Port Lavaca or Port of The Cows is on the Texas coastline on Matagorda Bay, in the heart of the bend region. This means it is central to major cities on coast. During the Civil War, Port Lavaca was a strategic port. Today the small port town has a population of 11,000 and is still a vibrant port. The city remains a valuable asset to the area and is the home to commercial fisherman of oyster, shrimp and fish. For the non-commercial fisherman, this town boasts numerous fishing tournaments throughout the year. Port Lavaca also plays an important role in attracting tourists with its clean white sandy beaches..
The historic light house at Light House Beach is situated on Point Lavaca and is now a visitor center, acting as a guide for a bird sanctuary that is part of the beach. Each year thousands come to see local sea birds. The beach also has a waterfront campground where you can camp out and listen to the surf. The average high during the summer is in the 90's, a perfect temperature to enjoy the beach. There is a nice fishing pier nearby and you can visit the state park and Lynn Bayou. The beach is made for nature lovers who love wetlands and birds. A bird watching tower and nature walk are the main attractions. A unusual fact is that the bird tower and trail are both composed entirely of recycled materials.
Magnolia beach is known for the excellent shrimping in the area. The 300 townfolk live in small wooden cottages along the beach. A small vacation home industry has developed in Magnolia. Like the beach at Light House, Magnolia is known for bird watching. You can also sight dolphins playing along the beach and the fishing is astounding. If you are into shellfish then you will love taking your family to catch dinner-sized crabs nearby Magnolia beach. Magnolia has boat launches, a fishing pier and lots of space to cast your lines from the surf.
Indianola Beach is 10 miles from Port Lavaca and is a town of excellent fishing where you can get a charter boat and enjoy a day on the bay. Indianola Beach also recently completed a new marina. The town of Indianola is the queen of the ghost towns because of its former glory. At one time it rivaled Galveston as a major port but it was destroyed by one hurricane in 1875 and another in 1886. Today it is another small fishing town overrun by tourists during the summer looking to enjoy the wetlands and relax on the quiet beaches.
