A Local Guide by a Local!

Welcome to Rockport-Fulton… you’ll find many, many things to do!

A Local Guide by a Local!

100 FUN THINGS TO DO IN ROCKPORT, TEXAS


The Rockport-Fulton chamber of commerce has come up with this list of 100 fun things to do in Rockport, Texas! Click on the link to view.


BEACHES AND POOLS

ROCKPORT BEACH PARK AND BLUE WAVE BEACH

Rockport`s beautiful Blue Wave Beach has covered picnic tables, playgrounds, 2 sand volleyball courts, saltwater swimming hole, pavilion rentals, bathrooms, showers, boat ramps, fish cleaning stands, fishing piers, and lots of fun!
    Location: Follow the signs on Bus. 35 in downtown Rockport
    Phone: 361-729-2213 ext. 226

PORT ARANSAS BEACH

Enjoy 18 miles of uncrowded, unspoiled beach on this part of the world`s longest barrier island, and one of only three in the United States you can still drive on with street legal vehicles and all things beachy. Our beaches are great for shelling, strolling, sunning, playing and family fun!
    Location: Port Aransas, Texas - just a short drive and ferry ride away from Rockport!
    Phone: (361) 749-5919
    Toll Free: 800-45-COAST

ROCKPORT AQUATIC CENTER AND SKATE PARK

The Community Aquatic and Skate Park, nestled within a 12-acre Live Oak Forest, is open year round. The park houses an 8-lane, heated, 25-yard pool and diving area, a whale shaped zero-depth entry children`s pool with slides and sprays, a bathhouse, and a 6,000 square foot modular skate park. Adjacent to the aquatic and skate park is a picnic area and playground, and a 1/4 mile nature trail.
    Location:2001 Stadium Drive (across from Rockport High School)
    Phone: 361-727-9989



BIRDING

ROCKPORT BIRDING AND KAYAK ADVENTURES

Whether Birding, Kayaking, Dolphin Watching, Sunset Cruising, Private Charters, or just getting out on the bay is your mission, you have come to the right place. Our goal is to provide a professional operation and a unique experience that you won`t soon forget.
    Toll Free: 877-892-4737

HUMMERBIRD CELEBRATION

The HUMMERBIRD Celebration is an annual event held each September in the charming and friendly coastal towns of Rockport and Fulton. The purpose is to celebrate the spectacular fall migration of the Ruby-throated hummingbird through the area. The Celebration is fun, educational and inspiring!
    Location: Rockport High School
    Toll Free: 1-800-242-0071

ARANSAS PATHWAYS

Pathways Center, is the go-to place for information for all of the Aransas Pathways projects. These projects consist of: Birding, History, Kayaking, and Hike and Bike Trails. Pathways Center includes: pavilion with informational kiosks, an open center for meeting space, deck for relaxing and observation of Tule Creek and the adjoining nature site. The project also includes a bridge which connects the North and South sides of Tule Creek and Shell Crete Birding and Nature site.
    Location: Rockport, TX
    Phone: 361-729-6445



GOLF

Rockport Country Club

18-hole championship golf course
    Location: 101 Champions Dr, Rockport, TX 78382
    Phone: (361) 729-8324

Northshore Country Club

The premier golf course in the Coastal Bend area.
    Location: 801 East Broadway Avenue, Portland, TX 78374
    Phone: 361-643-2798

Newport Dunes Golf Club

    Location: 265 Palm island Dr, Port Aransas, TX 78373
    Phone: (361) 749-4653



TENNIS COURTS

Rockport Country Club

Private tennis club available for tennis lessons.
    Location: 101 Champions Dr Rockport, TX 78382
    Phone: 361-729-4280

Rockport-Fulton High School

    Location: 1801 Omohundro Street, Rockport, TX 78382



GOLF CART & BIKE RENTALS

Harbor Carts

Harbor Carts is a division of Fulton Harbor based Rockport Birding and Kayak Adventures. We have been renting top quality kayaks for over 8 years as well as providing unparalleled eco-tours aboard Skimmer and Emilita throughout the Aransas Bay area. We rent top quality gasoline powered EZ Go and Yamaha carts. Let us service your gas or electric cart. We maintain electric boats too!
    Location: 2602 Highway 35 N, Rockport, TX 78382
    Phone: 877-892-4737

