A casual vibe draws homebuyers and tourists to Port Aransas
Port Aransas, on Mustang Island, offers a laid-back lifestyle where people spend their days lounging on the beach, driving golf carts to dive bars and catching trophy fish. “You can wear a bikini and flip flops just about everywhere here,” says Laura Staves, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Island Escapes who moved to Port Aransas with her husband in 2019. This casual vibe appeals to full-time residents, second-home buyers and over a million tourists every year. Despite being a vacation destination, Port Aransas maintains a small-town atmosphere, with a highly rated school district, quirky community events and a location about 30 miles from Corpus Christi. “It feels like we live on our own little planet because we’re a bit removed from any major cities, and all the full-timers are so chill and welcoming,” Staves says. “When we moved here, it immediately felt like we’d already lived here for years.”
The Port Aransas community spreads across a vibrant coastal setting.
A beachgoer rides a golf cart along the sandy shoreline in Port Aransas.
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Condos and single-family homes may be short-term rentals
Port Aransas has a mix of condos, coastal contemporary homes and cottages. Houses are often painted in pastel or neon colors and raised by stilts or concrete slabs. Many of these properties are short-term rentals, which are popular year-round. “It’s like an endless summer here because there’s really no off-season,” Staves says. For buyers, one- to two-bedroom condos typically range from $50,000 to $350,000, while larger units often sell for $400,000 to $950,000, with some waterfront options reaching up to $1.5 million. Smaller, inland single-family homes generally fall between $400,000 and $675,000, and larger houses tend to cost from $700,000 to $950,000. Homes closest to the water hit the highest prices, usually between $1 million and $4.5 million. The median sale price is about $685,000, which is above the national median. Hurricanes and heavy rainfall may impact the island, and almost every property is at risk of flooding.
Beachfront homes on stilts reflect classic coastal design in Port Aransas.
A beachfront condominium rises above the dunes along the Port Aransas shoreline.
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Port Aransas is known for its beaches and fishing
Beachgrass-covered dunes frame Port Aransas’ 18 miles of sandy shoreline. During the day, people lounge under umbrellas, and at night, they gather around beach bonfires. Cars and golf carts loaded with supplies can drive straight onto the sand with permits. Anglers cast lines from jetties and fishing piers, hoping to reel in redfish, speckled trout or flounder. “This is the Fishing Capital of Texas, so some locals won’t go a day without trying to catch something,” Staves says. A public marina sits next to Roberts Point Park, where people often go to the top of the observation tower to see dolphins swimming in the shipping channel below. Hiking paths cut across marshland, sand flats and upland prairie at Port Aransas Nature Preserve, a popular bird watching spot home to spoonbills and egrets.
Docked vessels line a central marina in Port Aransas.
The Port Aransas pier stretches into the bay from the shoreline.
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Locals and tourists usually go to the same restaurants
Souvenir shops, ice cream parlors and restaurants make up downtown Port Aransas on the island’s northern tip. La Playa is a cozy Mexican Grille known for its crab enchiladas. Sushi, steak and seafood are on the menu at Bluewater Cowboy, a three-story spot that regularly has live music. Locals and tourists tend to go to the same restaurants, although some places prioritize seating locals first. “A lot of restaurants put clipboards on their doors, and then we drive the golf cart up, put our numbers on the list and wait to be called for dinner,” Staves says. “Tourists typically don’t know about that trick.” Lowe’s Market is Port Aransas’ only grocery store. Seafood markets and convenience stores are also around town.
Paul’s Seafood Market showcases fresh seafood selections in Port Aransas.
A ceiling filled with hats makes Shorty’s Place a standout local bar in Port Aransas.
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A golf cart parade celebrates Port Aransas High's seniors
Port Aransas School District serves the community. Kids can attend H.G. Olsen Elementary, which Niche grades an A-minus. They may continue to Brundrett Middle and Port Aransas High, both of which earn As. The district, with just under 600 students, helps make Port Aransas a close-knit community. “The high school hangs a banner of every senior on Alister Street,” Staves says. “Then, when they graduate, they do a golf cart parade around town, and by that point, we know all their faces.”
H.G. Olsen Elementary School has a student-teacher ratio of 11 to 1.
Brundrett Middle School receives an A rating from Niche in Port Aransas.
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A highway and a ferry system links Port Aransas to the mainland
State Route 361 is the only road connecting the island to the mainland. It reaches Corpus Christi, home to the nearest hospitals and international airport. The Port Aransas ferry operates 24/7, year-round, taking passengers to Aransas Pass, a mainland town with a few big-box grocery stores. Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority also provides bus service around the island. Traffic and public transportation are often more congested during peak tourist times. “A lot of us will just leave the island for spring break or Labor Day because everything gets so crazy,” Staves says.
