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.
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”!
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.
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.
Recap: Taco & Margarita Trail in Port Aransas
If I said “there’s tacos and margaritas at the beach”, how fast could you pack a bag? I’m willing to bet you wouldn’t hesitate to head toward the coast before the sun went down. I did the same as soon as I heard about the Taco & Margarita Trail happening …
Stay Cool at the Community Pool & Lilypad in Port Aransas
Summer weather in Port Aransas can get pretty hot and some days you need a way to stay cool. The Community Pool and Lilypad splash zone in Port Aransas are a great place to cool off when you need a break from the beach. Grab your sunscreen and towel, let’s dive in!
30+ Ways to Enjoy Port Aransas on a Rainy Day
While we love our sunny days spent on the beach in Port Aransas, we also get our fair share of rainy, overcast days. There’s no need to stay indoors on a rainy day in Port Aransas. I’ve compiled a list of my family’s favorite rainy day activities to get you …
Local Spotlight: Seafood & Spaghetti Works
After spending the day splashing in the waves or riding bikes on the beach, planning for a relaxed dinner out with then family should be an easy decision. With no less than 50 restaurants in Port Aransas to choose from, you’ll find it easy to please the whole family at one of the most popular seafood restaurants in Port Aransas, Jay’s Seafood & Spaghetti Works.