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Horseshoe Bay: From Golf Haven to Thriving Community

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. e-bay-from-golf-haven-to-thriving-community.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 15:59 GMT by Travel + Leisure
      Locales: Texas, UNITED STATES

A Legacy of Luxury and Growth

The transformation of Horseshoe Bay began in the 1970s, envisioned as a lakeside retreat. Today, that vision has blossomed into a thriving community encompassing over 7,000 acres. Initial development focused on the iconic golf courses - Ram Rock, Apple Rock, and Summit Golf - designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones, Sr. These courses continue to draw golfing enthusiasts from around the globe, and have undergone significant upgrades in recent years, incorporating advanced turf management techniques and enhanced course aesthetics. However, the focus has shifted beyond golf.

Accommodation Options: From Rustic to Refined

Lodging options have diversified significantly. The Horseshoe Bay Resort remains the centerpiece, boasting luxury hotels, villas, and extensive amenities. However, the proliferation of vacation rentals through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO has exploded, providing options for every budget and preference, from cozy lakeside cabins to sprawling multi-bedroom estates. For those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience, the Horseshoe Bay Campground continues to offer primitive and RV sites, although reservations are now essential, particularly during peak season.

New to the scene are "glamping" options that have sprung up on the periphery of the main resort area, offering a blend of rustic charm and modern comforts. Several boutique hotels focusing on wellness and retreats have also opened, targeting a growing market interested in holistic experiences.

Beyond the Fairway: Activities for Every Interest

While golf remains a major draw, Horseshoe Bay has become a hub for a variety of outdoor activities. Lake Travis is central to the lifestyle here. Boating, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and paddleboarding are incredibly popular, with multiple marinas offering rentals and services. In 2026, electric boat rentals are increasingly common, reflecting a commitment to sustainability.

Hiking and biking trails have been expanded and improved, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the lake. The addition of dedicated mountain biking trails has attracted a new segment of outdoor enthusiasts. Several companies now offer guided hikes and bike tours, showcasing the area's natural beauty and geological features.

For those interested in history and paleontology, a day trip to Dinosaur Valley State Park (approximately an hour's drive) remains a popular excursion. However, a new local attraction - the Hill Country Paleo Museum - opened in 2025, offering a closer-to-home experience focused on the region's prehistoric past.

Culinary Delights: A Growing Food Scene

The dining landscape has matured considerably. Horseshoe Bay Resort Restaurants continue to offer a diverse range of options, from casual poolside bites to fine dining experiences. Local favorites like Anthony's Steakhouse and Shoreline Bar & Grill remain popular, but a wave of new restaurants has injected fresh energy into the culinary scene.

Liberty Hill Brewing Company still serves up excellent craft beer and pub fare, but several microbreweries and wineries have opened in the surrounding area, creating a vibrant "brew and wine trail." Farm-to-table restaurants are gaining prominence, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients. Food truck parks are also becoming increasingly popular, offering a casual and diverse dining experience.

The Future of Horseshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay isn't just a resort destination; it's a growing residential community. A new master-planned community, "The Vista," is currently under development, offering a range of housing options and amenities, including a state-of-the-art medical facility and a community center. This growth, while bringing new opportunities, also presents challenges related to infrastructure and sustainability. Local authorities are actively working to address these issues and ensure responsible development.

Horseshoe Bay in 2026 is a dynamic and evolving destination, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and luxurious living. It's a place where you can tee off on a world-class golf course, explore hidden hiking trails, savor delicious cuisine, and simply relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. The area has successfully broadened its appeal, becoming more than just a golfer's haven and solidifying its position as a premier destination in the Texas Hill Country.