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!