common _____ Northern Flicker Uncommon _____ Golden-crowned Kinglet Uncommon _____ Pileated Woodpecker Uncommon _____ Ruby-crowned Kinglet Common _____ Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Common Flycatchers _____ Eastern Bluebird Common _____ Least Flycatcher Rare _____ Eastern Phoebe Abundant Thrushes and Thrashers _____ Say’s Phoebe Rare _____ Hermit Thrush Common _____ Vermilion Flycatcher Uncommon _____ American Robin Common _____ Ash-throated Flycatcher Uncommon _____ Gray Catbird Uncommon _____ Great Kiskadee Rare _____ Brown Thrasher Uncommon _____ Couch’s Kingbird Uncommon _____ Long-billed Thrasher Rare _____ Scissor-tailed Flycatcher Rare _____ European Starling Abundant _____ Loggerhead Shrike Common _____ American Pipit Common _____ Sprague’s Pipit Rare Vireos _____ Cedar Waxwing Uncommon _____ White-eyed Vireo Common _____ Blue-headed Vireo Uncommon Warblers _____ Orange-crowned Warbler Common Crows, Jays and Larks _____ Nashville Warbler Rare _____ Blue Jay Common _____ Nothern Parula Rare _____ American Crow Abundant _____ Yellow-rumped Warbler Common _____ Horned Lark Uncommon _____ Black-throated Green Warbler Rare _____ Eastern Meadowlark Common _____ Yellow-throated Warbler Rare _____ Western Meadowlark Rare _____ Pine Warbler Uncommon _____ Palm Warbler Uncommon Swallows _____ Black-and-white Warbler Uncommon _____ Purple Martin Uncommon _____ Common Yellowthroat Common _____ Tree Swallow Uncommon _____ Wilson’s Warbler Uncommon _____ N. Rough-winged Swallow Uncommon _____ Yellow-breasted Chat Rare _____ Cave Swallow Uncommon

_____ Barn Swallow Uncommon Sparrows _____ Spotted Towhee Rare Chickadees and Titmice _____ Eastern Towhee Rare _____ Carolina Chickadee Common _____ Chipping Sparrow Common _____ Tufted Titmouse Common _____ Field Sparrow Uncommon _____ Red-breasted Nuthatch Rare _____ Vesper Sparrow Uncommon _____ Brown Creeper Rare _____ Lark Sparrow Rare _____ Savannah Sparrow Abundant Wrens _____ Grasshopper Sparrow Uncommon _____ Carolina Wren Common _____ LeConte’s Sparrow Uncommon

22 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com _____ Nelson’s Sparrow Uncommon _____ Seaside Sparrow Uncommon _____ Fox Sparrow Uncommon _____ Song Sparrow Uncommon _____ Lincoln’s Sparrow Common _____ Swamp Sparrow Common _____ White-throated Sparrow Common _____ White-crowned Sparrow Common _____ Northern Cardinal Abundant _____ Indigo Bunting Rare

Blackbirds and Grackles _____ Red-winged Blackbird Abundant _____ Brewer’s Blackbird Common _____ Great-tailed Grackle Abundant _____ Boat-tailed Grackle Common _____ Common Grackle Uncommon _____ Brown-headed Cowbird Abundant _____ Bronzed Cowbird Rare

Finches _____ Pine Siskin Rare _____ American Goldfinch Common _____ House Sparrow Abundant

