Family-friendly activities in Port Aransas, Texas
Things to do with kids in Port Aransas
What to do with kids in Port Aransas? We raised our young family in the area and this is our locals insight on things to do with kids in Port Aransas.
Known for its scenic beauty and a plethora of family-oriented activities, it stands out as a prime beach destination in Texas. The island of Mustang, where Port Aransas is nestled, is a haven for over 500 bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Port Aransas; recognition and its wide range of activities make it an attractive destination for families
seeking a blend of nature, recreation, and cultural exposure.
Best Times to Visit
When is the best time to visit Port Aransas with children? The best time to visit Port Aransas depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities. Spring Break and summer time are likely the busiest time due to holiday breaks and the warmer weather. Personally, October is my favorite time of year here in Port A. It is the weather sweet spot as its not too hot and not too cold and the water is still warm enough to swim.
Spring (March – May): Spring is a pleasant time to visit Port Aransas, with mild temperatures and
lower humidity compared to the summer months. Wildflowers bloom, and migratory birds pass through the area, making it a great time for nature enthusiasts. Spring break can bring increased crowds, especially during March, so plan accordingly if you prefer quieter beaches.Β
~Spring Annual Festivals/Events/Long Weekends:Β Spring Break, St Patty’s Day, SandFest, Mothers Day, Palm Fest, Memorial Day
Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season in Port Aransas, with warm temperatures perfect for beach activities and water sports. Families with children often visit during summer vacation, so expect larger crowds, especially on weekends and holidays. Be prepared for higher accommodation rates during this time, and make reservations well in advance.
~Summer Annual Festivals/Events/Long Weekends: Juneteenth, Fathers Day, Independence Day Fireworks, Deep Sea Roundup, Texas Woman’s Anglers Tournament
Fall (September to November): This is our favorite time of year. Fall offers pleasant weather with slightly cooler temperatures compared to summer and the water is still warm, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Crowds tend to thin out after Labor Day, allowing for a more relaxed atmosphere. Fall fishing season begins, attracting anglers to the area for excellent fishing opportunities.Β
~Fall Annual Festivals/ Events/Long Weekends: Labor Day, Pirate Parade, Surf Fest, Beachtober Fest, Wooden Boat Festival, Harvest Moon Regatta, Port A Days Festival, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving
Winter (December to February): Winter in Port Aransas is mild compared to many other parts of the country, with temperatures typically ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit. While it may not be warm enough for swimming, winter is still a great time for activities like birdwatching, hiking, and exploring the area without the summer crowds. Accommodation rates are often lower during the winter months, and you may find discounts or special offers at local hotels and vacation rentals.
~Winter Annual Festivals, Events/Long Weekends: Christmas, New Years, MLK Day, Restaurant Week, Mardi Gras Parade, Presidents Day, Whooping Crane Festival
You can see our full calendar here.
Check out these popular events happening in Port A when you and your family visit:
Port Aransas Yearly Planner by Jennifer Seymour
Top Family-Friendly Attractions
Port A Bucket List, your local’s guide to Port Aransas, has put together the top locals kid-approved, family-friendly attractions for your beach vacation.
1. Beach Time at Port Aransas Beach: The beach is a central attraction, ideal for swimming,
building sandcastles, beachcombing, getting buried in the sand or just relaxing by the sea.Β You can rent a golf cart for your trip and drive on the beach. Be sure to plan to bring your own shade.Β We suggest frameless sun shelters often called sun sails because they pack up small and the the metal pop up tents tend to break easily.Β Frameless shelters can be found around town for purchase or be sure to pack one before you come. Sun Sail, Shibumi andΒ Sun Ninja are common shade sails. Click here for a local’s guide to the beaches in Port Aransas.
~What’s in my beach bag: Sunscreen, hat, sun shirts, jellyfish gel (rare, but just in case) snacks, water, towels.
~Kid must haves, according to local beach kids: skim board, boogie board, surf board, sand castle toys, big wheeled toy trucks, kite, football, soccer ball, volley ball, frisbee…
2. Beach Time in the Evening inΒ Port Aransas:Β Plan for dinner and a bonfire on the beach. As a local this is one of my favorite things to do with friends and family. Everyone gathers around the fire for a relaxing evening and chatting about the days adventures. Be sure to bring glow sticks for the kiddos, they think its fun and I have piece of mind being able to easily see them once it gets dark.Β Flashlights make for fun evening beachcombing as well. Use the flashlight to discover shells and to help spot ghost crabs. Ghost crabs burrow in the sand and are nocturnal . They are about 1.5″- 2″ in size. We like to make a game out of catching the ghost crabs. Just be sure not to hurt them and to release them as they keep our beaches free of pesky bugs like sand fleas. Bonfires must be 50 feet away from the dunes and no bigger than 3 feet in diameter. Also be sure to put the fire completely out and cover the hole. You can use a sand toy bucket and get water from the beach to put the fire out. You can also hire Rolling Tide Beach Boils and Bonfires to take care of the fire for you.
~Beach Bonfire must haves: wood to burn, chairs, shovel, lighter/fluid, glow sticks, flashlights, sand toys & smores/drinks.
2. Dolphin Watching: Create core memories with your family by watching dolphins in their natural habitat.Β Sightseeing these majestic creatures are a hit with children of all ages.Β We put together a guide on the best places to see dolphins in Port Aransas Texas.
3. Port A Bucket List: Start the Ultimate Port A Bucket List! We put together the ultimate things to do list/scavenger hunt for Port Aransas. Do it as a family or individually. It may take a few trips to Port Aransas to complete all the things on the list. There is a fun scavenger for the littles as well.
