San José Island (also known as St. Jo or Saint Joseph Island) is a 21-mile private barrier island located off the Gulf Coast of Texas. If you’re looking for a change of scenery on your Port Aransas vacation, consider spending a morning or afternoon on St. Jo, where you’ll find plenty of opportunities to fish, beachcomb, bird watch, and more.
History of San José Island
San José Island’s history dates back to 1845, when Lt. Chandler of the USS Alabama planted the first American flag to fly over Texas territory on a sand dune. Aransas, a small military town, was established. However, during the Civil War, the Union Army destroyed and burned the town, leaving nothing remaining. The island was turned into a fishing and hunting resort, and today, it is privately owned and operates as a wildlife conservation ranch.
Sandpiper Tip: While the island is private, people are welcome to visit as long as you stay on the beach below the mean high tide line.
How to Get to San José Island
Traveling to St. Jo is as easy as hopping onto the Jetty Boat for a short ride across the channel. The Jetty Boat runs every day from Fisherman’s Wharf to the North Jetty on San Jose Island. Departure times vary by season. In the summer, trips start as early as 6:30 am, with the last departure trip at 4:00 pm. Return trips are fewer, with return trips to Fisherman’s Wharf starting at 10:10 am and the last return trip at 6:00 pm.
Rates for the Jetty Boat round trip are below:
- $20.00 for anyone 13 or older
- $10.00 for ages 6-12
- Ages 5 and under are free.
Sandpiper Tip: Arrive at the dock well in advance of the departure times to ensure you don’t miss the boat. The 6:00 pm trip from San Jose Island back to Fisherman’s Wharf is the LAST return trip of the day, and you don’t want to be stranded on the island overnight.
What to Bring on Your Day Trip
There are no amenities or shelters of any kind on the island, so you’ll want to make sure you’re well prepared for the day if you choose to spend a few hours or the day on St. Jo. Here’s what we recommend packing for a day on the island:
- Sun protection – You’ll want to pack sunscreen (a lot!), hats, and sunglasses.
- Water – Staying hydrated is important, especially on warmer days. Bring extra, even if you only plan to stay for a couple of hours.
- Cooler – Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks. The island is perfect for a nice picnic with family!
- Gear – If you plan to fish, beachcomb, or bird watch, be sure to bring your gear!
Sandpiper Tip: Remember to leave no trace and pack up anything you brought on the island!
Things to Do on San José Island
Shelling: This is the island’s biggest draw. There are no vehicles allowed, and with fewer visitors, you can find pristine shells like lightning whelks (the Texas state shell), shark eyes, angel wings, and sand dollars. Go during low tide or after a storm for the best finds.
World-Class Fishing: The North Jetty is a legendary spot for anglers. You can cast for Speckled Trout, Redfish, Flounder, and Tarpon.
Birdwatching: The island is a critical habitat for coastal birds. Keep an eye out for herons, egrets, and various migratory shorebirds that thrive in the undisturbed dunes.
Uninterrupted Relaxation: With 21 miles of shoreline and no cars, it’s the best place in the area to find a completely private stretch of sand for swimming or sunbathing.
After a day filled with excitement and exploration on San José Island, it’s time to retreat to your beachfront Port Aransas condo at Sandpiper Condominiums and relax. You’ll get back just in time for a beautiful Port A sunset, or you can head to one of the island’s many delicious restaurants.
