COASTAL PARADISE

Port Aransas, Texas

Where pristine beaches meet endless Gulf Coast adventures

✦ DISCOVER PORT ARANSAS ✦

Your Island Escape Awaits

Welcome to Port Aransas, Texas’ premier beach town and hidden gem on Mustang Island. Just 30 minutes from Corpus Christi and accessible by a scenic free ferry ride, this laid-back coastal paradise offers 18 miles of pristine Gulf beaches, world-class fishing, and authentic island vibes that will make you never want to leave.

Whether you’re seeking sun-soaked beach days, thrilling water sports, fresh Gulf seafood, or peaceful coastal sunsets, Port Aransas delivers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From dolphin watching to sandcastle building, fishing charters to beachside dining, discover why locals call it “Port A” and visitors call it paradise.

18

MILES OF BEACH

300+

SUNNY DAYS/YEAR

365

FISHING SEASON

✦ TOP ATTRACTIONS ✦

Must-Visit Destinations

The best experiences Port Aransas has to offer

Beach Access

7 Minute Walk from Salty Waves

18 miles of pristine Gulf Coast beaches with soft white sand and gentle waves. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, sandcastle building, and beachcombing for shells.

Lydia Ann Lighthouse

10 Minutes from Salty Waves

Historic 1857 lighthouse offering stunning harbor views and photo opportunities. Learn about Port Aransas maritime history and enjoy scenic waterfront walks.

Fishing Pier & Charters

12 Minutes from Salty Waves

Historic lighted fishing pier and local charter boats offering deep-sea and bay fishing. Catch redfish, trout, and flounder, or book a guided Gulf fishing trip.

Mustang Island State Park

12 Minutes from Salty Waves

5 miles of protected beaches, nature trails, and bird watching opportunities. Pristine coastal ecosystem perfect for photography and peaceful beach walks.

Marine Science Center

15 Minutes from Salty Waves

Educational exhibits featuring Gulf marine life, touch tanks, sea turtle rehabilitation, and coastal ecology. Perfect family activity rain or shine.

Dolphin Watching Tours

10 Minutes from Salty Waves

Guided boat tours to see playful dolphins in their natural habitat. Sunset cruises and nature tours also available for unforgettable Gulf experiences.

✦ THINGS TO DO ✦

Activities for Everyone

From water adventures to cultural experiences

Beach Activities

Fishing & Water Sports

Marine Wildlife

Dining & Nightlife

Shopping & Arts

Family Fun

✦ DINING ✦

Best Restaurants

Fresh Gulf seafood and authentic coastal cuisine

Venetian Hot Plate

Italian Seafood • Upscale

Fine dining with Gulf views featuring fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and an extensive wine list. Perfect for romantic

Shells Pasta & Seafood

Seafood • Casual

Local favorite serving fresh-caught fish, shrimp, and oysters. Famous for their crab cakes and seafood pasta in a relaxed beach atmosphere.

Trout Street Bar & Grill

American • Bar

Lively waterfront venue with live music, cold beer, and classic American fare. Great burgers, fish tacos, and the best people-watching in town.

Moby Dick's Restaurant

Seafood • Family

Family-friendly restaurant with fresh seafood platters, fried shrimp, and kids menu. Casual atmosphere with generous portions .

Coffee Waves

Cafe • Breakfast

Cozy beachside cafe serving specialty coffee, fresh pastries, and breakfast favorites. Perfect spot to start your beach day.

Shorty's Place

Beach Bar • Casual

Island institution with cold drinks, beach vibes, and live music. Famous for frozen cocktails and laid-back atmosphere steps from the sand.

ANNUAL EVENTS

Festivals & Celebrations

Year-round events celebrating coastal island culture

APRIL

Sandfest April 17-19, 2026

Texas’ largest sandcastle building competition featuring master sculptors from around the world. Amazing sand art, family activities, and beach entertainment for all ages.

JULY

Deep Sea Roundup

One of the oldest and largest fishing tournaments in Texas. Multiple categories, cash prizes, and fishing festivities celebrating Port A’s fishing heritage.

SEPTEMBER

Beach-to-Bay Relay Marathon

Epic 26.2-mile relay race from Padre Island to downtown Corpus Christi. Teams of 6 runners tackle the scenic coastal course in this beloved community event.

OCTOBER

Port A Oktoberfest

German-style festival with beer, bratwurst, live music, and family fun. Celebrate fall on the beach with authentic food, games, and entertainment.

NOVEMBER

Harvest Moon Regatta

Sailing competition attracting boats from across the Gulf Coast. Spectators enjoy watching colorful sails against sunset skies from beach and harbor.

YEAR_ROUND

Weekly Beachside Events

Live music at beach bars, sunset yoga sessions, farmers markets, and art shows happen regularly throughout the year in downtown Port Aransas.

✦ STAY ✦

Stay at Salty Waves Beach House

Experience Port Aransas from your own charming coastal cottage. Salty Waves Beach House offers the perfect island retreat—just a short walk from pristine beaches with a fenced yard for pets, game room, and all the beach amenities you need.

3 Bed • 2.5 Bath Sleeps 8

7 Minute Walk to Beach

Pet-Friendly Fenced Yard

5.0 Rated Beach House

Book your stay at Salty Waves and enjoy the ultimate Texas coastal getaway