Port Aransas Nature Preserve

Go Natural at the Port Aransas Nature Preserve

Migratory birds wheel and swoop through a cloudless sky. An American alligator lazes in the sun. Ducks dip their heads into the tidal marsh, shaded by native trees. You breathe in the salty air as your camera clicks from the boardwalk. You’ve gone natural for a day at the Port Aransas Nature Preserve.

The Port Aransas Nature Preserve is a group of protected natural sites, including Charlie’s Pasture, Wetland Park, Joan and Scott Holt Paradise Pond, and Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center. These areas have been dedicated as preserved land in an effort to protect the hundreds of endangered, threatened, and vulnerable species that reside in them, and to provide visitors a glimpse back in time to the coastal prairie habitat that has all but disappeared from the Texas Coast. All sites are free and open from dawn to dusk. Those who visit the Nature Preserve are reminded to stay on the trails, carry out litter, and keep from disturbing wildlife.

Preserve Sites & Highlights

Charlie’s Pasture

Covering 1,280 acres of upland prairies, tidal flats, and marshland, this preserve is a birdwatcher’s dream. Begin at the Port Street entrance, where a paved 1-mile trail leads to a pavilion overlooking the ship channel—perfect for observing shorebirds and migratory waterfowl. A 0.25‑mile gravel loop climbs Clay’s Hill, offering woodland views and pondside wildlife. A mile-long South Trail (boardwalk + crushed granite) includes “Salt Island” viewpoints and soon connects to the Birding Center. Free programs like Nature Walks and yoga are held regularly at the pavilion. Click here for times, dates, and locations.

Wetland Park

The Wetland Park overlooks tidal marshes along Highway 361 across from the US Post Office. During wet periods and high tides, the basin is typically crowded with waterfowl, wading birds, and shorebirds. A small gazebo and boardwalk provide visitors with quick access to the marsh habitat. Visitors are encouraged to document their sightings on the chalkboard at the entrance to all the birding areas, including this one!

Joan and Scott Holt Paradise Pond

Paradise Pond is nestled in the 400 block of Cut Off Road. behind Taqueria San Juan. It is one of only a few wooded natural freshwater ponds on Mustang Island. Short boardwalks and seating areas provide excellent access to lush vegetation for hundreds of species of migrating songbirds in the spring and fall. This Preserve site is recognized as an important stopover for migrating birds along the Central Texas Coast. This site is currently undergoing habitat restoration after many invasive Brazilian pepper trees were removed and neighboring land was developed. Preserve staff have planted a variety of native trees and are expanding the property, which will eventually connect via a walking path to the Community Park. 

Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center

This must-visit stop on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail offers a 1,200‑foot boardwalk, ADA-accessible observation tower, pollinator garden, benches, and interpretive signage. It’s a top location for spotting spoonbills, ducks, waders, and other coastal species

Visitor Tips & Guidelines

• Access & Hours: Free entry, open sunrise to sunset

• Amenities: Picnic tables, pavilions, port‑a‑potties at Charlie’s Pasture; benches and shade structures throughout

• Trail Etiquette: Stay on marked paths, pack out all trash, no pets, alcohol, hunting, or fishing in preserve areas

• Accessibility: Paved and boardwalk trails offer easy access; observation towers are ADA-friendly

Why Visit?

The Port Aransas Nature Preserve brings together scenic coastal landscapes, educational programming, and peaceful outdoor escapes—all within minutes of shops, dining, and accommodation. Whether you're seeking wildlife encounters, morning exercise, or quiet reflection, these interconnected natural sites offer something for every visitor.