✔ Let's Go to Port Aransas ~ ~ ~ !
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The Beach at Port Aransas, Texas
Sand dunes at Port Aransas, Texas
View the Web cams at The Dunes
Port Aransas is a beach town in Texas on the Gulf of Mexico. And just to make sure you're pronouncing it correctly, "Aransas" rhymes with Kansas, not Arkansas. The locals refer to it as "Port A".
The closest city is Corpus Christi, about a one-hour drive away. Port Aransas is on the northern tip of an island called "Mustang Island", so named after the mustang horses which used to inhabit the place.
Jump to: Web cams at The Dunes
Getting to the beach itself is very easy. There are several access roads that take you right to the sand. Regular vehicles can drive on the beach, although driving conditions vary. If it's rained recently, the sand is probably packed down pretty good, making beach driving fairly easy. If it's been a drive summer, the sand is loose and driving on the beach can be tenuous.
It's a great place for fishing, boating, shrimping, body surfing, building sand castles, beach combing, swimming, sunning, relaxing, exploring, golfing, bird watching, star gazing, walking, running and driving.
Zip Code: 78373
Area Code: 361
Time Zone: Central Daylight Time
Get the current weather data from the The University of Texas Marine Science Institute
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Weather for Port Aransas, Texas, USA
Current and forecast condtions
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Beach Update - August 2010
No oil (thankfully) but lots of stinging jellyfish
We were at Port Aransas August 2, 3, 4, and 5, 2010.
The weather was beautiful: calm blue skies with just an occasional cloud to provide some shade. It was windy enough to cool us off but not so windy as to become annoying. We gauge the wind speed by how often we have to clean the salt spray off our glasses. I know, not too scientific, but it is practical!
Some like it hot
It was definitely hot on the beach. The water temperature was hot too - 88 degrees Farenheit. We were at the beach while the tide was still going out and the shallow water left behind was downright burning our feet. Usually, it's just the dry sand near the dunes that scorches my feet, but this time of year even the wet sand gets super hot.
Great balls of fire
That was not as bad as being stung by jellyfish. The good news was that the water was relatively clear so it was easy to spot them, even when I had my glasses off. These jellyfish were about the size of a golf ball. They didn't have long tentacles but their identifying mark was their brown radial stripes. As they floated by they bump into you and you start to feel the sting right away. For the most part the sting only hurt a little bit and lasted about an hour. It was annoying and made me hesitant to go into the water. Several other beach goers reported the same thing. As a matter of fact, we struck up conversations with three other families about the frequency of the stinging jellyfish.
Ouchy Wa-Wa
My worst sting occurred on the first day. We arrived at Port Aransas late in the afternoon and headed to the beach around 6pm. We saw the jellyfish but my husband assured me that these were not the stinging kind. I was not convinced and tried to avoid them. At one point, I was sitting in the shallow water with my knees slightly bent when I felt something bounce off my thigh. This warranted a girly scream from me - when I'm alone in the water and something touches me, I scream like a little girl. The thing - a jellyfish - bounced from one thigh to the next and then all at once I felt the stinging burn. I ran to shore yelling "I've been stung!"
First aid kit - quick!
I went to my first aid kit in the back of the car and applied a bunch of calamine lotion. This particular burn covered a wide area (we're talking about my thighs here) and it really hurt. The calamine lotion didn't really help too much. The real remedy is Adolph's Meat Tenderizer but I didn't have any. Years ago I used to bring it with us but then the jellyfish went away and I stopped taking it with me to the beach. We quickly packed up our things and returned to the condominium so I could shower it off with fresh water. It still burned but became more bearable after a few hours. The next day I was fine. I had no other reactions to it - no itching, no breathing problems, no swelling, and no hives.
Little stingers!
We were more cautious the following days at the beach. We each got stung at least once a day but they were more annoying than painful. When you go into any body of water - I don't care where you are - you are bound to get bit or stung or stabbed by something. You are in their territory and it's a fish eat fish world. Heck I can go out into my back yard and get bit by mosquitos or ants and have itchy spots that last for a couple of days. Stinging jellyfish at Port Aransas are just something to be mindful of and shouldn't keep anyone away from the beach or from having a good time.
Adolph's Meat Tenderizer to the rescue
The primary ingredient of Adolph's Meat Tenderizer is papain. The papain neutralizes the protein in jellyfish venom, relieving the sting. You can read a little more about it here: Medical uses for Adolph's Meat Tenderizer and Why Meat Tenderizer Reduces Swelling.
The weather was beautiful: calm blue skies with just an occasional cloud to provide some shade. It was windy enough to cool us off but not so windy as to become annoying. We gauge the wind speed by how often we have to clean the salt spray off our glasses. I know, not too scientific, but it is practical!
Some like it hot
It was definitely hot on the beach. The water temperature was hot too - 88 degrees Farenheit. We were at the beach while the tide was still going out and the shallow water left behind was downright burning our feet. Usually, it's just the dry sand near the dunes that scorches my feet, but this time of year even the wet sand gets super hot.
Great balls of fire
That was not as bad as being stung by jellyfish. The good news was that the water was relatively clear so it was easy to spot them, even when I had my glasses off. These jellyfish were about the size of a golf ball. They didn't have long tentacles but their identifying mark was their brown radial stripes. As they floated by they bump into you and you start to feel the sting right away. For the most part the sting only hurt a little bit and lasted about an hour. It was annoying and made me hesitant to go into the water. Several other beach goers reported the same thing. As a matter of fact, we struck up conversations with three other families about the frequency of the stinging jellyfish.
Ouchy Wa-Wa
My worst sting occurred on the first day. We arrived at Port Aransas late in the afternoon and headed to the beach around 6pm. We saw the jellyfish but my husband assured me that these were not the stinging kind. I was not convinced and tried to avoid them. At one point, I was sitting in the shallow water with my knees slightly bent when I felt something bounce off my thigh. This warranted a girly scream from me - when I'm alone in the water and something touches me, I scream like a little girl. The thing - a jellyfish - bounced from one thigh to the next and then all at once I felt the stinging burn. I ran to shore yelling "I've been stung!"
