Explore Port Aransas the island way—with a golf cart! Many of these local businesses deliver directly to Royal Sands. Be sure to book early during peak season.
Texas Red’s Golf Carts
Delivers to Royal Sands 📞 361-749-5400
Paradise Carts 📞 361-749-3003
Kacie’s Beach Carts 📞 361-777-6622
Bron’s Beach Carts 📞 361-290-7143
Jackfish 📞 361-339-1089
Coastal Ed’s Cruisers 📞 361-749-7001
Port A Beach Buggies📞 361-749-2066
Port A Carts 📞 361-300-4045
Island Motor Bikes & Carts
Electric Bicycles and Fat Tire Bikes 📞 361-655-5501
VayK Gear – Port Aransas
📞 (888) 577‑7412
🌐 vaykgear.com/port-aransas
VayK Gear delivers all the beach essentials right to your rental home. Choose from beach chairs, umbrellas, boogie boards, coolers, wagons, bikes, paddleboards, and even games like cornhole. Convenient, contactless service makes it easy to enjoy your vacation without the hassle of packing gear.
Port A Beach Buggies
📞 (361) 749‑2066
🌐 portabeachbuggies.com
In addition to golf cart rentals, Port A Beach Buggies also rents Shibumi Shades—a lightweight, wind-powered beach canopy that’s perfect for families and easy to set up. A great option for sun protection without the bulk of traditional umbrellas.
Beach Tent Rentals
📞 (361) 960-1617
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back bite after a beach day or planning a special dinner out, Port Aransas is full of delicious surprises. Here’s our personal guide to the best dining spots—tried, true, and totally worth it.
Coffee Waves
📍 1007 State Hwy 361, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Locals’ favorite for espresso, iced drinks, and homemade gelato. A cozy atmosphere with plenty of seating—great for relaxing or catching up on emails.
Island Market Smoothie Bar
📍 614 S. Gulf St., Port Aransas, TX 78373
Fresh smoothies, acai bowls, cold-pressed juices, and healthy breakfast items. Perfect for a light, energizing start to your beach day.
Donut Palace
📍 604 N Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Start the morning with hot, made-fresh donuts—bear claws, fritters, long johns, and more. Opens early and sells out quickly on weekends.
Irie’s Bakery
📍 200 W Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Formerly a taco spot, now a local gem serving fresh-baked muffins, cinnamon rolls, kolaches, and breakfast pastries. Go early—they sell out fast!
Coach’s Island Grill
📍 505 N. Alister St, Suite C, Port Aransas, TX 78373
A laid-back breakfast and lunch spot known for classic breakfast plates, omelets, pancakes, and friendly service. Generous portions and great for families.
Black Marlin Bar & Grill (at Palmilla Beach Resort)
📍 258 Snapdragon, Port Aransas, TX 78373
An upscale brunch destination with beautiful Gulf views, coastal-inspired dishes, and great cocktails. Ideal for a relaxed, scenic morning meal.
Roosevelt’s at the Tarpon Inn
📍 200 E Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Elegant dining in a historic inn. Known for steaks and seafood at dinner, but also serves a refined and memorable brunch. Reservations highly recommended.
Dylan’s Coal Oven Pizzeria
📍128 Market St., Suite D, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Crispy thin-crust pizza from a coal-fired oven. Great for dine-in or takeout, and always a hit with kids.
La Playa Mexican Grille
📍 222 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749-0022
Fresh Tex-Mex dishes, homemade tortillas, and potent margaritas. A fun, festive atmosphere. Call ahead—it’s a local favorite!
MacDaddy’s Family Kitchen
📍 118 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749-2271
Comfort food classics—think fried shrimp, brisket, and mac & cheese. Quick service, big portions, and family-friendly.
Fins Grill & Icehouse
📍 420 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749-8646
Easygoing seafood spot with marina views. Great for fish tacos, burgers, and people-watching by the water.
Port A Poke
📍 345 N Alister St # C, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Fresh, customizable poke bowls with healthy toppings and bold flavors. Quick, satisfying, and refreshing after a beach day.
Virginia’s on the Bay
📍 815 Trout St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749-4088
Casual waterfront dining with beautiful sunset views. Known for seafood platters and relaxed vibes. Great for large groups.
Grumbles Seafood Co.
📍 850 Tarpon St., Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749-5930
Modern and bright with walk-up counter service and covered patio seating. Great fried seafood, fish sandwiches, and cocktails.
Blue Water Cowboy
📍 229 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749-0105
Fun rooftop bar and grill offering fresh catch, burgers, and stunning views over the marina. Great happy hour and cocktails.
