Dawn's Guidebook

PORT A CLIMATE & DEMOGRAPHICS Port Aransas is the only established town on Mustang Island and inhabits 5 miles of the 18 mile long barrier island. Mustang Island is located north of Padre Island, the longest barrier island in the world and south of San Jose Island, renowned for its shelling. Running parallel to the mainland, barrier islands protect the coast from the full force of powerful storm waves. Surrounding waters include the Corpus Christi Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, the Lydia Ann Ship Channel and the Corpus Christi Ship Channel. Scattered about are several small islands that contribute to our reputation for great fishing, shelling, birding and nature adventures.

When you step onto San Jose Island, you immediately feel the outside world slip away. This pristine island is a perfect place for beach picnics and sea shell collecting. Escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of San Jose Island!

On sunny days, the Horace Caldwell Pier is full of energy. Located close to the Port Aransas town center, this is one of the most popular places to fish and enjoy the sunset.

This is one of the best sites in Port Aransas. Turn west on TX 361 where that highway leaves Alister St. at the stoplight. Follow signs to the parking lot. The entrance path goes by a cattail marsh and a few trees which can harbor migrants in spring. The path leads to a boardwalk over a large freshwater pond with an observation tower. Ducks, Least Bittern, Roseate Spoonbill, egrets, hawks, shorebirds, gallinules, rails and two alligators. Guided bird walks on Wednesdays at 9:00 am. The ducks and wading birds are quite tame and offer great opportunities for photographers.