First aid kit - quick!
I went to my first aid kit in the back of the car and applied a bunch of calamine lotion. This particular burn covered a wide area (we're talking about my thighs here) and it really hurt. The calamine lotion didn't really help too much. The real remedy is Adolph's Meat Tenderizer but I didn't have any. Years ago I used to bring it with us but then the jellyfish went away and I stopped taking it with me to the beach. We quickly packed up our things and returned to the condominium so I could shower it off with fresh water. It still burned but became more bearable after a few hours. The next day I was fine. I had no other reactions to it - no itching, no breathing problems, no swelling, and no hives.
Little stingers!
We were more cautious the following days at the beach. We each got stung at least once a day but they were more annoying than painful. When you go into any body of water - I don't care where you are - you are bound to get bit or stung or stabbed by something. You are in their territory and it's a fish eat fish world. Heck I can go out into my back yard and get bit by mosquitos or ants and have itchy spots that last for a couple of days. Stinging jellyfish at Port Aransas are just something to be mindful of and shouldn't keep anyone away from the beach or from having a good time.
Adolph's Meat Tenderizer to the rescue
The primary ingredient of Adolph's Meat Tenderizer is papain. The papain neutralizes the protein in jellyfish venom, relieving the sting. You can read a little more about it here: Medical uses for Adolph's Meat Tenderizer and Why Meat Tenderizer Reduces Swelling.
Beach Update May 2010
No oil reported at the beach
I'm happy to report that the oil spill has not reached Port Aransas. At least not at the part of the beach we were at, which was near mile marker 45.
We were there the weekend of May 22, 2010, and didn't see an increase in oil blobs on the beach or in the water. I say "increase" because we have always seen some kind of tar remnant, typically less than 1/8" thick and around 2" x 2". I saw one of those floating by but that is really not that unusual.
There was some seaweed on the shore and in the water but nothing we couldn't tolerate. There seemed to be lots of seaweed bits in the water, which I hate because they get trapped in my bathing suit, but the water was still relatively clear.
I know the oil spill in the gulf is a huge concern for everyone but it looks like so far, the beaches at Port Aransas have not been affected by it.
We were there the weekend of May 22, 2010, and didn't see an increase in oil blobs on the beach or in the water. I say "increase" because we have always seen some kind of tar remnant, typically less than 1/8" thick and around 2" x 2". I saw one of those floating by but that is really not that unusual.
There was some seaweed on the shore and in the water but nothing we couldn't tolerate. There seemed to be lots of seaweed bits in the water, which I hate because they get trapped in my bathing suit, but the water was still relatively clear.
I know the oil spill in the gulf is a huge concern for everyone but it looks like so far, the beaches at Port Aransas have not been affected by it.
Port Aransas, Texas Web cam
This was the Place to be to Watch the Storm Surge from Recent Hurricanes
The web cam is working again! Yay!
THE DUNES CONDO WEB CAM. The dunes condo web cam is near the Horace Caldwell Pier.
If you haven't looked at this web cam in a while, take another look. They have panned back so you can see a huge swath of the beach. This will come in very handy when you want to see the seaweed conditions and driving conditions.
Web cam: Ferry at Port Aransas, Texas
See who is coming and going
LEAVING PORT ARANSAS (Port Aransas ferry cam #1)
These folks have been in line and headed for the staging area for the ferry that will take them away from Port Aransas.
LEAVING PORT ARANSAS (Port Aransas ferry cam #2)
In the background on the left is the ferry line loop. If you see cars over there, you know the wait will be long. In the upper right is the marina parking lot and are not in line for the ferry.
ARRIVING AT PORT ARANSAS (Port Aransas ferry cam #3)
Waiting in line for the ferry that will take them to Port Aransas.
Dolphins
While on the ferry boat, it's quite common to see dolphins in the channel. The time to really see them, though, is when a huge tanker comes through. At the front of the ship, the moving tanker disperses quite a bit of water. To a dolphin, that is a playground! Several of them meet at the bow and jump in and out of the water.
Web Cams are Online Again
These were down for a while but are back again
BEACH WEB CAM
Early morning sun makes viewing nearly impossible so be sure to come back in the afternoon or early evening.
BOAT LAUNCH WEB CAM (near the ferry)
**Check out the tides, wind conditions, and activity near the marina from this web cam at Port Aransas.
Foreground: "The Pelican" is a fishing excursion boat that launches from "Deep Sea Headquarters."
Background: Public Boat Ramp at Port Aransas. Don't have a boat? No problem. Just sit back and watch other people launch their boats from this Port Aransas web cam.
The way back background: That's the ferry line for people leaving Port Aransas.
DEEP SEA HEADQUARTERS WEB CAM
I guess if you can't go fishing yourself, you can watch other people bringing in their catch. They come in all day, but there are some boat trips that come back around 3pm and again around 6pm. (Central Time)
Go to the website for Deep Sea Headquarters whose motto is "U Hook Em, We Cook Em."
Tweets from Keith McMullin, Mayor of Port Aransas
Official tweets from the Mayor of Port Aransas, Texas
Red Tide hits the Gulf Coast
Mainly affecting South Padre but also Corpus Christi
From the Texas Parks and Wildlife website, October 22, 2009
"Aerosols have decreased today at Mustang Island State Park south of Port Aransas. Last night's high tide cleaned off the beaches a bit, pushing the dead fish from the shoreline back to the dunes. This morning fresh dead fish began washing ashore along the beaches, including finger mullet and small ladyfish; old dead fish that likely died offshore are washing in as well. A reddish foam can be seen in the surf but it is unclear whether this is due to the red tide." ...READ MORE...
"Aerosols have decreased today at Mustang Island State Park south of Port Aransas. Last night's high tide cleaned off the beaches a bit, pushing the dead fish from the shoreline back to the dunes. This morning fresh dead fish began washing ashore along the beaches, including finger mullet and small ladyfish; old dead fish that likely died offshore are washing in as well. A reddish foam can be seen in the surf but it is unclear whether this is due to the red tide." ...READ MORE...
