Arroyo City, Texas.

Arroyo City is a small, unincorporated fishing community along the Arroyo Colorado, a tidal waterway that connects to the Laguna Madre. It is known for excellent bay fishing, particularly for redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. The town is quiet and unhurried — no traffic lights, no chain restaurants, just bait shops, boat ramps, and the kind of peace that comes with being off the beaten path.

Arroyo City is an unincorporated community along the Arroyo Colorado, a tidal waterway that connects to the Laguna Madre. It's located between Harlingen and Port Mansfield in the lower Texas coast.

If you are looking for a place to get away from crowds and spend time on the water, Arroyo City delivers exactly that. The Arroyo Colorado winds through salt marshes and tidal flats, providing protected fishing waters that are productive year-round. Kayakers and paddleboarders will find the slow-moving water ideal for exploring, and the birdlife throughout the estuary is abundant. The community itself is tiny — a handful of fish camps, a general store or two, and waterfront homes on stilts. It is the kind of place where people wave from passing boats and the biggest decision of the day is where to drop your line.

For Hill Country residents considering a coastal property, Arroyo City represents one of the more affordable waterfront options on the Texas coast. The lack of development keeps prices reasonable, and the proximity to the Laguna Madre and the Gulf (via the Port Mansfield or Port Isabel channels) means serious anglers have access to both bay and offshore fishing. It is not the right fit for someone looking for restaurants, nightlife, or shopping. But for quiet, water-oriented living with minimal distractions, it is hard to beat.

Drive time from Boerne

Arroyo City is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes from Boerne. The route takes I-37 South to US-77 South, then east toward the Arroyo Colorado. The last stretch is on two-lane roads through ranchland and coastal prairie — a scenic final approach that builds anticipation for the water ahead.

What to know before you go

• Best time to visit: Fall through spring for comfortable fishing weather. Summer is hot but fishable early and late in the day.
• Fishing: The Arroyo Colorado is known for redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. Wading, kayaking, and boat fishing are all productive.
• Services: Limited. Bring your own supplies, ice, and food. There are a few small stores and bait shops but no major grocery or dining options.
• Lodging: Primarily fish camps and vacation rentals. Book well in advance during peak fishing seasons.
• Wildlife: The surrounding marshes and the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge are nearby, offering excellent birding and wildlife observation.