The Salty Gypsea Boutique & Bike Rental

"We are a family owned boutique in the heart of downtown Rockport. We have fishing apparel for women, men and kids. Shoes, bags, accessories and clothing. We also have local vendors with amazing hand made items like at freshies, custom tumblers, jewelry, purses and candles! We also sell candy! We promise to have something for everyone." Ashley Beevar - Owner. Thesaltygypsyboutique@gmail.com. Check out their Facebook page @thesaltygypsea
    Location: 1012 Wharf Street, Rockport, TX 78382
    Phone: (512) 822-8755



KAYAKING

ROCKPORT BIRDING & KAYAK ADVENTURES

The Aransas area is perfect for kayakers of all experience levels. The endless Creeks sloughs and saltwater lakes in our marshes provide outstanding opportunity for fishing, birding, and paddling. We provide quality equipment rentals, transport, and professional guidance.
    Location: 215 North Fulton Beach Rd. Fulton, TX 78358
    Toll Free: 877 TX BIRDS

ROCKPORT KAYAK

Rockport Kayak is proudly sponsored by Viking kayaks and offers a variety of sizes rigged with Railblaza accessories. Paddling gear such as PFDs, paddles, etc. are all included with each kayak. Every rental includes complimentary delivery and pick up*. Our knowledgeable staff will kindly point you in the right direction so that you can start your adventure off with confidence.
    Location: Rockport, TX
    Phone: (361) 727-9966

COASTAL BEND KAYAK

PROFESSIONAL GUIDED KAYAK TOURS & INSTRUCTION SINCE 2002 FOR: ROCKPORT, PORT ARANSAS, ARANSAS PASS, INGLESIDE & CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
Location: 1044 S Commercial St, Aransas Pass, TX 78336
    Phone: (361) 557-7003

ARANSAS PATHWAYS

Pathways Center is the go-to place for information for all of the Aransas Pathways projects. These projects consist of: Birding, History, Kayaking, and Hike and Bike Trails. Pathways Center includes pavilion with informational kiosks, an open center for meeting space, deck for relaxing and observation of Tule Creek and the adjoining nature site. The project also includes a bridge which connects the North and South sides of Tule Creek and Shell Crete Birding and Nature site.
    Location: Rockport, TX



MUSEUMS AND HISTORIC PLACES

TEXAS MARITIME MUSEUM

The Texas Maritime Museum`s mission is to excite and educate the public about Texas` rich maritime history. This nationally accredited museum has interactive exhibits, models, and photographs as well as a recently installed web camera and weather station. Visit the museum store to find an array of merchandise complementing the museum`s collection.
    Location: 1202 Navigation Circle, Rockport, TX 78382
    Toll Free: 866-729-AHOY

FULTON MANSION

George and Harriet Fulton must have amazed their neighbors when they began construction in 1874 on their spacious and extravagant home overlooking the Aransas Bay. Completed in 1877, the house featured ornate trim work and furnishings and the latest technological conveniences including modern plumbing, central heating and a gas lighting system. Restored in the early 1980s, the architectural landmark is open for visitors.
    Location: 316 S. Fulton Beach Road
    Phone: 361-729-0386

USS LEXINGTON MUSEUM

Let your imagination run wild aboard the USS LEXINGTON. The sights and sounds are so real and so intense you`ll feel like you`ve been transported back in time. Climb behind the controls of a Jet Fighter, catch a movie in the Mega Theater, take a ride in the Flight Simulator or just enjoy the breathtaking views from the Flight Deck.
    Location: 2914 N. Shoreline Blvd Corpus Christi, Texas 78403
    Phone: 361-888-4873
    Toll Free: 800-LADY LEX