This is NOT Port Aransas. It is South Padre Island, which is suffering the most from the red tide.
Red tide plush toy
Tired of teddy bears and stuffed kitty cats?
Beach Tourist Report - December 2008
Weekend of December 6, 2008
This particular trip was a business trip, so I only spent a couple hours on the beach on Saturday afternoon.
First, I have to tell you that I was the only one wearing shorts and a tee shirt. Just about everyone else wore pants and either a long sleeve shirt or a jacket. I was barefoot and even let the water touch my ankles!
Seaweed - It figures that the only time there isn't seaweed is when it's too cold to really enjoy the beach. It didn't look like they scraped any away; it looked like none washed up.
Driving - There was a sign right at the end of Access Road 1A that said the driving conditions were poor. The sand did look soft, but I didn't see anyone having trouble driving. I didn't go south of Access Road 1A, so I don't know what the driving conditions further down were like.
Jellyfish - I saw quite a few of them but not enough to hinder my walking on the beach.
Water - It was a beautiful deep blue color and looked fairly clear. It was too cold for me to even think about swimming. Actually, it was pretty cold on my feet too, but once they got numb from the cold, I really didn't notice the temperature anymore.
"Winter Texans" are the folks who come down to Texas for the summer instead of staying in up in Wisconsin or New Jersey. They are the lucky ones.
First, I have to tell you that I was the only one wearing shorts and a tee shirt. Just about everyone else wore pants and either a long sleeve shirt or a jacket. I was barefoot and even let the water touch my ankles!
Seaweed - It figures that the only time there isn't seaweed is when it's too cold to really enjoy the beach. It didn't look like they scraped any away; it looked like none washed up.
Driving - There was a sign right at the end of Access Road 1A that said the driving conditions were poor. The sand did look soft, but I didn't see anyone having trouble driving. I didn't go south of Access Road 1A, so I don't know what the driving conditions further down were like.
Jellyfish - I saw quite a few of them but not enough to hinder my walking on the beach.
Water - It was a beautiful deep blue color and looked fairly clear. It was too cold for me to even think about swimming. Actually, it was pretty cold on my feet too, but once they got numb from the cold, I really didn't notice the temperature anymore.
"Winter Texans" are the folks who come down to Texas for the summer instead of staying in up in Wisconsin or New Jersey. They are the lucky ones.
Beach Tourist Report - November 2008
Weekend of November 8 & 9, 2008
Autumn is a nice time to go to the beach. Here's my report for the beach when we were there the weekend of November 8 and 9.
First, it was very windy. The water temperature was reported to be 77 degrees (F) but it felt alot cooler. Maybe because the wind was so strong. Even though the water was choppy from the waves, it was very clear.
Second, the driving was very good. The sand is hard packed; there were only a few places where it was soft but our car had no problem getting past it.
Third, the seaweed was moderate. I know it's all subjective, so let me describe it like this. If you walked along the beach and did not want to step on seaweed, you had to watch your step. On the other hand, you didn't need to create a path to get from the sandy area to the water line. There didn't seem to be much seaweed in the water.
Jellyfish: there were jellyfish (cabbidge head) washed up on the beach. They don't sting but when I accidentally stepped on one I jumped a mile in the air.
Portugese Man-of-war (I call them "blue jellies"): There were a few of them washed up and since they DO sting, I was careful to avoid them. I think our dog felt a little sting because she kept licking her foot but there was no cut or sticker stuck on her.
Crowds: No crowds. That's one of the nice things about going to the beach in the fall.
Winds: Oh yeah, plenty of wind. I wore shorts and tee shirt but in the afternoon I had to put my sweatshirt on.
Sand dunes: The residual affects from Hurricanes Dolly and Ike did some damage to the dunes and the vegetation but they are still there.
First, it was very windy. The water temperature was reported to be 77 degrees (F) but it felt alot cooler. Maybe because the wind was so strong. Even though the water was choppy from the waves, it was very clear.
Second, the driving was very good. The sand is hard packed; there were only a few places where it was soft but our car had no problem getting past it.
Third, the seaweed was moderate. I know it's all subjective, so let me describe it like this. If you walked along the beach and did not want to step on seaweed, you had to watch your step. On the other hand, you didn't need to create a path to get from the sandy area to the water line. There didn't seem to be much seaweed in the water.
Jellyfish: there were jellyfish (cabbidge head) washed up on the beach. They don't sting but when I accidentally stepped on one I jumped a mile in the air.
Portugese Man-of-war (I call them "blue jellies"): There were a few of them washed up and since they DO sting, I was careful to avoid them. I think our dog felt a little sting because she kept licking her foot but there was no cut or sticker stuck on her.
Crowds: No crowds. That's one of the nice things about going to the beach in the fall.
Winds: Oh yeah, plenty of wind. I wore shorts and tee shirt but in the afternoon I had to put my sweatshirt on.
Sand dunes: The residual affects from Hurricanes Dolly and Ike did some damage to the dunes and the vegetation but they are still there.
Hurricane Watcher's Lens
Watch the affect of a hurricane on coastal communities from Maine to Texas.
Hurricanes and Tropical Storms
Fetching RSS feed... please stand byPort Aransas Weather
Fetching RSS feed... please stand byWeb cams in the Port Aransas, Texas Area
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX
Bob Hall Pier. You have to scroll down on their page to see the live web cam.
From Port Aransas, drive south on highway 361 until it intersects at South Padre Island Drive (SPID)where you turn left, heading south. Drive south about 2 or 3 miles until you get to the entrance to Padre Balli Park.
ROCKPORT, TX
About a 20 mile drive north of Port Aransas.
Texas Maritime Museum, Rockport, TX, 78382
PORT LAVACA, TX
About a 70 mile drive north of Port Aransas.
Travis MS / Nautical Landings Marina, Port Lavaca, TX 77979
...Web cam: - that might not be active anymore
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX
Bob Hall Pier
This is view of the beach from Bob Hall Pier, which is in the city limits of Corpus Christi at Padre Balli Park.
