Your Complete Guide to Spring Break in Port Aransas

Whether you’re visiting Port Aransas for the first time or returning to your favorite spring break destination, one thing is certain: you’re in for a great time. With beautiful beaches, tons of water activities, community events, and family-friendly fun to explore, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. As one of the most popular times of the year for tourists, the normally quiet town comes alive in March and April, promising an unforgettable trip for all. To help you prepare for the perfect getaway, we’ve got your complete guide to spring break in Port Aransas. Let’s dive in!

Preparing for Spring Break in Port Aransas

While the Texas coast is substantially warmer than other parts of the country in March and April, it’s still important to pay attention to the forecast before you visit. The temps can turn on a dime, so your suitcase should be more than bathing suits, shorts, and t-shirts. We recommend packing light layers that can easily warm you up or cool you off. Additionally, tried and true items like sunscreen, towels, snacks, beach toys, and plenty of water will all play a role in ensuring fun-filled days.

Beach Rules and Regulations in Port Aransas

To make the most of your spring break in Port Aransas, it’s important to understand the basic rules and regulations for the beach. Check out these ground rules before you hit the beach:

• Driving is permitted on the beach, but the speed limit is 15 mph. Officers are on patrol and will be strictly enforcing these rules to ensure public safety for all. In addition to speed limit regulations, if you want to park on the beach, you must secure a parking permit for $12 dollars – this applies to cars as well as golf carts. Additional parking regulations are in place to allow for handicapped spots and to keep vehicles out of the recreation area, so be mindful of posted rules.
• Pets are allowed but are required to be leashed at all times.
• Small fires are permitted but can be no larger than 3ft deep x 3ft wide x 3ft high. All fires must be completely extinguished before you leave.
• No glass bottles or containers are allowed on the beach.
• Driving in dunes is prohibited.
• Dispose of all waste in designated bins located along the beach.
• If you see a stranded or nesting sea turtle, call the Turtle Hotline at 1-866-TURTLE5. For injured shorebirds, call the Amos Rehabilitation Keep Hotline at (361) 749-6793. Do not touch animals under any circumstances, and do not feed the seagulls.

Family-Friendly Spring Break Activities in Port Aransas

While Port Aransas sees an influx of college kids for spring break, the party scene is typically located between mile markers 26 and 32, allowing families to still set up and enjoy a more low-key beach holiday away from the crowds. If you’re staying in one of our Aransas Princess condos, you’ll love our convenient boardwalk beach access that lets you easily get from your room to the shore in just minutes. Whether you’re catching a wave or just enjoying a day of sandcastle building or splashing in the surf, a classic beach day is a great family-friendly activity during your Port Aransas spring break. 

Other fun family activities include:

• Red Dragon Pirate Cruises – if you’re traveling with little ones, the Red Dragon Pirate Cruise is a must. As you sail the waters of Lydia Ann Channel, you’ll be entertained with cannon fire, dolphin watching, swashbuckling sword fighting, and even treasure hunting! Kiddos will love the theatrics and stories, and there are even some special treats for the adults on board. They’re open 7 days a week, so this is a convenient, family-friendly activity to add to your spring break itinerary when you visit Port Aransas.
• Marine Science Institute – The University of Texas at Austin Marine Science Institute is the oldest and most significant marine research facility on the Texas coast, and they’ve made it easy to add an educational element to your family’s spring break in Port Aransas. With three exciting public programs, you can explore the ecosystems that make Port Aransas unique.
  • Visit the Wetlands Education Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m. for a free guided tour that introduces you to native species of birds and explains the significant role wetlands play in creating a stable coastal zone.
  • Check out the free Estuary Explorium and its interactive exhibits to learn all about the local waters.
  • Explore the Bay Education Center and catch their daily Science on a Sphere presentation. Open for free to the public Tuesday – Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this massive facility is full of hands-on activities and fun both kids and parents will enjoy.
• Visit the Gaff – whether you’re looking for a tasty meal, a cold drink, or some hilarious coastal entertainment, the Gaff has it all. Check out their Belt Sander Races, held on the 2nd Saturday of the month, for some unique excitement.
• First Friday at the Arts Center – Every 1st Friday of the month, talented artists, visitors, and locals come out to the Arts Center to enjoy live music and refreshments while checking out the latest creations from the talented individuals who call Port Aransas home.

Water Activities Aside from the Beach in Port Aransas

Beach days are definitely a highlight of a spring break in Port Aransas, but it’s not the only way to have fun in the water. For some added excitement, consider renting jet skis and venturing out beyond the surf or through the local estuaries. Light up the night with Glow Row; an LED-illuminated clear-bottomed kayak trip that shows you the creatures that come out after dark. Or, if you need a break from the salt water, take advantage of the two beautiful pools at your Aransas Princess condo. With an on-site jacuzzi, too, you can truly unwind and relax as you listen to the distant waves crashing on the shore.

Book Your Spring Break Trip to Port Aransas

Armed with this complete guide to spring break in Port Aransas, the only thing left to do is book your perfect home away from home. At Aransas Princess, we have stunning condos right on the water that make your spring break both convenient and fun. From family beach days and unique community events to educational hands-on activities and relaxing amenities, there’s something to make everyone’s spring break perfect. Browse our complete list of vacation rentals and book your spring break to Port Aransas directly with Aransas Princess for the lowest price and best customer service in the area!