Best route McAlestar to Crystal Beach, TX

You have been given very good advice. Using secondary roads in Texas to avoid the big cities and reduce hassle is my standard mode of operation. Almost all secondary roads are quite acceptable, even with a little stop and go through the smaller cities and towns.

I also agree that Gaveston has many good restaurants, especially seafood and Mexican food, and not only at the major tourist stops. Check the reviews on line for good options at the more out of the way places as well. You can get good seafood on the Bolivar Peninsula too.