We all know Texas has islands - after all, the Lone Star State is settled right on the Gulf of Mexico. However, most Texans have only heard of Galveston and South Padre Islands, the two major touristy islands in the state. There are actually a few other lesser-known islands that are worth a visit for many reasons, and here are some of our picks for the best of the best:

1. Ward Island

Ward Island, located directly off the coast of Corpus Christi, is popular among history buffs because of its significance during WWII. At the very beginning of the war, the uninhabited island was transformed into the Naval Air Technical Training Center, where technicians were trained in radar usage and other crucial electronic systems. The center closed in 1947 and the island is now home to Texas A&M's Corpus Christi branch, which is a beautiful campus that makes the island worth visiting all on its own.

2. Mustang Island

Mustang Island (otherwise known as Port Aransas - it's the only established city on the island) is a popular spring break and summer vacation destination for a variety of reasons. The beaches are beautiful, colorful fish are abundant in the water, and there's even a resort village to make you feel like you're in a tropical paradise. Also, every April, Port Aransas hosts the annual Sand Fest, where you can watch as sculptors craft elaborate sand castles to compete for a prize. You might even find some buried treasure if you're lucky - you do know the area used to be inhabited by pirates, right?

3. Pelican Island

Pelican Island, technically part of the city of Galveston, is home to Texas A&M Galveston as well as two Navy warship memorials: the USS Stewart, and the USS Cavalla. Both ships have been converted into museums open to the public as part of Seawolf Park. There are various other preserved war artifacts at the park as well, and it's definitely worth a visit.

4. Padre Island

Padre Island is the world's longest barrier island, and it's known all over Texas for its shimmering turquoise waters and gleaming white sands. There's plenty to do on the island like the Schlitterbahn Water Park, leisurely days at the beach, water sports, and if you come at the right time, you might just witness the hatching of adorable Kemp's Ridley sea turtle babies, the rarest species of sea turtle in the world. If that's not magical, we don't know what is!

5. Matagorda Island

Matagorda Island is Galveston's much less frequented sister island, so if you're looking for a relaxing beach day without being constantly surrounded by pesky tourists, this is the place for you. There are also numerous wildlife refuges on the island, so you might see some interesting endangered animals you've never seen before.

6. Galveston Island

And here we have it, folks: the most popular island in Texas by a long shot. The beaches here may not compare to those of South Padre, but the plethora of tourist attractions definitely makes up for it. Between Schlitterbahn, Moody Gardens, Pleasure Pier, the historic Strand, the myriad delicious restaurants like Gaido's, and the gift shops on every corner, you're bound to find plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy.

So, what are your thoughts? Which of Texas' islands is your favorite to visit? Share with us in the comments!

Craving a little more Lone Star beachy goodness? Check out this list of some of the most pristine Texas beaches you'll ever visit.