Port Aransas is a town on Mustang Island, a barrier island off the coast of Texas in the Gulf of Mexico. Because of its location, Port Aransas is a popular destination for outdoor activities, but the city also impresses with galleries and heritage sites.
The first inhabitants of Port Aransas were Karankawa Indians. In the early 1800s the area was frequented by pirates and buccaneers. To see and hear about the local folklore, visit Port Aransas Museum.
Walking or cycling around is easy since the town is flat and compact. Alternatively, travel on the cheap trolley that runs from Roberts Point Park and Marina to RV parks in the south.
Visit the 8-mile (13-kilometer) coastline of Port Aransas to enjoy the town’s beaches and rent equipment from one of the local shops. Beach buggies are a fun way to see the waterfront and you can explore Corpus Christi Bay on a Jet Ski or kayak. Book in for dolphin-spotting or deep-sea fishing trips departing from Fisherman’s Wharf.
View some of the 500 local bird species at Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center. To see marine life, including seahorses, visit the University of Texas Marine Science Institute.
If you are traveling with children, be sure to visit Mustang Island State Park. The kids will love rolling down the large sand dunes here. Consider camping on the beach it’s a great way to see local wildlife, such as raccoons, opossums and gophers.
Find work by local artists at coastal galleries. Live music is a big part of the Port Aransas’ entertainment scene as well. Local and national bands perform every Friday and Saturday night at a local bar.
Access to the town is via the free Aransas Pass ferry crossing in the north or the John F. Kennedy Memorial Causeway in the south, connecting Mustang Island with Corpus Christi on the mainland.
Port Aransas, TX
Where to stay in Port Aransas
Cinnamon Shore
Though Cinnamon Shore might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Mustang Island Beach and Palmilla Beach Golf Club.
Old Town Port Aransas
While visiting Old Town Port Aransas, you might make a stop by sights like Port Aransas Birding Center and Port Aransas Museum.
Shibui Sands
Though Shibui Sands might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Port Aransas Beach and IB Magee Beach Park.
Sand Point
Sand Point might not have many top sights, but Port Aransas Beach and Holiday Beach are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Leeward Sands
Though Leeward Sands might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Port Aransas Beach and Port Aransas Nature Preserve at Charlie's Pasture.
Island Moorings
While Island Moorings isn't home to many top sights, Palmilla Beach Golf Club and Holiday Beach are some notable places to visit nearby.
Reviewed on May 13, 2024
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Reviewed on Mar 31, 2024
Popular places to visit
Port Aransas Beach
Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Port Aransas Beach, a popular beach in Port Aransas. While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.
Texas State Aquarium
Take the family to visit the sea animals who live in Texas State Aquarium during your trip to Corpus Christi. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches or experience its fascinating museums.
Mustang Island State Park
Explore the great outdoors at Mustang Island State Park, a lovely green space in Corpus Christi. Wander the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.
North Beach
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, North Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Corpus Christi. Wander the seaside in this family-friendly area.
Rockport Beach Park
During your trip to Rockport, enjoy the surf and sand at Rockport Beach Park along with the fishing. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.
Mustang Island Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Mustang Island Beach during your trip to Corpus Christi?
Reviews of Port Aransas
5/5 - Excellent
It’s one of the places we love in TX.
4/5 - Good
Port Aransas is always a chill place to visit.
5/5 - Excellent
Port A is my happy place
5/5 - Excellent
Beach was very clean everyone kept their distance we found a lot of star fished washed up on the shore
5/5 - Excellent
Very nice place to stay for a couple of days!
5/5 - Excellent
So nice to see some many place back up and open after the Hurricane. They have done a fantastic job at cleaning up the entire city.