Port Aransas, Texas Travel Guide
Also see: Corpus Christi, Rockport, Aransas Pass

Region: Gulf Coast

Port Aransas, or just "Port A" to most Texans, is perched on the northern tip of Mustang Island. Because this town's population swells every Spring Break with as many as 150,000 college-aged revelers, the town boasts plenty of accommodations, everything from luxury condominium complexes to Mom and Pop motels aimed at vacationing fishermen.

Deep sea fishing draws many travelers to this destination as well. Large group trips and private charter excursions offer guided for all levels of anglers.

Looking for a cruise a little more restful? Several cruises departing from Woody's Sport Center. Favorites include a sunset cruise and a sightseeing tour with a look at the US Naval Station (home of the largest US mine sweeping fleet), the Lydia Ann Lighthouse, and the intracoastal waterway. And for a chance to see dolphins, stop by the Roberts Point Park on Highway 361. These marine mammals often chase the ferries as they make their way across the ship channel. If you'd like to learn more about marine life, stop by the small aquarium at the University of Texas Marine Science.

Birding is also a popular sport here; Port A is home to the Port Aransas Birding Center, part of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. The center is landscaped with plants to attract migrating hummingbirds and is also home to a six-foot alligator and a family of nutria, members of the rodent family who nest in fallen reeds.

Attractions

Mustang Island State Park.The facilities at this scenic beach include freshwater showers, picnic tables, and tent and RV camping. The area is protected from vehicular traffic. Park Road 53, southwest of Port Aransas.

San Jose Island. Pirate Jean Lafitte is said to have camped on this island. Large iron rings, thought to have been used to tie up the small boats his group used to row ashore, were discovered at the site. Even today, the island is accessible only by boat, and there are no public facilities. San Jose is a quiet getaway for fishing, beachcombing, swimming, or shelling. Ferries leave throughout the day from Woody's Boat Basin.

University of Texas Marine Science Institute. Students of oceanography, ecology, marine chemistry, and botany train at this branch of the University of Texas, located on 82 beachfront acres. The Visitors Center is open to the public. It features exhibits and films on Texas Gulf life.

Festivals & Special Events

February: Celebration of Whooping Cranes & Other Birds
March: Texas Sandfest
July: Deep Sea Roundup. Anglers from across the state take part in bay and ocean competitions in this event.

For More Information: Port Aransas Convention and Visitors Bureau

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