The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park was established to preserve and interpret the chain of Spanish Missions that were built along the San Antonio River in the 18th century.

Start your trip at Mission San Jose with a 23-minute film, a ranger guided tour, and a visit to restored Spanish Colonial flour mill. Museums are located at Missions San Jose, San Juan, and Espada. Espada Aqueduct is the only functioning aqueduct from the Spanish Colonial Period in the United States.

Spend the day visiting missions that still serve as parish churches, light candles in dimly lit alcoves that echo with the prayers of centuries, and view some of the most pristine lands remaining on the San Antonio River. It is a breathtaking and a humbling experience.

Visit the National Park Services website to plan your visit.

Sorry, I forgot all your question about the beaches. You may want to see this thread because there is a lot of good information about beaches.

Also, Medina Lake is fairly close to San Antonio. From there, you can journey to Bandera--Longhorn Cattle, cowboys, apple orchards, and some of the most scenic drives.

Have a great time and welcome to Texas! :cool: