Christmas at the beach is an experience everyone should enjoy at least once in their lives, and when your beachy vacation brings you to the shores of Port Aransas, it may become a new family tradition. Offering warm temperatures, sunny skies, and all the Christmas activities that help make you get into the spirit of the season—including Christmas lights and displays—the only thing better than a holiday visit to Port A is a holiday visit to Port A spent celebrating, resting, and relaxing in our holiday hideaways at The Dunes. This guide to a Texas Christmas will take you to the best light displays in our coastal town, so start marking off the days on your calendar; the holiday will be here sooner than you think!

Nautical & Nice Drive Thru Holiday Light Display, Roberts Point Park, December 7 through January 5th

The Nautical & Nice Drive-Thru Holiday Light Display at Roberts Point Park is one of our favorite holiday traditions, costing nothing to participate in and brightening up our Christmases instantly. Offering ocean-themed cutouts decorated with lights and a large selection of Christmas trees that will bring a smile to your face, this experience can be even more joyful when accompanied by mugs of hot chocolate, carefully sipped under the glow of the moon and in the reflection of the holiday lights. The full moon will be in the sky on December 15th, adding to this heartwarming holiday activity. Christmas music can be heard through your radios when tuned to the right channel (details will be at the entrance of the drive thru) so feel free to sing along to your favorite songs.

Holiday Golf Cart Parade, Roberts Point Park, December 7

We love a parade, the quirkier the better, making the Holiday Golf Cart Parade that kicks off the season another one of our favorite Christmas activities. It is exactly what it sounds like, a parade of golf carts all decorated for the season, including colorful lights, inflatables, and of course, Santa Claus himself. Unlike most parades, Santa leads the way in his golf cart decorated like a sleigh and because this parade is a part of a bigger event, City Holiday in the Park, your kiddos will be able to meet Santa, tell him what they want for Christmas, play games, sing along to the Christmas music, and celebrate the season with joy. This is also a good time to visit the Memorial Christmas Tree, adding a card that honors family or friends that are no longer with us, to its boughs, offering a moving tribute to those we will never forget. Follow up the activities with a drive through the park’s holiday light display as mentioned above.

Lighted Boat Parade & Holiday Drone Show, Port Aransas Fisherman’s Wharf, December 14

The cavalcade of holiday lights continues, only this parade takes place on the water, adding a tranquil touch to this most festive of occasions. Costing nothing and starting at 6 PM, this celebration also takes to the skies as the 2nd annual Drone Show lights up the skies, and we really can’t decide which we love more, the colorful and shimmering boats skimming across the waters or the imaginative and also colorful light show in the sky. Also offering live holiday music performed by the Dunebillies (We kind of dig the name!), meet and greets with Santa Claus, photo opportunities, holiday beverages, and an all around magical evening of good cheer and happiness.

The Port Aransas Museum Courtyard, 400 N Alister Street, Throughout December

The courtyard of the Port Aransas Museum and Community Center offers its own holiday display, lighting its trees, playing holiday music, and providing more holiday photo opportunities.

Farley Boat Decoration Lighting, Throughout December

Farley Boat Works has always been a pretty big deal in town and at Christmas, our residents enjoy decking the boughs of their Farley Boat Planters, providing an eclectic display of spirit and joy. They can be in the neighborhoods that surround your holiday hideaway at The Dunes and are always decorating the fronts of local businesses, so take your time and enjoy a leisurely drive through town, stopping and taking pictures of your favorite displays and falling in love with this beachy Christmas vacation you chose to engage in. The Port Aransas Garden Club offers maps and a virtual tour if you are worried about missing some of the displays.

At Home with The Dunes

Some of your favorite displays may be the ones you can view as you walk to and from your holiday haven at The Dunes. Many owners who live here year-round (lucky souls!) will also take the time to add lights, decorations, and holiday cheer to their balconies (visible from the beaches below) or their doors. Reserve your favorite escape with The Dunes today and fall in love with all the joy a beachy Texas Christmas can bring.
P.S., be sure to check our website for the seasonal discounts that may be available during your desired time.

Traveling to Port Aransas over any holiday is always a great idea, and if your journey brings you our way this Halloween (coming sooner than you realize!), we invite you to explore the comforts of our vacation escapes at The Dunes in between all your holiday adventures. Offering comfort, luxury, and a family vibe that makes everyone feel at home, our sanctuaries will provide the perfect spot to recuperate after a wild night out on the town begging. And of course, we are talking about trick-or-treating, one adventure your kids would never forgive you for skipping; this guide to the best places to trick-or-treat in Port Aransas for Halloween will help keep the kiddos happy.

Trunk or Treat at Roberts Point Park, October 24th, 6 PM – 9 PM

We’re sure your children won’t mind an early opportunity to beg for treats with an October 24th visit to Trunk or Treat at Roberts Point Park. Offering an opportunity for your little ghouls, goblins, and princesses to dress up in their costumes and roam safely, the cars will be decorated in a spooky (but not terrifying) fashion, ensuring a spooktacular good time will be had by all. Also offering games, prizes, a costume contest for adults, kids, and dogs, and a traditional hayride that will give you all the feels, we can’t recommend this free family friendly event highly enough.

Annual Trunk or Treat Festival, October 25th, 6 PM – 9 PM, 5830 Williams Drive in Corpus Christi

Offering a second chance to experience the fun of the holiday early, this next trunk or treating event takes place in the nearby town of Corpus Christi, located just 25 miles away. We understand your children were probably pretty miffed at you when you first announced travel plans over Halloween, so we want to be sure that we can offer plenty of ways for you to make it up to them, with this annual festival being a local favorite. Offering free candy, free food, free rides, and free parking, we think you understand that this event is 100% free and guaranteed to make your Texas Halloween celebrations 100% more exciting.

