Things To Do

DIVE INTO FUN

Everything needed for the perfect beach vacation is awaiting you in Port Aransas, from beaches to birding, attractions to art, and music to Mustang Island State Park. You'll have no shortage of good times and are sure to discover why this island is ranked one of the top 25 best beaches in the U.S. by TripAdvisor and celebrated by Southern Living as one of the South's best beach towns.

Looking to make a splash? With 18 miles of wide, sandy beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, there are endless ways to dive into the water during your Port Aransas vacation:

Surf, boogie board, sail, or jet ski in the warm Gulf waters.
Soar the skies parasailing, kiteboarding, or windsurfing.
Grab a paddle and go exploring on a stand up paddleboard or kayak.

FISHING

Known as the “Fishing Capital of Texas,” Port Aransas boasts the best in all areas of the sport. Anglers can take an offshore excursion, fish the bays and channels, and cast a line in the surf or from one of the lighted public piers. Fishing tournaments abound during the summer, with one nearly every weekend, ranging from kids to women only and billfish to redfish tournaments.

Fishing

Birding

A single brown pelican rests on top of a wooden railing with the water in the background

ARTS & CULTURE

Port A’s thriving arts community includes casual studios, galleries, and the Port Aransas Art Center, which features works of art from local artists and numerous year-round classes and events.

Step back in time at the Port Aransas Museum. Exhibits showcase early island living to the present day. The museum also runs tours of the historical Chapel on the Dunes, the oldest consecrated church on Mustang Island.

Farley Boat Works showcases the history of boat building in Port Aransas and offers a working boat shop, where visitors can watch or participate in building a boat.

SHOPPING

Numerous shops, boutiques, and galleries appeal to the casual shopper and shopaholic alike. Browse for unique home decor, island-inspired fashions, and souvenirs that bring lasting memories of Port Aransas and Mustang Island.

DINING

Restaurants from fine dining to casual fare will satisfy every palate. Explore your foodie side and enjoy exquisite island creations at the myriad of local restaurants.

EXPLORE

Cruise around town or the beach on a colorful golf cart or bicycle and take in the Port A vibe.

NATURE & BIRDING

Port A’s five nature preserve sites feature hiking and bike trails, boardwalks, and wildlife observation areas. Enjoy a dolphin watching cruise, beachcomb for seashells, or learn about sea turtles and marine birds at the Amos Rehabilitation Keep.

Located in the heart of the Central Flyway, Port Aransas and Mustang Island are a birder’s paradise. Hundreds of species of resident birds and thousands of migrants can be found here. With six sites on the Great Texas Birding Trail, Mustang Island is the optimal spot for bird watching.

If you want to center yourself and really lean into relaxation this beach vacation, you'll be delighted to find that you can take yoga classes right on the beach all week long, or in the Nature Preserve at Charlie's Pasture!