Your browser is not supported for this experience.
We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.
Looking for ways to experience the best of Port Aransas without spending a dime? Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or solo, this charming coastal town offers a wide range of free activities that blend nature, history, and small-town charm. After a relaxing day on the beach, dive into these local gems and make the most of your stay—without reaching for your wallet.
Step back in time at the Port Aransas Museum, housed in a 20th-century kit home. Learn about the island’s rich maritime history through fascinating exhibits, photographs, and artifacts. Free tours and rotating exhibitions keep every visit fresh and informative.
Watch skilled craftsmen build and restore wooden boats at this working boatyard. Farley Boat Works offers a hands-on look into Port A’s boatbuilding traditions—a unique, interactive experience that costs nothing but delivers a lot.
Visit the oldest consecrated church on Mustang Island. Designed by artist E. M. “Buck” Schiwetz and perched atop a sand dune, this charming chapel is a peaceful, must-see spot—perfect for quiet reflection and sweeping Gulf views.
Wander through miles of walking and biking trails surrounded by pristine wetlands and dunes. The preserve is home to diverse wildlife, including turtles, deer, and migratory birds. It's a great place for photography, picnicking, or peaceful solitude.
This world-class birding site features an ADA-accessible boardwalk, shaded observation deck, and free spotting scopes. Look for roseate spoonbills, alligators, herons, and more. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars!
Explore interactive exhibits and educational displays at the Patton Center for Marine Science Education. A touch tank featuring sea stars and urchins makes this a favorite stop for families. Admission is always free.
Enjoy a scenic (and free!) ferry ride between Port Aransas and the mainland. You may even catch a glimpse of dolphins playing in the surf. It’s not just transportation—it’s an experience.
Stroll along the shoreline of Mustang Island and collect unique shells and sea glass. Early mornings after high tide are the best time to uncover treasures from the Gulf.
Wrap up your day by heading to Roberts Point Park to catch a stunning sunset over the marina. Bring a picnic, relax on the benches, or enjoy live music and fishing activity from the pier.
