Port Aransas, Texas is located on the northern tip of Mustang Island in the Gulf of Mexico and is a great place to spend a family vacation. Beaches, nature, shopping and great restaurants make Port Aransas the place to be with family and friends.
Port Aransas offers a multitude of hotels, cottages, beach houses or RV parks that will fit your budget and needs. Luxury hotel rooms, camp grounds and everything in between give vacationers many options.
Port Aransas has 18 miles of beach, is located on the world's largest barrier reef and allows its visitors to drive their vehicles right onto the beach. With this much beach access, you can indulge in several activities such as seashell hunting, wind surfing, jet skiing, or just laying in the sun. Also, located along the sand dunes is the Arnold Palmer Signature golf course---sure to thrill any golfer, regardless of experience level. Port Aransas requires beach parking permits that can be purchased at local vendors, grocery stores, convenience stores as well as the chamber of commerce and city hall. RV and camping are also permitted on the beach with permits, for three nights within a three week period.
Enjoy a close up of Mother Nature by walking along a raised boardwalk in the Leonabell Turnbull Birding Center. Free guided tours are available on Wednesday's at 9:00 am, depending on the season and migration.
The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is one of over 545 refuges in the United States and was established by President Roosevelt in 1937. The refuge covers over 115,000 acres and is world renowned for hosting the largest flock of endangered whooping cranes in the world each winter. Alligators, white tail deer, armadillos, and javelin are also at home in the refuge as well as a wide spectrum of wildflowers.
Mustang Island State Park is an excellent place to swim, fish, picnic, hike and mountain bike along five miles of beach. The Mustang State Park offers facilities such as campsites, shade shelters and restrooms with showers.
Port Aransas is an excellent place to fish and has occasional fishing tournaments throughout the year.
Port Aransas Art Center displays local artists' work. The Port Aransas Museum also beckons visitors with displays from historical artifacts to photographs and stories about the town. And there are many shops that offer everything from beach gear to home décor to fashions and food.
Port Aransas offers a variety of food from around the world. Whether you want quick and easy or long and leisurely you are sure to find the perfect place to eat. Seafood, Cajun, Mexican, American, German, Thai and Italian foods are all sure to please. Night clubs and evening entertainment are also available in many of the bars and grills.