I'm not convinced that this Bob Hall Pier web cam is live but I leave it here just in case it is!
Video of Hurricane Dolly's affect on Port Aransas
Give it up for the local newspaper, the South Jetty. They put this video report on their website - gives you an idea of what it looked like July 22, 2008.
Oh man! Jim Cantore was at Port Aransas...and I missed it!
Look! More stuff about Port Aransas!
- Have you ever been to Port Aransas?
- Weather for Port Aransas, Texas, USA
- Have you been stung by a jellyfish or man-of-war?
- Beach Update - August 2010
- Beach Update May 2010
- Dolphins
- Web Cams are Online Again
- Tweets from Keith McMullin, Mayor of Port Aransas
- Red Tide hits the Gulf Coast
- Red tide plush toy
- Hurricane Watcher's Lens
- ...About Port Aransas, Texas
- ...2008 Beach Season is Open
- Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce
- LOOK AT PORT ARANSAS, TX
- ...Photos of Port Aransas
- ...Use Public Transportation
- ...Rent a Buggy/Cart, Bicycle, or Motorcycle
- WHAT TO DO IN PORT ARANSAS, TX
- ...Visit UTMSI
- ...Picture yourself on the Texas Treasure
- ...Go exploring at the National Wildlife Refuge
- Snakes in Texas
- ...Look for an Alligator
- Guidebooks: Birds and Alligators
- Birding Links
- ...Find a place to Worship
- ...Oh yeah, at Port Aransas you can Go to the Beach!
- Don't forget the souveniers!
- LEARN ABOUT THE AREA
- ...Seaweed at Port Aransas
- Seaweed and Offshore Oil Platforms
- ...Offshore Oil Rigs and Platforms
- ...Find Out More about Port Aransas
- ...Official Websites
- Here's some cool stuff you can get from CafePress
- HOW TO GET THERE
- ...How to Get to Port Aransas, TX
- ...Map of Port Aransas, Texas
- ...Ride the Ferry
- ...Dock at the Marina
- WHERE TO STAY in PORT ARANSAS, TX
- ...Beach Lodging
- ...Stay at The Courtyard
- Sandollar Sity
- Travel Guides
- TIME, TIDES, WEATHER, AND NEWS
- ...Find out the water temperature
- ...Find out the Current Weather; the zip code for Port Aransas is 78373
- Be prepared during severe weather
- ...What Time Is It?
- ...Local TV, Radio and Newspapers
- This lens has been BLESSED by SQUID ANGELS
- SandFest - April 15 - 17, 2011
- Special Event: 15th Annual Whooping Crane Festival
- Skydiver Dies in Port Aransas
- Let's Keep Going!
- More Lenses Featuring Web Cams
- See my stats for this lens
- Lens Love
...About Port Aransas, Texas
I have been visiting Port Aransas since 1984 when I moved to Texas. It's about a 4 hour drive from my house in central Texas. My husband and I like being on the beach and have never done the fishing thing that so many other Port Aransas visitors like to do. We drive onto the beach, set up our chairs and canopy, put on suntan lotion, test the waters, look for shells and sand dollars, watch people in the water and on the sand, watch the birds, play in the waves, have a drink, read a newspaper, do a puzzle book, take a nap...!In this lens, I'll highlight the good parts about Port Aransas and what to expect if you decide to go. But I'm not going to paint the rosy picture that the business owner's might portray, because no beach or beach town is flaw-free. We've been to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and yet they have their issues too. The trick is for the beach town or village to have enough good things to outweigh the negative. We think Port Aransas does that, otherwise, we would not return as often as we do.
...2008 Beach Season is Open
May 9-12, 2008
I just returned from our first beach visit of the season and can report that Port Aransas is still a great beach to go to. Schools in Texas are out or almost out and the beach area is starting to fill up.
The best news I can report is that there is very little seaweed compared to last year. Last year, we had to dig a path through the seaweed just to get to the water, and once at the water's edge, you were still surrounded by seaweed. It's much nicer this year, though there's still those small pieces of seaweed floating around in the water.
We did see more jellyfish left on the shore by the waves. Only a few of the "blue bags" - the term I have given to the Portugese Man of War. Not much trash or tar on the beach.
Driving conditions were good, specifically between Access Road 1A and mile marker 40. We have a car and were not even concerned about getting stuck in the sand.
It was very windy this weekend, the water was choppy and murky. I'm not sure what the water temperature was but it's warm enough for swimming.
Another great weekend at the beach!
The best news I can report is that there is very little seaweed compared to last year. Last year, we had to dig a path through the seaweed just to get to the water, and once at the water's edge, you were still surrounded by seaweed. It's much nicer this year, though there's still those small pieces of seaweed floating around in the water.
We did see more jellyfish left on the shore by the waves. Only a few of the "blue bags" - the term I have given to the Portugese Man of War. Not much trash or tar on the beach.
Driving conditions were good, specifically between Access Road 1A and mile marker 40. We have a car and were not even concerned about getting stuck in the sand.
It was very windy this weekend, the water was choppy and murky. I'm not sure what the water temperature was but it's warm enough for swimming.
Another great weekend at the beach!
Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce
Official tweets from the Chamber of Commerce, Port Aransas, Texas
LOOK AT PORT ARANSAS, TX
Photos from the air and land
...Photos of Port Aransas
- Photos by Richard L. Watson, Ph.D., PG
- Historical Port Aransas and Port Aransans
Includes some aerial photographs too.
Keep exploring this guy's website and you'll learn a bunch of stuff about sand dunes, erosion, channel cuts, and jetties.
That thick line in the middle of the beach is parked cars. They park next to a series of short poles (to keep cars from getting closer to the water). You can see those same poles from the Sanddollar Sity Webcam. The link from the picture goes to a webcam from Sandollar Sity, which, if you have really sharp eyes, you could see in the upper of this photo just about where the width of the beach gets narrow.
...Use Public Transportation
TROLLEY
Can't beat the price - it's only $0.25.