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 23 What to do Tips for Kayak Fishers By MIKE PRICE kayak with a bay boat, the movement. Water tempera- summer, early morning has south shore of West Matago- ture is another consideration. the lowest water temperature The Matagorda Bay System rda Bay consists of bayous, When water is very cold or and in the winter, afternoon offers some of the best kayak coves, and lakes connecting very warm, fish slow way has the warmest water tem- fishing on the coast of the Gulf to the bay. All of these back- down and rarely feed. In the perature. of Mexico. To fully understand water areas are excellent the area, purchase waterproof fishing. fishing map F108 from Hook- Learn to fish: If kayak fishing N-Line https://hooknline.net. is something that you would Where to fish: If you are like to try, contact Matagorda getting to your launch site by Adventures about a kayak vehicle go to https://matago- fishing learning experience. rdaadventures.com and click They will show you how to on Paddling Sites. Matago- rig your tackle, which kayak rda Adventures has photos, works best for fishing, and descriptions and directions for what paddle to use. East Matagorda Bay. Kayak When to kayak fish: Fish are launch sites on the north side stimulated to feed by water of West Matagorda Bay that movement and moon phases. are accessible by vehicle are: Texas Fish & Game Magazine Carl Park at FM 521 and Tres www.fishgame.com includes Palacios River, Grassy Point the times each day that moon off Highway 35 Business in phases will stimulate fish to Palacios, the bridge at Oyster bite. In the same section of Lake, and Jensen Point on Texas Fish & Game, Sports- Darryl Fenner with a redfish caught while kayak fishing (Photo by- Turtle Bay. If you ferry your man’s Daybook shows tidal mikeprice.com)

A calm day to kayak fish in East Matagorda Bay (Photo by mikeprice.com)

24 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com What to do FISHING TOURNEYS JUNE June 7 & 9 • 11th Annual Texas Trio Classic Matagorda Harbor – Harbor Bait and Tackle Full Stringer Rentals Calcutta – Fishing for a Cure June 16 • 8th Annual Sargent Chamber S.T.A.R.T Fishing Tournament June 22-23 • Sargent Crab Trap Offshore Tourna- ment – Crab Trap Grill & Bar Sargent, TX June 23 • 14th Annual Shrine Sportsmen Fish- ing Tournament JULY July 12-14 • Texas Oilman’s Invitational Fishing Tournament GUIDE SERVICES July 19-21 • Matagorda Bluewater Challenge 5th Day Guide Service Matagorda Adventure Company Offshore Fishing Tournament Captain Louis Rush Kayak & SUP Rentals and Tours 361-920-0569 832-779-4157 [email protected] www.MatagordaAdventures.com AUGUST www.go5thday.com August 2-4 Matagorda Bay Fishing Guides • Texas King of the Deep Swordfish/ All Seasons Guide Service www.matagordabay.com Deep Drop Fishing Tournament Captain Mike Powell 361-920-2825 Palacios Guide Service August 11 [email protected] • Palacios Chamber of Commerce www.allseasonsguideservice.com Captain Aaron Wolla Captain Hank Huitt Fish Fest Family Fishing Tournament at Hooked Up Fishing Adventures A.W. 979-240-8204 East Bay Park Captain Curtis [email protected] 409-526-4233 H.H. 979-241-8443 OCTOBER [email protected] Living Water Guide Service www.palaciosguideservice.com October 6 Captain Gene Allen • Sargent Chamber Octoberfish 979-429-7150 Sargent Tx Fishing Guides & Charters [email protected] www.sargenttexas.com/rentals.htm

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 25 What to do Tips for Wade Fishing in the Surf

By MIKE PRICE fun, but surf fishing can be and clearest water. If the sea a little beyond the breaking challenging. Pick the right has been rough for several waves. Schools of trout roam the day. A wind that has been days before you go fishing, Everything you are wearing surf feeding on the abundant light (less than five miles per the water will be chocolate will get wet and displaced. shrimp and baitfish, and hour) for two or three days in brown and you will not catch Therefore, keep lures in a dry dropping your lure among a row from the southeast or many fish using lures. You are box and have lines connect- these aggressors is great north will yield the calmest more likely to catch fish if you ing your pliers and net to your use live shrimp or fresh dead wading belt. Wear a hat with shrimp when the water is off a chin strap, sunglasses with color. Sandbars run parallel a holder, long pants and a to the shore and in between long sleeved shirt for protec- the sandbars are troughs. If tion from sunburn and jelly waves are breaking on only fish. Use a fifteen-foot stringer the first sand bar, it is calm because sharks may go after enough to fish without getting the fish on the stringer, and tie tossed around. If you venture a slip knot on the stringer that out to fish from the sandbar, can be released with one pull. stand on the seaward side And always wear a life jacket.

