Things to Do in Port Aransas
Welcome to Port A, where the sandy streets meet a laid-back island pace. Whether you are cruising down the shoreline with the ocean breeze in your hair or setting sail for a deep-sea fishing adventure, our charming beach town has something for everyone. Here is our local guide on how to get the most out of your stay, with or without a golf cart.
Cruising in True Island Style: Things to Do with a Golf Cart
Port Aransas is world-famous for its golf cart culture. Because our local beaches are completely drivable, renting a cart turns regular transportation into part of the vacation adventure. Throw your gear in the back, skip the hassle of getting sand in your car, and explore these top spots:
Hit the Beach at Mustang Island: Drive directly onto the wide, sandy shoreline. A golf cart makes it incredibly easy to pack up your beach chairs, coolers, and umbrellas, cruise along the water to find the perfect secluded spot, and set up camp for a day of sun and surf.
Explore Old Town Port Aransas: Navigate the local streets like a true insider. Cruise down Alister Street, Avenue G, and Cotter Avenue to hop between quirky souvenir shops, local clothing boutiques, and incredible beachside eateries without ever worrying about tight parking spaces.
Spot Wild Dolphins at Roberts Point Park: Drive your cart right up to the waterfront at this beautiful park along the shipping channel. It is one of the best places on the Texas coast to sit back and watch bottlenose dolphins play in the wake of passing ships, especially as they feed near the seawall at sunset.
Visit the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center: Located at the end of Ross Avenue, you can park your cart and step onto the expansive boardwalk over the freshwater wetlands. Keep your eyes peeled for hundreds of beautiful bird species and say hello to "Boots," our famous local resident alligator who loves to hang out near the viewing platforms.
Cruise the Port Aransas Jetties: Take a scenic ride down to the edge of the island where the ship channel meets the Gulf. Park your cart and walk along the stone jetty to look for sea turtles and jellyfish swimming along the mossy rocks.
Unplugged and On the Water: Things to Do Without a Golf Cart
While a cart is the best way to get around town and onto the sand, some of the most unforgettable experiences in the Fishing Capital of Texas take place where low-speed vehicles cannot go—like out on the open water or down the state highway.
Book a Deep-Sea Fishing Charter: Head down to the marina and hop aboard a professional fishing boat. Whether you want a quick family bay trip or a multi-day offshore excursion targeting tuna and wahoo, casting a line in these waters is a must-do experience.
Sail on the Red Dragon Pirate Cruise: Perfect for families with kids, this theatrical pirate adventure takes you out into the Lydia Ann Channel for dolphin watching, pirate stories, sword fights, and a completely unique view of the historic Lydia Ann Lighthouse.
Walk the Horace Caldwell Pier: Stretching 1,280 feet straight out into the Gulf of Mexico, this iconic lighted pier is a paradise for fishermen and surfers alike. It is a fantastic spot for a morning stroll to watch the sunrise or an evening walk to see what the local anglers are reeling in.
Explore the Patton Center for Marine Science Education: Located at the UT Marine Science Institute, this free, family-friendly center features large aquariums and interactive displays that allow visitors of all ages to learn about local marine life and coastal conservation research.
Enjoy a Car-Access Dinner and a Show: While golf carts are a blast, state law prohibits them from driving on State Highway 361. Save a night to take your regular car down the highway to experience local landmarks like Jay's Seafood & Spaghetti Works or catch a live theater performance at the Port Aransas Community Theatre.