As you ride down the Gulf Coast, you are greeted by salty air, glistening sea, and seagulls squawking – that’s the charm of Rockport. It is a quintessential coastal town located three hours south of Houston and two and a half hours east of Sant Antonio. Despite its small-town charm, Rockport has fantastic things to do that will create a memorable beach experience for you and your loved ones. Full of fun, artistic energy, historical sites and museums, and excellent weather, try this Texan coastal vacation and enjoy the relaxed pace in Rockport. We have listed down a few things to do in Rockport TX that will come in handy for you:
Best Things To Do In Rockport TX
1. Rockport Beach
A day full of recreational activities like kayaking, fishing, swimming, and picnicking awaits you at one of the great beach destinations. Rated as Texas’s first Blue Wave beach, Rockport Beach is one of the most stunning beaches that meet environmental quality standards. Cleaned every day, the soft powdery sand is polished to perfection. Take a tan, dip in the ocean, build sandcastles, or play frisbee or volleyball, the beach is truly worth a visit.
2. Rockport Downtown
If you want to explore the town, stroll the streets of historic Rockport Downtown. It is one more thing that you should do while visiting so check out the charming town packed with cafes, bars, restaurants, and heritage buildings. Many chic boutiques and designer outlets sell graphic tees and handmade gifts and you can also pick up a souvenir or two.
3. Birdwatching
Known as the birding capital of Texas, those who love animals and the outdoors will enjoy watching Pelicans, Roseate Spoonbills, snowy egrets, blue herons, and so many species that you will be impressed. Rockport is ideal because the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail runs through this area. Visit the Rockport Rookery, Rockport Beach, Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, Memorial Park, and Goose Island State Park to spot unique species of birds in a single day.
4. Fishing
When you visit a coastal town and fishing isn’t on your itinerary then it is kind of disappointing. Rockport is a prime spot for freshwater and saltwater fishing and is home to several species including redfish, trout, flounder, and snook. One of the most spectacular things to do is go for night fishing at Fulton Pier when it comes to life with glowing green lights that attract fish.
5. Kayaking and Paddleboarding
One of the excellent ways to spend quality time with your family or friends is by kayaking and paddleboarding in the calm waters of the many bays and estuaries. Many local outfitters will rent you kayaks and paddleboards so you can take guided fishing trips or explore the water on your own.
6. Texas Maritime Museum
Started by a group of avid sea lovers, this museum will give you a glimpse of the rich maritime history of the Texan Coast. It was started by a group of hobbyists who wanted to display their maritime artifacts and collections but today has become a gem of Rockport. Rooted in steamboat and sailboat transportation, this museum also has an extensive research library.
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7. Rockport Center for the Arts
A cultural hub located in the heart of the arts district in downtown Rockport features a diverse range of artwork including wood, glass, and paintings by local and international artists. Set in a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, you can participate in several activities, classes, fairs, and festivals. Art enthusiasts will find something exciting to do and will enjoy this enriching experience.
8. Fulton Mansion and Education History Center
Step back in time with one of the must-visit destinations in Rockport. Established in the 1800s by Colonel George Ware Fulton and Harriet Gillette Smith, this affluent family earned their fortune by shipping beef tallows to New Orleans in the 18th century. The mansion is an incredible reminder of inspiring architecture, impressive construction style, and the history of the family. Known for its innovative and futuristic conveniences, it has flush toilets, central heating, and gas lighting, Fulton Mansion is an example of 19th-century affluence.
9. Go for Wine Tasting
Who doesn’t love a sip of local and handmade wine while vacationing in one of the most beautiful destinations? One of the top things to do in Rockport TX, is to explore boutique wineries like Winery on the Bay with your friends, someone special, or even your best furry friend to taste uniquely flavored wines besides providing charm and a welcoming atmosphere. Winery on the Bay boasts of producing more than 30 different types of wine and some of their acclaimed fruit-infused wines are Acai Raspberry Cabernet Sauvignon and Blueberry Shiraz.
10. Take a Ride on a Whooping Crane Boat
If you want an insight into the biology and ecology of the region and its wildlife, bring your binoculars and cameras to capture the rare and endangered Whooping Crane. When the boat moves along the shores of Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, it will provide you with an opportunity to see this impressive species in its natural habitat among the 60+ species of other birds and wildlife.
11. Goose Island State Park
One of the scenic locations of Texas, Goose Island State Park is also the first coastal state park. You can take a stroll along the path and admire the majestic Big Tree, a thousand-year-old oak. Acting as a symbol of resilience in surviving hurricanes and storms, you will be awed by this natural wonder. Or you can plan a picnic with your loved ones under the share of this tree creating unforgettable memories.
12. Glow Row
You can experience the magic of the natural side of Rockport by doing a Glow Row night kayaking eco-tour. It takes 1.5 hours to explore the shallow waters as you paddle in two-person kayaks that glow with colorful LED lights. Offering a captivating adventure on a starry night, you can kayak through a cove to see black drums, redfish, and stingrays.
13. Biking in Rockport
Embrace the freedom of an open road and embark on a journey to enjoy the town’s wild side by exploring all the fantastic biking trails. There are many trails like Tule Creek Hike and Bike Trail, Memorial Park Trail, and Southern Trail where you can enjoy picturesque forests alongside a serene creek. These are just a few of the exciting Things To Do In Rockport TX.
14. Rockport Cultural Arts District
Art lovers will love exploring the Rockport Cultural Arts District surrounded by sculptures, art studios, antique shops, and galleries. Environmentalists and people who practice sustainability will witness decorative art pieces made from refurbished and recycled nautical materials. A walkable district has much to offer including performance venues.
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15. Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
A few minutes from Rockport is a haven filled with the most amazing wildlife where you will find the most stunning viewing areas in Texas. The refuge, a must-see on your list of Things To Do In Rockport TX, boasts more than 400 species of birds and a variety of animals. Bring your binoculars and be ready to catch some migrating birds and get a glimpse at wildlife.
Summary
There are fascinating and unique things to do in Rockport TX and you will leave this getaway educated and impressed with the beauty that this beach town has to provide. Biking, fishing, or swimming for the outdoorsy types and artistic downtown for the laid-back ones, there is a lot to do here.
