Kemah Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Kemah, Texas with this comprehensive tour guide that covers everything from places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food scene, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Kemah

Located in North Barrier Coast, Kemah is a charming coastal city in Texas that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for travelers. Kemah is known for its beautiful seafront, quirky shops, and bustling boardwalk that offers some of the best waterfront dining, shopping, and entertainment in the Gulf Coast. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure seeker, or a food enthusiast, Kemah has something to satisfy your soul.

List of Places to Visit in Kemah

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kemah Historical Society - The museum houses a collection of artifacts and memorabilia that tells the story of Kemah’s history through the ages.
  • Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary - A nature museum and park that highlights the importance of preserving nature and conservation.
  • Armand Bayou Nature Center - A wildlife sanctuary that has a wide array of outdoor exhibits and activities for all ages.

Natural Attractions of Kemah: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Galveston Bay - Seemingly endless waterways offer visitors an opportunity to enjoy the bay, the beaches, and the abundant surrounding flora and fauna.
  • Kemah Boardwalk - This seaside attraction is nestled in the heart of Kemah and offers a wide range of entertainment, dining, and shopping options.
  • Space Center Houston - Space Center Houston is the visitor center for NASA. It is a great place to learn about space and space exploration and is suitable for all ages.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kemah

Thanks to its coastal location, Kemah offers plenty of scenic hiking/biking routes that provide breathtaking views of the landscape. Here are some of the most popular routes you can try:

  • Raptor Road Trail - This 2.2-mile trail runs through Kemah and leads to Seabrook making for a scenic ride.
  • Helen’s Garden Trail - This 1.6-mile trail is located in Baytown, and it offers a beautiful scenic route to the visitors.
  • Space Center Houston Trail - This 3.1-mile trail is located near the Johnson Space Center and provides fascinating views of the area.

Best Things to Do in Kemah: Activities and Tours

  • Kemah Boardwalk Marina Cruises - Take a relaxing boat ride through Galveston Bay and enjoy the view from the water.
  • Haunted Kemah Ghost Tours - A thrilling tour that explores the haunted history of Kemah.
  • Water Sports - With numerous water bodies in the area, adventure enthusiasts can participate in canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kemah

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Kemah Boardwalk, enjoy the rides and entertainment
Day 2 Explore the Galveston Bay, take a boat ride, or engage in water sports
Day 3 Visit local museums and historical sites
Day 4 Go biking on one of the local trails
Day 5 Savor local cuisine; visit the local restaurants and cafes
Day 6 Take a day trip to Space Center Houston
Day 7 Spend a peaceful day at Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary

Food and Drink Scene of Kemah

Must-Try Dishes

  • Blue Cheese Burger - The classic burger, but with a twist!
  • Seafood Platter - A mouth-watering combination of shrimp, oysters, and crabs, all from the Gulf of Mexico.
  • Smoked Brisket - A Texas classic, the smoked brisket is cooked to perfection with a delicious rub of spices and herbs.

Local Beverages

  • Shiner Bock - A popular Texan beer
  • Sweet Tea - A refreshing sweet tea is a must-have when in Texas.

Where to Stay in Kemah: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kemah offers a range of accommodation options to cater to all your needs and budget. Depending on your preference, you can choose from hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the popular options are:

  • Kemah Boardwalk Inn - A beachfront hotel that offers great views and fantastic amenities.
  • Days Inn & Suite by Wyndham Kemah - A hotel that offers easy access to the local attractions
  • Tower Inn & Suites Kemah - This hotel offers economy guestrooms located nearby to the Kemah Boardwalk

What to Buy in Kemah: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kemah is known for its local shops and quirky souvenirs, making it easy to find something special to take home. Here are some of the popular souvenirs to consider:

  • Uniquely Designed T-shirts - T-shirts with novelty designs that showcase your love of Kemah and the Gulf Coast.
  • Kemah Sundial - A souvenir that is both practical and unique, the sundial depicts Kemah’s coastal heritage.
  • Handmade Candles - Candles made from locally sourced materials make for a unique souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Kemah

Kemah is known for its mix of Texan, Gulf Coast and Mexican cultures. Visitors will quickly fall in love with the area’s laid-back vibe and friendly locals.

Best Time to Visit Kemah

The best time to visit Kemah is between March and May when the weather is pleasant. Also, September to November is an excellent time to visit as the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kemah

Do:

  • Bring sunscreen and insect repellent when spending time outside.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Visit Space Center Houston.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches.
  • Touch or interact with wildlife in the area.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kemah

Kemah is a relatively safe city, but visitors should be vigilant as they would be anywhere. Avoid traveling alone at night, and keep an eye on your belongings.

Health in Kemah

Visitors don’t require any specific vaccinations, but it is always best to check with your doctor before traveling. Mosquitos can be a nuisance, so keeping insect repellent handy will help with this.

Getting to Kemah: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kemah is well connected to the rest of the state and the country. Here are some of the transportation options:

Airports Near Kemah

  • Houston George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) - 35 miles away from Kemah.
  • William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) - 22 miles away from Kemah.

Bus Stations Near Kemah

  • Greyhound Bus Station - Located in Houston, about 30 miles away from Kemah.

Other Options

  • Car Rental - Renting a car is a great option if you want to travel on your schedule and explore nearby areas.
  • Taxi or Uber/Lyft - Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available and offer a flexible way to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Kemah

Getting around Kemah is straightforward. Visitors can use ride-sharing services, taxis or rent a car to explore the area’s various attractions. Biking and walking are also popular options as Kemah is a small city.

Where to Go Next from Kemah: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Houston - Houston is around 30 miles away from Kemah and offers a range of attractions, including museums, parks, and shopping.
  • Galveston Island - A beautiful seaside city that offers visitors the chance to bask in the sun and enjoy the beach.
  • San Antonio - A city with a rich cultural heritage and history with many prominent museums and attractions.

Conclusion

Kemah, Texas, is a picturesque coastal city that offers something for everyone. With its charming boardwalk, scenic hiking/bike trails, historical museums, and delicious culinary scene, Kemah is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through the Gulf Coast region. Plan your trip with this comprehensive guide, and get ready to experience the magic of Kemah firsthand!

Kemah Boardwalk Inn Kemah Boardwalk Inn