If you want a vacation destination with an abundance of sun, sand and smiles, look no further than Port Aransas. This lovely Texas Gulf Coast town offers endless recreation options and coastal Texas charm. The summers are typically the most crowded time in Port Aransas, as the warm weather attracts visitors from all over – so it’s important to plan ahead and book your accommodations with plenty of notice. But the town really comes alive during the summer months, so it’s a fun time to visit. The beaches are a major draw, but there’s also fishing tournaments, live music, art festivals, and outdoor markets to enjoy. Pack your swimsuit, grab the sunscreen and dive into these top reasons to visit Port Aransas this summer!
Head to the Beach
The biggest attraction in Port Aransas is the wide stretch of sand where you can hang out and dip your toes in warm Gulf waters. The 6-mile Port Aransas beach is located right in town, and is very popular with families for its calm waves and lifeguard stations. For more rustic beaches with the opportunity to spot local birds and wildlife, head further south to Mustang Island State Park or Padre Island National Seashore. The calm waters are great for all ages and the sand is perfect for building sandcastles (or learning to build sand sculptures). Drive your vehicle to the perfect spot on the sand and settle in for a fun-filled beach day!
Learn to Surf
The calm, consistent waves of Port Aransas present an excellent opportunity for beginners to learn and experience the thrill of surfing. Local surf schools like Texas Surf Camp offer group and individual lessons for ages 6 and up. More experienced surfers can rent a board at Island Surf Rentals and head to Horace Caldwell Pier in Port Aransas or Mustang Island State Park for some of the best surfing in Texas.
Go Parasailing
Get a birds eye view of Port Aransas with a parasailing adventure! Soar up to 300 feet in the air behind an expertly driven boat with Chute ‘Em Up Parasail. This family-friendly activity is great for ages 7 and up, with the option to ride along in the boat for those who are too young or don’t want to be in the air.
Rent a Golf Cart
Renting a golf cart is a fun and popular way to get around Port Aransas. You can operate a golf cart on city streets and even take it onto the beach. Pay a visit to Bron’s Beach Carts to get your rental set up, and enjoy a shaved ice and yard games on their patio while you wait.
Watch the Sea Turtles Hatch
Summer is the perfect time to view baby sea turtles as they hatch and make their way to the ocean. From mid-June through August, the National Park Service welcomes visitors to hatchling release events at Malaquite Beach on the Padre Island National Seashore.
Go Kayaking
Exploring the waterways of Port Aransas is a great way to get the whole family out on the water. Rent kayaks from Island Surf Rentals and head to Mustang Island State Park where you can paddle over 20 miles of trails to observe the local wildlife. For a unique nighttime activity, check out the Glow Row tour, where you can paddle under the stars in clear kayaks with LEDs lighting up the aquatic world beneath you.
Spot some Dolphins
The waters around Port Aransas are a favorite playground for dolphins. Neptune Charters offers a tour with dolphin watching, shrimp trawling and an interactive “touch tank”. Reserve a spot on the Scarlet Lady for a smaller group experience. Make sure to also keep an eye out for dolphins in the water as you ride the ferry to Port Aransas!
Grab a Sweet Treat
After a day in the hot Texas sun, satisfy your sweet tooth with some ice cream at Port A Creamery or stop by Winton’s Candies for old school candy and locally-made fudge. Head over to enjoy your sweet treat at Roberts Point Park, where the kids can burn off extra energy on the pirate-themed playground, or walk out onto the fishing pier to spot dolphins and turtles.
Pirate Ship
The unique experience of a pirate ship cruise with Red Dragon Pirate Cruises offers the perfect blend of excitement and entertainment for all ages. This popular family activity includes interactive performances from the crew, storytelling, treasure hunts and more. Set sail on a whimsical pirate adventure that the whole family is sure to enjoy!
Explore Indoors
To take a break from the sun or less ideal weather, check out some of the indoor activities in the area. The Port Aransas Museum has exhibits about the history of coastal Texas, with free admission and kid-friendly workshops throughout the summer. The Texas State Aquarium in nearby Corpus Christi is a popular destination for families for its world-class exhibits focusing on local marine life, interactive animal shows and a splash park. Port Aransas is an idyllic destination for families seeking a memorable summer escape. With its pristine beaches and an abundance of family-friendly activities, this oceanside haven promises adventure and relaxation. Book your Port Aransas vacation rental at the centrally-located Sandpiper Condominiums for an exciting summer getaway with easy access to the beach and all of the Port Aransas fun!
