Nestled just west of Austin’s city limits is Bee Cave, Texas. The area derived its name from the colonies of Mexican honeybees that lived near the banks of Barton Creek and Little Barton Creek that encompassed a large area of Western Travis County. Today, Bee Cave is known for its laid-back atmosphere and a visit makes for a relaxing day-trip away from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Austin. So, whether you’re in the mood for some retail therapy or just a quiet getaway, Bee Cave has a lot to offer.

A young boy going on a zipline with Lake Travis below him in the background.
Lake Travis Zipline Adventures. Credit to Hans Millet Photography.

ACTIVITIES

As you drive west towards Bee Cave, you’ll notice the stunning views of the surrounding Hill Country. Plenty of parks and golf courses are laid out to make the most of the landscape, so be sure to stop by Falconhead Golf Club to swing away at one of the best courses in the area.

About 30 minutes outside of Bee Cave is the longest and fastest zipline in Texas, Lake Travis Zipline Adventures. This company prides itself on creating a safe, family friendly, and memorable experience for its customers at all times. The adventure is waiting for you.

Enjoying and protecting nature is nothing short of importance at the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center. On 76-acres of the beautiful preserve, reserve your tickets to be able to walk through hundreds of thousands of years of geological formations, go on bird hikes, and create a sketch with a wonderful view of nature. 

SHOPPING

At the heart of Bee Cave is the Hill Country Galleria, where you’ll find some of the best shopping that the Hill Country has to offer. Set outside, the hot-spot is 152 acres of shopping, dining and entertainment venues. Spend an hour, or an entire day, at the Galleria to unwind and practice a little retail therapy. The Galleria includes a mix of department stores and locally owned shops. Check out ADORN Boutique and Apricot Lane Boutique for fashion forward women’s clothing and accessories. 

Just down the road, stop into Con’ Olio, a local Austin business selling premium olive oils and offering tastings at their Bee Cave location. In the same shopping center, Magpie Blossom Boutique, a family-owned floral and gift shop.

Couple jumping into hamilton pool in dripping springs near austin texas
Hamilton Pool. Credit Dave Mead.

ATTRACTIONS

If you want to enjoy the more artistic side of the town, take a stroll around Bee Cave Sculpture Park. The park expands over 7 acres of gorgeous Hill Country terrain showcasing both permanent and seasonal sculptures. A children's playarium, a pond, expansive oak trees and numerous wildlife run-ins makes this sculpture garden a must-try when visiting Bee Cave.

Although swimming is currently closed, Hamilton Pool is a beautiful place to swim and enjoy the natural beauty of the canyon during the hot summer months. The swimming hole is home to many wildlife and natural species and is now named a significant natural area in rural Travis County. Advance reservations are required every day of the week. 

RESTAURANTS

Spend an afternoon exploring all that Bee Cave has to offer, then dine in luxury with the natural landscape of the surrounding Hill Country at Meridian 98, a rooftop lounge and eatery. Or, get your bib ready for some lip-smacking baby back ribs from Schmidt Family Barbecue. In business for more than 75 years, the Schmidts are known for their house-smoked meats, including tender barbecue beef brisket. 

We know all that talk about dinner food has you craving some sweets so crave that sweet tooth at the Artisan bakery Baguette et Chocolat, and try their freshly baked croissants, bread, and pastries that are cooked daily on premises. Or head to what was named the 2021 Micro Roasters of the Year by Roast Magazine, Greater Goods Coffee Roasters, to sip on some quality coffee from around the world and see for yourself why they are the best of the best. Each cup of coffee is carefully crafted to bring out the best in the recipe with beans from sustainable growers. For a great mixture of breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, beer, wine and cocktails, The Wayback Cafe has it all. With a variety of menu options, your taste buds will be satisfied with just about any meal at any time of the day. 

Image of white cottages and nestled among green trees at The Wayback.
Courtesy of The Wayback.

WHERE TO STAY

Enjoy a short drive to Bee Cave and hot spots like the Hill Country Galleria by staying at nearby properties like The Wayback or Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa. For a quiet, relaxing stay in the gorgeous Hill Country, the cottages at The Wayback are nestled among nature without losing the amenities of an upscale resort. Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa is a full-service sprawling property with onsite restaurants, a spa, multiple acclaimed golf courses and luxurious accommodations. Looking for additional options? Check out these West Austin hotels and book your stay now.

Although Bee Cave is a small town, it never fails to serve up big experiences. Check out the Austin Insider Blog for more Hill Country day trip ideas just a short drive from Austin.