Things To Do in Texas

Top Things to Do in Aransas Pass, Texas

When you’re not reeling in Redfish or Speckled Trout with Brad’s Saltwater Adventures, there’s plenty to keep you busy in Aransas Pass. This laid-back Texas coastal town is full of character—offering family-friendly parks, nature experiences, and authentic local culture that make every visit memorable.

Explore Conn Brown Harbor Marina

Start your adventure at Conn Brown Harbor Marina, the heart of Aransas Pass. It’s a popular launching spot for boats and a favorite hangout for locals who love watching dolphins, pelicans, and fishing charters heading out. The marina area also has picnic tables, shaded gazebos, and walking paths—perfect for a quiet afternoon by the water.

Stop by the nearby seafood market or food trucks for fresh Gulf shrimp and tacos before you leave—it’s coastal Texas at its best.

Take a Dolphin Watching Tour

For something unforgettable, join a dolphin watching cruise departing from nearby Port Aransas or Rockport. These tours take you into the bay, where playful dolphins often swim alongside the boat. It’s one of the most family-friendly activities around, and kids love seeing marine life up close.

Many guests of Brad’s Saltwater Adventures enjoy pairing a dolphin tour with their fishing trip for a full day of ocean fun.

Visit Goose Island State Park

Just a short drive north toward Rockport, Goose Island State Park is one of the best outdoor attractions near Aransas Pass. You’ll find nature trails, a fishing pier, and birdwatching areas filled with herons, ospreys, and coastal birds. The park is also home to the famous Big Tree, one of the oldest live oaks in Texas—over 1,000 years old!

Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just exploring, it’s a peaceful spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Relax at Lighthouse Lakes Paddling Trails

Kayakers and nature enthusiasts will love Lighthouse Lakes Paddling Trails, located right outside Aransas Pass. This network of calm, shallow waterways winds through mangroves and seagrass flats, offering the chance to see fish, birds, and even sea turtles. Bring your own kayak or rent one nearby to explore this serene slice of the Texas Coastal Bend.

These waters are also great for light tackle anglers who enjoy a quiet paddle-and-cast experience.

Visit Rockport Beach Park

Only 20 minutes away, Rockport Beach is one of the cleanest and most family-friendly beaches in Texas. It’s ideal for swimming, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing under a cabana. The nearby pier is great for fishing, and the water is usually calm—perfect for small kids.

After your beach day, stroll through Rockport’s local shops and art galleries for souvenirs made by local craftsmen.

Learn Local History at the Texas Maritime Museum

Located in Rockport, the Texas Maritime Museum tells the fascinating story of the Gulf Coast’s seafaring history. From shipbuilding and navigation to early fishing and shrimping traditions, the exhibits are interactive and engaging for all ages.

It’s an excellent rainy-day option and a great way to connect with the maritime culture that defines the Aransas Pass and Port Aransas area.

Catch a Sunset at Redfish Bay Overlook

End your day with a view you’ll never forget. The Redfish Bay Overlook offers panoramic scenes of the water and is one of the best spots to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Locals often bring folding chairs and coolers for an easy sunset picnic.

It’s the perfect peaceful wrap-up to your Aransas Pass adventure—especially after a successful day of fishing.

Shop and Dine Downtown

Downtown Aransas Pass has a growing collection of local shops, cafes, and seafood restaurants. Pop into Butter Churn for classic Southern buffet favorites or Mickey’s Bar and Grill for casual waterfront dining. The friendly, small-town vibe makes every stop memorable.

Whether you’re exploring mangrove trails, beachcombing, or spotting dolphins, Aransas Pass, Texas, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation that keeps travelers coming back. Pair your visit with a fishing trip from Brad’s Saltwater Adventures, and you’ll experience the true spirit of the Texas coast—on the water and beyond.