Salty Stories
The island life of Port Aransas has a personality all its own. The clock ticks a bit slower, the seaworn wood you see isn’t artificial, and the people you meet aren’t reading from a script. The locals call this convergence of authentic Port A character and culture “salty.”
Meet some of the people who continue to make Port Aransas more than a beach destination.
This is their island, and these are their Salty Stories.
There are endless stories to tell and characters to meet in Port Aransas. Go ahead—sip your way into the slow life with Vida Caña Rum. Get a warm Italian welcome from Linda Halioua of Venetian Hot Plate. And hear how the island life inspires musicians to make Port A a bit saltier.
The latest edition of Salty Stories is coming soon.
Vida Caña Rum
Some dreams take shape in a boardroom—this one started on a surfboard. Inspired by the Port A lifestyle and the unhurried grace of sea turtles, Vida Caña Rum crafts award-winning spirits and works to protect the natural wonder that shaped its story. Since 2019, the Vida Caña team has been sharing The Spirit of Slow and the tradition of making sure the rum has fun.
"Port Aransas was the symbol of the rum. It was the lifestyle, the sun, the excitement of the palm trees and the water and going out to the beach."
Venetian Hot Plate
Authentic Italian cuisine might not be the first thing you expect to find on a Texas island, but that’s part of the magic of Venetian Hot Plate. Founded by Linda Halioua and her late husband, this beloved Port Aransas fixture serves up an Italian welcome with coastal charm to devoted diners from near and far.
"I'm here because I love Port Aransas and I can make my living in paradise."
More Salty Stories
Brittany & Magen
How two women dedicate their lives to inspiring future generations of girls in a male dominated sport.
Dee Wallace
How a world championship fisherman choose to set down roots in the Fishing Capital of Texas
Winton’s Candy
How glimmering candy wrappers and tempered chocolates brings nostalgia to thousands of visitors.
The Owens Family
How love at first sight grew into one of Port Aransas’ most successful stories.
Farley Boats
How a simplified boat design laid the cornerstone for the entire town of Port Aransas.
Podcasts
The island town of Port Aransas has a personality all its own. The locals call it “salty," and there’s no better word to describe the seaside authenticity you can only find in Port A. Now you can hear straight from the people who have made this island what it is today. This is who we are and these are our stories, our “Salty Stories.”