Things to do in Port Aransas, TX for Wildlife Lovers
Port Aransas, Texas is the only established town on Mustang Island and attracts thousands of spring breakers and families every year. You’ll love this town’s close proximity to the beach, Padre Island, and Corpus Christi. If you love wildlife, Port Aransas is full of native Texas wildlife and activities for getting up close and personal. The University of Texas Marine Science Institute is located right in Port Aransas. This allows visitors to experience wildlife right in the Texas hub for conservation. Here are some things to do in Port Aransas is you’re a wildlife lover.
Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center
The well-maintained center is full of native Texas birds and alligators for viewing. The boardwalk around the center allows for up-close encounters with gators, birds, and fish. An observation tower gives a gorgeous view of the cattails and swamp that encompass the center. Make sure to get a look at the pink spoonbill birds that love to splash around in Port Aransas marshes.
Texas State Aquarium
The aquarium houses rehabilitated marine life from the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. Daily shows feature jumping dolphins, stingray feeding, bird flights, otter play, and animal encounters with marine life like sea turtles. For an extra charge, you can get a behind the scenes tour of how the aquarium works, animal care, and ongoing conservation projects. Be sure to feed a stingray and take a look at the Flower Gardens Banks National Marine Sanctuary replica.
Dolphin Tours
Who doesn’t love to watch dolphins play in their natural habitat? Port Aransas is surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico and is full of dolphin viewing opportunities. Companies like Scarlet Lady Dolphin Adventure, Kohootz Dolphin Encounters, and Dolphin Dock Charters will take you on a trip that guarantees dolphin viewing. Some tours include detours to Port Aransas historic landmarks and sunset dolphin encounters. You can create your own tour at one of Port Aransas’ beach parks at sunset and watch the dolphins from the sand.
Lighthouse Lakes Paddling Trail
Paddle your way down estuaries and lakes off of the Texas coastline. Trail trips can range from one to over six miles. You can take a break from paddling and cast a line off of a dock or boat. The clear waters will allow you to see native fish red drum, trout, and flounder. The breathtaking views of mangroves sticking out of the water will satisfy any wildlife lover.
Port Aransas is more than just a beach Spring Break destination. The vast array of wildlife and viewing opportunities will provide more than just a vacation. If you’re looking for a place to stay in Port Aransas, Mustang Island Vacation Rentals offers some of the best vacation rentals with breathtaking views of the Gulf and a laid-back atmosphere.
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