Family Activities for a Summer Vacation at Port Aransas

Traveling with kids can pose some challenges, especially in finding things to do that the whole family will enjoy. Fortunately, Port Aransas offers plenty of fun activities for children and adults alike. From our scenic beaches to our unique excursions and fun events, you'll have a blast traveling to Port A with the family on summer vacation.

Read on to see the best family-friendly things to do and summer on a summer trip to Port Aransas

1) Take a Beach Day (or Two)

What's a family summer vacation without a few days at the beach? Port A is known for its excellent beaches. Water temperatures during the summer are refreshing, and the white sandy shores are ideal for long walks and sunbathing. Just be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen for you and the kids.

If you're vacationing in a Starkey rental home, then be sure to check out our Port Aransas beach rental gear and concierge services page. Plan ahead and book bonfire gear, beach toys and chairs, or golf carts so that they're here and ready for your trip.

FUN FACT: Port Aransas holds an annual sand sculpting competition called Texas SandFest every year in April. Check out past examples of winning sculptures, and then try sculpting your own sandy masterpiece with the family!

2) Hop Aboard a Dolphin Boat Tour

Take to the seas for an exciting dolphin-watching tour at Port A. It's tremendous fun for parents and kids alike to see pods of these majestic creatures swimming fast alongside your vessel at sea. Several dolphin and whale species frequent these waters, so keep a close eye out and have your cameras ready.

If you really want to elevate your dolphin-watching experience, then snag some seats on the Red Dragon pirate ship. This 70-foot vessel combines sailboat tours with pirate-themed activities like sword fights, treasure hunts, and epic swashbuckling stories.

3) Explore Mustang Island State Park

Just 13 miles southwest of Port Aransas is Mustang Island State Park. This protected coastal wilderness area is the perfect place to visit for families who love outdoor activities. You can swim, surf, fish, bird-watch, and more at Mustang Island State Park.

Adventurous families with older kids should check out the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail. Rent a couple kayaks and explore the 20 miles of paddling routes along the island's western shoreline in Corpus Christi Bay.

4) Tour the USS Lexington

The USS Lexington, aka "The Blue Ghost," is a WW2-era aircraft carrier that's now preserved and docked in Corpus Christi. This historic vessel participated in nearly all naval operations of WW2's Pacific Theater, spending a total of 21 months in combat.

Today, you can explore the USS Lexington on a self-guided tour or a guided group tour. In addition to its own remarkable history, this ship serves as a naval aviation museum. It's a fun and fascinating attraction that the whole family will love!

5) Cool Off at Hurricane Alley Waterpark

Hurricane Alley Waterpark is another family-friendly attraction in the nearby city of Corpus Christi. Especially during summer, who wouldn't want to spend a day cooling off in lazy rivers and flying down fast water slides? This thrilling waterpark provides all that and more.

At Hurricane Alley, you'll find three thrilling slides, a surfing simulator, a 12,000-gallon wave pool, and a relaxing lazy river. There's also a pirate-themed play area for younger kids, and parents can enjoy the park's swim-up bar. All fine components to make up a glorious summer day with the family.

Those are some of our favorites family-friendly activities and attractions hear at Port Aransas, Texas. Head back to our Port A blog feed or check out our Experience Guide for more family trip-planning information.

If you haven't already, be sure to book your stay in Port A with Starkey Properties. Click the button below to browse our summer vacation rentals.