Things to Do Near Shark Reef Resort

Looking for the best things to do in Port Aransas? From beaches and fishing charters to birding, shopping, local restaurants, and family attractions, here are some of our favorite places near Shark Reef Resort.

Port Aransas has 18 miles of drivable beach, which still surprises most first-timers. Just minutes from Shark Reef Resort, our favorite beach access is Ave G. 

If you're a shell collector or you've always wanted to find a shark tooth, here's a local tip: track the high and low tides and wander the beach near the Horace Caldwell Pier at low tide. That's where we've had the best luck. It takes a little patience but it's worth it.

Beach parking permits are required to drive on the beach and can be purchased at local convenience stores throughout Port Aransas. 

Port Aransas is one of the best places in Texas for wildlife, and you don't have to go far to find it.  During spring and fall migration, birdwatchers come from around the world to visit Port Aransas. 

 Joan Holt Paradise Ponds sits directly behind Shark Reef Resort, making it one of the easiest attractions to visit during your stay. 

Head to the jetties and keep your eyes on the water — dolphins and sea turtles are common sightings, especially around Charlie's Pasture and Roberts Point Park. Turtle Cove at Roberts Point Park is especially good for kids. It's one of those spots where you're almost guaranteed to see something worth remembering.

Shark Reef Resort is popular with anglers because we have one of the largest boat parking areas in Port Aransas. Whether you're heading offshore, fishing the bay, or launching your own boat, you'll have plenty of room to park. 

These are our personal recommendations — places we'd send our own family to:

Irie's Island Bakery is a local favorite and a great way to start the morning. Miss K and The Phoenix are both worth a visit for a real sit-down meal. 

Lelo's and Grumbles are always a good call. 

The Phoenix - get your reservation in quick, they are worth the wait!

These are local spots with real food, not tourist-trap menus.

Gratitude's is one of our favorite shops on the island — the kind of place you go in for one thing and stay for an hour. Fire It Ceramics is a paint-your-own pottery studio that's perfect for a rainy day, a family afternoon, or honestly just a fun thing to do. The candy shop owned by the Wintons is a must if you have kids — or a sweet tooth of any kind.

The Chapel in the Dunes is a quiet, beautiful spot worth a visit even if you're not particularly spiritual. It's one of those Port Aransas things that sticks with you.

We recommend renting a golf cart from Peyton's. It's one of the easiest and most fun ways to explore the island.

If it's overcast or raining, Port Aransas still has plenty going on. Fire It Ceramics, the candy shop, Gratitude's, the Red Dragon Pirate ship, the Patton Center, the restaurants — none of that requires sunshine. The wildlife doesn't slow down either. Some of our best dolphin and turtle sightings have happened on grey days when the water is calm and quiet.

Sunrise: Ave G beach.

Sunset: Roberts Point Park.

Shark teeth: Low tide near Horace Caldwell Pier.

There's always something to do here. That's one of the reasons we love it.