You came to Port A this summer for Texas warmth, fun, sun, and the sand and water at the beach along the Gulf of Mexico. While the heat is turned up a bit compared to the rest of the year, there are many reasons to pack your bags and head to the island off the Texas Gulf coast. Fill your Port A getaway days with a myriad of beach and water activities, as well as some activities that take you inside and away from the beat of the sun.
Day 1: Beaches
When planning an island vacation, plan plenty of beach time. Spread out your blanket and plant your beach umbrella to lounge on the sand with a book, sunbathe, swim, help the kids build sandcastles, or take your daily walk or run on the beach. Take the fun under the water and grab a mask and snorkel to explore the world beneath the waves of the Gulf.
Day 2: Fishing Tournaments
As the unofficial “fishing capital of Texas,” there’s almost always a summertime fishing tournament going on. Summer 2023 tournaments include the 17th Annual Saltwater Sweeties Fishing Tournament, the PRL Ladies Division Fishing Tournament July 30, the Texas Legends Billfish Tournament August 9, and several others through the summer and into fall.
Day 3: Port Aransas Museum & Farley’s Historic Boat Shop
The museum resides in a 1900s kit house donated to the Port Aransas Preservation and Historical Association. There, you can explore a myriad of exhibits, with special rotating exhibits – meaning no two visits are likely the same. Farley’s historic boat house and shop pays homage to the Farley family of boat builders that started building tarpon fishing boats in Port A in 1914. The museum depicts the evolution of the business, from its various locations around Port A to its closing in 1973. The current location was opened in 2011 and houses the company’s working boat-building facility.
Day 4: The Tarpon Inn
Constructed from surplus lumber from Civil War barracks in 1886, the inn was originally used to house workers constructing Mansfield Jetty. When the jetty was completed, it became a hotel. Then, after a major hurricane and tidal wave in 1919, the structure was rebuilt with reinforcements against future damage. Since then, it has been used as a headquarters for the Red Cross, Salvation Army, several military units, and has housed area residents during disasters. In 1979, the inn was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and also became a Texas Historic Landmark. The inn today boasts a restaurant, 24 active guest rooms, and event space.
Day 5: Glowing Kayak Tour
Enjoy a different kind of kayak tour that takes place in the nighttime hours! Board a clear kayak lit up by special underwater LED lights. The clear boat allows you to see not only the multiple colors of LED light settings you can choose, but the underwater world beneath you, too. Set the lights to your favorite color and style preferences, then paddle along as your tour guide points out landmarks and gills you in on the history of the area on the 1.5-hour nighttime adventure.
Day 6: Red Dragon Pirate Cruise
If your summer vacation to Port A includes kids, or kids-at-heart, book a cruise and sail the high seas of the Gulf like the pirates of old! Cruise the waters of the Lydia Ann Channel for dolphin watching, sword fighting, treasure hunting, cannon fire, and never-ending pirate fun aboard! Enjoy soft drinks and snacks, as well as beer, wine, pina coladas, rum, tequila, and whiskey-based drinks for the adult pirates enjoy. Don’t forget your camera to capture all the pirate-themed memories!
Day 7: 6th Annual Brooke Graham Beach Bash
If you’re here toward the end of July, make it a part of your plans. The family-friendly summertime event is a weekend of live music, sandcastle building, corn hole, a “beer belly” contest, and more. The event runs July 21 and 22 and is just north of Horace Caldwell Pier. Hours are Friday 6-9 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and a closing show 8-10 p.m.
Port A Summer Fun in Texas
When you stay in a vacation rental this summer in Port A provided by Sandcastle Condos, you’ll enjoy easy access to the beach and the crashing waves of the Gulf. We’re close to many area attractions, tours, shopping, dining, and activities the area has to offer. Choose from efficiency-style units all the way up to four-bedroom units for your larger group. Prepare a delicious home-cooked meal in the fully equipped kitchen, retreat to a private bedroom, or spread out in an open living space for a movie or to relax. Enjoy the view from the private balcony or patio or spend some time near the community pool. For a premium experience, choose a unit with bonuses like multiple flat screen TVs, stainless steel appliances, and more.
Contact us today to start planning your summertime journey to Port A!