Won’t You Join Our Neighbors?

Our retreats at The Dunes are often located in family neighborhoods, guaranteeing that the streets will be filled with zombies, ghosts, Elsas, and so much more, so why not join in the tradition and let your kids run mild with ours? Safe, fun, and destined to have the best candy, mom and dad can hold their kid’s hand as they cross the streets, walk up to the doors with their costumed adventurers and after the last candy has been begged for and your kiddos are tucked away in the beds of our vacation sanctuaries, a few pieces (or more) will be waiting for parents to borrow.

There are tons of Halloween-themed events going on in Port Aransas as well. Check out Halloween with Port Aransas Parks & Rec. From October 21st to the 23rd, you can take a Paranormal Port A Kid’s Hayride at Roberts Point Park from 6-9pm. Be sure to stop by the same park on October 24th for a Trunk or Treat event with plenty of candy for your little ones to enjoy. Want to carve a pumpkin on your vacation? Then you need to stop by the Sand Pumpkin Patch at Port Aransas Beach on October 25th and 26th to pick out the perfect jack-o-lanturn.

Perfectly Paired

Parents want candy as well, and if you have done the math, your kids have three times as much candy as they would have if you had stayed home! This means they won’t miss a few pieces or more, and because this will be an adult experience, we have listed what wines pair best with the most popular candies below!

• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups – A rich Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot is a dream pairing come true for this classic candy.

• Snickers – It’s the cab for us, dear guests, the fruity goodness blending perfectly with the nutty sweetness of a Snickers bar.

• Starburst – We don’t often think of pairing a Starburst with a wine but after this you will never be able to think otherwise. A sweet and bubbly Moscato is our favorite Starburst pairing and may become a go to snack for you even after the season has ended.

• Candy Corn – Ok, candy corn isn’t the most popular candy, but for the traditionalists amongst our guests you will be thrilled to learn that candy corn pairs beautifully with a chilled chardonnay!

• M&M’s – As with most chocolates, it will be a red that goes best and for today’s intents and purposes, a pinot noir will be the most satisfying pairing with your M&M’s.

• Dark Chocolate – Finishing up the list with any dark chocolate, you will find that a deep red zinfandel will make you happiest.

Bring the Celebration Home to The Dunes

Whether you are trick-or-treating with the kids or are simply looking for a quiet and peaceful getaway at the start of the big holiday season, choosing The Dunes for your vacation accommodations will show you the meaning of luxury and comfort. Binge-watch horror movies, try out our candy and wine pairings, and read your children’s favorite Halloween stories to them before they conk out for the night. Our properties become home when your family resides within. Reserve your favorite today!

As most parts of the world are slipping into their sweaters, curving their hands around their pumpkin spice lattes for warmth in the mornings, and are packing away their swimsuits for the next two seasons, summer in Port Aransas is entering its second act. Yes, the humidity does begin to lessen and yes, the mercury begins to dip, but this just allows us to enjoy beach days and other outdoor activities even more and if you are not quite ready for summer to end, a visit to Port Aransas and a stay in our Dunes’ beachfront escapes will help you keep your tan a little longer as it feeds the part of your soul that celebrates the season. And because you may not want to spend every day at the beach, we have created this guide to some of the top Fall events in Port Aransas, giving you a well-rounded peek into what makes our coastal port village beautiful and fun!

Summers Not Over Until We Say So Party, September 21, Port A Beer Hut

The first day of Fall is September 22 this year, but we Texans are a stubborn bunch and we aren’t ready to say so long to our favorite season, especially our friends at the Port A Beer Hut and we aren’t hating on them one bit. Offering live music, cold drinks, and quite honestly the coolest swings, there is nothing you won’t love about this party, especially when you snag a swing at the bar. Starting at 4:30 and ending at 7:30, visitors can enjoy a quick peek into what an eternal summer looks like in Port Aransas.

Port A Live Music Fest, September 27th & 28th, Various Venues Throughout Port A

The season wouldn’t be the same without music. Remember the first time you slow danced with your first boyfriend on a lazy summer’s night? Dancing with your girlfriends, knowing they didn’t care if you had the moves or not, even sipping cold beers on the beach as your favorite music plays in your earbuds. Summer and music go hand in hand and the Port A Live Music Fest will help continue the season a little longer. The genres, the decades, the locations will all be different, but when you are dancing in your flip flops to your favorite rock song, doing the two step to Texas Country, or soulfully singing along to soul, R&B, and cool jazz, you will forget that Fall is breathing down your neck. Ticket prices range from $30 to $100 and will get you into 15 shows in 5 different venues; VIP tickets include preferred seating and a festival tee.

Beachtober in Port A, October, Various Venues

Port Aransas will be celebrating the entire month of October, ensuring that summer is postponed another month, something we are sure you lovers of summer will not mind at all. Listed below is some of our favorite events in Port Aransas and remember, if you aren’t celebrating the season at one of them, temperatures that reach the 80s ensure that you can enjoy plenty of beach time all month long!