Trout caught using a yellow soft plastic lure in the surf (Photo by mikeprice.com)

26 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 27 What to do Matagorda Beach

Matagorda Beach is a favorite place of both locals and visitors for soaking up the sun, walking along the Gulf of Mexico shoreline and gathering seashells. Travel and Leisure Magazine declared it one of the “Best Secret Beaches on Earth.” Matagorda Beach stretches about 55 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, with the last 35 miles being accessible only by boat. Beach permits are required for driving on the beach and can be purchased at the beach entrance and some area stores. The jetty walkway on the beach has long been a popular fishing spot for locals and visitors. A second jetty stretches over half a mile long and is constructed of large granite stones. There is a beachside picnic area for family mealtime without all of the sand. Tent camping is allowed. Permits are required for vehicles entering the beach and can be purchased at the beach entrance or from most local merchants. Just before entering the beach is the LCRA Matagorda Bay Nature Park, a 1,600-acre park and preserve is at the mouth of the Colorado River on the Matagorda Peninsula. This unique park and preserve is dedicated to recreation, education and preserva- tion in the area. It also includes an RV park.

Robert S Knox Agent

2409 7th Street Bay City, TX 77414-5206 Bus 979.245.6331 Fax 979.244.1702 [email protected] wwwww.robertsknox.com

Walk in, Mail in, Call in, Click in®

28 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com What to do Sargent Beach Sargent Beach is a quiet alternative to some of the state’s more crowded beaches. It is an excellent spot for fishing, collecting seashells and bird watching. The beach is usually left in the natural state so you can find plenty seashells, driftwood and other items that have washed up on leaving the road and driving onto the sand, it would be a good on the shores. idea to have a 4-wheel drive. A good portion of the beach has road access, but if you plan There are a few covered picnic tables available. PhiliP h. Parker V.F.W. Post 2438 & auxiliary

P.O. Box 269 (Hwy. 60 North) Bay City, Texas 77404 Bingo Lic.# 1648 979-245-8857

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 29 30 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com What to do A Walk on the Beach

By MIKE PRICE

When you walk over the dunes onto Matagorda Beach you may see ripe dewberries, beautiful blooming yellow flowers on the cacti, bold sunflowers reaching to the sky, or migrating monarch butterflies. No doubt you will be drawn to the water’s edge by the sights and sounds of breaking waves, and water rushing ashore. You’ll probably stop and gaze out to sea thinking about how the Gulf of Mexico connects with every other ocean in the world, or thinking of nothing at all, just being one with your surroundings. There will be other people enjoying Matagorda Beach. All of them smile and say “Hi” as you walk by. Inevitably you’ll stop and watch the fishers, both in the surf and on the beach, and you will enjoy their catching fish as almost as they do. Kids playing in the Wyatt and Jake Cissna on Matagorda Jetty (Photo by mikeprice. waves or surfing on body boards will catch your eye. At the jetty com) rocks you might see a mom and daughter deeply engaged in the process of catching blue crabs. Climbing onto the jetty you’ll have a great view of shrimp boats and pleasure boats going to sea, or coming back to port. You will see people fishing, kids playing, and when you look at the lagoon between the jetty and pier, you will discover many different species of birds. Making your way back over the dunes you’ll reflect on the sand, sea, sun, and people on the beach and feel good. That is what a walk on Matagorda Beach does.

Murex shell in the surf (Photo by mikeprice.com)

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 31 What to do

32 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com What to do

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visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 33 What to do