Trolley Route Map
BUS
This looks like a cross between a bus and a van. If trolley doesn't sound comfortable for you or your group, you might want to try this. I think you might have to call to arrange a pick up or drop off.
Can't beat the price - it's only $0.25.
Trolley Route Map
BUS
This looks like a cross between a bus and a van. If trolley doesn't sound comfortable for you or your group, you might want to try this. I think you might have to call to arrange a pick up or drop off.
...Rent a Buggy/Cart, Bicycle, or Motorcycle
I've never rented one but they look like alot of fun. People like to drive them along the beach and they are almost always laughing and smilling.
NAUTICAL WHEELERS
Electric carts, bicycles
CARS AND CARTS RENTALS
Gas carts
ISLAND CYCLES
Rent a motorcycle.
Electric carts, bicycles
CARS AND CARTS RENTALS
Gas carts
ISLAND CYCLES
Rent a motorcycle.
WHAT TO DO IN PORT ARANSAS, TX
Newport Dunes Golf
Play golf at the brand new Arnold Palmer Signature Course.
71 par, 18 hole course, Next to the beach.
Between Access Road 1 and Access Road 1A
UT MSI
Visit the University of Texas Marine Science Institute
Understand the wildlife at the beach
Wetland Education Center
Explore the marsh and seagrass pond near the Aransas Pass ship channel.
Part of the University of Texas Marine Science Institute.
Aransas National Wildlife Refuge Complex
Take a break from the beach and check out the wildlife
Leonabelle Turnbull Birding
Free and fun, but you must be patient and quiet.
Check out the Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle
Padre Island National Seashore. This is located several miles south of Port Aransas but is worth the drive. The turtles nest between April 1 and July
Port Aransas Museum
Preserving the history of Port Aransas. It is located at the corner of Alister and Brundrett across from the Community Center.
Play golf at the brand new Arnold Palmer Signature Course.
71 par, 18 hole course, Next to the beach.
Between Access Road 1 and Access Road 1A
UT MSI
Visit the University of Texas Marine Science Institute
Understand the wildlife at the beach
Wetland Education Center
Explore the marsh and seagrass pond near the Aransas Pass ship channel.
Part of the University of Texas Marine Science Institute.
Aransas National Wildlife Refuge Complex
Take a break from the beach and check out the wildlife
Leonabelle Turnbull Birding
Free and fun, but you must be patient and quiet.
Check out the Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle
Padre Island National Seashore. This is located several miles south of Port Aransas but is worth the drive. The turtles nest between April 1 and July
Port Aransas Museum
Preserving the history of Port Aransas. It is located at the corner of Alister and Brundrett across from the Community Center.
...Visit UTMSI
University of Texas Marine Science Institute
The University of Texas Marine Science InstituteLearn about the sea
Find out about the latest research project
Attend a free lecture
...Picture yourself on the Texas Treasure
Cruise ship (that USED TO) depart from Port Aransas
...Go exploring at the National Wildlife Refuge
AransasNational Wildlife Refuge
It's a short drive from Port Aransas but well worth it. You can get up close and personal with whooping cranes and alligators. The time we wen there with our dog, they told us to leave the dog in the car because it will look like dinner to the alligators!
You know you're in for an adventure when their website offers this advice:
"Alligators and poisonous snakes are present; always watch your step."
"Dress appropriately. Bring a hat, water, snack, sunscreen, insect repellent, bird book, flower book, binoculars, camera, etc."
Snakes in Texas
Snakes in Port Aransas?
I've never seen or heard of snakes in Port Aransas, but I'm sure they are there. I've never seen a shark but I know they are there too. I have seen the alligator with my own eyes, and of course I've seen lots of birds and fish. But just in case I see a snake, I sure would like to know what kind it is so I can decide how fast to run away!
...Look for an Alligator
Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center
Leonabelle Turnbull Birding CenterHe's real and he's alive - I've seen him for myself.
Located at the south end of Ross Avenue
and behind the Trolley Stop.
Next to the Corpus Christi Ship Channel.
Free
Guidebooks: Birds and Alligators
Birding Links
Aransas National Wildlife Refuge North of Rockport, Texas
Aransas NWR is one of over 545 National Wildlife Refuges spanning the United States and managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The National Wildlife Refuge System is the only national system of lands dedicated to conserving our wildlife heritage for today and generations yet to come.
Bird the Bend Corpus Christi
The Coastal Bend displays the best in Texas coastal experiences, from the wilds of Padre Island National Seashore, the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world, to the deafening dawn chorus at Choke Canyon State Park. The Coastal Bend brings together the best in birding, the best in birders, and the best in birds. The Bird the Bend website is a mash up of a traditional, static website design.
Gulf Coast Bird Observatory Lake Jackson, Texas
The Gulf Coast Bird Observatory is an independent non-profit organization with 501(c) status. We have become recognized as an innovative organization, which has designed and conducted a significant number of large conservation projects, including migration studies, habitat enhancement, land acquisition, regional habitat mapping, and others.
The Otter Side Andrews, Texas
Produces and markets fine gifts and products featuring birds, incorporating superb original photographic images based on over 30 years of our own nature photography. Our product line includes Color Notecards, Educational Flip Cards, customized Local Bird ID Cards, Magnets, Hand-mirrors, and Bookmarks. We have featured soy inks and recycled paper for our standard color card images since 1996 and recycled paper for ALL of our cardstock since 1994. In 1997 we switched our in-house desktop color printers (which we use to print Educational Flip Cards, customized Local Birds ID Cards, our expanded line of Individual 5x7 Cards, most of our Magnet/Mirror images, and all of our Bookmarks) to equipment which uses water-soluble inks. All our products are made in the USA with as little wear and tear on the world as possible, in keeping with our "Live in Harmony" motto, including the reuse of shipping containers and packing materials.
...Find a place to Worship
First Baptist Church of Port AransasThis is the church I go to sometimes when I'm at Port Aransas. The services I went to were more contemporary than traditional, and many people wear shorts. I think the locals wear dress-casual but they realize that tourists may only have beach wear with them.
