The Texas Gulf Coast town of Port Aransas is set along 18 miles of beachfront on Mustang Island. Port A, as it is affectionately known, continues to gain popularity with visitors from both Texas and across the U.S.
In fact, 2019 visitor arrivals exceed 2018’s by 40%. The city credits those increased numbers to events, festivals and the availability of more lodging units in town.
Probably the most upscale lodging option in Port Aransas is Cinnamon Shore. It’s a master-planned community, full of pastel-colored beach houses and condos, where most people ride cruisers or golf carts, and the pace is relaxed. High season is definitely the summer months, but rentals are available year-round. Accommodations range from three-story homes to single-story condos with full kitchens and washer/dryers. With beach access, pools and even restaurants nearby, this is a self-contained vacation destination!
Other high-end places to stay include Palmilla Beach Resort and Golf Community, which opened a new golf course last summer. It includes 9 holes of links-style play. There’s also “The Loop,” a three-hole, par 3 course, plus a driving range. In fall 2020, Palmilla will open a new 18-hole, natural grass putting course and The PlayGround, an open-air restaurant and lounge with an events lawn for family games and fun.
Another option is Sunflower Beach Resort and Residences. It’s nestled among 50 acres of protected dune preserves. The planned mix of custom-built homes, luxury beach cabins, family villas and modern condos are complemented by a central beach club with separate adult and family pools, direct beach access and a short walk to downtown Port Aransas.
Port Aransas has long been recognized as a top deep-sea fishing destination for its proximity to deep water on the edge of the continental shelf, while offering outstanding bay fishing in the waterways surrounding Mustang Island. Home to hundreds of permanent and migrating birds, Mustang Island features six sites along the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. Visitors can also swim, surf, fish, hike, bike and kayak at Mustang Island State Park, or see stunning views of the island’s massive wetlands at the Port Aransas Wetland Park.
