Mustang Island is home to wide beaches, diverse wildlife and a variety of free activities for visitors to enjoy. If you’re looking for free things to do on Mustang Island, this island offers a range of experiences to be had at no cost, whether you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, or everything else in between. Let’s explore some of the free things to do on Mustang Island!
Enjoy the Beach
Have a day of fun in the sun on Mustang Island’s beaches. From the lively beach in Port Aransas to the peaceful dunes of Mustang Island State Park, there are plenty of spots to spread out on the sand, and it won’t cost you a dime! Let your inner architect shine as you build elaborate sandcastles, hit the waves on a boogie board, or relax with a picnic lunch under the umbrella.
Beachcombing
Grab your bucket and wander along the miles of wide, sandy shores that are perfect for shell collecting. Mustang Island is renowned for its abundance of seashells, and beachcombers will delight in the variety of species and sizes you can find here. Head down the shore to Big Shell Beach, where you can find huge specimens of cockles, coquinas, quahogs and more.
Go Fishing
Mustang Island is known as the Fishing Capital of Texas and there’s no shortage of great fishing spots here! Cast your line into the Gulf waters and try your luck at catching flounder, redfish, or trout. Anglers can enjoy surf fishing near the Port Aransas Jetty or venture out on the Horace Caldwell Pier for a chance to reel in the big one.
Catch the sunset
Mother Nature puts on a breathtaking show each evening as the sun dips below the horizon on Mustang Island. Stake out your spot along the beach or opt for the Horace Caldwell Pier for a panoramic view of the colorful sky as it transitions from day to night. Or head to the Roberts Point Park observation tower for a birds eye view of the shipping channel, where boat traffic and dolphins will be silhouetted against the brilliant sunset.
Yoga on the Beach
Find your zen amidst the tranquil sounds of crashing waves with a yoga session on the beach. The city of Port Aransas offers a free monthly beach yoga class, and local instructors offer a free weekly class amidst the serene marshland environment at Port Aransas Nature Center. Let the beautiful nature of Mustang Island rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit.
Go Birdwatching
With its strategic location along the Central Flyway, Mustang Island attracts a vast array of migratory birds. Bring your binoculars and spot pelicans, herons, and even the elusive roseate spoonbill at various spots like the Port Aransas Nature Preserve and the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center. Free birding walks are held on Tuesdays throughout the winter, and if you visit in February, you can witness the annual return of migrating whooping cranes.
Sea Turtle Hatchling Release
Summer is sea turtle season on Mustang Island and the hatchling release events are a magical experience. From mid-June through August, the National Park Service rangers invite the public to witness baby sea turtles making their way toward the Gulf at Malaquite Beach. These popular events are free, although there is a fee to enter the Padre Island National Seashore.
Go Stargazing
Escape the city lights and gaze up at the twinkling night sky above Mustang Island. With minimal light pollution, the southern end of the island offers optimal conditions for stargazing enthusiasts to marvel at the constellations overhead. Head to the Night Sky Observatory at Malaquite Beach for the best chance to see the night sky without interference.
Explore the waterways
Paddle your way through tranquil waters and explore the island’s pristine estuaries and bays. Kayaks or stand-up paddleboards are ideally suited to the over 20 miles of paddling trails found on Mustang Island. Embark on a paddling adventure filled with gorgeous coastal scenery and keep your eyes open for native wildlife such as dolphins, sea turtles, and crabs in their natural habitat.
Explore Local Art and Culture
The town of Port Aransas is the cultural hub of Mustang Island, with some great spots available to visitors for free. Take a tour of the Port Aransas Art Center, where you can see featured work from local and regional artists. The Port Aransas Museum is a wonderful place to learn more about the history of the island, and the Farley Boat Works offers a living exhibit showcasing the local boat building legacy.
Indulging in the natural beauty and adventure of Mustang Island doesn’t have to hurt your wallet. With so many free and low-cost activities, no matter what you are looking to do on your vacation, Mustang Island welcomes you with open arms. So pack your bags, book your vacation rental and get ready for an unforgettable visit to this charming coastal Texas gem.
