Port Aransas, located on beautiful Mustang Island, is well known for its expansive beaches and outdoor activities. However, even in this coastal Texas paradise, rain occasionally comes to town. But don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits — seize the opportunity to discover a different side the island with these top rainy day activities on Mustang Island.
Outdoor Rainy Day Activities
If it’s a light rain, don’t let that stop you from exploring the spectacular nature in Port Aransas! Bring a raincoat and head to the Port Aransas Nature Preserve to stroll along the boardwalk path through the wetland environment. This is an excellent spot for birdwatching year-round, but especially in the cooler months as migrating birds pass through and whooping cranes make their winter home in Port Aransas. Or you can rent a kayak and explore the paddling trails throughout Mustang Island State Park, where you’ll discover 20 miles of waterways teeming with local wildlife, and you may have the place to yourself on a rainy day. Fishing charters are also done year-round in any kind of weather, so if you’re up for it, head out for some bay or deep-sea fishing.
Indoor Rainy Day Activities
If you’re looking for indoor rainy day activities in Port Aransas, try exploring your creative side at the Port Aransas Art Center. Offering workshops, classes, and exhibits featuring local artists, the Art Center provides a haven for art lovers seeking refuge from the rain. Learn how to paint and sculpt, or simply browse the local art on display.
The Port Aransas Museum offers a look into Mustang Island’s past and present with artifacts, movies and interactive exhibits about the area’s history. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday and also offers guided tours of Farley Boat Works and Chapel on the Dunes. In the evening, catch a show at nearby Port Aransas Community Theatre, a cozy venue putting on a diverse range of shows and musicals.
Shopping in downtown Port Aransas is always a great rainy day option. With local shops scattered along highway 361, there are lots of little gems to discover. From quirky souvenirs at Bluewater Cowboy Mercantile to the unique gifts and decor at Hazel Grace, there is something for everyone.
Rainy weather is the perfect time to enjoy a relaxing spa day. Head to downtown Port Aransas for massage and skincare at the serene Balinese Wellness Spa or to the south end of Mustang Island for pampering at the Island Day Spa. Both facilities offer a range of half and full day customizable packages to create your perfect spa experience.
If you are craving a rainy afternoon treat, indulge yourself with some locally-made fudge at Winton’s Candies or head to Port A Creamery for baked goods and ice cream, the perfect way to cure the rainy day blues. Stop by Coffee Waves for a latte or homemade gelato as an afternoon pick-me-up.
Grab a bite to eat at one of the great restaurants in Port Aransas and watch the rain fall while you enjoy a meal in comfort. Visit Tortuga’s Saltwater Grill or Castaway’s for casual dining featuring the local catch of the day. FIN’s Grill and Icehouse offers a lovely marina view and delicious burgers. The fine dining and charming ambiance at Roosevelt’s at the Tarpon Inn is sure to be a delight at the end of a rainy day, and Lisabella’s Bistro offers upscale Mediterranean cuisine with a large wine selection. Kick up your heels after dark and enjoy the live music at Bernie’s Beach House.
Only a short 30 minute drive from Port Aransas, Corpus Christi offers some options for those rainy days that aren’t letting up. Families will love the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History and the Texas State Aquarium, which both offer exciting interactive exhibits and close encounters to keep the kids entertained all day. Another fascinating experience awaits aboard the USS Lexington, the world’s oldest aircraft carrier, now functioning as a museum. Visitors can tour the ship, learn about its history through immersive movies, try a flight simulator, and admire the largest military model collection in Texas. For a memorable visit, purchase the Lockdown on the Lex Escape Room experience, which includes museum admission.
Sandpiper Condominiums
Whether you are looking for exciting indoor activities or peaceful outdoor adventures, Port Aransas has plenty to offer on a rainy day. If you’re not up for venturing out in the rain, Sandpiper Condominiums offers a ton of great indoor features and amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, several newly renovated lobby sitting areas with comfortable couches, tables, board games, a pool table, flat screen televisions, a library, and a coffee bar and vending machines. Or you can relax on your covered balcony and watch the rain fall over the Gulf. You and your crew will have plenty to do on-property at the Sandpiper if a rainy day arises. And at the end of a day full of activities, your Sandpiper Condominium rental offers a cozy space to relax in privacy and comfort, perfect for a movie or game night and a cozy home-cooked meal. Book a Sandpiper condo rental today and enjoy Port Aransas, rain or shine!
