Port Aransas Welcomes Back Tourists

Sunflower is developing poolside condos and beach cabins called The Camp.

PORT ARANSAS, TX—A lot has changed since the 18-mile seaside community of Port Aransas on Mustang Island was on the verge of doubling in size. After Hurricane Harvey devastated the island last August, the community is welcoming back throngs of tourists for what’s expected to be a busy summer season.

The island’s beaches are back in shape, while its hotels, restaurants and vacation communities continue to reopen with major upgrades, expansions and improvements since Hurricane Harvey’s wrath, according to the Port Aransas/Mustang Island Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau. Known as Texas’s fishing capital, Port Aransas is welcoming anglers back to its channels, back bays and public piers starting this summer to catch their favorite species. While fishing tournaments take place throughout the season, the two biggest include the Port-A Pachanga Bay Fishing Tournament next weekend and the 83rd Deep Sea Roundup, claimed to be the oldest of its kind on the Gulf Coast, from July 13 to 15. Half of the island’s fishing guides are also now operational.