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Dune Safety and Protection in Port Aransas

Keep Our Beaches Thriving

Dunes are one of the most recognizable features of the Gulf Coast. The sight of these sandy mounds and their plethora of native grasses and wildlife instantly evokes a sense of place and a feeling of peace. The dunes are a link to a natural paradise.

Aside from their beauty and significance to the observer, sand dunes are also critical to the ecology of Port Aransas. They form from a buildup of sand that blows in on coastal winds from the Gulf of Mexico. The dunes provide natural infrastructure to protect the island from geohazards, including extreme tidal changes, erosion, and storm surge.

The dunes also serve an important role as the habitat for several native plants and wildlife. Snakes, shorebirds, jackrabbits, gophers, squirrels, rats, opossums, raccoons, coyotes, and even the occasional white-tailed deer call the dunes home.
 
Visitors are advised to take extreme caution when entering the dunes. Children and pets should always be closely monitored. If wounded by a rattlesnake, call 911 or the Port Aransas EMS at (361) 749-4405.

Don't Mess with the Plant Life

All dunes and vegetation are protected under the Texas Natural Resource Code § 63.091 and 31 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Chapter 15.

Monarch Butterfly in Sand Dunes sitting on top of small white flowers.

No Parking on the Dunes

Vehicles are prohibited from traveling on or parking on the sand dunes. Violators could be fined up to $200.00 under the City of Port Aransas Code 1980, Ch. 6, § 2(K).

A man and woman in swimsuits are seen sitting in a red Jeep from the Jeep's window view

What Are Sand Dunes and Why Are They Important?

Dunes serve as:

  • Natural storm protection

  • Wildlife habitat (including nesting grounds for sea turtles and birds)

  • A buffer between the beach and inland areas

They’re protected by both local and state laws.

Dune Do-Nots: What You Should Avoid

To help protect dunes, do not:

  • Walk, drive, or ride over them

  • Camp or build fires on dune areas

  • Dig into or disturb vegetation

⚠️ Violations may result in fines and penalties under the Dune Protection Act.

How to Respect the Dunes

  • Use designated beach access walkways or boardwalks

  • Obey all posted signs and fencing

  • Educate children about dune safety

  • Keep pets from climbing or digging in the dunes

 

Photo of the view from a webcam showing the sand dunes, a boardwalk, and the beach.