Nicknamed “Port A,” this city in Nueces County is the only established town on Mustang Island. Located north of Padre Island, it is one of the longest barrier islands along the Texas coast. Corpus Christi Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, the Lydia Ann Ship Channel and the Corpus Christi Ship Channel make up the surrounding waters. A good way to experience Texas Island Style is on the beachfront and some of the more popular ones include the flat and broad Port Aransas Beach which is a great beach for walking. Just a short jetty boat ride takes you to San Jose Island which is ideal for shelling and spotting starfish. You can beach camp at Mustang State Park or take a guided kayak tour along Lighthouse Lakes Trail. 'Port A' hosts many must-see lookouts for avid birders and wildlife photographers. Observe Mother Nature’s greatest winged creatures at one of six sites along the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail: Wetland Park, Paradise Pond, the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center, Port Aransas Nature Preserve, Mustang Island State Park and the South Jetty which links to Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center.
Port Aransas Nature Preserve also has three miles of hike and bike trails, a pavilion, boardwalks over algal flats, crushed granite trails on the uplands, covered seating sites and two towers overlooking wetland areas around Salt Island. In addition to bird watching, Port A is known to casual and serious anglers alike as the "Fishing Capital of Texas," The surrounding Gulf waters brim with fresh catches and fishing tournaments during the summer months. You can launch your boat from one of our many marinas or hire a private charter to reel in kingfish, sailfish, marlin, tuna and more. Port Aransas has four public, lighted fishing piers and the popular south jetty for around-the-clock casting. While you’re enjoying this water-centric city’s many virtues, you’ll have accommodations ready on dry land to fill all of your travel needs when you stay at one of our Choice Hotels in Port Aransas, TX. Book a room online now!