SandFest is the most popular event of the year in Port Aransas, held every April on the beach. Family-friendly activities at SandFest range from live music to shopping, and everyone’s favorite: the food trucks.
Where to Stay for SandFest in Port Aransas (and Why You Should Book Early)
When you think of a small beachside city with a sand-sculpting competition on the beach, Port Aransas, Texas, should be the first place that comes to mind. The Texas SandFest is an annual island tradition that began in 1997 and has grown every year since. The huge influx of crowds for the event often causes visitors to scramble for last-minute accommodations, with rentals closest to the beach being the most requested.
Port Aransas Beach Parking Permit (Cost, Where to Buy & Tips ) | 2026 Update
Regardless of where along the coast of Mustang Island that you choose to park, the view is sure to be stellar as you watch the waves roll in. Spend your days enjoying the cool water, playing in the sand, and creating family memories to last a lifetime.
Loco for Lunch at Lelo’s Island Bar
If you consider yourself to be a burger connoisseur, then you’ll understand why Port Aransas locals and visitors alike have gone ‘loco’ for Lelo’s. This colorful little island shack has delighted my family for many meals in the past year, each bringing a big burger with big flavor. You’ll understand the appeal of these burgers in Port Aransas after the first bite has you saying, “Mmmmm, so good”!
Don’t Book the Wrong Rental in Port Aransas (Read This First)
If you’ve ever tried to book a place to stay in Port Aransas, you probably know the feeling. You open Airbnb or Vrbo, start zooming around the map, click into a few listings… and somehow end up more unsure than when you started. Everything starts to look the same. The …
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Port Aransas (That Your Kids Will Actually Love) | 2026 Update
During the busy season from March to September, you’ll see families with children of all ages in Port Aransas relaxing on the beach, playing in the waves and exploring all the many sights of Mustang Island. If you find time to wander off the beach and into town, here’s my list of 40 fun family-friendly activities to explore in Port Aransas.
Live Port Aransas Webcams — Beach, Ferry + Surf Conditions in Real Time (2026 update)
Just imagine relaxing as you watch the sun rise over the ocean in the morning, watch the ferry boats cross the waterway, or daydreaming as you watch beach carts and families enjoying the sand and waves.
5 Things to Know About the Chapel on the Dunes (Before You Go)
For many visitors to Mustang Island and Port Aransas, the idea of a tiny, secluded chapel nestled in the sand dunes is like a hidden treasure. The beautiful little white chapel is tucked away from the crowds of beach-goers and known only to avid Port Aransas history-lovers.
Here are 5 things you may not have known about the Chapel on the Dunes.
Where the Bollard Buddies in Port Aransas get “Dressed”
Every winter, Port Aransas’s beach is adorned with over 400 delightful hand-crocheted Bollard Buddies. Created by Diana Vondra and contributors nationwide, these colorful yarn-bombed artworks—including figures like Shakespeare and superheroes—brighten the coast from after Christmas to early March. This beloved tradition, now in its 8th year, draws both locals and tourists to admire the crafted bollards along Beach Street.
Holiday Guide to Christmas at the Beach in Port Aransas
Christmas in Port Aransas offers a mix of traditional and beach-inspired festivities throughout December. Highlights include the Holiday Golf Cart Parade, Santa Photos in the park, the Lighted Boat Parade, a Holiday Drone Show, and more.
Local Spotlight: Grumble’s Seafood Company
What better place to enjoy lunch than by the water, or dinner as you watch the daily catch being brought in off the boats? A meal at Grumble’s Seafood Company will truly show you the backbone of Port Aransas… fresh fish. Don’t miss the boat on this one.