Texas stands out as an exceptional spring break destination for families, boasting pleasant warm weather and a plethora of outdoor activities. Our family’s trip to the Austin area remains a cherished memory, sparked by a simple suggestion from my sister-in-law. I envisioned a perfect getaway: waterfront access right from the backyard, the kids joyfully leaping off a dock, cozy evenings by a fire pit, and adventures with kayaks and fishing rods. Texas promised all this and more.
Family enjoying outdoor activities during family vacations in Texas
Finding the Perfect Riverside Rental for Family Vacations in Texas
Driven by this vision, I embarked on an extensive search through Airbnb and VRBO, meticulously comparing countless listings. I created detailed lists, weighing the pros, cons, and amenities of each potential home (and even compiled a list of favorite Airbnbs rentals near Austin). Finally, I pinpointed what seemed like the ideal house for our family vacation in Texas.
However, fate had a twist in store. Just three months before our trip, the dam behind our chosen rental unexpectedly broke, draining the river and dashing our waterfront dreams. Dock jumping and backyard kayaking were suddenly off the table. It was back to square one. Thankfully, my meticulous notes proved invaluable, guiding me to the house we eventually booked – a place that miraculously fulfilled every aspect of my original vision for our family vacation in Texas.
Family relaxing by the river during their Texas vacation
Our chosen house, located on the San Marcos River just outside of Austin, became the centerpiece of our Texas family vacation. The backyard was an oasis, featuring a sprawling grassy area, a welcoming fire pit, a convenient storage shed, and a sun-drenched deck extending right over the river. To the kids’ delight, there was even a rope swing! The shed was a treasure trove of recreational gear: inflatables, kayaks, fishing poles, air compressors, life jackets – everything we could possibly need to maximize our backyard river adventures.
Explore this Riverside Retreat
Discover Another Great House Option
Consider the JW Marriott Water Park Resort in San Antonio for Resort Stays
Important Note: The specific house we stayed in is currently unavailable for booking. I’ve contacted the owner who hopes it will be relisted for 2026. In the meantime, be sure to explore my saved list of highly recommended house rentals near Austin for alternative options.
For those who prefer resort accommodations, explore the best family resorts near Austin and family resorts near Dallas, Texas.
Family enjoying a fire pit during Texas family vacations
Kids playing by the river during family vacations in Texas
While not the largest house I considered, it was perfectly sized for our family of five. The kids comfortably shared a bedroom, one child claimed the futon in the living area, and the adults enjoyed the master bedroom. The open-concept layout was ideal, featuring a foosball table, a breakfast bar at the kitchen counter, and a spacious dining table. An outdoor table overlooking the river provided another delightful dining option.
Austin Area Activities: Days of Fun and Adventure on Family Vacations in Texas
Day 1: San Marcos River & Rio Vista Park
Family kayaking on the river during Texas family vacations
After extensive planning for our Family Vacations In Texas, I had compiled a long list of activities. However, on our first day, the kids were content simply enjoying the backyard – a plan I wholeheartedly embraced. We spent the morning kayaking, spotting turtles gliding through the river. As the afternoon warmed up, we grabbed some drinks and leisurely tubed down the gentle current.
Kids tubing in the river during Texas family vacations
Family tubing together during Texas family vacations
We were conveniently located just upstream from Rio Vista Park, a fantastic local swimming spot with small rapids perfect for tubing. The short float to the park and easy walk back to the house eliminated the need to paddle upstream. The rest of the afternoon was filled with laughter and friendly competition on the rope swing. Even I, after a bit of liquid courage, joined in the fun!
Day 2: Exploring Beyond – Jacob’s Well, Cypress Falls, and Comal River Tubing
Those who know my travel style understand that I can’t stay still for long. Family vacations in Texas offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Visiting Jacob's Well during Texas family vacations
Day two was dedicated to exploring. We started with a morning trip to Jacob’s Well, about a 35-minute drive from our rental. Knowing swimming wasn’t permitted during our visit, I still wanted to witness its beauty. A return trip for swimming is definitely on our list! The walk to Jacob’s Well was easy and the area didn’t take long to explore, making it a perfect morning outing.
Next, we headed to Cypress Falls Swimming Hole in Wimberley, taking advantage of our location in that part of town. However, in retrospect, Cypress Falls might be skippable for future family vacations in Texas, especially given our riverside rental.
Cypress Falls Swimming Hole during Texas family vacations
Cypress Falls is pleasant for a drink with a view while kids play in a designated area. However, with our own river access, the admission fee felt less worthwhile. The kids enjoyed jumping from the rocks, and it could be a great option for those without private water access. We didn’t linger long before seeking out renowned Texas BBQ at Salt Lick (more details in the “Where We Ate” section).
Another view of Cypress Falls Swimming Hole during Texas family vacations
Day 2 Continued: Tubing Adventures on the Comal River
Despite having tubing in our backyard, I was eager to experience the famous Tube Chute on the Comal River. So, we ventured to Texas Tubes to begin our tubing journey.
Family enjoying tubing during Texas family vacations
During our visit, the river was calm. However, I’ve heard that during college spring breaks and summer, this spot is bustling, offering a completely different vibe. Aside from a couple of chutes, the float down the river was incredibly relaxing, lasting about two hours. The water temperature was surprisingly warmer than the air on March 28th, when we went in the late afternoon.
Day 3: Relaxing River Days
After a day of exploring, our final day was dedicated to relaxation back at the house and river. Personally, I would have loved to explore downtown Austin, particularly Barton Springs Municipal Pool. For future family vacations in Texas, I’d likely skip Cypress Falls and allocate time for Austin’s city attractions.
Kids fishing during Texas family vacations
The kids spent the day fishing (finally catching one!), engaging in more rope swing competitions, kayaking, and enjoying popsicles by the fire pit. Our next stop? San Antonio!
Kid having fun on a rope swing during Texas family vacations
Where We Ate: Texas Food Staples on Family Vacations in Texas
With a fully equipped kitchen at our rental house, we didn’t need to eat out for every meal. However, we couldn’t miss the opportunity to sample some authentic Texas cuisine.
A trip to Texas isn’t complete without trying Whataburger, so it was our first stop upon arrival. While the menu was enticing, our overall impression was just “okay.” It’s a burger – not the best we’ve ever had. Portions, however, were indeed Texas-sized.
No family vacations in Texas are complete without indulging in BBQ. A local recommended The Salt Lick BBQ, and it exceeded expectations.
Salt Lick BBQ during Texas family vacations
Salt Lick BBQ is a massive venue with outdoor picnic areas and various indoor dining options. Tasting rooms are available, and you can even bring your own drinks. While it was once cash-only, that wasn’t the case during our visit (thankfully, as it’s quite remote). We will definitely return!
Finally, we dined at Chuy’s Tex-Mex – a family-friendly, reasonably priced chain. While I love chips and salsa, being from San Diego, our standards for Mexican food are high. Chuy’s was fine, but not exceptional.
Chuy's Tex-Mex experience during Texas family vacations
Probably not a repeat visit, mainly because there are so many other places to explore. However, it was a convenient and easy meal on our last night, and I wanted to experience a family-friendly Texas chain for this blog about family vacations in Texas.
Be sure to check out part two of our vacation – in San Antonio, Texas and our stay at the JW Marriott San Antonio Water Park Resort. You can also explore this list of the best family resorts in Texas.
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