• Taco & Margarita Trail, Every Day in October- Tacos make us happy, tacos and margaritas make us delirious with joy, and the participating Port Aransas restaurants that are working to create their own versions of both make us realize that paradise really does exist and it exists right here in Port Aransas in October! Every restaurant puts their own spin on this feast filled with fun and flavor, and as you skip down the taco & margarita trail you may wonder why this doesn’t take place every month of the year!
• Sweet Traditions Trail, Every Day in October- If you find yourself thinking, hmm, something is missing while devouring your tacos and gulping down your margaritas, we at the Dunes are here to say, Nope, nothing is missing, you just need to take yourself down a new trail when you are finished with the savory one, the Sweet Traditions Trail of utter and complete joy and happiness! Many of the same restaurants on the original trail of taste and goodness will also be participating in this one, so you won’t even have to leave your seat to enjoy the sweet treats they have created to celebrate Beachtober!
• Port Aransas Wooden Boat Festival, October 25 through 27th, Robert’s Point Park- For many years, it was the sea and the vessels that traversed the sea that provided the food we eat and the money we needed, and the Port Aransas Wooden Boat Festival is our way of paying homage to those long ago days. Offering food, arts and craft vendors, even boat kit vendors, it’s the handmade boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and skiffs that are the star of this fun event, set off to sea with great fanfare on all three days of the festival.

Family Moments at Home with the Dunes

After days filled with fun, food, and laughter, the quiet moments spent in our luxurious seasonal sanctuaries will be the ones you remember fondly when Fall can’t be pushed off any longer. Reserve your favorite beachfront escape today!

It seems as if it were only yesterday that you were excitedly awaiting the first days of summer, filled with plans of museum visits with the kids, road trips to cooler places, and a beach vacation that would top all other beach vacations. And yet, here it is, almost Labor Day, and you realize that you haven’t done any of the activities you thought you would fill your summer of 2024 with, but that’s ok. Port Aransas Labor Day Weekend is coming up, offering one last chance to celebrate summer at the beaches, and we at The Dunes are offering this guide to your Labor Day Texas trip of a lifetime, helping you accomplish at least one of those summer goals you imagined all those months ago.

Work for Your Supper

Don’t worry, we aren’t suggesting that you actually labor on this day devoted to relaxation; we are simply inviting you to charter a fishing expedition and catch your own dinner. There are plenty of charters in Port Aransas that are just waiting to take you out to the deep waters, helping you achieve a dream come true, that one where you catch a trophy fish that will make all your fishing buddies back home turn green with envy! Dolphin Dock, Inc., located at 300 W Cotter Avenue, offers a variety of fishing expeditions, ranging between 4 and 12 hours in length, and because the summer months (and yes, Port Aransas Labor Day weekend is still considered summer) are when some of the biggest game fish can be caught.

The Ultimate Summer Treat

Not all your Labor Day adventures need to be grandiose and time-consuming. Sometimes the simplest moments provide the biggest impact, and even as the calendar says September has arrived, with temperatures reaching the mid to low 80s, enjoying an ice cream cone at Desserted Island Ice Cream. Located at 100 E White Avenue and offering not just ice cream but a unique selection of shakes, including a jalapeño peanut butter shake, your sweetest summer memories will be created inside the colorful building that houses this modern ice cream parlor.

Beach Cruising in Port Aransas

Billed as the most bikeable beach town in Texas, all the adventures you can enjoy on two wheels will add shine to a vacation that already glitters brightly, and because we know you didn’t pack a bike in your carry-on, Big Shell Bikes should be your first stop. Located at 409 N Alister Street Suite B, guests can rent a bike for anywhere from half a day all the way up to a week at a time with prices starting at $25 and topping out at $100 for an entire week’s rental. There is a $20 delivery fee if you want the bikes delivered to your doorstep, but that can be avoided if you pick them up yourself, and a tour map of Port Aransas is included with your rental so you never have to worry about getting lost.

Never Leave the Beach

This beach vacation you have been dreaming of for so very long can be one in which you rarely, if ever, leave the beach. Arrive early and watch the sun rise over the sea, spend the day relaxing under colorful beach umbrellas, building sandcastles at water’s edge and frolicking in the surf, lingering to watch the sun fall back into the waters from which you watched it rise earlier that day. And if you think your beach adventures must end when the moon rises, what you learn next will make another beach dream come true. How many beach-themed movies have you watched or beach-themed books have you read in which the main characters end their day of fun under the sun with a bonfire on the beach? Although many beaches across the nation have outlawed this romantic tradition, in Port Aransas, as long as you follow the rules on depth, width, and height of the fire, you can end your day roasting marshmallows on your own bonfire at the beach.

Exploring the Amenities of Your Summer Sanctuary

The moments you remember fondly just may be the ones you enjoy staying in and exploring the amenities of your summer sanctuary from The Dunes. Sleeping in late every morning, not quite willing to leave the plush comforts of our cloud-soft mattresses and enjoying simple breakfasts you prepare in the gourmet kitchens that are fully equipped with everything you need to make the morning meal—minus the food, of course.

Rainy nights can be enjoyed as your family gathers around state-of-the-art televisions, watching beach movies, eating fresh popped popcorn, and sipping your favorite beverages. And if you decide to skip your sunset walk on the beach, you won’t have to suffer from FOMO when you rent one of our Port Aransas staycation rentals; simply walk out on the balcony and wait for the show to begin. Reserve your favorite holiday hideaway today before summer 2024 ends forever!

As you are sitting out in your backyard with your feet in the kiddie pool your kiddos are playing inside to keep cool, you can almost feel a slight lowering of the temperatures, and you can practically hear the sounds of your children’s schools coming back to life. The summer has flown by, and it is almost time for the first bell of the school year to ring, but if you feel that your summer has been missing something—a trip to the beaches of Port Aransas, for instance—it’s not too late to get in one last Texas-sized vacation. Offering beachy days and comfortable nights when you choose The Dunes for your last weeks of summer sanctuary, this guide to taking a back-to-school vacation to Port Aransas, our coastal town, will help make the sunniest season end on a perfect note.

