How to get to Matagorda Island

The picturesque Matagorda Island is an extensive barrier island off the coast of Texas in the USA, known for its pristine nature and secluded beaches. Since it is a protected area with no bridges connecting it to the mainland, travelling here requires some planning and a combination of transport modes. You can only reach the island by water, after first driving or taking a bus to the nearest port towns on the coast.

Since there is no civilian airport on the island itself, the most convenient way to arrive by air is to use one of the major aviation hubs in Texas. The nearest international airports are located in Houston and Corpus Christi, which receive flights from many cities across the country and the world. From the airport, travelers will need to continue their journey by ground transport to the coast to transfer to a boat for Matagorda Island.

There is no direct rail link to the island, as Matagorda Island is a nature reserve without developed infrastructure. The nearest major railway stations are located in the cities of Houston and San Antonio.

Tourists preferring to travel by train will need to reach one of these stations, and then rent a car or use a bus to get to the coastal towns from where the crossing to the island takes place.

Although buses cannot drive directly onto the island itself due to the lack of bridges, you can reach the nearest settlements on the mainland. Regular intercity routes connect major Texas cities with coastal settlements such as Port O'Connor or Port Lavaca.

Travel time will depend on the departure point, but it is worth noting that from the bus stop to the dock where boats depart for Matagorda Island, an additional transfer or taxi may be required.

Travelling by car is the most common way to reach the starting point of the route. You need to drive to the town of Port O'Connor, which serves as the main "gateway" to the island; the distance from Houston is about 200 kilometres, which will take approximately 2.5–3 hours.

It is important to remember that it is impossible to transport a private vehicle to Matagorda Island. You will have to leave your car at one of the paid secure car parks on the mainland, and then use the services of a private boat or ferry to cross the bay.

A trip to Matagorda Island is a true immersion into wild nature, requiring careful preparation due to the lack of familiar urban infrastructure. To ensure your journey is safe and comfortable, please review these key recommendations.

1. Clothing and Protection. The climate here is hot and humid, so choose light, modest, and breathable clothing with long sleeves for protection against the sun. Be sure to bring a head covering and comfortable closed-toe shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
2. Transport on the Island. There are no paved roads or public transport on the island itself. You can only move around on foot or by bicycle, provided you can transport it on the boat.
3. Water and Food Supplies. There are no shops, cafes, or sources of drinking water on the territory. You must bring absolutely everything necessary with you, including a large supply of fresh water and food, and take all rubbish back with you.
4. Health and Safety. Use insect repellents and high-quality sunscreen. Be attentive: snakes may be found in the tall grass, so it is better to stick to the paths.
5. Connectivity. Mobile coverage on the island may be unstable or non-existent. It is recommended to inform family of your plans and return time in advance.
6. Permits. Special permits may be required to visit certain zones of the reserve or for hunting; please check the current regulations before your trip.
7. Seasonality. The best time to visit is spring and autumn, when the air temperature is most comfortable for hiking and camping.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and fully enjoy the pristine beauty of the Gulf of Mexico coast in the USA.