...Oh yeah, at Port Aransas you can Go to the Beach!
- Beach Use Information from City of Port Aransas
- Find out about parking stickers, driving on the beach, RV camping, and more.
Don't forget the souveniers!
LEARN ABOUT THE AREA
Seaweed, fish, sand, oil rigs.
...Seaweed at Port Aransas
Sargassum
Sargassum is a seaweed that floats along in huge clumps until it eventually makes landfall. The birds love to pick through it for some tasty snacks.
It's a very natural part of the beach experience.
It seemed to overtake the beach in 2005 making it really unpleasant.
Sargassum is a seaweed that floats along in huge clumps until it eventually makes landfall. The birds love to pick through it for some tasty snacks.
It's a very natural part of the beach experience.
It seemed to overtake the beach in 2005 making it really unpleasant.
Seaweed and Offshore Oil Platforms
It's not unusual to have seaweed at the beach. Oh, you probably won't notice it in the slick brochures published in regular visitor's guides, but it's there. The seaweed at Port Aransas is seasonal. Sometimes there's nothing, and sometimes it's everywhere. The oil platforms, now that's a different story. They are always there. Sitting on the beach, I can usually count at least 17 platforms across the horizon.
...Offshore Oil Rigs and Platforms
- Rig Zone
- Industry Information
- Offshore Technology
- Periodical for the industry
- US Dept of the Interior
- Minerals Management Services (MMS)
Gulf of Mexico Region (GOMR)
Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) - Kids Page about the Gulf of Mexico
- US Dept of the Interior
This is more my speed.
...Find Out More about Port Aransas
City Government, Newspapers, Community Contacts
- CITY OF PORT ARANSAS (official site)
- City of Port Aransas official site
Beach town municipality - PORT ARANSAS NEWSPAPER: THE JETTY
- Local Newspaper published every Thursday.
Beach town newspaper.
You have to pay to read the current edition, but all the others you can access for free. - PORT ARANSAS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
- This website is packed with alot of good information for anyone going to Port Aransas.
- PORT ARANSAS COMMUNITY THEATER (PACT)
- Seems like everytime we go to Port Aransas, they are either performing or doing casting calls.
- ART CENTER FOR THE ISLANDS
- Local art
- PORT ARANSAS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT (PAISD)
- Port Aransas has one elementary school, one middle school, and one high school.
They are all called, "Marlins" - PORT ARANSAS PRESERVATION SOCIETY
- It's tough to preserve structures that get beat up by salty winds and tropical storms.
- PORT ARANSAS BUOY DATA
- Find the water temperature, wave height, air temperature, salinity, and stats from the National Data Buoy Center
Station PTAT2 - Port Aransas, TX - FAMILY CENTER (grocery store)
- This is the only grocery store in Port Aransas but it's a good one.
They have a bakery, deli section, meat section, pharmacy, beer & wine, suntan lotion, movies, ice cream, post cards, maps, newspapers, and more. It's called "Family Center" and "IGA" - PORT ARANSAS VISITOR'S GUIDE
- This is published by the local newspaper quarterly and is packed with great information about Port Aransas. Definitely pick one up for yourself
- CORPUS CHRISTI CALLER TIMES (newspaper)
- You can find out alot of good current stuff from the newspapers. You might get the real scoop on local conditions including the amount of seaweed on the beach and more accurate regional weather forcasts.
- CORPUS CHRISTI TV STATION: KRIS channel 6, NBC
- Another good source of local information is a television station. This is the NBC affiliate, channel 6. The other two channels are 3 and 10
...Official Websites
One of the things I like about Port Aransas is that it has real residents. In other words, it's more than just hotels, restaurants, and gift shops.
- City of Port Aransas
- City of Port Aransas
Beach town links - civic groups, non-government but town wide groups - Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Bureau
- Easy to use and fun website. You can't mistake it for a beach town!
- Port Aransas Independent School District
- One elementary school, one middle school, and one high school. That's all they need.
- Public Library
- Not much of a website, but at least you can learn the name of their library!
- Emergency Planning
- Not to spoil your trip or anything, but being prepared for an emergency is a reality. It's best to know before you go.
Here's some cool stuff you can get from CafePress
HOW TO GET THERE
It's an island so you have to cross some water to get there.
...How to Get to Port Aransas, TX
Four Options:
1. Ride the free ferry
2. Drive over the bridge
3. Drive your boat to the marina
4. Fly your plane to the airport
1. Ride the free ferry
2. Drive over the bridge
3. Drive your boat to the marina
4. Fly your plane to the airport
- Ferry Cam, Harbor Island
- Ride the free ferry to Port Aransas
The ferry is run by the Texas Department of Transportation. It's free and operates 24/7. Each ferry holds about 20 vehicles, including cars, trucks, boat trailors, and RVs. You can stand out on the deck during the ride and feel the sun and breeze, watch for dolphins, and get some good panoramic views. It's the most common way for locals to get on and off the island. - Mustang Beach Airport (KRAS)
- The airport is at the intersection of Highway 361 and Access Road 1A. It's all private planes, so don't try looking for it on Priceline or Travelocity! Sometimes they offer helicopter rides - I'm not sure how much they cost or how long they last.
- Port Aransas Marina
- Port Aransas Marina
Lot's of people arrive by boat then go fishing while the family goes to the beach - Nautical Chart
- I can't seem to get enough maps - I think it must be an obsession. I like nautical charts, as long as it's not too complicated.
...Map of Port Aransas, Texas
...Ride the Ferry
Ferries work 24/7 bringing vehicles to islandThe ferries are free and operated by the Texas Department of Transportation. It runs 24/7 and is part of Highway 361.
I like to get out of the car during the ride to get my first salty breeze.
...Dock at the Marina
Dennis Dryer Municipal Harbor
Dennis Dryer Municipal HarborCity Marina with many amenities:
* 4 boat ramps
* fish cleaning station
* fishing pier
* short term and long term slips
* ice available
* public restrooms
* showers (available for boatslip users)
WHERE TO STAY in PORT ARANSAS, TX
Beach Lodging
Many choices await the beach tourist in Port Aransas. You can spend your beach vacation at a:
- Condo
- Hotel
- Beach House
- RV Park
...Beach Lodging
- The Courtyard
- FREE wireless. I have to be honest: it's semi-dependable. If you just want to check emails and some websites, it's fine. If you want to trade stocks, forget it.
