Top 10 Port Aransas FAQs

Yes, the speed limit is 15 mph. The beach outside of the bollards is drivable, but remember, if you plan to take a vehicle onto the beach, you will need a parking permit. Parking permits can be purchased at any of these locations for $12.

San José Island, or St. Jo's as the locals call it, is just a short boat ride from Port Aransas Fisherman's Wharf. The Jetty Boat runs daily from Fisherman’s Wharf in Port Aransas to a private dock at the base of the North Jetty on San Jose Island. The Jetty Boat is the only way to access the North Jetty and the deserted beaches of San Jose Island for fishing, birding, beach combing along the empty beaches, and getting back to nature at its finest.

Port A offers a large variety of accommodations. Whether you prefer a cozy beach cottage, conventional motel room, luxury condominium, or the privacy of your own beach house, the island offers coastal digs to fit your needs. In addition, there are numerous hotels, vacation rentals, and a great selection of RV parks and campgrounds for those who prefer to sleep under the stars.

Narrow your search by category to see more options and amenities, such as pet-friendly accommodations, boardwalks to the beach, and more when you visit the Places to Stay page.

RV and tent camping are permitted on the beach in Port Aransas with a current beach parking permit. Beach camping is limited to three nights during any three-week period. Camping is prohibited within 25 feet of either edge of the obvious driving lane, and in any location that would impede traffic or create an unsafe condition. Camping is also prohibited within 200 feet of any beach access road and within 50 feet of the water's edge. Tent camping is prohibited landward of the bollards and south of the last city-approved lavatory facility.

The Port Aransas ferry system, one of only two total in Texas, operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, weather permitting. Anywhere from two to six ferry boats run in a day, depending on traffic and season. During peak season and holidays, the line to get on the ferry coming to Port A could have an hour or more wait. Be sure to prepare with snacks, drinks, or things to do or read, and don’t forget to take that bathroom break before hitting the road to the ferry.

The ferry is free to take and is a great way to travel to and from Port A. For more detailed information, including real-time ferry waits, ferry rules, and more, see the Texas Department of Transportation. For ferry camera viewing, see webcams.

Make your vacation stress-free by packing less and renting beach gear that would otherwise take up valuable space in your car and luggage. Don’t want to lug beach chairs around? You can rent them. Rent a beach set-up for one of the amazing companies in Port Aransas and you can have the perfect stress-free beach day waiting for you. Visit the Beach Set-Ups for Rent page to view all your options for beach rentals.

San José Island is one of Port Aransas's best locations for finding shells. The pristine beaches of this uninhabited island are open to the public but closed to vehicles, which makes for excellent keeping shells intact as they wash ashore. Shelling along the beach during low tide is the best time to find a plethora of shells washed ashore. You can check the tide by clicking here. 

While Port Aransas is known for its sunny warm weather Mother Nature is unpredictable, so it’s impossible to be 100% certain of the weather on your specific trip dates. However, this page explains the general weather trends and what seasonal variances you can expect.

With a constant rotation of live music and exciting festivals throughout the year, Port Aransas never has a dull moment! Here is the full calendar of events and list of live music to ensure you have the full Port A experience!

Port A restaurants are exquisite, serving up the freshest food for date nights and family lunches alike. Here is a list of all the tasty options, sortable by cuisine and much more. Find the perfect dining experience that is right for you!