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visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 35 What to do

modern life just many other beauti- Paddling melts away as you ful birds. By CHRISTY BISHOP guide through the Fishing by kayak Matagorda Adventure water with only the is a blast and Company gentle sound of highly addictive swaying grasses, with many oppor- Matagorda is a songs of birds, and tunities to catch very special place your paddle gently Sea Trout, Redfish, for paddling due to entering & exiting Flounder, Drum it’s large selection the water. It is a fun and other types of of easy access activity to do with fish. There are few sites for paddling family and friends, things in life more the Colorado and many mem- exciting than your River, the bayous ories are made first sleigh ride in a of Matagorda Bay viewing wildlife on kayak hooked up and off the beach. the water. behind a good size The bayous, The scenery and Redfish or Spotted which lead to both nature you can Sea Trout. Sight East and West access by pad- casting to tailing Matagorda Bay, are dlecraft is incred- Red’s is a close generally protected ibly beautiful with second though calm and shallow rare opportunities and this can be waters that are to see birds, fish done standing in a easy for beginner and other wild- fishing kayak rather paddlers. There are life. We recently than wading in the marked kayaking kayaked St. Mary’s mud. trails in the area & Bayou, and were There are few GPS coordinates very lucky to see things you always of these areas are a whole flock of should bring pad- available online. Roseate Spoonbills dling to ensure you Many of these flying overhead. It have a fun and safe areas are inac- was breathtaking, experience: cessible by motor I have never seen • Personal Floa- boat, making them them that close tation Device (PFD) quiet and peaceful up, and know that approved by the outings that offer it was our qui- coastguard- always world class birding et paddling that wear your PFD on and fishing oppor- allowed us to get the water (provided tunities. that opportunity. with all rentals) Paddlesports is Matagorda Coun- • Sunscreen rapidly growing in ty has long been & sun protection the US, and the known for spec- (sunglasses, long reasons are many: tacular birding with sleeve fishing shirts it’s great exercise the largest number & hats with wide as paddling primar- of species in the brims are great) ily uses your core country counted • Bugspray muscles and is low for the last 6 years. • Lip balm impact- making it a I have personally • Waterproof great option for all witnessed: Great baggie or dry bag fitness levels. Most Blue Herons, to keep your phone kayaks and stand- Cormorants, Bald & keys safe up paddleboards Eagles, Pelicans, • Lots of water are very stable and Ducks, Ibis, Os- for drinking & a easy to maneuver. preys, Hawks and snack The stress of daily Warblers among • GPS and/ 36 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com What to do or map to ensure you stay on track & return to where you intended • Phone and/or VHF radio to call in case of an emergency • Friends/Family- it’s always safer & much more fun to paddle in a group You can bring your own kayak or rent one from the LCRA Park or Matago- rda Adventure Company (MAC). They have a wide variety of boats available including Sit on Top Kayaks, StandUp Paddleboards, and kayaks you can pedal with your feet like a bicycle. Both LCRA and MAC offer fun tours if you would rather have a local guide lead you. The tours include basic paddling instruction, which will accommodate all skill levels and are great way to experience the tranquillity of Matagorda on the water while learning about the natural environment.

Visit lcra.org/parks for more information.

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 37 38 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com What to do

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 39 o Miles rom WRTN Bay City to Pledger ouston: 8.mi ustin: 1mi Clemville San ntonio: 18.mi Midfield Sugar Fort Worth: mi Van Markham Valley B R R I Dallas: 1mi Blessing Vleck El Maton BAY CITY J C K S N Cedar Lane Wadsworth Palacios Collegeport

Tres Cedar Lake alacios Matagorda Chinquapin Sargent C Bay N Matagorda Bay ast Matagorda Bay G u l f o M T G R D N I N S f M e x i c o

40 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com o Miles rom WRTN Bay City to Pledger ouston: 8.mi ustin: 1mi Clemville San ntonio: 18.mi Midfield Sugar Fort Worth: mi Van Markham Valley B R R I Dallas: 1mi Blessing Vleck El Maton BAY CITY J C K S N Cedar Lane Wadsworth Palacios Collegeport

Tres Cedar Lake alacios Matagorda Chinquapin Sargent C Bay N Matagorda Bay ast Matagorda Bay G u l f o M T G R D N I N S f M e x i c o

