Rainy Day in Port A

Don't let the rain stop you from having a great day

“Rain, rain, go away” doesn’t have to be your mantra when the clouds show up and a storm is ‘a-brewing. Just because Port Aransas is known for its beaches–and for good reason–doesn’t mean a little rain shower has to ruin your vacation. Below are six ways, from morning to night, that you can make the most of a rainy day in Port A.

Curl up at Coffee Waves

Waking up to rain can be a bummer, so turn your morning right around by grabbing your favorite beach read and heading to Coffee Waves. There, you can curl up on a leather couch or cozy armchair and enjoy the coastal ambiance. Might we suggest ordering a “Hug in a Mug?” The combo of coconut and chai will instantly brighten any rainy day. They have everything from tasty breakfast treats to smoothies and the perfect relaxing environment to unwind and feel at ease.  

Build a Boat at Farley Boat Works

Farley Boat Works is an extension of the Port Aransas Museum (another great rainy-day option) and a bastion of the town’s history. You can simply sit and enjoy the clamoring and clanging of unique boats being built by expert hands, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take part by signing up for a boat-building class! This is a fun adventure unlike anything you may have experienced before.

Stay Cozy Indoors with Puzzles and Games

Did you forget your board games at home and are now stuck wishing you had a deck of cards or your favorite puzzle? Not to worry! A quick jaunt out to Jackfish Cart Rentals will provide you with dozens of kid-friendly, island-themed games that are perfect for playing at your stay and then using on the road or plane trip back home! More of the puzzle type? Fly It! Kite Shop has an array of puzzles in unique shapes and sizes for all ages, while The Islander carries puzzles just for children to help keep them busy while you relax! Pro tip: pick up a puzzle on the first day of your trip and work on it each evening of your stay until it's complete!

Get Artsy, Island Style

Indulge your creative side on the next rainy day in Port A! Pop by Fire It! Ceramics and create your very own one-of-a-kind ceramics piece. All you have to do is choose your ceramic, choose your colors and paint; they take care of the rest and your piece will be ready for pickup within one to three days. If you won't be able to wait to pick up your piece, you can still always stop by the Port Aransas Art Center and purchase an art kit for your little one. These art kits come with all supplies included to create a fun ocean-inspired art piece. Whatever calls you creative side there is an answer waiting in Port A.

Shop Till You Drop

Head out and support locals on a rainy day! There are tons of amazing shops in Port Aransas that offer a variety of different items. Bring some sunshine to the rain and get a new shirt, swimsuit, or fishing pole. Looking for fishing gear you can use for years to come? Island Tackle of Port Aransas is the perfect stop for you. Grab some new line that you've been looking for or maybe some bait for your next fishing trip. Island Tackle knows just what you need when it comes to fishing. They have bait and tackle for fishing the surf, jetty, pier, parks, or from a boat. They offer rod and reel rental and repair and even ghost shrimp pumps. You'll find everything you need to catch the big one-whether you are a seasoned pro or a novice angler. Visit Roam for all things from handbags and clothing to jewelry and unique gifts, this store has all the eye candy you could dream of. Check out this shop's one-of-a-kind clothing and some accessories to match, you might find the perfect new outfit. They also offer skin care, home decor, locally made soaps, and even art. These are just a few of the great stores in Port Aransas.

Become a Marine Biologist for the Day

Interested in learning more about the Port Aransas ecosystem and the local marine life? Check out the Patton Center for Marine Science Education, featuring eight large aquaria and engaging interactive displays for an immersive experience. The center provides the opportunity for people of all ages to have a unique experience that helps them learn about the local marine life and the research that the University Marine Science Institute conducts, as well as its Mission-Aransas Reserve program. The Patton Center is free of charge for its guests and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Some of the amazing programs included during the day are keeper chats, where you can hear firsthand from the animal's caretakers, and the fun fish-feeding demonstrations. 

Get a Taste of Port Aransas

Port Aransas offers some amazing restaurants that you can't find anywhere else. Don't let the rain stop you from trying them all! For breakfast, try the 1886 Bar. New to Port A, this restaurant offers an elevated twist on a familiar menu. Grab a cappuccino or mimosa and choose from breakfast items like smoked salmon on avocado toast, ribeye and eggs, or a Nutella croissant. Time for lunch? BlueWater Cowboy has what you need. Their wide menu has a little bit of everything under the sun. Appetizers like tuna tostadas or southwest eggs are sure to please. For your meal, they have everything from gourmet sushi rolls that you can only find in Port A to delicious lobster pasta and juicy ribeye steak. When dinner time rolls around, you might want to try local favorite Venetian Hot Plate. This Port A treasure is a little slice of Italy hidden on the island. With amazing Italian dishes such as their Tortellini Linda, a three cheese tortellini tossed with gorgonzola cheese sauce and toasted walnuts, or their Scaloppine Carciofi, a veal scaloppine in a creamy artichoke sauce with tomato and mushrooms served with haricot vert and roasted red potatoes. Whatever you choose to eat, you're sure to enjoy all the tastes of Port Aransas.

Don’t let the rain, well...rain on your parade. If you're still at a loss for what to do, stop by the Welcome Center from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. any weekday and talk to a knowledgeable local for even more ideas. Port Aransas has plenty to offer that will turn your rainy day into the rainbow of your whole trip. All you have to do is grab your umbrella and get out there!