City of Bee Cave

At first glance, Bee Cave might look like a quiet stop on the western outskirts of the Austin area. Yet it’s so much more. Whether you’re looking to experience the best of the Texas Hill Country or to pamper yourself with good drinks, great food, and a spa day, this is the place to be.

Not only is there much to enjoy here in town, but Hamilton Pool Preserve and some of the region’s other iconic spots are just a short drive away. Set just 17 miles west of downtown Austin where Barton Creek meets Little Barton Creek, Bee Cave is a truly buzzworthy Hill Country destination.

Unlike many places, the city’s name is not a mystery. Former Austin resident Dietrich Bohls moved his family to the area in the 1850’s, and the town was named after a nearby limestone cave full of Mexican honeybees. Visit Bee Cave today and you’ll discover it has all the simple pleasures of the Hill Country right on its doorstep.

Right here in town, you’ll find spectacular displays of art, a multitude of restaurants, and more shops than you can visit in one trip. Start at the Bee Cave Sculpture Garden, where a permanent and rotating collection of sculptures made by area artists are showcased in a natural setting with more than 20 native plants. For some more time outdoors, check out Bee Cave Central Park, an idyllic spot for sunny afternoon picnics and strolls. When you want to treat yourself, head to the Hill Country Galleria. Browse the high-end shops and get your fill at the wide range of restaurants, then indulge yourself with a massage at milk + honey spa or do some yoga with friendly baby pygmy goats at Yoga & Goga.

Although Bee Cave has a lot going on, it’s also the perfect starting point to experiencing some of the best the Hill Country has to offer. Cruise just 10 miles west to reach Hamilton Pool, one of Texas’ most famous swimming holes. Not far away, Milton Reimers Ranch Park is a true Hill Country adventure destination. Hike or mountain bike on scenic trails, swim or fish in Hamilton Creek, or ascend 300 routes in what is one of the Austin area’s best places to go rock climbing.

Want some more time outdoors? Further immerse yourself in the Hill Country’s natural beauty at the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center, where you can explore a picturesque grotto and an upland savanna. Bee Cave is also not far from Lake Travis Zipline Adventures, home to five zip lines (including the longest and fastest in Texas) that take you soaring over the lake.

As much as the outdoors are a draw in the Hill Country, so are its breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Many of its best just so happen to be on Bee Cave’s doorstep. If you’re in the mood for sour Belgian-style farmhouse ale, no one beats the brews at Jester King Brewery. More conventional pale ales, stouts, and porters can also be found at the nearby Beerburg Brewing and Last Stand Brewing Company, along with the Vista Brewing taproom in the Hill Country Galleria. Locally made spirits abound as well, from the award-winning whiskeys at Treaty Oak Distilling to the citrus-infused vodkas at Deep Eddy Vodka’s tasting room. To taste some Hill Country wine, stop by the tasting rooms at Hamilton Pool Vineyards & Farms, El Gaucho Winery, or any of the many other wineries within a short drive from Bee Cave.

Whether you’re looking to treat yourself to some of the Hill Country’s finest experiences, for a great place to stay near Hamilton Pool, or for some much-needed rest and relaxation, Bee Cave is a great choice. Plan your visit here.