This mainland community is named for the pass between Mustang and St. Joseph Islands. Primarily a fishing community, it serves as a gateway to Port Aransas and Mustang Island, accessible by causeway then free ferry from the city.
Nicknamed “Saltwater Heaven,” Aransas Pass is known for its commercial fishing and excursions that give visitors plenty of chances to try their luck landing speckled trout, redfish, flounder, black drum, and sheepshead in the bay or aboard a deep sea outing. Birders find challenge here as well, thanks to the community’s place on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. The town’s Newberry Park is home of Texas’s largest hummingbird garden; you’ll also have the chance to look for feathered visitors at the Conn Brown Ship Harbor and Intracoastal Channel, and the Aransas Pass Causeway area between Aransas Pass and Port Aransas.
Another popular activity here is kayaking, especially in the Lighthouse Lakes, a complex of small islands tucked between Aransas Pass and Port Aransas. Several operators offer guided kayak tours, a great way to experience this wilderness area.
Attractions
Conn Brown Harbor. This harbor is home to the fish-packing houses and the site of commercial shrimp boats docking and departing. Enjoy a dog walk at the Seamen’s Memorial Tower, a monument to the fishermen lost at sea; it marks the entrance to the working harbor. From downtown, take Business 35N to Stapp Avenue, turn right, and continue to the water.