NIGHTLIFE

THE SUGAR SHACK

"When the sun goes down, and the sky turns black, Come to the Shack!"
    Location: 106 N. Fulton Beach Rd.
    Phone: (361) 790-9000

POOR MAN`S COUNTRY CLUB

Great food and cold drinks! Welcome to "The" Poor Man`s Country Club where everyone is a member. Looking for live music? We have bands scheduled weekends nights throughout the summer. Please check our entertainment schedule below for upcoming bands and events.
    Location: 1009 HWY 35 N
    Phone: (361) 729-POOR (7667)

Rock Bottom Park and Pub

Newest bar in Downtown Heritage District of Rockport, Texas on Austin St. with great drinks and live music!
    Location: 507 S Austin Street
    Phone: (361) 450-0345



PARKS AND RECREATION

GOOSE ISLAND STATE PARK

Goose Island State Park, 321.4 acres, surrounded by the St. Charles and Aransas Bays, is located north of Rockport in Aransas County. The shoreline is comprised of concrete bulkhead, oyster shell, mud flat, and marsh grass. The main recreational activities are camping, excellent birding, and fishing. Other activities include picnicking, boating (motors allowed), nature study, wildlife observation, and photography. Tours: Guided nature hikes are held year round. Guided birding tours are held from January through April.
    Location: 202 S Palmetto St.
    Phone: 361-729-2858

MUSTANG ISLAND STATE PARK

Mustang Island State Park is 3954 acres with about 5 miles of beach on the Gulf of Mexico in Nueces County, south of Port Aransas. Activities include camping, picnicking, fishing, swimming, hiking and mountain biking on 5 miles of open beach, sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, and excellent birding, especially during spring and fall migrations.
    Location: P O Box 326, Port Aransas, TX 78373
    Phone: 361-749-5246

THE BIG TREE

The Big Tree of Lamar is one of the most famous in the world. It is measured to be more than 35 feet in circumference, 44 feet in height and has a crown spread of 89 feet. The Texas Forest Service estimates the tree to be over 1,000 years old.
    Location: Goose Island State Park
    Phone: 361-729-2858

MEMORIAL PARK AND SKATE PARK

Memorial Park is the center of the park system that includes both activity centers and natural habitat conservation. Consisting of more than 100 acres, the Park includes 1.65 miles of Hike and Bike trails and a 3/4 mile Nature trail with interpretive signs, and rest benches. Soccer fields, basketball courts, baseball/softball fields, off leash Dog Park, Skate Park, playscapes and fitness stations, birding sites and picnic facilities to serve a wide variety of interests throughout the year.
    Location: 1601 FM 2165 (Pearl St)
    Phone: 361-727-9989

ROCKPORT BEACH PARK

This park offers 71 covered picnic cabanas with BBQ grills, playgrounds, volleyball courts, walking trails, 4 boat ramps, fishing piers, bird nesting sanctuary, restrooms, and showers. Location: Follow the signs on Bus. 35 in downtown Rockport
    Phone: 361-729-2158
    Toll Free: 877-929-7977

FULTON NAVIGATION PARK

New city park overlooking Aransas Bay with playground equipment and picnic tables. The Fulton Pier is just steps away.
    Location: Located at Fulton Harbor near the Fulton Pier



ROCKPORT EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

OYSTERFEST

Fun for all ages! There`s everything from oyster eating contests, carnivals, and live music! Make your lodging reservations soon as this event kicks off Spring Break!
    Location: Fulton Festival Grounds
    Phone: 361-729-6445

WINE FESTIVAL

You`ll have a great time with wine, beer, food, vendors, and of course the coast!
    Location: 1202 Navigation Circle. Rockport, Texas 78382
    Toll Free: 1 866 729 2469

ROCKPORT SEAFAIR

Rockport Seafair is a sea-themed fun festival 46 years young that features live entertainment, over 120 vendors, Gumbo Cook-Off, Seafood Cooking classes and demonstrations, a big carnival, education about the coast, a big parade and SO MUCH MORE!
    Location: Rockport Harbor
    Toll Free: 1-800-242-0071