- Efficiency and One-Bedroom Apartments. The efficiency has a murphy bed that pulls down into the living area. The one-bedrooms have a separate bedroom (with doors); some also have a murphy bed in the living area.
- Full size kitchens. Includes full-size stove/oven, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, and garbage disposal. Kitchens also have complete sets of dishes, cups, pots/pans. No baking pans, so if you want to make muffins or cup cakes, bring your own pan.
- Walk to the beach. It's about a 10-15 minute walk from the building to the beach. If I want to just go for a walk on the beach, I'll walk from The Courtyard to the beach via Access Road 1A. If I want to spend more time at the beach, then I'll pack up the car with my beach gear and drive down the beach and find a nice spot to spend the day.
- FREE wireless. I have to be honest: it's semi-dependable. If you just want to check emails and some websites, it's fine. If you want to trade stocks, forget it.
- On The Beach RV Park
- I've never stayed there (don't have an RV) but they advertise free wireless internet. I'm pretty sure that you can watch the beach waves from many of the sites.
- Cline's Landing
- Although I have driven past Cline's Landing many times, I have not stayed there so I can't give it a thumbs up or down. But, this website has a few pictures of the Port Aransas harbor and the Texas Treasure ship, so I've included it here for you.
...Stay at The Courtyard
Clean, Family Friendly FREE WI-FI
The Courtyard Condominium - Access Road 1AThe Courtyard Unit 203
See more photos on Flickr
We always ask to stay in a unit on the second floor near the pool. Our current favorite is room 203. It's a one-bedroom that overlooks the pool. It's close to the stairs (and your car) and close to the office which is where the wireless modem is.
Close to beach and airport
Next to golf course
FREE wireless internet service
All rooms have full size kitchens.
Efficiency has Murphy bed.
One-Bedroom has separate bedroom.
Pool and grounds well maintained.
Two story building.
No elevator, so if you have difficulty with stairs, be sure to ask for the first floor.
I don't know these people; I found their photos on Flickr and recognized that they were taken inside one of The Courtyard units. Click on the photo to see more of their "Port Aransas 10th Anniversary" photo album.
Sandollar Sity
This place is right on the beach. After a day on the beach, we like to go for a ride and everytime we go by Sandollar Sity, I wish we could stay there.
Travel Guides
TIME, TIDES, WEATHER, AND NEWS
Tide charts, buoy reports
...Find out the water temperature
National Data Buoy Center
"Moored buoys are the weather sentinels of the sea."
I couldn't have thought up that sentence by myself - it came from the NDBC, who uses buoys to gather information about the sea around it. What they are saying is that they have buoys all over the place and they record information like water temperature, wind speed and direction, wave height, and barometric pressure.
Texas Coastal Ocean Observation Network
This links to an interactive map of Texas. All you have to do is hover over an area of the Texas gulf coast to get more infomation, like the air and water temperature.
"Moored buoys are the weather sentinels of the sea."
I couldn't have thought up that sentence by myself - it came from the NDBC, who uses buoys to gather information about the sea around it. What they are saying is that they have buoys all over the place and they record information like water temperature, wind speed and direction, wave height, and barometric pressure.
Texas Coastal Ocean Observation Network
This links to an interactive map of Texas. All you have to do is hover over an area of the Texas gulf coast to get more infomation, like the air and water temperature.
...Find out the Current Weather; the zip code for Port Aransas is 78373
Be prepared during severe weather
...What Time Is It?
Port Aransas is in the Central Daylight Time and it does observe Daylight Saving Time.
- Time and Date
- Sorted alphabetically by city name
...Local TV, Radio and Newspapers
Port Aransas, Corpus Christi, Rockport
- Corpus Christi Caller Times
- I always check their weather and beach report before I go to Port Aransas.
Published Daily - Port Aransas South Jetty
- Great source for local news, property for sale, job openings, and more.
Published on Thursdays - Aransas Pass Progress
- Local newspaper for Aransas Pass.
Aransas Pass is northwest of Port Aransas. It's the little town you drive through on the way to the ferry.
We always stop at the HEB to pick up our weekend food. The IGA at Port Aransas is nice and convenient, but the HEB has a larger selection and lower prices. They also have good gas prices. - Rockport Pilot
- Rockport is north of Port Aransas.
It seems to cater to fishing activities more than the beach. - KRIS - NBC Affiliate
- http://www.kristv.com/
NBC channel from Corpus Christi
Channel 6 - KIII - ABC Affiliate
- ABC channel from Corpus Christi
Channel 3 - KZTV - CBS Affiliate
- CBS channel from Corpus Christi
Channel 10 - KEDT - PBS Affiliate
- PBS channel from Corpus Christi
Channel 16
...Linky Loo
Where to find more stuff...
- Dunes Condo
- Dunes Condo
This condo is right on the beach and has a 24/7 webcam of the beach
What else would you like to know about Port Aransas?
submit
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accman
Dec 8, 2011 @ 8:52 pm | delete
- Sounds like a great place. I hope to visit Port Aransas some day
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uticketit
Nov 8, 2011 @ 3:55 am | delete
- Thank you for such well researched information.
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cffutah
Oct 19, 2011 @ 8:06 pm | delete
- I live in Utah but if I'm ever in your neck of the woods I'll have to go here, enjoyed reading this tonight, 'thumbs up' from me to you.
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boutiqueshops
Oct 15, 2011 @ 10:57 pm | delete
- Stopped by to visit & leave a blessing ~ glad to hear red tide isn't getting to ya'll. And OMG there's a red tide plush toy????? LOL Greetings from Corpus Christi! Surf's Up!