The Port Aransas ferry provides daily service across coastal waters.
Access to Corpus Christi from Port Aransas is provided by State Route 361.
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A vibrant bar scene defines The Gaff, a well-known Port Aransas spot.
The Gaff hosts Turkey Bowling and belt sander races
With over 20 fishing tournaments during the summer and a regatta every October, Port Aransas has several community events throughout the year. Some of the most popular gatherings for residents are held at The Gaff, a pirate-themed bar. “Dollar bills are all over the walls and there’s live music fairly often, so it’s a very classic beach watering hole,” Staves says. After Thanksgiving, the bar hosts Turkey Bowling, where contestants step up to the ‘fowl line’ and roll frozen birds to knock down pins. On the second and fourth Saturday of each month, people fill the patio to watch souped-up belt sander races, a tradition that has been around since 2005.
Written By
Meghan Baker
Photography Contributed By
Ruo Zheng
Video By
Tyler Newbold
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Rhonda Jendrzey,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Port Aransas, TX sell after 140 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Port Aransas, TX over the last 12 months is $622,500, down 11% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Located in the boutique Sunflower Beach community of Port Aransas, this impeccable luxury home offers refined coastal living with 4-en suite bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. NOT in rental program, the home is truly pristine—beautifully decorated and thoughtfully curated throughout. A private elevator provides effortless access to both levels.The first floor is guest retreat, offering three
Nestled amidst the picturesque dunes, this charming beachside retreat offers a short boardwalk leading you directly to the pristine shores of the Gulf Coast. Imagine days filled with sand between your toes and the sun kissing your skin, all while relishing breathtaking ocean views. This is the dream you've been waiting to create and cherish forever! This uniquely positioned unit is not just a
Experience refined coastal living at The Aransas Club, the most highly anticipated waterfront offering on the Texas Coast. This exclusive enclave of 26 residences is designed for those who appreciate unparalleled harbor views, exquisite craftsmanship, and effortless access to the water. The 2 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom Sailfish floor-plan embodies this vision, blending coastal sophistication with
Rare pond-front cul-de-sac lot in the gated Beachwalk II community in Port Aransas. This 6,808 sq ft homesite offers peaceful water views, coastal wildlife, Gulf breezes. Beachwalk II features direct beach access via a golf-cart-friendly dune crossover, a community pool, and gazebo. Build your custom beach house or coastal getaway with no required timeline to build. Located just a few miles from
Enjoy island living in this beautifully updated 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom condo at El Cortez in Port Aransas, TX! Unit 222 boasts 2 spacious private decks overlooking the pool, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Step inside to discover an open concept floor plan with wood look tile floors, well-appointed kitchen island overlooking the living & dining area, spacious bedrooms, plus in-unit laundry.
Beautifully positioned in the highly desirable beachfront community of Beachwalk II, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom coastal home offers serenity, privacy, and exceptional outdoor living. Beachwalk is a gated, quiet oasis on the island, known for its peaceful atmosphere, lush resacas/ponds, and the many coastal birds they attract. Residents enjoy a stunning community pool tucked into the dunes and a
Welcome to Mango Cay— UNIT 404, your premier coastal retreat and a rare investment opportunity in the heart of Port Aransas. This three-story townhome offers 4 spacious bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and expansive decks on every level with direct Gulf views—perfect for enjoying sea breezes, morning coffee, and stunning sunsets. Inside, the home features custom cabinetry, granite countertops, stylish
Nestled among palms on Island Moorings’ coveted “Shady Side,” this updated waterfront property offers 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and over 3,100 sq ft of coastal living. High ceilings, shiplap accents, and expansive windows showcase sweeping water views from the main living, kitchen, dining, and primary suite. Kitchen features built-in stainless-steel appliances, ice machine, beverage fridge, and walk
Welcome to this beautifully crafted corner-lot home, thoughtfully built by a respected local builder for comfortable coastal living. Relax on the wraparound porch while enjoying the coastal breeze and end-of-the-street ocean view. Nestled in a quiet, long-term residential area, this home is just one block from the school and a short stroll to the beach via Lantana Drive. A Yard of the Month
This sweet Old Town Port A condo is such a little gem. A fully furnished 1-bed/1-bath at All Seasons with all the cozy, beach-town charm you want — plus a great deck setup with seating and a grill. Tucked right off Avenue G and only two blocks from the beach, you can wander to shops and restaurants or zip around on a golf cart to the marinas, jetties, and pier.HOA is just $150/month (water +
Welcome to Sandcastle Unit 110, a first-floor beachfront efficiency designed for buyers who appreciate the value of low-maintenance luxury in a high-demand coastal setting. Sandcastle describes the condo as a renovated efficiency with one bath for up to two guests, positioned directly above the beach—an appealing profile for a refined personal retreat, executive-style getaway, or boutique
Welcome to this beautifully furnished coastal escape in Palmilla Beach Golf Resort designed for unforgettable stays and outstanding investment potential. This spacious 2-story home offers four private en-suite bedrooms that create a luxury experience for owners and guests alike, plus an exciting bunk room with four single bunk beds that is perfect for kids, guests, and maximizing sleeping space
Welcome to Sandcastle Unit 108, a refined first-floor beachfront residence offering one bedroom, one bath, and views of the Port Aransas beach from the living area. Set within Sandcastle’s renovated resort-style community, this condo delivers the kind of elevated coastal ownership buyers seek in Port A: direct beach access by boardwalk, ocean-view ambiance, and a strong amenity package that
Seller is ready to pass the keys! This fully furnished 3BR/2.5BA townhome at The Commons is STR-zoned and turnkey, move in, rent out, or both. Open concept living downstairs, all bedrooms privately upstairs, covered patio, and community pool just steps away.Minutes from the beach, dining, and everything Port Aransas has to offer. Terms are negotiable — bring all offers!
