Whether you’re visiting for a romantic couples getaway, a peaceful retreat, or a family vacation, staying at The Lighthouse Inn at Aransas Bay gives you easy access to some of the best attractions on the Texas Coast. Our hotel in Rockport, TX, evokes a timeless coastal elegance with upscale amenities that will ensure a memorable stay. Guests can choose from well-appointed rooms or suites to relax after each day of coastal adventures. We have curated a guide below to the top attractions in Rockport, TX.
The Top 5 Texas Coast Attractions in Rockport, TX
Rockport Beach
To start, our list of best attractions in Rockport, TX, is the first Blue Wave Beach in Texas. For a scenic stroll, follow the two-mile path along Little Bay. Cast your line fishing on the 800-foot pier. The western side of the park features a bird sanctuary, where you might spot Roseate Spoonbills or Egrets. Rockport Beach also hosts festivals like Rockport-Fulton Market Days and the Rockport Art Festival.
Visit a Rockport Museum
Learn about the state’s rich maritime history with a trip to the Texas Maritime Museum. Art lovers can visit the Rockport Center For The Arts, which features works by local Texan artists and a sculpture garden. Another highlight is the Bay Education Center, part of the University of Texas Marine Science Institute, where you can learn about ocean conservation through engaging exhibits and presentations.
Fulton Mansion State Historic Site
Step back in time with a visit to one of the most iconic attractions in Rockport, TX. A self-guided tour of this Victorian-era home will give you a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of George and Harriet Fulton in the 1800s. Surrounding the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site are gardens featuring plants from the mansion’s 1877-1896 era.
Goose Island State Park
Nature lovers will enjoy Goose Island State Park, home to the ancient Big Tree, a live oak over 1,000 years old. The park offers camping, hiking, and excellent fishing, with a 1,620-foot fishing pier, boat launch, and kayak/canoe access. No fishing license is required! The park is a part of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail so birdwatchers can spot over 300 species, including Egrets, Herons, and the endangered Whooping Crane.
Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
A short drive from Rockport, TX, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best attractions on the Texas Coast. It spans over 115,000 acres and serves as a crucial habitat for endangered species, including the rare whooping crane. Though off the beaten path, it’s worth the visit. Enjoy a 16-mile auto tour, fish from the pier, or take in the views from observation towers. The refuge also offers scenic walking trails with platforms and spotting scopes for birdwatching of more than 400 bird species.
