We’re giving you a full breakdown of all there is to do during your visit to Port A.

 

If you’re looking for the perfect beach getaway, Port Aransas has you covered. Not only does Tripadvisor rank the island as one of the top 20 family beaches in the U.S., but it offers various forms of entertainment that both you and the family can enjoy together. Here’s a breakdown of all the fun things Port Aransas has to offer to visitors and locals, from dining to shopping to nightlife.

 

Let’s go fishing!

 

Whether you’re an avid fisher or someone who is simply looking to get their feet wet with fishing (pun intended), Port Aransas is certainly the place for it. The island, which has earned the title “Fishing Capital of Texas,” offers many opportunities for you to partake in the sport. Check out a few below.

 

Offshore Excursions

 

Here’s a look at a few local tour guides you’ll find in Port Aransas that provide varying services from tours of the bay to deep-sea fishing.

 

• Deep Sea Headquarters

 

Deep Sea Headquarters offers bay fishing trips among other types, essentially allowing you to explore the protected waters of the Corpus Christi Channel while trying to snag a fish or two. Offshore tours with Deep Sea Headquarters typically last between five, eight, or even 12 hours, though other options may be available.

 

Check out Deep Sea Headquarters’ schedule and pricing here.

 

• Coastal Charters

 

Interested in deep-sea fishing? Perhaps you’d like to embark on the Gulf of Mexico’s calm waters in a luxury fishing boat that features bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen, and even freshwater showers? Whatever your heart desires, Coastal Charters can deliver (as long as it centers around fishing, of course).

 

Click here for details on pricing and how you can book a trip.

 

• Dolphin Dock, Inc.

 

If you’re looking to create a lifetime of memories during your visit to Port Aransas, Dolphin Dock, Inc. is ready to make it happen. The charter company offers up a variety of fishing trips to choose from, allowing you to accommodate your friends/family’s needs. Dolphin Dock welcomes beginner and expert fisherman (and even those without any experience) and offers trips through the winter and summer months.

 

Click here for details on trip availability and pricing.

 

• Fisherman’s Wharf, LLC

 

Want to go on a deep-sea adventure during your visit to Port Aransas? From offshore fishing to dolphin watch tours, Fisherman’s Wharf offers both party boat trips (78 passenger capacity) and even private trips if you simply want to spend the day with friends and/or family.

 

Click here for details on pricing and how to schedule a tour.

 

While you’re bound to reel in a fish or two with any of the above-mentioned fishing charters, the time of year dictates what species are more likely to be caught. Here’s an overview of the species you could potentially catch and when they are most active in the Gulf, as per the Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce.

 

• Amberjack (May-August)
• Barracuda (Year-round)
• Dolphin (July-October)
• Grouper (December-April)
• Kingfish (Year-round)
• Ling (April-October)
• Marlin (July-September)
• Pompano (October-April)
• Red Snapper (June-August)
• Sailfish (July-September)
• Spanish Mackerel (May-September)

 

 

 

Take a break from society and rest peacefully on one of Port Aransas’ beaches!

 

A stretch of soft sand awaits you in Port Aransas. If you’re ready to experience the calming effects of the beach, allowing you to unwind, relax, and leave your stress behind, you’ll want to visit one of these hidden gems located nearby the shoreline.

 

• Mustang Island

 

With 18 miles of coastline, the possibilities are endless at Mustang Island. Whether you want to barbeque, lay by the water, or have a good time gathering with friends and/or family, all can be done at Mustang Island.

 

There are no entrance fees and beach parking is permitted. You and those you’re traveling with can camp out or fish, or simply enjoy the cool ocean breeze.

 

 

• Mustang Island State Park

 

Mustang Island State Park stretches five miles long and gives you access to many amenities including electric and primitive campsites, showers and restrooms, and the Mustang Island Paddle Park Trail. Traveling with a furry friend? No problem! Not only is Mustang Island State Park pet-friendly, but fishing and birding are also permitted.

 

The entrance fee is currently set at $5 per adult (daily) and is free for children 12 years and under to enter.

 

• B. Magee Beach & Horace Caldwell Pier

 

Adventure awaits you at I.B. Magee Beach. Whether you wish to ride the coast in your vehicle, rent a golf cart, or walk the soft, sandy beaches with those you love and care about, all is permitted at I.B. Magee Beach. Nearby the jetty also sits the 1,200-foot-long Horace Caldwell Pier that permits fishing while you soak up the breathtaking view of the Gulf.

 

If the outdoors gets you hungry, you won’t have to travel far as the pier also features a restaurant where you can grab a quick bite to eat.

 

The Horace Caldwell Pier does have an entrance fee, which is currently $3 per person and $4 per pole (with a 3-rod limit per person). The fee reduces to $1 for those who are in the military and the fee is waived for those aged 65 and older and children four and under.

 

 

*Please note the entrance fees listed above may vary.