OCEAN VIEW CONDO!! **New Wave Property Management has stepped in to help Executive Keys run their rentals and the bookings have not only doubled but tripled!!! Now is the time to get into one of these amazing units and start benefiting from the increase in rental revenue.** This beautifully uniquely remodeled 2-bed, 2-bath condo offers ocean views from every room and stands out with upgrades
Beautifull 4 bedroom , 3 full Bathrooms, beautifully Furnished Island Home in the Port Aransas area the Perfect get away from home ,This home feautres a bright , apaciious Living/ Dinning room open floor plan, Breakfest Bar, front and back balconies to enjoy and relax with morining coffee, includes all the furniture and Dishes and all the extras to make you feel at home and enjoy. Includes
Sandra FarhatAll City San Antonio Registered Series
1br/1ba Courtyard Condo for rent. Located just blocks from the beach! Unfurnished with fridge and dishwasher. On-site coin operated laundry available. Community amenities include heated pool, pickleball courts, and courtyard area. No smoking, no pets permitted. $50 application fee.
Spectacular Teal Harbor Condo with Yacht Slip & Panoramic Views. Experience coastal living at its finest in this beautifully remodeled third-floor condo located in the highly sought-after Teal Harbor community. Perched above the heart of Port Aransas, this unique residence offers breathtaking views of the marina and surrounding waters—perfectly enjoyed from the comfort of your private balcony.
Corpus Chris Cap Mgmt GroupMirabal Montalvo & Associates
4-6 month Lease! FULLY FURNISHED from SEPTEMBER-FEBRUARY. Location Location!! Perfectly positioned in one of Port Aransas’ most sought-after corridors, this 11th Street townhome offers a rare blend of location, lifestyle, and privacy. Set within the small (only 5 units) Port A Oasis community, you are just moments from the beach, dining, and local hotspots. Fresh decor and art! This 2-story
Welcome home to this fantastic Port Aransas property! Located in the Royal Palms subdivision, just a few blocks from the beach features a community pool, grills and picnic area. This 4 bedroom 3 1/2 bath home has plenty of space for everyone. The first floor consists of a comfortable living room, 1/2 bath, kitchen and dining area as well as one of the two primary suites. Upstairs, you will find
WINTER TEXAN retreat! FULLY FURNISHED! Available 10/1/26 – 3/30/27. There are many attractions very close by and are walkable such as Charlie’s Pasture, a 1200 acre preserve with walking trails, fishing piers, Robert’s Point Park is a multi-use park right on the waterway which includes a 2-story lookout and is adjacent to the marina. Restaurants and retail are walkable, or just a short ride away.
WALKWAY TO THE BEACH, FULLY FURNISHED, IN A GATED COMMUNITY, 4/3/2 3,115 SQFT, 2 DINING AND 2 LIVING PLUS A GAME ROOM, WET BAR, BEDROOM WITH ATTACHED BATH AND TWO CAR GARAGE DOWNSTAIRS. THERE IS A SHORT GOLF CART BEACH WALK FROM THE HOME. ENJOY THE TRANQUIL, QUIET COMMUNITY NEAR PORT A SCHOOL DISTRICT. THE TENANNT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL UTILITIES AND YARD MAINTENANCE, OWNER PAYS FOR INTERNET.
