Discover this tiny coastal town with plenty of outdoor fun, from deep-sea fishing to dolphin watching.
This sleepy fishing village has long been a nostalgic vacation spot for generations of Texas families.
Harvey hit harder, causing widespread flooding and destroying homes and businesses in Port Aransas.
Longtime volunteer Charlie Ferguson at Farley Boat Works.
Now Port Aransas is back, happy to welcome regulars and new faces alike.
Here are the 12 best things to do in Port Aransas, Texas, on your next trip.
Then in 1911, the town was officially renamed Port Aransascalled “Port A” for short.
Boardwalk at the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center.
A year later, it launched its first tarpon-fishing boat, which revolutionized the industry.
Now, it’s a living museum that still houses a functional boatbuilding shop and offers lessons to novices.
The two have lived in Port A for decades and together run seven businesses in town.
GlowRow kayak tour.
Fishing charters remain a draw for tourists on theTexas coast.
The Whooping Crane Festival brings in around 2,000 birders yearly for the unique event.
Tour guides recount the area’s history and wildlife as you paddle under the stars.
Red Dragon Pirate Cruises.
The Port Aransas route jumps off at the Lighthouse Lakes launch.
For a few dollars, beachgoers can cast a line from the Horace Caldwell Pier.
The huge loggerhead sea turtle is floating at the bottom of an outdoor pool.
Credit: Olga Melhiser / Getty Images
This species comes to Port A for its mating season each year from April through July.
It’s a very populardestination for bird-watchingyear-round.
In fact, he’s known around town by the nickname “Sandcastle Guy.”
Rescued turtles at Amos Rehabilitation Keep.
Visitors can learn how to sculpt sand and learn about the science of sand.
Other popular haunts near the main public beach include Tortuga’s Saltwater Grill.
Craving something other than fish?
Mustang Island State Park.
Head to MacDaddy’s Family Kitchen, which has barbecue and burgers in addition to seafood.
The adjacent green space hosts live music and movie nights each week during high season.
With its long porches andKey West cottage-styleaesthetics, you’ll be relaxed in no time.
A barbecue plate at MacDaddy’s.
Lively Beach provides private and secluded walkable beach access, via a charming dune boardwalk.
It’s also located very close to Mustang Island State Park, for those wishing to explore.
livelybeach.com, 138 Zahn Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78418; 361-866-5130
Pecan pie with fresh-rolled crust at MacDaddy’s Family Kitchen.
Cheesy chargrilled oysters at Tortuga’s Saltwater Grill.
Seafood boil at The Crazy Cajun.
The scenic boardwalks of the Cinnamon Shore community are wide enough to allow golf carts to enter the beach.Credit: Cedric Angeles
Beach chairs at Cinnamon Shore.
Surf and turf special at Lisabella’s.