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 41 Where to eat

Church’s Chicken El Zarape Cafe La Fajitas Loca BAY CITY 2514 7th St 1917 13th St 4606 Avenue F 9er’s Grill @ Bay City (979) 245-9411 (979) 245-2097 (979) 245-0240 1916 Avenue F (979) 244-0909 Cortez Cafe Esperanza’s Mexican Restau- La Fuentes Mexican Restau- 1821 13th St rant rant A & A Bar-B-Que (979) 244-4412 3301 Avenue F 3300 7th St 3404 7th St (979) 323-7744 (979) 323-1222 (979) 244-5186 Dairy Queen 2921 7th St Fat Grass Restaurant Lambo Wok Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill (979) 245-7358 1717 7th St 3201 7th St & Bar (979) 244-7277 (979) 245-3323 4701 7th St Dairy Queen (979) 244-4000 301 7th St Grand Buffet La Michoacana Meat Market (979) 245-9101 4020 7th St 3100 7th St Bay City Seafood & Steak (979) 476-3238 (979) 245-2481 3729 7th St Davis BBQ and Cafe (979) 244-4100 2901 Nichols Ave Health Food Cottage La Taqueria Los Dos Compa- Blue Ocean Seafood (979) 244-2040 1840 7th St dres 2921 Avenue F (979) 245-3833 3030 8th St (979) 245-6559 Diamond S Restaurant (979) 476-5128 3606 Avenue F Jack in the Box Café Roux (979) 245-4846 2804 7th St La Ranchera Taqueria 1840 7th St (979) 245-1872 2603 7th St (979) 557-6649 Domino’s Pizza (979) 323-8580 3001 Avenue F K-2 Steak House Chicken Express (979) 244-4775 1701 8th St Las Amigas 2104 7th St (979) 245-6936 1501 Avenue H (979) 323-9886 Dylan’s Cheesecakes (979) 323-9220 1840 7th St KFC Chili’s Grill & Bar (512) 375-5794 3716 7th St Little Caesars Pizza 4207 7th St (979) 245-1684 2516 7th St (979) 244-2144 El Rodeo American & Mexican (979) 244-9400 Food La Casona China Chef Restaurant 1601 7th St 2416 Avenue F Main Street Coffee & Wine Bar 3303 Avenue F (979) 244-8833 (979) 245-2449 1822 7th St (979) 245-4931 (979) 245-4105

42 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com Where to eat

McDonald’s Taco Bell (979) 863-7481 (361) 972-0998 2101 7th St 3716 7th St Snappers Bar & Grill (979) 244-4290 (979) 245-1684 1710 FM2031 Sonic Drive-In (979) 863-7990 317 Henderson Ave McDonald’s Taqueria Fernandez (361) 972-6281 4600 7th St 3720 7th St Spoonbills Restaurant Walmart Supercenter (979) 244-1385 773 Cypress St SUBWAY®Restaurants (979) 323-8099 (979) 863-7766 Tortilleria La Esperanza 307 Henderson Ave Mi Tierra Taqueria 1600 2nd St Waterfront Restaurant (361) 972-2273 1511 12th St (979) 323-9988 190 County Rd 214 (979) 244-4762 (979) 863-2520 Tran’s Restaurant Venezia’s Garden & Saloon 1009 Henderson St Mullen Do-Nuts 1300 7th St (361) 972-1008 2709 7th St (979) 245-2760 (979) 245-8871 PALACIOS Whataburger Bayside Seafood Restaurant Nia’s Towne Square Restau- 2020 Avenue F 1001 Henderson Ave SARGENT rant (979) 244-4959 (361) 972-2050 Caney Creek Marina & Café 2127 Avenue G 1052 County Road 201 (979) 245-4900 Dairy Queen (979) 245-3691 BLESSING 215 Henderson Ave Papa John’s Pizza (361) 972-2554 616 Restaurant The Crab Trap Grill 1417 7th St Ste B 892 FM 616 3610 Carancahua St (979) 245-7272 KV’s Kitchen (361) 588-6288 1410 Main St (979) 244-4141 Pizza Hut (361) 972-3519 American Legion Cecil Lee 4301 7th St Hookers Waterfront Bar & Grill Post 649 and Restaurant (979) 245-7601 Marisela’s Cafe 27334 FM 457 Hwy 589 Co Rd 482 906 Main St (979) 323-9910 (361) 588-6813 Snow Bunny Cones (361) 972-0734 1505 12th St On The Corner Blessing Hotel Coffee Shop (979) 479-9990 Matamoros Taco House 8214, FM457 817 FM 616 1410 1st St (361) 588-6623 (979) 943-6001 Sonic Drive-In (361) 972-5955 2601 Avenue F Smokin A’s BBQ Smokey Dan’s BBQ (979) 245-6151 Mi Casa Mexican Cafe LLC 990 FM-616 1601 1st St 26050 FM457 (361) 404-1190 SUBWAY®Restaurants (361) 972-6024 (979) 476-0014 2819 7th St (979) 244-2998 Palacios Mexican Restaurant MATAGORDA 511 Main St VAN VLECK Poco Playa Restaurant, Bar & (361) 972-2766 SUBWAY®Restaurants Baytown Seafood 4500 7th Street, Suite 800 Village 8765 TX-35 Bay City Shopping Center 582 Fisher St The Point (979) 244-8261 (979) 863-7308 608 1st St (979) 323-0444 (361) 972-2106 SUBWAY®Restaurants River Bend Tavern & Restau- Victoria’s Mexican Restaurant 3611 Avenue F rant Simple Simon’s Pizza 367 Avenue E (979) 244-4782 1427 FM2031 309 Henderson Ave (979) 557-2067

