Known affectionately as “Port A” by locals and visitors alike, Port Aransas sits at the northern tip of Mustang Island along the Texas Gulf Coast. This charming beach town has been ranked among TripAdvisor's Top 25 Best Beaches in the U.S. and named one of the South's Best Beach Towns by Southern Living.
A Prime Coastal Location
Port Aransas stretches approximately 14 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, offering residents and visitors access to some of Texas's most beautiful beaches. Located just 30 minutes from Corpus Christi via the ferry or the JFK Causeway, Port A provides the perfect balance of coastal seclusion and convenient access to urban amenities.
The town is accessible by three routes: the free 24-hour ferry from Aransas Pass, the scenic drive across the JFK Causeway, or by boat through the Corpus Christi Ship Channel. This unique geography has helped preserve Port Aransas's small-town character while maintaining easy connectivity to the broader region.
The Port Aransas Lifestyle
Life in Port Aransas moves at a different pace. Here, golf carts are as common as cars, flip-flops are considered appropriate attire year-round, and the day's schedule often revolves around the tides. The town's approximately 2,800 year-round residents enjoy a close-knit community where neighbors know each other by name.
The local economy thrives on tourism and fishing, with the town welcoming visitors who come for the beaches, fishing tournaments, and annual events like SandFest and the Texas State Aquarium's Dolphin Day. Yet despite its popularity, Port Aransas maintains the authentic charm that has drawn people to its shores for generations.
Local Tip
The best way to experience Port Aransas is by golf cart. Many residents and visitors explore the town, beaches, and local shops on these eco-friendly vehicles. Rentals are available throughout town.
The Fishing Capital of Texas
Port Aransas has earned its reputation as the “Fishing Capital of Texas” through generations of world-class fishing opportunities. Whether you prefer deep-sea expeditions in the Gulf, bay fishing in the calm waters of Corpus Christi Bay, or casting from the historic jetties, Port A delivers exceptional fishing year-round.
The town is home to numerous charter services, fishing guides, and bait shops that cater to everyone from beginners to professional anglers. Species commonly caught include redfish, speckled trout, tarpon, king mackerel, and offshore favorites like tuna and mahi-mahi.
Natural Beauty & Wildlife
Beyond the beaches, Port Aransas offers remarkable natural diversity. The town sits along the Central Flyway, making it a premier destination for birdwatching with over 400 documented species. The Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center and Port Aransas Nature Preserve provide excellent viewing opportunities.
Mustang Island State Park, located just south of town, offers 5 miles of Gulf beach along with camping, paddling trails, and hiking. Dolphins are frequently spotted in the waters around Port Aransas, and sea turtles nest on the beaches during summer months.
Real Estate in Port Aransas
The Port Aransas real estate market offers diverse options, from charming beach cottages to luxury waterfront estates. Popular communities include Cinnamon Shore, a master-planned New Urbanist development; Pirates Bay, known for canal-front homes with boat access; and the historic downtown area with its walkable streets and local character.
Many buyers are attracted to Port Aransas for second homes or investment properties, as the town's vacation rental market remains strong year-round. The combination of beautiful beaches, excellent fishing, and authentic Texas charm continues to drive demand for coastal real estate.