Gear up for your next beach day vacay at Port A, a coastal town that Southern Living calls a “dream summer escape”.
Memorial Day weekend has arrived, marking the unofficial start to summer. When mapping out your summer bucket list, be sure to pencil in the Texas beach town of Port Aransas.
Located on the northern tip of Mustang Island, Port Aransas is an 18-mile cozy beach town nestled along the shores of the Gulf Coast.
A constant in best beaches listicles, ranging from TripAdvisor‘s “Top 25 Best Beaches in the U.S.” to Southern Living’s “The South’s Best Beach Towns“, the Port A offers authentic island living.
Port Aransas features convenient drive-on beaches, making it easy to set up your seaside headquarters directly on the sand. The Gulf offers abundant watersport options, including surfing, jet skiing, kiteboarding, and kayaking.
While families enjoy exploring the massive dunes at Mustang Island State Park, those looking for quieter adventures can visit nearby San José Island for uncrowded shores and premium shelling.
For all you anglers out there, be sure to bring your equipment as Port Aransas holds the title of the “fishing capital of Texas“. As highlighted by Southern Living, the town’s waters are populated with the likes of flounder, redfish, and trout, with trophy fish swimming further out in the gulf waters.
Here’s what Southern Living had to say about Port Aransas:
“This sleepy fishing village has long been a nostalgic vacation spot for generations of Texas families. Perhaps the biggest draw of the are is its broad, walkable beachfronts with firm sand, gentle surf, and warm water that lasts well into the fall months,” the publication writes.
Aside from the sand, Port Aransas offers authentic Texas coastal charm. Visitors can explore local maritime history at the Tarpon Inn—featuring FDR-signed tarpon scales—as well as the Port Aransas Museum and Farley Boat Works.
The town also boasts a thriving arts scene, anchored by the Port Aransas Art Center, local galleries, and year-round productions at the Community Theatre. For unique entertainment, check out the local belt sander races, fire-dancing performances, and beach bonfire gatherings.