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 43 What to eat

A stay in Matagorda County wouldn’t be Square Restaurant a long-time community an afternoon having a great time on your complete without unique dining experiences staple located directly across the street way to the beach. to top it off. The communities throughout from the Matagorda County Courthouse on In Blessing you’ll find the unique experi- the county all have the special go-to spots the historic downtown square. ence of a cafeteria-style lunch in the Hotel for a meal that you’ll never forget. Down the road a little ways is 12 Strings Blessing Coffee Shop, the way they’ve In Bay City you’ll find the local favorite K-2 Bar & Grill, a Texas Country Music estab- been doing it for over 100 years. Bring an Steakhouse known for generous portions, a lishment known for live music and dancing, appetite for a delectable buffet and chat distinctive salad wagon and a larger than life cold drinks and a local-favorite food truck, with the locals who meet there regularly to chicken fried steak. Within just a few blocks Real Deal Grill, in the parking lot on week- share stories about the community. Also in of the downtown square there are several ends. Blessing is The Six One 6, a down-home local eateries, all welcoming your visit. The Further outside of town guests to the café offering everything from juicy cheese- Fat Grass is a unique fine-dining experience area will find exquisite seafood in Matago- burgers to tacos and the like. with a full-service bar, daily chef’s specials rda from Spoonbill’s restaurant, named by A little further down the road is Palacios, a and Sunday brunch made famous by Chef the Houston Chronicle as one of the best community where no appetite is safe. From Shawn’s Chicken and Waffles dish. places to eat on a Texas road trip in 2015. Vietnamese at Tran’s restaurant, where the Within walking distance of Bay City’s Also in Matagorda travelers will find several spicy Cajun crawfish don’t last long, to the downtown shopping visitor’s can enjoy a exciting restaurants, such as Poco Playa exciting concoctions at Omar’s Bar there is quiet glass of wine paired with the delicious – an entire village and theme restaurant de- no shortage of chances to excite your taste Tuscan Chicken Panini from Lisa’s Main signed to help patrons relax and enjoy the buds. Palacios Mexican Restaurant is well Street Coffee and Wine Bar, or a few doors beach life. Shrimp, oysters and fresh local known for their authentic flavor from south down Café Roux offers clean Cajun cooking fish grace the plates of the local eateries. of the border. with all natural and organic ingredients – the In Sargent, The Blue Gecko Sports Bar & There’s no scarcity of delicious food to locals rave about the shrimp étouffée Grill is known for larger-than-life locals and be found while in Matagorda County, and and seafood gumbo! a good time. Stop in for a bite to eat, and there’s no reason ever to leave Matagorda Located just around the corner is Town stay for darts and pool – it’s easy to spend County hungry.