Lelo’s Island Bar
📍 212 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 416-1793
Tropical-themed burger bar with outdoor seating and laid-back vibes. Don’t miss the pineapple jalapeño margarita!
Trout Street Bar & Grill
📍 104 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749-7800
A local staple with marina views, daily catch specials, and a solid wine list. Perfect for lunch or a relaxed dinner.
Roosevelt’s at the Tarpon Inn
📍 200 E Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749-1540
Romantic and historic, with candlelight ambiance, white tablecloths, and a menu featuring prime steaks and fresh Gulf seafood. A go-to for special occasions.
Lisabella’s Bistro & Bar (Located in Cinnamon Shore)
📍 5009 TX-361, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749-4222
Coastal elegance with charming patio dining and seasonal chef specials. Known for crab cakes, fresh seafood, and a fine wine list. Book early during peak seasons.
Black Marlin Bar & Grill (at Palmilla Beach Resort)
📍 258 Snapdragon, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749-4653
An upscale atmosphere with sweeping golf course and Gulf views. Enjoy elevated coastal cuisine, steaks, and one of the best brunches in town.
The Venetian Hot Plate
📍 232 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749-7617
A cozy Italian bistro with a loyal local following. Exceptional pasta, fresh Gulf seafood, and an intimate setting make this a must-visit for a romantic evening.
The Phoenix Restaurant & Bar
📍 3500-A, Island Moorings Pkwy, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749-9277
Modern coastal dining with fresh, chef-driven dishes and a stylish atmosphere. Located on the marina—perfect for sunset views and craft cocktails.
Whether you’re cooling off after a beach day or satisfying a late-night craving, Port A offers plenty of places for ice cream, candy, smoothies, and more!
Bron’s Beach Carts & Ice Cream
📍 314 Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749‑0649
Grab a scoop of ice cream while picking up your golf cart rental—fun, fast, and family-friendly!
Desserted Island Ice Cream
📍 100 E White Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 332‑9300
A colorful local favorite serving up fun flavors, over-the-top sundaes, and creative toppings galore.
Port A Creamery
📍 210 N Alister St, Suite 4, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 446‑2383
Offers 25+ ice cream flavors, waffle ice cream sandwiches, milkshakes, sundaes, and a few savory bites—perfect after a long beach day.
Winton’s Candy Co.
📍 601 S Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749‑4773
A classic candy shop filled with saltwater taffy, hand-dipped chocolates, caramels, and nostalgic sweets for all ages.
Island Scoop
📍 407 S Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749‑2444
This cheerful pink shop serves Blue Bell ice cream, shakes, sundaes, fruit cups, and sodas in a fun, retro setting.
Tropical Sno of Port A
📍 501 S Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 215‑4129
A drive-thru hut offering Hawaiian-style shaved ice with 36 syrup flavors, cream toppings, and spicy Chamoy—perfect for a refreshing treat.
Aloha Acai Bowls & Smoothies
📍 403 N. Alister, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Refreshing, made-to-order acai bowls, smoothies, and juices made with fresh fruit. Great for a healthy start or mid-day energy boost.
Dairy Queen
📍 307 W. Cotter Ave., Port Aransas, TX 78373
Classic soft-serve cones, Blizzards, sundaes, and quick bites. Conveniently located for a sweet stop anytime.
Make your beach nights unforgettable with custom bonfire setups or a private seafood boil right on the sand. These local companies take care of everything—from firewood to food—so you can relax under the stars.
Slow Ur Roll Bonfires
📞 (361) 813-5305
🌐 slowurrollporta.com
Create a cozy coastal experience with professionally built beach bonfires featuring signature fire pit shapes like hearts, waves, or stars. Packages include firewood, tiki torches, chairs, Bluetooth speakers, s’mores kits, and even add-on catering options through local partners. Great for family gatherings, proposals, or sunset celebrations.
Rollin’ Tide Boil Co.
📞 (361) 416-1844
🌐 rollintideboilco.com
Enjoy a traditional low-country shrimp boil served right on the beach—complete with tables, chairs, lighting, music, and a personal chef. This full-service dining and bonfire experience includes boiled shrimp, sausage, potatoes, corn, and all the fixings. Perfect for birthdays, reunions, or just a memorable meal with Gulf views.
Sip Yard Port Aransas
📍 123 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
A lively, open-air venue featuring live country and rock music, multiple food trucks, two outdoor bars, and games like shuffleboard. Don’t miss the third-floor rooftop view overlooking downtown Port A!
Shorty’s Place
📍 101 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Port A’s oldest and most iconic dive bar. Known for its come-as-you-are vibe, live music nearly every night, and a crowd of friendly locals and visitors alike.