ROCKPORT FILM FESTIVAL

Experience Rockport`s annual film festival! "International in Scope, Local in Flavor"
    Location: Rockport Center for the Arts
    Phone: (361) 729-5519

HUMMERBIRD CELEBRATION

The HUMMERBIRD Celebration is an annual event held each September in the charming and friendly coastal towns of Rockport and Fulton. The purpose is to celebrate the spectacular fall migration of the Ruby-throated hummingbird through the area. The Celebration is fun, educational and inspiring!
    Location: Rockport High School
    Toll Free: 1-800-242-0071

ART FESTIVAL

Rockport Center for the Arts celebrates its 40th Annual Art Festival. Over 120 Artists, Music, Food, and Fun... help us celebrate!
    Location: Festival Grounds across from the Art Center
    Phone: 361-729-5519



WILDLIFE AND AQUARIUMS


TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM

    Location: 2710 N. Shoreline Blvd Corpus Christi, TX
    Toll Free: 1-800-477-GULF

ARANSAS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    Location: From Rockport, take Highway 35 north approximately 20 miles. Turn right on FM 774, go approximately 9 miles to FM 2040. Turn right and follow FM 2040 for about 7 miles to refuge entrance.
    Phone: 361-286-3559



HUNTING

Saltitude Outfitters

Your answer for the best Saltwater Fishing & Duck Hunting trips in the Texas Coastal Bend! Spend the day with Captain Sam Schiwart bay fishing for Redfish and Speckled Trout from San Antonio Bay north of Rockport to Baffin Bay. Whether it be, throwing bait from the boat, wade fishing with lures, surf fishing the mouth of Cedar Bayou, or fishing a tournament, Saltitude Outfitters has the fishing trip for you and your family and your friends! Saltitude Outfitters is USCG licensed, TPWD certified, and a member of the Coastal Bend Guides Association.
    Location: Rockport, TX
    Phone: 361-205-9833

Bay Charters and Duck Hunting

Capt. Frank Houser is well-versed in the disciplines of saltwater fishing and South Texas duck hunting, but he also supports organizations that help children like Aranzazu, United Way and Cystic Fibrosis. You’re in excellent hands when you book with Capt. Frank.
    Location: Rockport, TX
    Phone: 361-229-2527

Mojo Guide Service and Outfitters

Born and raised in the Coastal Bend, Capt. JC Algueseva developed a passion for fishing as a child. JC grew up fishing saltwater all around the Coastal Bend. Now with over 30 years of fishing experience he does everything possible to create an unforgettable experience on the water. As an experienced professional, JC is always willing to teach guest how to improve their angling skills.
    Location: 119 Beach St Suite #200, Port Aransas, TX 78373
    Phone: 361-866-5411

Hooks 2 Horns

Hunting and fishing guide
    Location: 411 Spanishwoods Drive Rockport, TX 78382
    Phone: (830) 313-8113 or (830) 719-0842



SHOPS

COAST & COTTAGE

Brand new gift shop selling bath and body soaps, candies and treats, elegant coastal decor, candles, jewelry and sea glass, homemade dog treats, and memorable gifts. The sales from many of their items go towards charities.
    Location: 510 S Austin St, Rockport, TX 78382
    Phone: 361-790-5099

Goin` Coastal

Goin` Coastal Outfitter is a family owned business selling everything beachy- clothing, T-shirts, shoes, accessories, jewelry, gifts, even skateboards! They create and list new designs every two weeks, just for you! Livin` and lovin` from Rockport, Texas! You can find them slingin’ ice cream in Downtown Rockport at 103 South Austin Street.
    Location: 103 South Austin Street
    Phone: 361-450-0768

Mermaid Ranch

Unique décor with a coastal theme, upcycled furniture, gifts, jewelry, clothing and art. A small local shop. Come visit!
    Location: 502 South Austin Street, Rockport, TX 78382
    Phone: 361-450-5002