Meals to Remember

Your diet starts on Monday or whatever the first day of school is in your hometown, so your Texas getaway should be filled with all the foods you won’t be able to enjoy once you start counting calories. The restaurants of Port Aransas offer an authentic taste of Texas, and whether you are devouring breakfast at Island Café (301 S Alister Street), chowing down on barbecue at MacDaddy’s Family Kitchen (118 Beach Street), or savoring the spicy heat of a delicious Mexican meal at La Playa Mexican Grille (222 Beach Street #5312), you can be assured you will leave each place well-fed. Our fully equipped kitchens will be there for those times when you just want to stay in and enjoy our cozy havens, but we encourage you to explore the culinary landscape of Port A whenever you can.

Beach Days You Will Wish Never Had to End

There’s a certain joy and peace that can be found from a day spent at the beach, and our white sand beaches are sure to be the most joyous part of your vacation activities. Wake up early and walk along water’s edge as the sun rises and sets the sky on fire, or take your time, packing a cooler with your favorite foods and beverages and a wagon with beach towels, chairs, and an umbrella to protect your skin from the rays of the sun and plan on spending a day at the beach that you will never want to end. Some visitors live to explore the thrills that can be found on the water, including boating, canoeing, or jet skiing, and however you spend your days at the beach, your vacation will shine brighter just because you could.

Let’s Go to the Park

Families with younger children spend a lot of time in the parks in their own hometowns, so a visit to Roberts Point Park, located at 301 JC Barr Boulevard, is a natural progression of those fun moments, but also offers so much more. Yes, there is a playground your kiddos will scramble all over like the little cute monkeys they are and yes, there are picnic tables and pavilions where you can enjoy your al fresco meal in shaded environs, but this park offers a variety of sport activities as well. Shuffleboard, bocce ball, sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, even horseshoes and a soccer field are a part of this 50-acre park. Fishing from the jetties, watching the sunset from the observation tower (and perhaps dolphins out in the distance) or attending an event or concert at the Patsy Jones Amphitheater, Roberts Point Park offers something different every time you visit.

Exploring Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island is a barrier island, offering pristine beaches, prime seashell collecting opportunities, and many active fishing spots where the fish seem to always be biting and spending a few hours exploring its magic is a favored activity for visitors and residents of Port Aransas alike. Kayakers may want to check out the Mustang Island Paddling Trail, consisting of three shorter trails (North, Shamrock, and Ashum Trails) that take paddlers to some of the best shallow water fishing spots in the area. The natural beauty of Mustang Island will make this adventure one of your favorites.

Loving a Vacation to Port Aransas with The Dunes

As every parent knows, once that first bell of the school year rings, life moves at breakneck speeds, making this last vacation of the summer the most important vacation of the year. These minutes, hours, and days spent in the warm embrace of our coastal escapes will offer relaxation, comfort, and some of the most fulfilling family activities, making memories you will never forget. The serenity of the sea invades our properties and your soul, and when life gets chaotic and exhausting, you will be able to take the memories out of your heart and take a mini vacation from stress whenever you need. Reserve your last-minute vacation rental today!

What better time to make your beach vacation dreams come true than in the summer months and what better place to live them than in Port Aransas? It’s true, We at the Dunes, may be biased, we love our Texas hometown with a fierce passion and we have made it our life’s goal to introduce all that’s wonderful about Port A to travelers from all over the world, so when your journey has you heading west to the beach, we seriously can’t imagine why you would choose anywhere else to stay. There are always wonderful on-the-waters activities in Port Aransas, that surround our coastal village, and today we would like to show you a few of the ways you can enjoy all the hours you will spend on the water, as well as remind you about the comforts you will experience when you are off the water, lounging happily in our Dunes summer sanctuaries.

A Time to Swim

Ok, this is kind of simple and obvious, but not everyone understands the pleasures of swimming in the warm and salty waters of the gulf. The feel of the sun shining down on the exposed parts of your body, the way the water embraces your body, taking the pressure off backs and knees and seeming to massage tight shoulders that have held the weight of the world on them. The sounds of seagulls squawking overhead, the quiet roar of waves crashing against the sandy shores, and the laughter and conversations of fellow swimmers and those lounging on the beach. Even when surrounded by people, you may feel as if you are in your own watery world, sheltered from the world’s problems and if lucky, you may even catch sight of dolphins frolicking in the waves off in the distance.

Since We’re Talking About Dolphins

Now that you have caught the dolphin-watching bug, why not take a closer look at the happy silver creatures that live in the sea, taking part in a dolphin tour? Woody’s Last Stand/Dolphin Watch Nature Tours, 154 W. Cotter Avenue, is one of Port A’s most popular tour companies, taking guests out to where the dolphins play. Offering sunset cruises that begin with the dolphins and end with the fire in the sky, dolphin watch tours that include trawling for shrimp, giving visitors an idea of how many local seamen make their living (only this tour is much more comfortable!) and although the 4th of July has nothing to do with dolphins, they also offer a 4th of July Fireworks Tour that offers the best seats in the house for another display of fire in the sky.