 

• San José Island

 

Looking for an exclusive getaway you can experience with friends or loved ones? San José Island may be the perfect adventure for you. The island is privately owned and is just a short ferry ride away from Port Aransas (Port A). While visiting the island, you can partake in birding, shelling, fishing, or simply stroll along the private beach.

 

Because there are no public facilities or stores located on the island, be sure to bring enough to eat and drink for you and those traveling with you during your trip to the island. Trash bags are also a must to ensure the island stays clean and clear of any materials that could harm the wildlife it serves as a home to.

 

• Padre Island National Seashore

 

If you want to “experience the coastline in its most natural state,” you’ll want to check out Padre Island National Seashore. Serving as one of Texas’ most scenic national parks, Padre Island National Seashore separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Laguna Madre and features watersport rentals, showers/restrooms, fishing, and birding.  Camping is also permitted at Padre Island National Seashore.

 

If you’re visiting Port A between mid-June and August, you can also watch sea turtles being released into the Gulf at Padre Island National Seashore. To learn more about visiting this Texas landmark, click here.

 

 

Major attractions you’ll find in Port Aransas!

 

• Texas State Aquarium

 

If you don’t mind traveling during your visit to Port A, the Texas State Aquarium sits about an hour away from Port Aransas RV Resort. The aquarium features captivating exhibits both you and the kids are sure to appreciate, some of which include Ocelots, Blue Hole, Coral Reef, Jungle, Caribbean Sea, Dolphin Bay, Aquatic Nursery, and the Stingray Lagoon.

 

For pricing and hours of operation, click here.

 

• Chapel on the Dunes

 

Visit one of Port A’s historical landmarks—Chapel on the Dunes. The chapel, which sits on a sand dune that overlooks the Gulf, is considered one of “the oldest functional consecrated churches on the island.” It was built sometime in the late 1930s by Aline B. Carter and has been named “one of the Eight Wonders of Port Aransas,” according to the Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce.

 

Click here for location information and how to book a trip to the Chapel on the Dunes.

 

• Chute Em’ Up Parasail

 

Ever wanted to know what it felt like to float 500 feet above the ocean? Now you can with Chute Em’ Up Parasail. Parasails are attached to state-of-the-art boats, essentially giving you the opportunity to view Port A from heights many can only dream of.

 

For reservations and pricing, click here.

 

 

• Coastal Bend Kayak

 

Coastal Bend Kayak is a family-owned business that has been offering professional guided tours since 2002. Regardless of your age and skill level, you and the family can enjoy the pleasures of the water in a guided kayak tour provided by Coastal Bend Kayak.

 

Learn more about the business and pricing here.

 

• Glow Row

 

Experience Port A in an all-new light. Glow Row is a night-time kayak tour that is safe, fun, and even educational. Adults (21 and over) can bring their own beverage of choice, choose “their vibe,” and experience the ocean under the stars.

 

Port Aransas is home to some of the best casual and luxury dining spots!

 

After spending a long day on the open sea or out shopping with friends, the next most important thing for you to do is indulge in a delicious meal. Below are a few options for you to check out.

 

Breakfast

 

Barefoot Beans

345 N. Alister Street

 

Coffee Waves Port Aransas

1007 State Hwy. 361

 

Island Café

301 S. Alister Street

 

Lunch/Dinner

 

Bernie’s Beach House

730 Trout Street.

 

Black Marlin Bar & Grill

258 Snapdragon

 

BlueWater Cowboy

229 Beach Street

 

Bron’s Beach Carts & Backyard

314 E. Avenue G

 

Cancun Mexican Restaurant

1023 State Hwy. 261, Ste. E

 

Grumbles Seafood Co.

850 Tarpon Street

 

Dessert/Beverages

 

Bron’s Shaved Ice & To Go Bar

314 E. Avenue G

 

LeLo’s Island Bar

212 Beach Street

 

The Donut Palace

604 N. Alister Street

 

It’s always fun in Port Aransas, even when the sun goes down. A look at Port Aransas’ nightlife.

 

After spending hours gazing up at the clear blue skies, you and your friends/loved ones might want to enjoy a night out. Various events are held at Port A Live throughout the year. From live music to theatre, you can enjoy the nightlife Port A boasts by attending an event. Click here for upcoming events, pricing, and more.

 

Some of Port A’s other nightlife spots include:

 

Shorty’s Place

823 Tarpon Street

 

Bernie’s Beach House

730 Trout Street

 

Treasure Island

 315 N. Alister Street

 

Looking to do a little retail therapy? Here are some of the best places to shop in Port Aransas!

 

While on vacation, it’s always nice to indulge in a little retail therapy. Whether you’re looking for something to wear for a night out in Port A or simply want to get a taste of the island’s culture, these shops are worth checking out.

Balinese Boutique

121 Cut Off Rd.

 

Bella Bella Boutique

422 W. Avenue G

 

BlueWater Cowboy Mercantile

221 Beach Street

 

C&G Sisters Island Boutique

129 N. Alister Street, Ste. 101

 

Coastal Closet

2222 State Hwy. 361

 

Diamond Island

491 Beach Street