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SmartChica
Sep 2, 2011 @ 6:35 pm | delete
- Love Port Aransas. I grew up along the Texas Gulf Coast. Seems those darn jellyfish are still a problem, LOL! This lens blessed by a Squid Angel.
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Go back to:
- Have you ever been to Port Aransas?
- Weather for Port Aransas, Texas, USA
- Have you been stung by a jellyfish or man-of-war?
- Beach Update - August 2010
- Beach Update May 2010
- Port Aransas, Texas Web cam
- Web cam: Ferry at Port Aransas, Texas
- Dolphins
- Web Cams are Online Again
- Tweets from Keith McMullin, Mayor of Port Aransas
- Red Tide hits the Gulf Coast
- Red tide plush toy
- Beach Tourist Report - December 2008
- Beach Tourist Report - November 2008
- Hurricane Watcher's Lens
- Hurricanes and Tropical Storms
- Port Aransas Weather
- Web cams in the Port Aransas, Texas Area
- ...Web cam: - that might not be active anymore
- Video of Hurricane Dolly's affect on Port Aransas
- ...About Port Aransas, Texas
- ...2008 Beach Season is Open
- Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce
- LOOK AT PORT ARANSAS, TX
- ...Photos of Port Aransas
- ...Use Public Transportation
- ...Rent a Buggy/Cart, Bicycle, or Motorcycle
- WHAT TO DO IN PORT ARANSAS, TX
- ...Visit UTMSI
- ...Picture yourself on the Texas Treasure
- ...Go exploring at the National Wildlife Refuge
- Snakes in Texas
- ...Look for an Alligator
- Guidebooks: Birds and Alligators
- Birding Links
- ...Find a place to Worship
- ...Oh yeah, at Port Aransas you can Go to the Beach!
- Don't forget the souveniers!
- LEARN ABOUT THE AREA
- ...Seaweed at Port Aransas
- Seaweed and Offshore Oil Platforms
- ...Offshore Oil Rigs and Platforms
- ...Find Out More about Port Aransas
- ...Official Websites
- Here's some cool stuff you can get from CafePress
- HOW TO GET THERE
- ...How to Get to Port Aransas, TX
- ...Map of Port Aransas, Texas
- ...Ride the Ferry
- ...Dock at the Marina
- WHERE TO STAY in PORT ARANSAS, TX
- ...Beach Lodging
- ...Stay at The Courtyard
- Sandollar Sity
- Travel Guides
- TIME, TIDES, WEATHER, AND NEWS
- ...Find out the water temperature
- ...Find out the Current Weather; the zip code for Port Aransas is 78373
- Be prepared during severe weather
- ...What Time Is It?
- ...Local TV, Radio and Newspapers
- ...Linky Loo
- What else would you like to know about Port Aransas?
- This lens has been BLESSED by SQUID ANGELS
- SandFest - April 15 - 17, 2011
- Special Event: 15th Annual Whooping Crane Festival
- Skydiver Dies in Port Aransas
- Let's Keep Going!
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- Some of my non-Squidoo sites
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This lens has been BLESSED by SQUID ANGELS
Thank you, angels!!!
It's so encouraging to know that Squid Angels are blessing my lenses!- EverythingMouse blessed this lens on 4/1/09
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SandFest - April 15 - 17, 2011
SandFest 2008. Photo by Lana Holzmann
Texas SandFest
Special Event: 15th Annual Whooping Crane Festival
February 24 - 27, 2011
Question: Where is the only one naturally occurring whooping crane population in the world?
Answer:
Photo from the Whooping Crane Festival website.
The cranes at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge are carefully counted: the January 5, 2010 report cites a total of 263 cranes. "Every fall the flock migrates to the refuge north of Rockport with their youngsters in tow. They stay through early spring before heading back to Wood Buffalo National Park in northern Canada where they nest and raise babies. After recent rainfall, many issues have abated that plagued the 5-foot-tall, long-legged tourist attractions last year."
One of the many events at the Port Aransas festival is a guided boat tour to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge to view the endangered Whooping Cranes in their winter habitat. Additional Whooping Crane Festival events include:
Visit the Whooping Crane Festival website for more information.
Early registration is Feb. 11, 2010.
Source: Whooping Crane Festival
Answer:
The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
Photo from the Whooping Crane Festival website.
The cranes at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge are carefully counted: the January 5, 2010 report cites a total of 263 cranes. "Every fall the flock migrates to the refuge north of Rockport with their youngsters in tow. They stay through early spring before heading back to Wood Buffalo National Park in northern Canada where they nest and raise babies. After recent rainfall, many issues have abated that plagued the 5-foot-tall, long-legged tourist attractions last year."
One of the many events at the Port Aransas festival is a guided boat tour to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge to view the endangered Whooping Cranes in their winter habitat. Additional Whooping Crane Festival events include:
- Photography Excursion with Sean Fitzgerald
- Birding Trip at the Nature Preserve
- Guided Tour of the Wetlands Education Center
- Photography Workshop
- Nature and Birding Boat Tour
- Dolphin Encounters Boat Tour
- Fennessey Ranch Birding Tour
- Whooping Crane Boat Tour
- Local Birding Bus Trip
- Blacklock Birding Field Trip
- ARK Tour (Animal Rehabilitation Keep - rescues injured sea turtles and aquatic birds)
- Nature Preserve Field Trip
- Stargazing/Birdwatching Trip
- Trade Show - nature related
Visit the Whooping Crane Festival website for more information.
Early registration is Feb. 11, 2010.
Source: Whooping Crane Festival
Skydiver Dies in Port Aransas
March 25, 2010
"PORT ARANSAS - Authorities are investigating a morning sky diving accident that killed a 35-year-old man. KRIS 6 News learned that the man crashed into the Gulfside Beach Condominums around 11:00 this morning. The complex is located in the 600 block of Access Road 1A off of State Highway 361. Investigators are saying the victim was an experienced sky diver that had a fatal landing.Read more
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by JollyvilleChick
JollyvilleChick
I grew up in a beach town between Boston and Cape Cod. Now, I live 200 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. I miss the beach so I do the next best thing - I... more »
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