Hang Ten in Port Aransas

The thrill of pitting man against waves in a sport that has lingered in the spotlight for thousands of years never gets old and even if you have never tried to surf before, there are multiple companies in the area that will help you get the “hang ten” of things! Texas Surf Camps, located at I B McGee Beach Park offers both surfing lessons and surfing camps to ensure that your surf experience is exceptional. In business for over 20 years, the staff really knows their stuff and will take students to areas that are arrestingly beautiful and stunningly perfect to learn the sport. Texas Surf Camps | Surfing Lessons-Summer Camp-Standup Paddleboard

Angling for the Big Ones

Every fisher-person tells stories about the one that got away, but when you sign up for a deep-sea fishing charter with Deep Sea Headquarters, 440 W. Cotter Avenue, you may just find yourself posing next to the trophy fish you caught during your Port Aransas deep sea adventures. Offering private fishing charters that are either 8 or 12 hours long, bay fishing trips that keep travelers with motion sickness in the calmer waters, your choice of adventure is surely going to make the highlight reel of your Texas vacation memories! Prices range from $43 (children) for a bay fishing charter that lasts about 3.5 hours to thousands of dollars for the longer deep sea expedition for up to 30 people.

Keeping the Sea in Sight

And for those moments not spent on the water, guests can keep the sea in their sights by renting one of our beach view rentals in Port Aransas, Texas. Spend your downtime sitting out on the balcony, letting salt air breezes whip through your hair as you watch the sea do its thing below or, if you have had enough salt air for the day but aren’t through with the beach, watch summer movies on televisions offering pictures so clear you will swear you can feel the sand between your toes. And at night, when the moon is casting its ethereal glow on the waves crashing against sandy shores, you and your family will sleep deep in the most comfortable beds in the state. Reserve your favorite escape today and enjoy these fun water activities in Port Aransas!

The best way to get to know the area you are vacationing in is by eating at the restaurants the locals dine in, shopping in the stores the locals shop, and by attending the events that residents look forward to every year. Offering fun, entertainment, and often a taste of the town, these events can elevate your vacation experience to the next level, and when you visit Port Aransas, can introduce you to new traditions that you may want to make your own. We at The Dunes understand the importance of enjoying a trip you will never forget, and this guide to the top events in Port Aransas in June will help you see even more reasons we can’t imagine living any place else on earth.

76th Annual Shrimporee Festival, June 14-16, Shrimporee Grounds in Aransas Pass

As many as 35,000 people have attended the Shrimporee Festival on the weekend over the years, making it one of the most popular in the area, and if your journey brings you to Port A the 14th through the 16th of June, your trip will not be complete unless you plan on attending as well! Celebrating everything shrimp and offering at least most of the versions Forrest Gump’s friend spent half the movie talking about, if nothing else, we can promise you won’t go home hungry! Texas shrimp is fresh, sweet, and versatile, appealing to almost every palate, and because this festival also offers live music, arts and crafts vendors, and carnival rides and games, every member of your family will want to come back every day of the Shrimporee! A ferry ride taken from Port Aransas to Aransas Pass takes about 20 minutes and promises to add to the excitement of your shrimping adventure.

Red Snapper and Kingfish Tournaments, June 1- September 6, Fisherman’s Wharf

These two tournaments run concurrently, with the Red Snapper Tournament ending on August 19th and the Kingfish Tournament continuing through September 6th, but both will be a wonderful adventure for your favorite angler. Everyone is invited to join, and because the entry fee is only $50 for each tournament, the costs fit into most vacation budgets. Because a big check is offered to the winning fisherperson, if luck is with you, you may even win enough to pay for your stay in our seasonal sanctuaries. Winning big, vacationing for free, and getting to fish every day of your stay? We can’t see anything wrong with that!

Ladies Powder Puff Fishing Tournament, June 14 & 15, Fisherman’s Wharf

Although women are perfectly capable of fishing and holding their own with the gentlemen, sometimes it is just more fun to hang with your sisters, and the Ladies Powder Puff Fishing Tournament allows guests to do just that. Sign up starts on Friday the 14th at 5 PM, followed by a Captain’s Meeting at 7 PM and the shenanigans begin bright and early on Saturday morning. Signup fees aren’t listed as of just yet, but they include a specially designed tee shirt for all participants, offering a fun souvenir in case you and your team don’t happen to win the big prize at the end of the tournament (moms this is the perfect opportunity to introduce your daughters to the joy of fishing!).

6th Annual South Texas Ford Trucks Mafia Beach Bash, June 1, Beach Access Road 2

Celebrating the stalwart beauty of the Ford truck, as well as a day of beach, sunshine, food, fishing, and music, this cool party may entice you to rent a Ford truck to get around in during your stay in Port A. This is a club event, but if you are visiting someone who is a South Texas Ford Truck Mafia member, you too are invited to check out the fun, with raffles, giveaways, and club merchandise being offered for sale, and because it is first come, first serve, we recommend arriving early (start time is 7AM) to secure your spot. (If you don’t know anyone yet, but love Ford trucks, maybe now would be a great time to make some new friends at the local hot spots!)

Pool Parties, Barbecues, and Movie Nights at Home with The Dunes

Not every event has to be officially sanctioned an event with entry fees and fancy titles. The casual vibe of a Texas beach town invites guests to create their own family events in Port Aransas, and we at The Dunes encourage you to participate in your special event on the properties we offer! Rent a home with a private pool and enjoy a family pool party every night of your stay or bring home your catch of the day to experience a family barbecue each evening. State of the art televisions in our summer sanctuaries encourage movie nights complete with popcorn, beer, and soft drinks, making your stay with us unforgettable. Reserve your favorite escape today!

You came to Port A for Texas warmth, fun, and the sand and water at the beach along the Gulf of Mexico. No matter when you come, there are also plenty of fun things to do and see that are fun, including a myriad of adrenaline-pumping as well as relaxing water sports to experience. There’s something for every type of water sports enthusiast to enjoy during an island retreat. Check out our water sports guide to Port A for a fun filled water adventure.

