The month of August can be bittersweet as it signifies the unofficial end of summer, the return to school, and the realization that the cold months are a lot closer than they were just a few months ago, but also the knowledge that there is still time to get your summer on. Lovers of summer are always looking for ways to extend the good times and for many travelers, they know this can be done with a visit to the beach and for those who also love the state of Texas, a visit to the white sand beaches of Port Aransas will make summer linger a little longer. We at the Dunes understand this love of the season and we invite you to explore our seasonal sanctuaries while also including this guide on how to do Port Aransas in August like a local; just remember, there will be heat!
Play Outside in the Mornings
August is often the hottest month of the year, so we have found that if we have to play outside, it is best to do so in the mornings, before the sun rises too high and starts wreaking havoc on our bodies. The UV rays will be strong no matter what time of day, so be sure slather on the sun screen and remember to stay hydrated as you enjoy the activities we have listed below!
Swim Early, Swim Often
Whether you are getting your splash time at the ocean or are deciding that the community pool at The Dunes is looking mighty tempting, a morning swim can be the most refreshing swim, helping you stay cooler longer no matter what the thermostat reads. Wake up early and stake your claim on a piece of our pristine beaches, remembering umbrellas, sunscreen, and beach chairs that may be found in a closet in your summer sanctuary, or gather your towels, sunscreen, and hydration items (we won’t judge you if your morning sips are mimosas or bellinis, just no glass containers, please) and savor a couple of hours of serenity and peace.
Hurricane Alley Waterpark, 702 E Port Avenue in Corpus Christi
This next adventure goes along with the previous paragraph, but it just bumps up the thrill factor a little. Hurricane Alley Waterpark, located in nearby Corpus Christi, blends all of the excitement of a good swim with thrilling rides, high waterslides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. Also offering a safe and colorful Kid’s Cove, a baseball themed splash pad, and for children over the ages of 252 months (21 years old, of course!) the Riptide Hideaway Bar, featuring swim-up service!
Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center, 1356 Ross Avenue in Port Aransas
Getting close to nature has never been this breathtaking and as you walk along the 1225 feet of boardwalk, you can keep your eyes on the sky as you cross new birds off your list or stay more grounded as you search for alligators and fish during an early morning hike. Also offering a pollinator garden, shaded observation decks, and many moments of wonderful, it doesn’t take a long time to explore the birding center, but it will certainly offer a good time while you are there.
Afternoons Are for Air Conditioning
After your morning adventures and a delicious lunch at Grumble’s Seafood, 850 Tarpon Street in Port A, you will be more than ready to enjoy some air conditioned indoor activities. The activities listed below will help you stay chill while also providing good times you will remember forever.
Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, 1900 N Chaparral Street in Corpus Christi
For those of you who spent your morning at Hurricane Alley, why not change into some dry clothes and head over to the Corpus Christ Museum of Science and History for an afternoon of fun and learning? Offering a peek into history and a way to make science fun, the air conditioning will feel wonderful in contrast to the heat and humidity outside! Paleontology Hall (dinosaur exhibit) and the La Belle exhibit (shipwreck) are just two of the exciting exhibits that the entire family will love.
Balinese Spa & Boutique, 121 Cut-Off Road in Port Aransas
Vacations are the best time to spoil yourself and a couple of hours spent in the air conditioned coolness of Balinese Spa & Boutique is our go to spot when we need a little pampering. Offering a variety of spa services including massage, skin care, and mani/pedis, you won’t care where the mercury rests on the thermometers outside, because you will be chilling nicely inside at this wonderful spa. Also offering a small boutique filled with clothing, home accessories, and skin care items, Balinese is a one stop shop of hedonistic pleasures!
Hanging Out at Home in your Dunes August Abode
The air conditioning works wonderful in our summer sanctuaries and you can choose to stay at home to play during your stay in Port Aransas in August. Reserve your favorite retreat today!