Kemah Boardwalk Marina
A vibrant waterfront destination combining thrilling rides, scenic marina views, and diverse dining options for a memorable Texas Gulf Coast experienc...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Kemah Boardwalk Marina
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant waterfront destination combining thrilling rides, scenic marina views, and diverse dining options for a memorable Texas Gulf Coast experience.
"Truly the best ran, cleanest marina I've ever had a boat in."
🚶♀️ Stroll & Enjoy Views
Even without riding, the boardwalk offers great views and a lively atmosphere.
🚤 Speedboat Thrills
Consider the speedboat ride for an exciting water adventure if weather permits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kemah Boardwalk Rides
Boardwalk
Experience thrilling rides like the Boardwalk Bullet for an adrenaline rush or enjoy classic carnival games.
Kemah Boardwalk Marina
Waterfront
Stroll along the marina, admire the yachts, and enjoy stunning bay views.
+1
Waterfront Dining
Boardwalk & Marina
Savor diverse culinary options with picturesque views of the water and boats.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Marina & Boardwalk Synergy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll & Enjoy Views
Even without riding, the boardwalk offers great views and a lively atmosphere.
🚤 Speedboat Thrills
Consider the speedboat ride for an exciting water adventure if weather permits.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Focus
Great for families with rides suitable for all ages.
🍽️ Diverse Eateries
Plenty of food options, not as expensive as other parks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll & Enjoy Views
Even without riding, the boardwalk offers great views and a lively atmosphere.
🚤 Speedboat Thrills
Consider the speedboat ride for an exciting water adventure if weather permits.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Focus
Great for families with rides suitable for all ages.
🍽️ Diverse Eateries
Plenty of food options, not as expensive as other parks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kemah Boardwalk Marina for its exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, clean facilities, and prime waterfront location. The synergy between the lively boardwalk attractions and the well-maintained marina is a significant draw, offering diverse dining and entertainment options. While some find parts of the boardwalk a bit dated, the overall experience is highly rated for family fun and marina services.
"Very friendly family place to visit with rides for kids and adults. There is plenty of eatery to choose from and doesn't break the bank like most amusement parks even if you just choose to walk around and enjoy the scenery."
Adri Sam
"Truly the best ran, cleanest marina I've ever had a boat in over the last 30 years of having boats throughout the country. Most notably, the staff - they could not be any friendlier and more helpful. We love it here. Anyone looking for a place to dock their boat should really consider docking here. And, surprisingly, we love being next to the Boardwalk. Initially, I was concerned that the noise and the additional traffic from being next door would be annoying. I could not have been more wrong. It's great being next to all the restaurants, bars, and more. I would never consider any other marina in the Clear Lake/Kemah area. All our dock neighbors feel the same! Thank you Jennifer, Cyndy, Joe, Pam, and all the team that makes this place great!"
S Cowen
"Went down here for the first time since coming to Houston.
Was a pretty area but was starting to look a bit tired and old.
Had lunch at a restaurant looking over the water.
Was a Thursday and pretty much looked like a ghost town! Lol. Better then being crowded I guess."
Ralph turloff
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kemah Boardwalk Marina is about a 30-minute drive from Houston. You can drive directly or use ride-sharing services. Parking is available nearby.
Public transportation options are limited. Driving or ride-sharing is generally the most convenient way to reach the marina.
There are several parking lots available near the boardwalk and marina. Fees may apply, especially on weekends and holidays.
Yes, the marina is an integral part of the Kemah Boardwalk complex, so you can easily walk between them.
The boardwalk and marina areas are generally accessible, with paved walkways. It's advisable to check specific ride accessibility if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need tickets to enter the boardwalk area and enjoy the atmosphere, shops, and restaurants. Ride tickets or wristbands are required for attractions.
Operating hours vary by season and day of the week. It's best to check the official Kemah Boardwalk website for the most up-to-date schedule.
Ride ticket prices can vary. You can purchase individual ride tickets or all-day wristbands for unlimited rides.
Look for potential discounts on the official website or through third-party ticket vendors, especially for groups or during special events.
Yes, you can typically walk around the marina area to admire the boats and enjoy the waterfront views without purchasing boardwalk attraction tickets.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Boardwalk Bullet roller coaster is a popular thrill ride. Other attractions cater to various age groups.
You'll find a variety of souvenir shops, clothing stores, and novelty shops along the boardwalk.
Yes, Kemah Boardwalk has dedicated areas and rides suitable for younger children and families.
The marina offers opportunities for boat tours, fishing charters, and waterfront dining with views of the docked vessels.
While primarily a docking facility, some charter services or boat rentals might be available. Inquire directly with marina services.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a wide range of dining options, from casual seafood shacks and burger joints to sit-down restaurants with diverse menus.
Compared to many amusement parks, Kemah Boardwalk offers a good variety of eateries that are not overly expensive.
Many restaurants offer salads and other dishes that can be adapted for vegetarian or vegan diets. It's best to check menus or ask staff.
Yes, numerous stands and shops offer ice cream, popcorn, and other sweet treats perfect for a boardwalk visit.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the main attraction areas, but check their specific policy.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the yachts, the Ferris wheel, and the sunset over the water. The marina entrance offers a great perspective.
Absolutely! The waterfront location provides beautiful sunset views over the bay, making it a prime spot for photographers.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers soft, warm light. Early mornings can also be great for fewer crowds and nice light.
Drone usage is typically restricted in amusement park areas and marinas for safety and privacy reasons. Check official regulations.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful for capturing both wide marina shots and ride action. A smartphone is also great for quick snaps.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧👦 Families with Kids
+1 The variety of food options ensures there's something to please even the pickiest eaters, and the ability to simply walk around and enjoy the sights without purchasing ride tickets makes it accessible for families on a budget. Consider visiting on a weekday evening to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. The marina provides a scenic backdrop for family photos, and the overall atmosphere is lively and engaging for children. Many reviewers note the family-friendly nature of the entire complex.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on enjoying the scenic marina views and the lively ambiance. Consider packing your own snacks and drinks if allowed, or prioritize one or two key rides instead of an all-day pass. Weekday visits also tend to have lower crowds and potentially better deals.
couples
+1 Many of the restaurants provide a lovely ambiance for a date night, with many offering outdoor seating and water views. Consider a ride on the Ferris wheel for panoramic views, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere with a shared treat like ice cream. The combination of entertainment, dining, and scenic beauty makes it a great spot for a fun and memorable outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Kemah Boardwalk Experience
+2The synergy between the boardwalk and the marina is a key draw. You can enjoy waterfront dining with views of the boats, then easily transition to the excitement of the amusement park. Many visitors appreciate that the area offers a good experience even if you choose not to ride the attractions, simply enjoying the atmosphere and scenery.
Planning your visit is key to maximizing enjoyment. Weekdays and evenings tend to be less crowded and cooler, especially during the hot Texas summers. The area is particularly festive during holiday seasons, with special decorations and events.
+1Marina Excellence and Community
Many boaters consider it the best marina in the Clear Lake/Kemah area, with some having docked their boats there for decades. The convenience of being adjacent to the boardwalk's restaurants, bars, and entertainment is seen as a significant advantage, rather than a drawback. The marina provides a secure and well-maintained haven for vessels, making it a top choice for liveaboards and transient boaters alike.
Key amenities often mentioned include well-kept docks, accessible facilities, and knowledgeable staff who can assist with any needs. For those looking for a place to dock their boat, the Kemah Boardwalk Marina is frequently recommended for its superior service and prime location.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit