Perched on the edge of the Texas Coastal Bend, Aransas Pass is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone craving a slower pace of life by the water—especially if you’re traveling by RV and looking for a scenic spot to settle in. Aransas Pass is a destination that has a little something for everyone.
If you’re in search of a refreshing escape by the sea, this guide highlights nine of the best things to do in Aransas Pass, TX, to help you make the most of your time in this scenic coastal town.
What Is Aransas Pass Famous For?
Aransas Pass is particularly famous for its excellent fishing spots and annual Shrimporee festival celebrating the local shrimping industry. Its coastal location and access to Redfish Bay also make it popular for boating, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.
What Are the Best Things To Do in Aransas Pass?
Want to cast a line or explore local culture? These nine ideas can help you build a solid itinerary for your Texas getaway to Aransas Pass.
1. Go Fishing at Conn Brown Harbor
Aransas Pass is truly a fisherman’s paradise, and Conn Brown Harbor is undoubtedly at the heart of it all. This super popular launch spot offers access to Redfish Bay, Corpus Christi Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico, making it perfect for both inshore and offshore fishing.
If you’re curious about which species are biting, here are a few local favorites:
- Speckled trout
- Redfish
- Flounder
- Black drum
Once you know what to look for, you can bring your own boat, hire a local guide, or simply grab your fishing gear and cast a line right from the harbor piers.
2. Explore Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
Just a short drive from Aransas Pass, the 7,000+ acre Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit for nature lovers and birdwatchers. It’s best known as the winter home of the endangered whooping crane, but you’ll also spot alligators, deer, and a variety of migratory birds.
Visit between November and March for the best chance to see the whooping cranes.
3. Take the Ferry to Port Aransas
One of the most unique experiences in Aransas Pass is the free ferry ride to Port Aransas. The short, scenic trip takes you across the Corpus Christi Ship Channel, where it’s not uncommon to spot dolphins playing in the wake.
The ferry connects you to beaches, shops, and restaurants in Port A. Camping on the beach when you get to Port Aransas makes for an unforgettable coastal experience.
If you’re driving a large RV or 18-wheeler, be sure to check with TxDOT beforehand to confirm the ferry’s weight limits.
4. Experience the Annual Shrimporee Festival
Every year in June, Aransas Pass hosts Shrimporee, a lively festival celebrating the town’s extensive fishing heritage and, of course, shrimp! It’s the largest shrimp festival in Texas, with awesome live music, carnival rides, cook-offs, and all the shrimp dishes you can imagine.
5. Paddle Through the Lighthouse Lakes Paddling Trail
For a truly serene and scenic outdoor adventure, head to the beautiful Lighthouse Lakes Paddling Trail. This natural maze of coastal wetlands and red mangroves offers some of the absolute best kayaking and wildlife viewing in the region.
As you glide through the waterways, keep an eye out for:
- Herons
- Roseate spoonbills
- Fish
- Dolphins
You’ll paddle past historic Lydia Ann Lighthouse, one of Texas’ most famous beacons.
6. Visit the Texas Maritime Museum
Located just a short drive away in Rockport, the Texas Maritime Museum is a one-of-a-kind place to explore the rich maritime history of the Texas coast. At the museum, you’ll find plenty of interesting information, including the history of pirates, oil drilling, shipwrecks, and fishing in the Gulf. Plan to arrive early and start with the observation deck for a panoramic view of Rockport Harbor.
Visit on a Saturday morning to pair your trip with the Rockport Farmers Market, located nearby.
7. Explore the Local Art Scene in Rockport
The Rockport Center for the Arts is an absolute must-visit for art lovers, but it’s got something for everyone with a love of gorgeous scenery. This gallery showcases coastal-inspired paintings, photography, and sculptures, many created by local artists. Rockport is also one of the best coastal towns in Texas!
Check out the annual Rockport Art Festival in July and stroll through Rockport’s downtown galleries and artisan shops, available all year round.
8. Take a Dolphin-Watching Cruise
Hop aboard a dolphin-watching tour for an up-close look at the playful bottlenose dolphins that call the Gulf Coast waters around Port Aransas home. These boat trips take you on a relaxing ride through the bay while giving you a chance to see dolphins, seabirds, and even sea turtles. Many of these tours depart from Fisherman’s Wharf or the Port Aransas Marina.
The time of day you visit matters—sunset cruises, for example, can offer breathtaking views and top-notch photo opportunities.
9. Try Surf Fishing at IB Magee Beach Park
If you love fishing, you can always skip the boat and try surf fishing right from the shore at IB Magee Beach Park. The nearby jetties and piers provide access to redfish, speckled trout, pompano, and even sharks. Just bring a surf rod, cast into the waves, and enjoy a peaceful day by the Gulf.
To make the most of the day, pack plenty of fresh bait—think shrimp or mullet—to reel in your catch of the day. Bring along a comfy beach chair and reliable sun protection so you can kick back and soak in the coastal breeze in comfort. And if you want to land the biggest catch, remember that early mornings and late evenings tend to offer the best fishing action.
Enjoy Plenty of Things To Do in Aransas Pass
Whether you’re in the scenic Texas Coastal Bend for world-class fishing or just a rich taste of culture, there are so many things to do in Aransas Pass, TX. Spend your days exploring bustling festivals, touring museums, or enjoying waterfront recreation. And when you’re ready to settle in for the night, consider staying at an RV resort in Aransas Pass that puts you within easy reach of all the local highlights.
Sunset Ridge RV Resort offers plenty of spacious sites, great amenities, and super easy access to all the best Aransas Pass attractions. Set up camp close to fishing, beaches, and the ferry while enjoying a peaceful coastal retreat. Book now and start exploring Aransas Pass!