HWY 35 (979) VAN VLECK, TX 245-9293

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BAY CITY REALTY 1320 7th Street Bay City Texas OMAR’S BAR 979.245.2091 Open 7 Days a Week 10am to 2am Mon-Sat Making Dreams Happen 12pm to 2am Sundays Land • Homes • Commercial DJs Fridays & Saturdays 814 Henderson • Palacios • 361.972.0278 www.baycityrealty.net 44 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 45 Where to stay

Main Bed and Breakfast Palacios, Texas

If something outside of commercial lodging is more your cup of tea Matagorda County has several unique experi- Matagorda Bay ences for you. In Matagorda there are local establishments Nature Park RV Park such as the Stanley-Fisher House Bed & Breakfast, located Matagorda, Texas just minutes from the beach. Also in Matagorda visitors can enjoy the distinctive atmosphere of Cattails and The Lodge at Karankawa Village, including a coastal shopping experi- ence alongside an impressive coffee and wine bar. At night Matagorda Harbor is visible while visiting around the out- door fireplace and reclining area. Palacios offers several options such as the Main Inn Bed & Breakfast, Peaceful Pelican Bed & Breakfast and The Lu- ther Hotel. The historic Luther Hotel was built in 1903 and is recorded in the National Register of Historic Places. Up the road in Blessing those who wish to enjoy a night’s stay in another historically significant establishment may pay a visit to the historic Hotel Blessing, also found on the endars show availability and contact information is provided National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1907. Visi- to ask questions or schedule your stay. Visit http://www. tors experience a stay transporting them back to the early matagordabay.com/lodging.htm or http://www.fullstringer- twentieth century, and may also enjoy a meal in the popular rentals.com to find the perfect beach house for your stay in coffee shop where many locals meet regularly to discuss Matagorda County. community events. Of course, there are several local and national chain ho- If you wish to enjoy a more private setting, or have a large tels in the county seat, Bay City. If the Hampton Inn, Com- group, there are several beach rentals available along the fort Suites or Holiday Inn Express is more to your liking Bay coast. There are several options to choose from, online cal- City has no shortage of hotels for you to pick from.

46 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com Hotel Blessing Blessing, Texas

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 47 Accommodations

Regency Inn & Suites Travelers Paradise RV Park BAY CITY 3712 7th St. 2517 Nichols HOTELS / MOTELS / B & B 979-245-5115 979-244-2344

Best Western Plus Scottish Inns & Suites Corral RV Park 501 7th St. 5525 7th St. 172 PR 555 (Peligro Creek Dr) 979-557-0678 979-551-0690 979-479-5757

Candlewood Suites Siringo Guest House Nile Valley RV Park 5800 7th St. 2509 Ave. I 3517 FM 2668 979-245-7500 979-241-2575 979-318-9717 Comfort Suites South Texas Inn 5100 7th St. 1121 Avenue F BLESSING 979-245-9300 979-244-1432 HOTELS / MOTELS / B & B Days Inn Hotel Blessing Starland Motel 407 7th St. 128 10th St. 979-244-5400 5409 7th St. 361-588-9579 979-245-4811 Economy Inn CAMPING / RV PARKS 6100 7th St. Studio 6 979-245-6333 5511 7th St. Wheaton’s Chaparral RV Park 979-244-2400 10th at Pecan St. Executive Inn 361-404-1925 3620 7th St. Super 8 979-244-5900 920 Ave. F 979-323-9500 MARKHAM Express Inn CAMPING / RV PARKS 905 Ave. F Townhouse Motel 979-245-1751 1712 Avenue F Markham RV Park 979-245-9460 406 FM 1468 Fairfield Inn & Suites 979-318-1517 by Marriot 515 7th St. CAMPING / RV PARKS 979-323-9191 MATAGORDA 60 North RV Park HOTELS / MOTELS / B & B Hampton Inn & Suites 501 Ave. F 4617 7th St. 979-245-6605 Fisherman’s Motel & RV 979-245-7100 40 Fisher St. Hwy 60 Bert’s RV Park & Propane 979-863-0000 Holiday Inn Express & Suites 1120 Texas 35 south 5618 7th St. 979-245-2840 Full Stringer Realty & Rentals 979-244-3333 258 Fisher St Bay City Holiday RV Park 979-863-1143 La Quinta Inn & Suites 1803 Horn Road www.fullstringerrentals.com 5300 7th St. 979-245-1803 979-323-9095 Bay City Riverside Park Matagorda Bay & Matagorda TX Rentals Paradise Inn * Due to reopen late summer 2018 http://www.matagordabay.com/ 3501 7th St. 7330 FM 2668 lodging.htm 979-245-8308 979-245-0340