Glowing Kayak Tour 

Most people launch kayaks for a peaceful morning paddle before the rest of the world wakes to start making waves. For those who may not be early risers, consider taking that peaceful paddle during the evening and nighttime hours.  

Take a guided kayak tour in special clear kayaks decked out in water safe LED lights! The lights come in several colors, and you can choose your own colors and sequences. The clear vessel not only allows you to see the lights dancing, but you’ll also get a unique view of the sea life swimming beneath your boat. Tours are 1.5 hours. 

Surf Camp 

An island vacation to Port A is the perfect place for you and your loved ones to become the clichéd beach bum with a surfboard in hand. You can get schooled in catching the perfect wave on a traditional surfboard, windsurfing, or both. Professional instructors will take you from a land-based introduction to the board all the way up to catching your first wave and riding it back to shore. Many companies even rent gear, so when you’re comfortable with your new skills, you can enjoy the activity with your loved ones on your own schedule. 

Jet Skis 

It’s easy to laze away the day at the beach without a care, but when you feel the need for speed, rent a jet ski for an adrenaline-pumping good time. Slice through the waters of the Gulf around Port A at top speed. There are several companies in Port A that rent jet skis for plenty of fast-paced water excitement. Companies also charter jet ski excursions and tours of the area, so if you want to get comfortable with the craft or see some of the best places around the island for further exploration later, choose a charter tour. Keep in mind you may need to obtain a Texas boating certificate before piloting a craft, either on your own or during a group tour. 

Swimming 

Swimming is the no-brainer water sport when it comes to island vacations. No matter whether it’s Port A and Mustang Island or somewhere else in the world, being surrounded by water means being surrounded by every water activity imaginable. Slip into your swimsuit and grab a beach towel. Whether you choose to wade in and stay close to shore or get your daily exercise with a swim out past the breakers, taking a dip in the Gulf of Mexico is near the top of many activity lists for those looking for water adventure during a Port A vacation. 

Boating 

While jet skiing is typically a solo or two-person adventure, depending on the craft you choose, pile your larger group into one vessel together for a good time on the water. Rent a boat from one of the many companies in the area, then strike out on your own water adventure. Set sail for a favorite fishing destination, drop anchor and go for a swim, or hook up for water sports that involve toys like tubes, skis, wakeboards, and more. Before heading out, make sure the captain or captains have valid Texas boating licenses if necessary. 

Fishing 

Cast a lazy line from Horace Caldwell Fishing Pier and wait for a bite, or head down to Fisherman’s Wharf where you can charter a fishing boat to take you to the best fishing spots around the area. Many of the companies there offer half-day six-hour charters, as well as full days or even multiple days afloat. These tours are a great way to find a place a little further from your accommodations with a different beach atmosphere to experience. Make sure everyone in the group scores the appropriate Texas fishing license before setting sail for plenty of fishing fun. 

Deep Sea Fishing 

The adrenaline-filled activity is different than any other fishing experience you’ll find closer to land. Charter a fishing tour or brave the deep waters of the Gulf on your own. The added adrenaline and excitement of a deep-sea excursion on the Gulf is one an angler won’t want to miss, and the waters off the shores of Port A are some of the best.  

Cast a line in hopes of snagging kingfish, sailfish, marlin, tuna, and others. Some charter companies even offer shark fishing excursions for an extra adrenaline rush. These adventures typically set sail in the evening and night hours, when sharks are more active. 

Parasailing 

Sail up to 500 feet above the water of the Gulf of Mexico during this unforgettable experience. The 8- to 10-minute ride gives you a bird’s eye view of the area. Keep your eyes peeled for marine life! The harness fits up to three people, so you can enjoy a solo experience or bring along a couple of friends. Participants must be at least six years old for many companies. Opt for the photo and video package to memorialize your flight. Add on a GoPro package to shoot the ride from your point of view. 

Snorkeling 

Take the water adventure below the waves! There is a myriad of companies that help you explore the water and meet the residents that live there. There are a variety of beaches and spots further out to sea where you can go to get a better look under the water’s surface. They provide you with all the gear you need, including mask, snorkel, and swim fins. Some companies even rent gear so you can explore on your own, near your accommodations or other spots around the island. Ask about the best place to score a wetsuit in town if there’s not enough space in your luggage to bring your own. 

SCUBA 

Enjoy another way to take water sports below the waves. There are several companies that help you take water adventure in Port A below the waves. Book a SCUBA diving tour with your loved ones during your water sports-filled vacation and plunge under the water to see a side of Port A and the Gulf of Mexico you can’t see up close from the inside of a tour boat. They’ll outfit you with a mask, fins, air tank, and other necessities. Ask about wet suit rental or purchase so you can swim in comfort. Many companies offer SCUBA certification before the trip, and if you want to rent gear to dive later, you’ll need to be certified. 

Lighthouse Lakes Paddling Trails 

Take a calming adventure during your trip to Port A. The trail was established in 1999 by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and is the first paddling trail on the Texas coast. It’s located on North Harbor Island, nestled between Aransas Pass and Port A, with several launch points off State Highway 361. The area is named for the historic Lydia Ann Channel and is mostly shallow – perfect for a quiet and solitary paddle full of adventure along the coast.  

Paddle through mangroves that line the channels and the open flats, or “lakes.” The trail is made up of a series of four loops, with the shortest being 1.25 miles and the longest being 6.8 miles. Follow the signs painted with numbers corresponding to GPS coordinates or download a map of the trails. There are several places where a trail may split to offer a different experience on each trip. 

