Posted in Texas Day Trips, Small Towns March 17, 2023 by

The Tiny Beach Town In Texas That’s The Perfect Day Trip Destination

While it’s always a fun time to visit Texas’ most popular beach towns like Galveston, Corpus Christi, and South Padre Island, the constant crowds are something we could do without. Fortunately, there’s a tiny South Texas town right on the water that offers the same gorgeous views and carefree, beach day experience — with only a fraction of the tourists. Port Isabel is a historic small town in the Lone Star State. And if you’ve ever searched for things to do in Port Isabel Texas, then you’re in luck. The town is brimming with shops, restaurants, museums, water activities, and a beautiful beach, and we’ve compiled the best attractions just for you. So, let’s explore this beach town that’s a perfect day trip destination in Texas

One of the oldest towns in south Texas, Port Isabel dates back all the way to 1519, when it was charted by Spanish explorer Alonzo de Pineda.
Wikimedia Commons/Sebaso
The small town of just over 6,000 is a mere three miles away from South Padre Island, yet it offers a much quieter and less touristy experience.
Port Isabel, TX, USA
The most noteworthy landmark in town is the Port Isabel Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1852.
Wikimedia Commons/lfwlfw / Bevo at English Wikipedia
It's the only lighthouse on the Texas coast open to the public, and it keeps the area's rich maritime history alive.
Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site, 421 E Queen Isabella Blvd, Port Isabel, TX 78578, USA
After checking out the Visitor Center at ground level, it's time to head up to the top.
Google/Miguel Barragan
You'll enjoy a sweeping, 16-mile panorama that includes South Padre Island, the Queen Isabella Causeway, Brownsville Ship Channel, the Gulf of Mexico, and SpaceX on Boca Chica.
History buffs will also want to check out the Port Isabel Historical Museum, located in the 1899 Charles Champion building.
Google/Glenn Hanna
The two-story building has served as everything from a post office to private family home; today, it boasts a variety of exhibits that tell the fascinating story of how Port Isabel came to be.
Port Isabel Historical Museum, 317 E Railroad Ave, Port Isabel, TX 78578, USA
You can't visit a beach town without spending some time on the water, and Port Isabel boasts ample opportunities to do just that.
Facebook/Black Dragon Cruises
If you have children, we highly recommend climbing aboard the Black Dragon, a replica 17th century pirate ship. Tours feature entertainment by a crew of professional pirates who keep the fun going with treasure hunts, water pistol battles, music, sword fights, and more.
Black Dragon Cruises, 501 E Maxan St, Port Isabel, TX 78578, USA
Dolphin Docks is another great tour outfitter in Port Isabel, boasting the area's largest excursion boat and several different cruises.
Facebook/Dolphin Docks
Whether you're looking to spot some dolphins, watch a sunset, or cast a line in the bay, there's a ride for everyone.
Dolphin Docks, 510 E Queen Isabella Blvd, Port Isabel, TX 78578, USA
All that exploring tends to work up an appetite, so when hunger strikes, mosey on down to the unassuming Joe's Oyster Bar for a bite to eat.
TripAdvisor/ArkansasEagle
Conveniently located just down the street from the lighthouse, this iconic eatery is the perfect way to end your trip.
On the menu, you'll find a variety of fried and grilled seafood options, plus scrumptious sides, and - of course - plenty of fresh oysters.
TripAdvisor/Llhansen
You can even bring your own catch, and they'll cook it up right in front of you!
Joe's Oyster Bar, 207 E Maxan St, Port Isabel, TX 78578, USA

 

Here’s a short video by YouTuber Alfer Palongpalong featuring some cool scenes from Port Isabel Texas:

Visit the Port Isabel tourism website or Port Isabel Texas Facebook page to learn more.

Have you ever been to Port Isabel? If so, what’s your favorite thing to do in town? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section below, then check out our previous article for more can’t-miss day trip destinations in Texas.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Port Isabel, TX, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

THINGS TO DO IN PORT ISABEL TEXAS & RELATED INFO

March 22, 2023
Melanie J.

What are some more fun things to do in Port Isabel Texas?

There are lots of fun things to do in Port Isabel Texas and they include: 

  • Deep sea fishing on Osprey Cruises
  • Shop for specialty gifts at Tesori Boutique
  • Hunt for treasures at Port Isabel Flea Market
  • Visit nearby South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center
  • Get pampered at Virginia's Salon & Day Spa
  • Attend one of the yearly festivals
  • Enjoy the views from Pirate’s Landing Fishing Pier

Here’s a previous article about some fun things to do at Pirate’s Landing Fishing Pier, the longest pier in the state. 

What are some more beach towns in Texas?

There is no shortage of beach towns in Texas and here are 10 of the best ones:


Here’s a previous article with a road trip featuring the best hidden beaches in Texas. 

What are the best small towns in Texas for a day trip? 

There are some incredible small towns in Texas that are the perfect day trip destinations. Here are 10 of the best small towns in the Lone Star State that belong on your bucket list: 

  • Boerne
  • Pilot Point
  • Round Top
  • Granbury
  • Jefferson
  • Glen Rose
  • Marfa
  • Walnut Springs
  • Dripping Springs
  • Johnson City

To find out more information about some of these towns, here’s a previous article about some small towns near Dallas that are perfect for a day trip. 

What are the prettiest beaches in Texas to visit during the summer? 

With over 3,000 miles of shorelines, there is no shortage of beaches in Texas. And here is a list of the 10 prettiest beaches in Texas to visit during the summer:

  • Galveston Island
  • South Padre Island
  • Mustang Island State Park.
  • Port Aransas
  • San José Island
  • Rockport Beach
  • Boca Chica
  • North Beach
  • San José Island
  • Crystal Beach

Be sure to check out this previous article with more information about the prettiest beaches in Texas to visit during the summer.