Sea turtles traverse the sandy bluffs of the world's longest barrier island, unfolding along Texas's southern coast along the Gulf of Mexico — welcome to Padre Island. Originally one island, Padre Island is now two, consisting of North and South Padre Island, but though sharing the same landmass, they are 100 miles apart, split by the Mansfield Channel. Witnessing some of the largest waves of tourism in Texas during the warm season and spring break, it is home to the city of Port Aransas on Mustang Island and the community of North Padre on Padre Island, which is a part of Corpus Christi. "I love living here. We only have about 3,000 people living here full-time, but we draw 8 million visitors annually. It's a huge tourist town," says Tara Hogan, a Broker Associate at Mark Grosse Real Estate and a long-time resident of Port A. <br><br>Students in Port Aransas may be a part of the Port Aransas Independent School District, a highly sought-after district and ranked #1 in the Corpus Christi area. Students may be zoned for Olsen Elementary, Brundrett Middle, and Port Aransas High School, all of which ranked with an A, according to Niche. Families in North Padre opt to apply for the Seashore Charter Schools, hosting the Seashore Learning Center, serving kindergarten through fourth grade, and the Seashore Middle Academy, ranked with an A-minus or above, according to Niche. <br><br>North Padre Island's homes are situated on small peninsulas surrounded by Corpus Christi Bay and clustered close to neighbors. Soft tan and sea-blue waterside ranch-style and Mediterranean-influenced traditional homes offer attached garages with minimal yard space. In Port Aransas, palm trees line the blocks, and three-story beach houses painted in coastal hues tower over the shorelines. "There are many more houses than people because they are often used as Airbnb's," Hogan says. Homes in Port A usually hover well over $500,000, reaching upwards of $1 Million, while North Padre's prices are similar; there are also opportunities for homes around $400,000. <br><br>A popular spot for watching migratory birds fly high above the seafloor— in the early mornings, fishermen set up for a day of casting their line out for trout and redfish, and boaters put on their life jackets to paddleboard through marked trails. "We run on island time; everyone is 15 minutes late to everything and walking around in their flip-flops and shorts, Hogan says. In Padre Island National Seashore, locals come to watch baby sea turtles begin their life in the waters of The Gulf and collect seashells at Malaquite Beach. Here, locals and tourists are just a bike ride or walk away from the pleasures of the outdoors. Avid kayakers travel to Mustang Island State Park, stretching 18 miles long, to explore the sandy waters of Corpus Christi Bay and marshes to Port Aransas. <br><br>Tortuga's Saltwater Grill in Port A is curated with fresh catches and Seafood & Spaghetti Works plates fried oysters and fish accompanied by traditional Italian pasta. In North Padre, sea breezes beckon at Doc's Seafood and Steaks, with its outdoor patio, live music, and land and sea offerings. And Guajillo's on the Island tops it with its savory authentic Mexican cuisine. Every other Thursday, the Padre Island Market has set up tables since 2016, bringing farm-fresh produce and local artisan vendors outside of Island Presbyterian Church. For daily essentials, residents living in North Padre can head to Island Market or Dollar General for groceries or run into Downtown Corpus Christi, around 20 miles away, for big-box shopping. Port A locals have a bit more shopping options. <br><br>Every year in April, thousands of people worldwide fly to the beaches of Port A for the iconic Sandfest. In the largest competition of its kind in the country, skilled sculptors test their skills, breathing new life into the sand and masterfully crafting sandcastles against the backdrop of live musical talent. In February, vibrant purples, greens, and gold flood the island streets of North Padre, with locals dressed in traditional masks on decorative floats during the annual Barefoot Mardi Gras Festival. <br><br>In Port A, Texas's Department of Transportation runs The Port Aransas Ferry System, which is entirely free, and residents can access the mainland to the north by State Highway 361 heading to Aransas Pass and Corpus Christi via the Harbor Bridge. Port A also has three bus routes into Corpus Christi for different reasons: shopping, commuting to work and the ship channel. Residents of North Padre can head back into Corpus Christi via Texas Park Road 22, leading to the JFK causeway bridge. Depending on where they are on the island, residents are about 30 miles from Christus Spohn Hospital and Corpus Christi International Airport.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
7
Median Rent
$3,500
Median Single Family Home Rent
$3,198
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$3,500
Median Townhouse Rent
$2,500
Median 2 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$2,500
Median Condo Rent
$2,350
Median 2 Bedroom Condo Rent
$2,450
Weather
Annual Precipitation
32''
Average Winter Low Temperature
48°F
Average Summer High Temperature
94°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Fairly bikeable
Bikeability®
40/ 100
Somewhat walkable
Walkability®
20/ 100
Limited public transit
Transit®
30/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
