Attractions in Port Aransas and Mustang Island

With Port Aransas' 18 miles of stunning beach line, it's easy to assume Port A is just a beach destination, but this eclectic island has so much more to offer! Visitors can take a break from the sand to explore the community's unique collection of restaurants, rich coastal history, and endless attractions that are ready to entertain the whole family.

Farley Boat Works

Originally established in 1915, Farley Boat Works helped put Port Aransas on the map with their boats uniquely designed for the island’s tarpon fishing industry. Farley Boat Works reopened in 2011 as part of the Port Aransas Museum, a living exhibit which now offers classes and workshops with names like “Model Skiff Building” and “Family Boatbuilding.”

716 W. Avenue C
Port Aransas, TX 78373
(361) 416-1614 

Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center

Serious birders already know how special Port Aransas is in the birding scene. But you don’t have to be a professional to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and wildlife found around Mustang Island. Follow the well-maintained boardwalk to enjoy wetland views and an observation tower that brings the island’s impressive variety of local and migratory birds—and even an alligator named Boots!

Palmilla Beach Resort & Golf Club

Rolling beach dunes and wild grassy plains set Palmilla Beach Resort's golf course apart from any other experience in Texas, if not the entire country. Backed directly up to the Gulf of Mexico, the infamous winds of West Texas don't hold a candle to the cool ocean breezes sweeping across this links-style, nine-hole course designed by Arnold Palmer.

258 Snapdragon
Port Aransas, TX 78373
(361) 749-4653

Port Aransas Museum

Learn the story of Port Aransas at this museum housed in an early 1900s "kit" house. Thousands of photos and documents, films of the area from the '20s and '30s, and pieces of the famous Lydia Ann Lighthouse dating back to 1878 are some of the fascinating artifacts on display. Open Thursday through Saturday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.

403 N. Alister Street
Port Aransas, TX 78373
(361) 749-3800

San José Island

This 21-mile barrier island provides visitors with the opportunity to experience the best fishing and birding Texas has to offer. Families love combing the beach for shells and other treasures to take back home. A quick ferry from Port Aransas Fisherman’s Wharf will take you from Port A to St. Jo’s.

Port Aransas, TX 78373
(361) 749-5448