Ultimate Port A Bucket List with paid ads by Jennifer Seymour
4. Nature/History Tours: Port Aransas has a plethora of history and nature areas to explore. Offering nature trails, bird watching, allegator/dolphin/sea turtle sightings and more. Did you know know Franklin D Roosevelt has a signed Tarpon scale in Port Aransas? Or that we have a remnants of a WWII Gun Mounts? Check out our map for a self-guided tours through Port Aransas be sure to include a stop at the Port Aransas History Museum.
5. Fishing Adventures: Port Aransas is the known “Fishing Capital of Texas” so taking the family fishing can be a memorable experience. You can rent gear, and fish from our jetties and piers or venture on a guiding bay fishing or offshore fishing trip. Here is our guide on where to fish in Port Aransas.
7. Pirate Ship Adventures: A fun, themed cruise around the bay on an actual Pirate Ship where families can enjoy a unique experience on the water. This is a great opportunity for a fun filled trip. You will get a glimpse of the Lydia Ann Lighthouse and most likely see some dolphins. Click here to make a reservation and be sure to tell them Port A Bucket List sent you!Β
8. Golfing at Palmilla Beach Golf Club: For families that enjoy golf, this course offers a beautiful
setting and a relaxing day out. Golf a full 9-holes or do the 3-hole speed round. They have clubs available to use at the pro-shop. Be sure to tell them I sent you!
9. Fire It Ceramics: This is a great way spend time as a family and fun for all ages. Pick from an array of ceramic art pieces and spend as much time as you want painting your masterpiece!
10. Winston’s Candy:Β A family tradition is visiting Winston’s Candy shop. From homemade fudge to classic candies even Mom and Dad will feel like kid wondering through the aisles of the infamous candy store.
11. Playgrounds, Community Pool, Skate Parks, Bike Trails: Be sure to check out both Roberts Point Park and the Port Aransas Community Park during your visit with the kiddos. Roberts Point Park has a great play area and a great view of ships passing through the channel. The Community Park has a tri-story play structure, skate park, dog park, pickle ball, community pool and walking/bike trails.
12. Parasailing: Available in couple locations, this activities offers a fun way to explore the waters around Port Aransas.
14. University of Texas Marine Science Center: a hub for scientific research, education, and outreach focused on understanding and protecting the marine environment of the Gulf of Mexico and beyond. If you’re interested in marine science or exploring the coastal ecosystems of Texas, visiting UTMSI can be an informative and enriching experience. Take a tour and explore the interactive displays. OpenΒ Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m and located atΒ 855 E. Cotter Avenue, Port Aransas Texas 78373.Β Maps & Directions
15. Always something fun happening Port Aransas: Be sure to check out our calendar of events to stay posted on the fun things to do with kids in Port Aransas!Β Port A Bucket List CalendarΒ
Family Dining Options
Port Aransas boasts a range of family-friendly restaurants and delightful ice cream parlors that cater to all tastes. Popular family-friendly restaurants include Port A Pizzeria with a small arcade, Lelo’s with great outdoor seating and games, The Gaff has a huge outdoor area and Fin’s with its excellent marina view and close to the Red Dragon Pirate Ship.
Here is our full guide on where to eat in Port Aransas.Β
Accommodation Choices
Where to Stay in Port Aransas: Finding family accommodations in Port Aransas can seem daunting as there are so many places to choose from.Β Port Aransas offers everything from camping and micro-motels to whole houses and resort style amenities.
Start by figuring out what your nighty budget will be for accommodations and what your needs will be. Pool excess, private pool, pet friendly proximity to the beach etc. Check out our Stay in Port Aransas page for more info.Β Β
If you are staying somewhere with a pool consider hiring a private lifeguard for piece of mind. You find this service available with Padre Poseidons.
Keep in mind that most places are indeed very close to the beach however you need to plan to take your car to the beach, rent a golf cart or be prepared with a wagon to help lug all the beach things around.
There are many golf cart rental companies in Port Aransas to choose from. We did some research and put together a golf cart rental spreadsheet with prices based on a random week in June. You can see that here.
Testimonials and Family Stories
I asked a few people what they love about visiting Port Aransas and this is what they said:
“We’ve been coming to Port Aransas since I was little kid, now as adult I love bringing my kids here.”-Amy
“I love coming during Spring Break. I’m from Austin and half my school is here. I love seeing everyone on the beach and hanging out.” – Amanda
“I like seashells” – my 2 year old nephew Noland.
Port Aransas has been a go to family beach destination for years and we would love to hear stories from your beach vacation in the comments. Be sure to tag us on social media by using using @PortABucketList and use #PortABucketList.
Other Things to Do in Port Aransas
So many things to do in Port Aransas
- Beyond Dolphin Watching: This is a great guide on where to connect with nature in Port Aransas. Lots of information on Fishing charters, birdwatching, and nature trails. Did you know we have a resident alligator named Boots?
- Port Aransas Beach Guide: A local’s guide to enjoying beach days in Port Aransas Texas! Your help to choosing the perfect beach spot to safety tips and fun activities.
- Culinary Delights: Local eateries serving fresh seafood and coastal cuisine a guide to Port Aransas restaurants. Did you know most places will cook your fishing catch?
- Events and Festivals: Always something going on from live music, art shows, and festivals. Check out our calendar and plan your Port Aransas Escape. Did you know Port Aransas is an official live music city of Texas?
- Ultimate Port A Bucket List A downloadable things-to-do-and-see checklist for an immersive Port Aransas experiences!