48 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com Accommodations

Stanley-Fisher House Bed & Breakfast Sargent Tx Vacation Rentals 107 St. Mary’s St. PALACIOS www.sargenttexas.com/rentals.htm 979-863-2920 HOTELS / MOTELS / B & B Deluxe Inn CAMPING / RV PARKS The Lodge at Karankawa Village 1505 1st St Botkin’s Pelican RV Park 22996 Highway 60 361-972-2547 979-863-7737 26160 FM 457 Laughing Gull Retreat 979-323-7054 CAMPING / RV PARKS 508 S Bay Blvd. 512-417-8723 Caney Creek RV Park High Tide RV Park & Boat Storage 108 Socha Rd. 604 Fisher Street Luther Hotel 979-245-4735 979-627-3756 or 713-498-8469 408 S Bay Blvd. 361-972-2312 Holloway’s Sargent RV Park Lighthouse RV Park 399 CR 201 18411 Texas 60 South Peaceful Pelican 713-542-1210 979-863-7773 317 E Bay Blvd. 361-972-0317 Kast – Away RV Matagorda Bay Nature and RV Park 166 PR 676 Matagorda Beach Sunrise Retreat 832-643-0576 855-392-7638 1801 Petersen www.kastawayrv.com 361-550-5552 Sargent Coastal Living RV Park Pelican Point RV and Boat Slips Texas Coastal Properties 498 Mary St 215 5th St 162 CR 283 979-316-6660 361-972-5900 979-877-5084 Seabird RV Park CAMPING / RV PARKS Sargent Shores RV Park 700 Center St. 2237 CR 299 (Heron Rd) Bay Front RV Park & Boat Storage 979-863-7229 979-318-2450 900 1st St 361-218-8688 Sliva RV Park VAN VLECK 750 CR 251 East Bayshore RV Park HOTELS / MOTELS / B & B 979-885-9484 326 E Bayshore Dr 361-972-6401 Custom Touch Village Lodges 12725 State Hwy 35 N. MIDFIELD Serendipity Bay RV Resort HOTELS / MOTELS / B & B 1001 Main St 979-244-4205 361-972-5454 CAMPING / RV PARKS Bay Prairie Lodge 4029 Hwy 71 (at CR 111) Sugar Valley RV & Country Store 361-588-6565 SARGENT HOTELS / MOTELS / B & B 10833 SH 35N CAMPING / RV PARKS 979-323-8000 Caney Y Realty & Rentals Mitchfield RV Park 2200 CR 201 542 4th St. 979-244-4910 WADSWORTH 361-588-6677 www.cyvrsargent.com CAMPING / RV PARKS Prairie Rose RV Park Fish Tail Inn Tony’s RV Park Hwy 71 at 4th St. 26274 FM 457 th 979-240-6022 979-244-1300 6 & C Street 979-236-3442

visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 49 50 Matagorda County Visitors Guide | visitmatagordacounty.com visitmatagordacounty.com | Matagorda County Visitors Guide 51 EAT. PLAY. SHOP. Explore Historic Downtown Bay City! From boot to bangles, glitter to rust, gourmet to home cookin’... you’ll experience friendly faces, unique shops and a piece of Texas history!

VisitBayCity.org 979-245-8081 find us on facebook at Bay City Main Street facebook.com/baycitycommunitydevelopment 1900 Fifth Street • Bay City, Texas 77414