Stand Up Paddleboarding 

Once you’ve got your blood and adrenaline pumping from your surfing or windsurfing adventure, calm it down with a serene paddle through calmer waters. Many of the companies that rent gear for other water sports such as snorkeling, SCUBA, or kayaking also have a selection of paddleboarding equipment for rent. 

Canoeing 

Along with kayaking and stand up paddleboarding, the activity is a more serene way to spend some time experiencing the waters of Port A. Many of the same companies that offer rentals for other water activities may offer canoe rental as well. There are a variety of calmer waters to explore, but many locals will suggest the Lighthouse Lakes Paddling Trails as a great way to see the area’s beauty in your own way. 

Marine Life Tours 

Tour the waters of the Gulf of Mexico surrounding Port A. Choose a charter tour that takes you out in search of dolphins, whales, and other sea life. Make sure to bring your camera for glimpses of the majestic animals, as well as the breathtaking views of the Gulf and surrounding Port A landmarks. Daytime and sunset tours are available from many companies. Check with the captain first, as select charters offer snacks and beverages while others may allow you to bring your own snacks and drinks. 

Red Dragon Pirate Cruise 

Cruising the waters around Port A at a more leisurely pace is something for every tourist’s itinerary. There is an array of boats waiting to take to the waters surrounding Port A to spot wildlife, or just for a slow cruise of the water. Take a different kind of cruise packed with fun for the whole family and set sail on the high seas like the pirates of old! Cruise the Lydia Ann Channel where you’ll undoubtedly spot dolphins and other marine life. Sharpen your sword fighting or treasure map reading skills, fire a “kid” cannon, and revel in plenty of other pirate fun! Be sure to bring your camera to capture all the memories and pirate mischief. If that’s not enough to get you aboard, there will be soft drinks and snacks, as well as beer, wine, pina coladas, rum, tequila, and whiskey-based drinks for the adult pirates.  

Dock and Dine 

You’ll need to take a break from all the water sports fun and grab a bite, but you may not be ready to pack up your gear for the day. There are several area restaurants with dockside locations that allow you to take part in the “dock and dine” experience. Moor your vessel at nearby docks and enjoy a delicious meal or much-needed drink after a long day on the water. Disembark your vessel and come take a seat at a table and fully relax. Select restaurants even offer takeout and will bring the order directly to your vessel so you can get your food and be off for more fishing adventures! 

Beaches 

Of course, the beach is going to be a focal point of your water sports-filled island vacation. It’s also a fun-filled way of staying close to the water while taking a break from the salt. Keep up on your exercise routine with a refreshing run or walk on the beach. Spread out your blanket, plant your beach umbrella, and lounge on the sand with a book, or step out into the sun for sunbathing. Help the kids of the group build sandcastles before taking a sunset walk on the beach to wrap up the day. 

Your Island Headquarters for Water Sports Fun 

We hope you found our port A water sports guide helpful. When you stay in a vacation rental in Port A provided by The Dunes this spring, you’ll enjoy easy access to the beach and the crashing waves of the Gulf. We’re also close to many other area attractions, tours, shopping, dining, and activities the area has to offer. We offer one-bedroom units all the way up to three bedrooms for your larger group. Prepare a delicious home-cooked meal, in the fully equipped kitchen. Afterward, 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 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 springtime retreat to Port A! 

Some of your favorite moments during your upcoming getaway to Port Aransas will be the ones spent at shore’s edge, creating magical sandcastles with your favorite tiny travelers. The littlest ones, staring up at you with adoring eyes, watching you build a structure that looks absolutely perfect, the older ones coming up with creative ways to construct turrets and moats and all the little things that make sandcastles cool. And if you are looking for ideas that are even more creative and magical, be sure to visit during Texas SandFest in Port Aransas, taking place April 19 through 21st, before coming home every night to your own magical sanctuary, one of our luxurious and comfortable escapes at The Dunes.

The Largest Sand Sculpture Competition

Word of advice for travelers attending Texas SandFest in Port Aransas for the first time: Do not let yourself become discouraged about the structures you have created with your family in comparison to the sculptures you are going to enjoy during the festival. These are artists creating masterpieces with sand and water, and their depictions of Abe Lincoln sitting on his chair, sea turtles swimming through the sand, even their nearly life-sized castles take weeks to complete and years of training to construct. Instead, take these few days to savor live entertainment, delicious food, and the magic of sand sculptures that you will have to see to believe! Additionally, if you are in town starting on the 15th, their pre-festival activities include free sand sculpting lessons by professional sand sculptor and chainsaw sculptor, Andy Hancock, outside the North Gate. Guest relations and ticket tent opens for advanced wristband sales on Wednesday April 17, and on the 18th, they are featuring celebrity sand sculpting demos by Amazin’ Walter.

Opening Day

Anticipation adds excitement and energy to the ambiance on opening day, and as you step through the gates, that feeling will be infectious. Food trucks are generally not permitted in Port Aransas, but for SandFest, they will be lining up in the parking lot, as will vendors selling arts, crafts, and souvenirs that you never knew you needed until you held them in your hands. Temperatures will be in the 70s and the Texas sun will be bright, so be sure to slather on the sunscreen and bring your sunglasses as you meander happily through the sandy festival grounds. Opening day offers all sorts of exciting experiences, including the opening of lesson mountain and the beer and wine tents that will be open from 10 AM until 7 PM, a half hour after closing. Feeling ambitious? The amateur contest check in begins at 10 AM on this first day and if you missed the pre-festival sand sculpting lessons, the children’s lessons will begin at the same time. The Music Stage will offer musical performances by local musicians from 3 to 7, ending this first day of magic on a high note.

