Port Aransas

Cast a line, launch a kayak or kick back on an island escape

This fishing village boasts an enviable reputation as a Texas coastal gem, welcoming visitors with the promise of a peaceful retreat.

Port Aransas sits on Mustang Island, one of the long, thin barrier islands that protect the Texas mainland from storms in the Gulf of Mexico. For visitors, this coastal gem and surrounding land are valued not for their practical function, but the ample fun and adventure found on the island’s unblemished shores. Port Aransas serves up an eclectic mix of aquatic sports and quaint, seaside fun. From fishing to kayaking to learning about wild Texas history, Port Aransas is the place to be.

A one-hour drive from Corpus Christi via the scenic John F. Kennedy Memorial Causeway, Port Aransas is a magnet for lovers of aquatic sports. Charter a cruise for 200-pound tarpon, or simply drop a line off the pier. You can also bring your own boat from one of the many marinas along the city. Known as the “Fishing Capital of Texas,” anglers can reel in redfish, flounder, black drum and trout.

Lovers of land-based pursuits can stroll the town’s quaint streets and browse the many galleries and shops in town. When the sun sets, the town comes alive with bustling nightclubs and superb restaurants. If you want to expand your horizons, explore San Jose Island to the north or Padre Island to the south, both of which are part of the long chain of islands that line the coast. After a day of wandering, return to Port Aransas for a hearty meal—you can even have the local restaurant prepare the fish you caught just hours before.

Larry D. Moore

Pirate’s Booty and Big Fish

The first known human occupants of Mustang Island were the Karankawas Indians, who fished off its beaches about 4,500 years ago. Spanish explorer Cabeza de Vaca was probably the first European to meet the Karankawas in 1528. The island earned its name from the wild horses left there by the Spanish in the 1800s. Pirate Jean Lafitte made some stops on the island, and, according to legend, the buccaneer left a chest of gold and jewels beneath the ground marked by a Spanish dagger with a silver spike driven through the hilt.

Commercial shipping took advantage of the natural pass through the island leading to the mainland, and the town of Port Aransas quickly developed along this channel to support the vessels and their crews that were sailing through. Forts were established in the area during the Mexican War and the Civil War, but in the subsequent years, fishing became the town’s main industry. At the turn of the century, the village enjoyed a thriving business exporting sea turtles, some as heavy as 500 pounds.

Today, fishing continues to lure legions of anglers to the town to catch some of the estimated 600 species of saltwater fish that inhabit the waters off the island. It’s no surprise then that Port Aransas is home to the oldest fishing tournament on the Texas Gulf Coast, the Deep Sea Roundup held every July. The fun-filled event features competition in offshore, bay surf, fly-fishing and junior division categories. A free Piggy Perch contest lets small children get in on the action. You don’t have to participate to enjoy the action. Watching the drama-filled weigh-ins of unbelievably big fish is often a thrill unto itself.

If you prefer mammalian aquatic life, sign up for a dolphin tour and see these fascinating creatures up close. Port Aransas is known for its large populations of dolphins, and a chance to see the playful, inquisitive animals in their natural habitat shouldn’t be missed.

Heading Inland

Away from the Gulf waters, miles of inland waterways snake through the island. Island tour guides take kayakers on a trek to Lighthouse Lakes Paddling Trail, a compelling journey that leads to the Lydia Ann Lighthouse, dating back to 1857. Built to protect ships from running aground on the island’s tricky passes, the brick lighthouse was fought over by the Union and Confederate forces during the Civil War and is now under private ownership. While taking the kayaking trip, visitors might be treated to the sights of jumping fish and the occasional shrimp boat chugging along the water.

Seeking souvenirs? Hop on a jetty boat for a trip to the unspoiled coastline of San Jose Island. Among the treasures lying untouched in the sand are lightning whelks, shark eyes, sand dollars and many other species.

AlbertHerring

Fishing and Fun

Port Aransas has no shortage of festivals to keep visitors busy. In addition to fishing tournaments held nearly every weekend throughout the summer, the city hosts the Texas SandFest every April. Sand sculptors and sandcastle architects of all ages are invited to use the beach as a blank canvas and put their creativity to the test. Win prizes or simply have a great time as vendors serve up delicious food (just don’t let any sand get into your meal). Watch majestic sailboats glide into harbor during the Harvest Moon Regatta, held every October. This race brings some of America’s best sailors to the Gulf each fall.

For those who prefer a more sedate pursuit, the area’s 18 miles of public beaches invite strollers and swimmers to enjoy uncrowded shores. Bring a Frisbee, football or volleyball and frolic in the sand.

Visitors can get to the mainland via the Port Aransas Ferry System, which offers free transportation service seven days a week. The ride connects Mustang Island and Port Aransas with the mainland via the Aransas Pass—vehicles longer than 85 feet are prohibited. On land, the Port Aransas shuttle travels daily through the city, giving visitors a ride to shops, restaurants and more in this island paradise.

For More Information

Texas Office of the Governor, Economic Development and Tourism

512-463-2000

www.traveltex.com

Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce

800-45-COAST

www.portaransas.org