The spot depended on what we were doing: surfing = the octagon, fishing, where the water looked good and it wasn't crowded, goofing off, wherever. Never too crowded overnight, but you could always meet interesting people, never had a problem with anyone. I'd check the beach conditions anywhere you go, nothing sucks worse than showing up to a seaweed/red tide festival (though neither should be a problem right now) or a crazy wind (always possible).
Its definitely safe and probably a lot more empty as summer winds down. Done it many times and whats nice about is being to drive your vehicle on the beach and using it as a wall for you camping needs. I highly recommend Crystal beach. Also if there is a vacated beach house thats not being rented out, they usually have outdoor showers that you can use.
Cool! Only time I ever went to Bolivar was to hit Meacom's Pier back in the day. RIP. FYI, OP, Surfside is vehicle friendly and has empty houses and even public showers. I need to make a H-town beach run in the Spring. Port A's been my spot for the past 8 years.