Day 2 Will Be Even Better Than Day 1

The fun continues on day two, with many of the events and activities looking pretty much the same, but with the addition of a kids’ activity tent that opens at 9AM (ages 3-12 with parent accompaniment) and the amateur, teen, guppy, and youth contests taking place. Even your tiny travelers can strut their stuff; the amateur contest winners will be announced on the Music State starting at 5:15 PM.

Day 3, More of the Same, But with Winners

Day three brings, of course, the announcement of the winners of this fun festival of sand, but there is also a raffle drawing held at 3PM, with one lucky winner’s ticket being the one that wins a golf cart. And although it may be hard to ship that home, we are sure if you are the lucky raffle winner, you won’t mind figuring it out! The final day of any festival often brings a mixed bag of emotions as guests and participants realize that the excitement is drawing to a close, but we can promise that every moment of every day will be the most fun! The only sad part will be the realization that you have to wait another year before you can enjoy this moment again, but hey, it gives you something to look forward to, right?

Coming Home to The Dunes

As the gates close at 7 or 7:30 each night of the festival, coming home to your sanctuary from The Dunes will give you something wonderful to look forward to every evening. Wash all the sand off in luxury baths, (It is always surprising how sand manages to get in places you never thought it could!) watch a little television, play board games with the children, and relax in comfort and peace until it is time to head back to the SandFest in Port Aransas the next day. Reserve your favorite Port Aransas condo rentals today!

Enjoy the waters and shores of Texas and the Gulf of Mexico on an island vacation like no other this Memorial Day. The year-round sun and warmth of Texas makes it an ideal destination any time of year. Port A is the perfect mix of sun, sand, water, and fun for a vacation that satisfies just about everyone. Along with the sand, water, and sun, there are a variety of Port A Memorial Day activities and attractions to keep everyone happy and busy throughout the long weekend, or if you happen to be staying a little longer with us, all throughout your stay. 

Beaches 

An island vacation means plenty of beach time. Pack up your gear and head out for a day on the sand or playing in the water. Spread out your beach blanket and plant your beach umbrella for a day of lounging on the sand with a book or step out into the sun for a little sunbathing. Swim in the waves of the Gulf, get your exercise with a walk or run on the beach, or have a Gulf-side picnic. 

Chapel on the Dunes 

Learn more about the area’s history this Memorial Day. The historic 1930s church was built by the Carter family, which includes former Texas poet laureate Aline Carter. The church no longer holds services, but locals and visitors from near and far can tour the church building and grounds during tours organized by the Port A Museum. You can also rent the church for events, including your upcoming wedding. 

Glowing Kayak Tour 

Enjoy a different way to kayak the waters around Port A. Board a unique clear kayak that’s lit by special underwater LED lights! The clear boat allows you to see not only the multiple colors of LED light settings, but also the underwater world beneath you as you paddle. Set the lights to your personal preference of color and style. Paddle along as your tour guide points out landmarks and provides an abundance of knowledge and history about the area. The 1.5-hour nighttime cruise under the stars is something not to be missed this Memorial Day! 

Jet Skis 

Rent a jet ski and slice through the waters of the Gulf at top speed this Memorial Day. There are several companies that rent jet skis for more fast-paced water excitement. Make sure to ask about rates as well as age restrictions for passengers and drivers. You may have to obtain a Texas boating certificate before piloting a craft yourself, even with a tour group. 

Lydia Ann Lighthouse 

The Lydia Ann Lighthouse, also known as the Aransas Pass Light Station, was built in 1857. The lighthouse is not accessible by road, so you’ll have to admire it from afar. Take a cruise past it in your own vessel, take a marine sightseeing tour, or get a good view of it from nearby Roberts Point Park. 

Marine Life 

Get out and tour the waters of Port A and the Gulf of Mexico like a tourist. Head out in search of dolphins, whales, and other sea life that call the water around Port A home. Daytime and sunset tours are available from many companies, and some allow you to bring your own snacks and drinks. Make sure to bring your camera! 

Red Dragon Pirate Cruise 

Fun for the whole family, you can sail the high seas like the pirates of old! Cruise the waters of the Lydia Ann Channel and enjoy dolphin watching, sword fighting, treasure hunting, cannon fire, and plenty of pirate fun! Make sure to bring your camera to capture all the memories and pirate mischief. Enjoy soft drinks and snacks. Adult pirates can enjoy beer, wine, pina coladas, rum, tequila, and whiskey-based drinks. 

Surf Camp 

Hang 10 on the crashing waves of the Gulf surrounding Port A! Try windsurfing or traditional surfing along the Port A coast. Learn from professional instructors during private lessons that will give you the skills to prepare you to rent your own gear and surf the waves on your own. 

Undersea Adventures 

Book a snorkeling or SCUBA diving tour where you’ll plunge under the water to see a side of Port A and the Gulf of Mexico you won’t see from inside a tour boat. Ask about age restrictions before booking, and make sure to get SCUBA certified before you attempt a dive without a skilled instructor. 

Spend Memorial Day in Port A 

When you stay in a vacation rental in Port A provided by The Dunes, you’ll enjoy easy access to the beach and the crashing waves of the Gulf. We’re also close to many other area Port A Memorial Day attractions, tours, shopping, dining, and activities the area has to offer. We offer one-bedroom units all the way up to three bedrooms for your larger group this Memorial Day.  

Prepare a delicious home-cooked meal, in the fully equipped kitchen. Afterward, 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 pool. 

Contact us today!