Of the dozens of beaches along the Texas coastline, a quiet, relaxed stretch of white sand can be found 10 miles southeast of Port Lavaca off state highway 316. Weekdays are mostly peaceful on Magnolia Beach, however, holidays often draw crowds. It's a place where kids will find hours of fun building elaborate sandcastles or riding bicycles along the water's edge. They will love combing the sand for special shells and will be fascinated by the shy little hermit crabs and the "sideways antics" of the pugnacious blue crabs. If they are lucky they may find a lost pincer claw, while splashing in the surf, to add to their collection. Kids may want to kick up sand around a volleyball net, or strong breezes off the water may make kite flying another choice. Pets are also welcome so a game of Frisbee may be all it takes to have the family dog grinning from ear to ear.
It's also a place where peaceful sea breezes allow one to stretch out on a blanket and allow the sun's warmth to melt away all of life's problems. It's a place where a sea gull's cry on the wind reminds of life's simplicity while rippling waves softly slap the shore, eagerly reaching to wash away all tension into the vast glistening waters.
When the sea air whets appetites and it's time to unpack sandwiches and drinks from the ice chest, covered picnic tables are a welcome refuge from the hot sun. You can expect sea gulls to swoop, hover, and squawk for tidbits, so always pack extra food to toss up to them. They are quite skilled at catching treats in midair and will come in close to show off their unique color pattern.
After lunch, a short drive south along the shoreline will lead to the area where old Indianola sits abandoned. In 1685, the French explorer, LaSalle, landed his ship here, mistakenly believing it to be the mouth of the Mississippi River. First named Indian Point, Indianola became the most significant port in Texas for a time. The Indianola Railroad joined other railways, linking the town to other significant towns. A thriving economy popularized hotels, theatrical productions, concerts, and sailing excursions. However, hurricanes, fires, and yellow fever in the late 19th century killed many residents and drove survivors north, destroying the booming port. Historical markers along the beach road tell the story. Due to shoreline erosion, most of the site now lies underwater. The old Indianola Courthouse ruins presently sit about 300 feet out in the bay, with a pink granite stone marking their location nearby. In 1928 a statue of LaSalle was erected but storms and vandalism have destroyed most of it. Only the French explorer's boots remain.
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