Port Aransas and Mustang Island offer some of the most accessible and beautiful beaches on the Texas Gulf Coast. With 18 miles of wide, sandy shoreline, there's always room to spread out and enjoy the beach—whether you prefer the action near the jetties or the solitude of a distant stretch of sand.
Beach Access & Driving
One of Port Aransas's unique features is the ability to drive directly on the beach. Most of the 18-mile stretch allows vehicle access, letting you set up camp exactly where you want. Beach access roads are located throughout town, with the most popular entries at the end of Avenue G, Access Road 1A, and at Mustang Island State Park.
While beach driving is permitted, regulations require staying below the vegetation line and respecting areas closed for sea turtle nesting (typically March through August). A current vehicle registration and insurance are required for beach driving.
Beach Driving Tips
Reduce tire pressure to 15-20 PSI for better traction in sand. 4WD or AWD vehicles are recommended but not required on packed sand. Avoid driving in soft, dry sand above the high-tide line. Bring a shovel and recovery boards just in case.
Beach Areas
Downtown Beaches (Access Roads 1-1A)
The beaches closest to downtown Port Aransas offer the most amenities, including restrooms, showers, and nearby restaurants. These areas can get crowded on weekends and holidays but are perfect for families who want easy access to town. The Horace Caldwell Pier extends into the Gulf here, offering fishing and great views.
Beach Mile Markers 0-5
Heading south from downtown, the beach becomes progressively less crowded. This stretch offers a good balance of accessibility and solitude. Many locals prefer these areas for their combination of space and reasonable proximity to town.
Mustang Island State Park (Mile Markers 5+)
The state park encompasses 5 miles of Gulf beach and offers the most pristine beach experience in the area. Day-use fees apply, but the cleaner sand, maintained facilities, and park ranger presence make it worth the small cost. Camping is available for those who want to spend the night on the beach.
Padre Island National Seashore
Beyond Mustang Island, the Padre Island National Seashore offers over 60 miles of undeveloped beach—the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world. Access requires traveling through Corpus Christi, but the pristine beaches and excellent birding make it worth the trip.
Beach Activities
Swimming
The Gulf waters at Port Aransas are generally warm and swimmable from April through October. Water temperatures peak around 85°F in summer. The beaches have a gradual slope, making them suitable for wading and swimming. No lifeguards are on duty, so swim at your own risk.
Surfing & Water Sports
While not known for big waves, Port Aransas offers fun surf during swells, particularly near the jetties where waves tend to be larger. Paddleboarding, kiteboarding, and kayaking are popular in the calmer bay waters. Several outfitters in town rent equipment and offer lessons.
Shell Collecting
The beaches yield excellent shelling, particularly after storms when fresh shells wash ashore. Common finds include lightning whelks, sand dollars, and various clam shells. The best shelling is typically early morning at low tide, especially on the less-trafficked stretches.
Wildlife Watching
The beaches are home to diverse wildlife, from ghost crabs scurrying at night to dolphins surfing the waves. Sea turtles nest on these beaches from April through July—if you spot a nest, keep your distance and report it to the local turtle patrol. Bird watching is excellent, particularly for shorebirds and migrating species.
Beach Amenities & Services
- Restrooms & Showers — Available at main beach access points
- Beach Equipment Rentals — Umbrellas, chairs, and watersports gear
- Food & Drinks — Beach vendors and nearby restaurants
- Beach Driving Permits — Available at local merchants
- Lifeguard Services — Not provided; swim at your own risk
Beach Safety
Always check conditions before swimming. Rip currents can occur, especially near the jetties and during incoming tides. If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore until free. Portuguese man-of-war occasionally wash up—avoid contact and watch for them in the water.
Best Times to Visit
The beaches are enjoyable year-round, but each season offers a different experience:
- Spring (March-May) — Warming weather, spring break crowds mid-March
- Summer (June-August) — Peak season, warm water, family-friendly
- Fall (September-November) — Perfect weather, fewer crowds, great fishing
- Winter (December-February) — Peaceful solitude, occasional cold fronts
Many locals consider fall the best time for the beach—the water is still warm, summer crowds have departed, and the weather is typically ideal.