Port Aransas, Texas.

Port Aransas is one of Texas's most popular beach destinations, sitting on the northern end of Mustang Island. The town is known for its 18 miles of beaches, excellent deep-sea fishing, and a vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene. The ferry from Aransas Pass is a beloved part of the experience, offering a short free crossing that feels like the start of a proper coastal getaway. Port Aransas has a laid-back, beach-town personality. Golf carts are a common mode of transportation, and the pace slows down to match the Gulf waves.

Port Aransas is on the northern end of Mustang Island, accessible by ferry from Aransas Pass. It's about 30 miles south of Rockport and 35 miles from Corpus Christi.

For Hill Country visitors making the drive, Port Aransas delivers a complete coastal vacation package. The beaches are wide and drivable, meaning you can park on the sand and set up for the day. Fishing charters depart daily from the marinas for offshore trips targeting red snapper, kingfish, and mahi-mahi, while the jetties and piers offer solid surf and bay fishing for those staying on land. The town also has a strong food scene. Fresh seafood, cold drinks, and live music are easy to find along the main strip and the harbor area.

Beyond the beach and fishing, Port Aransas is home to several nature preserves and birding hotspots. The Port Aransas Nature Preserve at Charlie's Pasture offers miles of trails through coastal habitat, and the town is a key stop on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. Birders visit year-round but especially during spring and fall migrations. For families, the combination of swimmable beaches, kid-friendly restaurants, and the novelty of the golf-cart lifestyle makes Port Aransas an easy destination. It is worth noting that the town can get crowded during summer weekends and spring break, so planning ahead for lodging and ferry crossings is essential.

Drive time from Boerne

Port Aransas is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes from Boerne via I-37 South to Corpus Christi, then across the Harbor Bridge and down Mustang Island. The final leg across the ferry from Aransas Pass can add 15 to 45 minutes depending on wait times.

What to know before you go

• Best time to visit: Fall and spring offer the best combination of good weather and smaller crowds. Summer is peak season and very busy.
• Ferry wait: The free ferry from Aransas Pass can have significant waits during peak weekends. Check the live camera feeds before heading over.
• Golf carts: Renting a golf cart is a popular way to get around town. Many rental companies serve the island.
• Fishing: Port Aransas is one of the top fishing destinations on the Texas coast. Charter boats are available for bay, jetty, and offshore trips.
• Birding: The Port Aransas Nature Preserve and nearby Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center are excellent spots for coastal bird species.
• Lodging: Options range from budget hotels and condos to upscale beach houses. Book well in advance for summer and spring break.