There are endless water sports available. You can rent jet skis on the beach. There are businesses who can get you into the clouds with parasailing and you can rent a sail and a board to take advantage of the still waters we have. The barrier islands help make the beaches terrific for water sports without dangerous waves.
If you want waves, go out to the south side of any of the barrier islands for waves. If you want simple, rent a boat and cruz around the bayous and see the beautiful homes.