The Gaff
📍 323 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Classic island watering hole famous for good pizza, open-mic nights, and quirky live events—like their legendary Belt Sander Races. A true Port A original.
The Palm Social Club
📍 801 Tarpon St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
A stylish indoor-outdoor cocktail bar with a retro lounge feel, craft drinks, and nightly live music. No cover charge and a relaxed, upscale vibe in the heart of town.
Port A BierHaus
📍 522 E Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373
A must-stop for craft beer lovers. Offers rotating taps, casual bites, and regular live performances—perfect for groups and laid-back evenings.
Bernie’s Beach House
📍 730 Trout St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Spacious and chill, Bernie’s is known for its weekend live music lineup, relaxed beach house vibe, and a mix of locals and tourists dancing the night away.
Port A Beer Hut
📍 905 State Hwy 361, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Outdoor beer garden with picnic tables, yard games, and rotating live music acts. Ideal for a low-key evening under the string lights.
Take a peaceful walk or cast a line from one of Port Aransas’s scenic public piers. Each spot offers unique views and a chance to connect with the island’s natural beauty.
Charlie’s Pasture Pier
📍 710 Avenue A, Port Aransas, TX 78373
A quieter spot for fishing or watching the sun rise over the flats.
Horace Caldwell Pier
📍 On the beach at Cotter Ave & E Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Extending over 1,200 feet into the Gulf, this pier is perfect for surf fishing and ocean views.
Roberts Point Park Pier
📍 301 JC Barr Blvd, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Set along the ship channel—great for fishing and dolphin watching.
Station Street Pier
📍 301 S Station St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Newly renovated and ADA accessible with benches and nighttime lighting.
📍 710 W Avenue A, Port Aransas, TX 78373
This expansive preserve offers walking trails, birdwatching decks, and panoramic views of the marshlands. It’s a peaceful, less-traveled gem ideal for spotting shorebirds and enjoying the coastal landscape. Don’t forget your binoculars!
📍 301 JC Barr Blvd, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Bring a chair and take in the sights as dolphins swim through the ship channel. Shaded seating, observation decks, and water views make this a relaxing (and free) afternoon outing.
There’s no better way to start the day than riding along the shoreline in the cool morning air. Bring your own beach cruiser or rent from one of the many local shops in town. Early morning light and wide beaches make for a perfect Port A moment.
In June 2025, Governor Greg Abbott officially named Port Aransas the Fishing Capital of Texas—a well-deserved title for this vibrant coastal town. Whether you’re heading offshore in search of marlin and tuna, casting for redfish in the flats, or enjoying a peaceful morning on a public pier, Port A offers world-class fishing for every skill level and style.
But the magic of Port Aransas goes far beyond the reel. It’s the sunrises over the marina, the stories swapped at the cleaning stations, and the unforgettable thrill of a first catch. Fishing here isn’t just a pastime—it’s part of the local heartbeat.
Fishing Spots in and Around Port Aransas
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or casting a line for the first time, Port Aransas offers a wide range of fishing options—from piers and jetties to wade fishing and beach casting. Here’s where to go:
1. Horace Caldwell Pier
📍 Cotter Ave & E Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373
2. Station Street Pier (Newly Reopened & Renovated)
📍 301 S Station St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
3. Roberts Point Park Pier
📍 301 JC Barr Blvd, Port Aransas, TX 78373
4. South Jetty (Jetty Walkway)
📍 End of E Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
5. Charlie’s Pasture Fishing Decks (Nature Preserve)
📍 710 W Avenue A, Port Aransas, TX 78373
6. Wilson’s Cut (Shoreline Access)
📍 Just off Hwy 361, near Mustang Island State Park
7. Surf Fishing on the Beach
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned angler, these experienced captains will get you to the fish. Be sure to book in advance—especially during weekends and tournament season!
1. Dolphin Docks Deep Sea Fishing
📞 (361) 749‑5597
🌐 dolphindocks.com
Shared and private charters available, including half-day and overnight trips for snapper, tuna, and kingfish. Great option for groups or solo anglers.
2. Fisherman’s Wharf – Offshore Adventures
📞 (361) 749‑5448
🌐 fishermanswharfporta.com
Specializes in offshore sport fishing for shark, tuna, and mahi-mahi. Offers large group trips and well-equipped boats with professional crews.
3. Deep Sea Headquarters
📞 (361) 749‑5597
🌐 deepseaheadquarters.com
Wide range of fishing excursions—from bay trips to multi-day offshore tuna runs. On-site tackle shop, bait, and fish cleaning services available.
Perfect for families and laid-back explorers, these cruises offer beautiful views, wildlife sightings, and unforgettable Gulf Coast experiences.
1. Scarlet Lady Dolphin Adventures
📍 440 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749‑5597
Dolphin-watching and sunset cruises aboard a luxury catamaran. Includes a full bar, friendly crew, and gorgeous views of the marina and coastline.
2. Red Dragon Pirate Cruises
📍 440 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749‑AHOY (2469)
Family-friendly pirate ship adventure with live entertainment, music, cannon fire, and dolphin sightings. Great for kids and group fun.
3. Tiki Tours Port Aransas
📍 Slip 004, Island Moorings Pkwy, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 205‑7707
Private, tiki-themed boat tours perfect for dolphin watching, beachcombing, and relaxing sunset cruises. BYOB friendly and customizable for events.
From beachy boutiques and artful gift shops to nostalgic candy stores and surf gear, shopping in Port Aransas offers something for everyone. Stroll through town and discover unique finds you won’t see anywhere else.
Gratitude
📍 316 N Station St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
A charming coastal boutique offering gifts, home décor, jewelry, and island-inspired treasures. Perfect for thoughtful souvenirs or hostess gifts.
Roam
📍 403 N Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 443‑7121
A stylish boutique for clothing, home goods, jewelry, and unique gifts—”possibly the coolest store ever.”
Boutique Bella Bella
📍 422 W Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373
A hidden gem with stylish women’s clothing, sandals, and accessories. Ideal for fashion-forward beachwear and island evenings.
Cita Coastal Resort Wear
📍 129 N Alister St, Suite 101, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Trendy, beachy clothing and accessories for women—think flowy dresses, sun hats, and statement jewelry. You’ll want everything in the store!
Rag Doll Boutique
📍 124 E Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Cute and quirky with a mix of boho fashion, accessories, and great finds for teens and young adults. Always something unexpected.
Bo Jon’s Surf & Gifts
📍 204 E Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Browse colorful shells, beach toys, shark teeth, beach décor, and classic Port A souvenirs—fun for kids and adults alike!
Winton’s Candy Co.
📍 601 S Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
A nostalgic candy shop known for homemade fudge, saltwater taffy, chocolates, and old-school sweets.
Island Pet Company
📍 110 W Brundrett Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 445‑7724
A full-service pet boutique offering supplies, treats, toys, and more—located in The Shops at Old Towne.
Lowe’s Market – Port Aransas
📍 211 S Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
A smaller neighborhood grocery store for quick trips and basic needs. Fresh produce, snacks, beverages, and more.
Dollar General – Port Aransas
📍 717 Tarpon St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Convenient and affordable for beach toys, toiletries, pantry items, and last-minute essentials.
CVS Pharmacy
📍 910 State Hwy 361, Port Aransas, TX 78373
📞 (361) 749‑6138
Prescription refills, personal care items, snacks, beach supplies, and more.
We recommend stocking up before you arrive—both H-E-B and Walmart deliver to Royal Sands!
H-E-B – Flour Bluff
📍 1145 Waldron Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
📞 (361) 939‑5500
Walmart Supercenter – Flour Bluff
📍 1821 Waldron Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
H-E-B – Aransas Pass
📍 101 E Goodnight Ave, Aransas Pass, TX 78336
📞 (361) 758‑2371
Walmart Supercenter – Aransas Pass
📍 2501 W Wheeler Ave, Aransas Pass, TX 78336
There’s always something happening in Port Aransas! Whether you love art, music, fishing, or food—this little beach town knows how to throw a celebration.
Here are some of our favorite events, month by month:
Celebrate the return of the endangered whooping cranes to the Texas coast with birding tours, photography workshops, and expert speakers.
Catch beads and beach vibes during Port A’s quirky and colorful Mardi Gras parade, complete with golf carts, floats, and fun for all ages.
Spring Break brings energy and excitement! Expect beach concerts, sandcastle contests, and local businesses buzzing with activity.
One of the largest beach sand sculpting competitions in the U.S.—you’ll see incredible creations from world-class sand artists and enjoy live music, food vendors, and family fun.
Hosted at Farley Boat Works, this unique event showcases handcrafted boats and honors Port A’s shipbuilding and fishing heritage.
Celebrate Independence Day island-style with a community golf cart parade and fireworks over the beach.
This is Port Aransas’ most famous fishing tournament—and now that we’re the Fishing Capital of Texas, it’s even more legendary!
A month-long celebration of everything we love about the coast: live music, beer tastings, food truck festivals, and community fun.
Watch as sailboats from across the Gulf make their way to Port Aransas in this breathtaking sailing event.
Local artists, jewelers, and makers showcase their work. It’s the perfect time to grab coastal gifts and holiday decor.
A festive tradition! Boats decked out in holiday lights cruise through the marina as carolers and families cheer from the docks.