When the to-do list in life gets a little too long and schedules get much busier than you’d like to admit, it’s a good sign that it’s time to pack up and head out in the name of a well-deserved vacation. A quality break every once in a while can truly do wonders for how you feel about everything, and when Port Aransas, Texas happens to be your destination of choice, there’s even more to look forward to on your Port Aransas vacation! This stunning Gulf Coast getaway is a place where visitors can count on enjoying plenty of sun, sand, and surf year-round. Whether you’re hoping to enjoy endless leisure afternoons on the sand or you’re ready to head out and explore everything the area has to offer, Port Aransas is a place that promises to impress. When it’s your first time heading this way, the following guide is a great place to start when you want to make the most of every moment ahead.
Getting Here Is Easier Than You Might Expect
The time you spend in Port Aransas, Texas in the name of vacation fun will have you feeling worlds away from the stress and demands of daily life that you left behind. That said, getting here is a breeze, and often easier than travelers ever expect! That’s because Port Aransas sits right on Mustang Island, which is only about a 30-minute drive from Corpus Christi. If you have plans to drive in, you’ll set your map to the JFK Causeway, which seamlessly connects Mustang Island to the mainland using Padre Island Drive.
For those travelers heading to Port Aransas for the first time looking to make the arrival process as scenic as possible, taking the ferry in is always a highly recommended mode of transportation. The Aransas Pass Ferry, also known as the Port Aransas Ferry System, doesn’t cost a thing to enjoy, and crossings take anywhere from a mere 3 minutes to 10 minutes depending on the number of passengers. Once you’re onboard, you’ll cross a quarter mile of water as you make your way across the Corpus Christi Ship Channel, which connects Harbor Island to Port Aransas.
For those first-time visitors to Port Aransas who are planning a trip that requires flying into the area from further away, the closest airport to land at is the Corpus Christi International Airport. This is a modern, inviting, and full-service commercial airport that sits just about 30 miles away from Port Aransas. There are plenty of quality car rental options on-site to choose from when you get here as well, making the trip from the airport to your vacation destination simple and streamlined. Before you know it, the fun will be underway, and you can focus on making the most of the Port Aransas adventures and experiences you’ve come to enjoy.
Settle into Vacation Accommodations with Great Views and Access to Fun Included
Port Aransas, Texas is a top-rated vacation destination, whether you’re heading out on your own for a much-needed break, can’t wait to enjoy a getaway for two, or you’re looking forward to time enjoyed alongside family and friends. Of course, the key to an amazing first visit this way, no matter how many others you’re traveling alongside, often comes down to the accommodations you have waiting for you upon arrival. That’s where booking your property through On Island Time Vacation Rentals comes into the picture! When you’re looking for a vacation home-away-from-home in Port Aransas that’s comfortable, conveniently located, and packed with exciting amenities that elevate the fun during your first-time visit, we have you covered.
Our rental options across Port Aransas include everything from cozy 2-bedroom stays for small groups, all the way up to residential retreats that are ideal for groups of 8. When you book your vacation rental through us, you’ll find you have options to enjoy a getaway that includes an open floor plan layout for maximized space, and a home that’s set up with amazing furnishings throughout. Many of our property options are designed with large windows throughout to enhance the surrounding views, and it’s entirely possible to reserve your place in a vacation rental with vaulted ceilings too. When you’re looking to lean into luxury, you’ll want to consider a vacation rental property with pool and hot tub access to enjoy, as well as our rentals with cozy fire pits and gorgeous Gulf-front balconies in place. From rentals with direct access to the sand, to those that are made for the best of pet-friendly living when you’re traveling with canine companions, finding a place to settle in and relish vacation at its best isn’t hard when you partner with us on your first trip this way.
Set Aside Plenty of Time to Enjoy the Sand
Your first-time trip to Port Aransas is likely to come with a lot of motivation to get out and explore your surroundings. While this is something you’re most definitely going to want to do, it’s just as important to make sure you have time set aside on your itinerary to just enjoy the beach. The shorelines here are truly remarkable, and wonderful places to linger and soak up the sun, or enjoy a game of sand volleyball with family and friends. In total, Port Aransas is home to 18 miles of pristine coastline, which means you have all kinds of options when it comes to filling your sunny days with shelling, snorkeling, or admiring birds along the shoreline as well.
The beaches here are beautiful for fresh air picnics, and just as inviting if you’re looking to build a sandcastle with the littlest members of your traveling group. Whether you arrive on Port Aransas Beach with a boogie board in hand or you don’t need anything more than a chair and umbrella, you’re in for a treat. Just be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen on the shorelines here year-round, and don’t overlook the value of a sun hat, sunglasses, and flip flops too. You’ll definitely want to pack plenty of bug spray in the summer, and arriving on the sand as early as possible is highly recommended when you want to make sure you enjoy the best spot out there before midday crowds arrive.
Prioritize Fishing Adventures
When travelers set their getaway sights on Port Aransas, they’ll find themselves in the heart of a place that’s fondly referred to as the “Fishing Capital of Texas.” Whether you’re new to fishing or a seasoned angler, this is a place where it’s worth your while to try casting a line at least once on your first visit. A terrific way to experience the waters and reel in something exciting if you’re not extremely familiar with fishing is to book a charter boat during your stay. Here, there are many local companies and outdoor recreation outfitters that can help you set up a customized excursion alongside a knowledgeable and friendly local guide.
Typically, all the fishing gear you’ll need for a successful day on the water is included in the cost of the charter, and your guide can help you with the basics before getting out on the waves to see what’s biting. For those who are already familiar with fishing, Port Aransas provides a place for some truly unforgettable bay fishing experiences, and the piers are open for casting a line as well. Make sure to add the Horace Caldwell Pier to your itinerary when you want a truly memorable day of fishing. If you’re heading to the bay, you can typically count on reeling in flounder and trout, while specialized charters can be booked with a focus on catching everything from tuna and red snapper to king fish as well in this area.
Lean into Your Love for Fantastic Food in Port Aransas
For many adventurers heading to Port Aransas, Texas, a first-time visit this way is a chance to really lean into flavorful moments at their best! Whether you’re in the mood for fish tacos, shrimp po’boy, or oysters, you won’t have trouble finding exactly what you’re looking for here. Begin at least one day of your stay over at Irie’s Island Bakery, which is located at 200 W Avenue G. This inviting stop is open from 8:00 am until 3:00 pm, Tuesday through Friday, from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm on Saturdays, and from 8:00 am until 2:00 pm on Sundays. No matter when you find yourself here, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious moment ahead. Irie’s is a full-service bakery where you can browse a wide variety of pastries and desserts each day as well as cakes, pies, and more. Whether you find yourself in the mood to enjoy a homemade cinnamon roll or you’re excited to try the fan-favorite cruffins (a unique twist on croissants and muffins) your taste buds will thank you for the experience.
Later in the day, consider gathering your fellow travelers and enjoying dinner at Black Marlin Bar & Grill, found at 258 Snapdragon in Port Aransas. This is a terrific place to enjoy a meal if you’re craving fresh-caught fare paired with outdoor seating showcasing beautiful Gulf views. Starters here include everything from signature crab cakes and fried calamari to smoked fish dip and poke bowls to name a few of many. When it’s time to move onto the main course, guests can pick and choose from inspired selections like pasta diablo, shrimp & grits, seafood platters, and blackened mahi mahi filet. Of course, options to end things on a sweet note are accessible as well with a dessert menu featuring everything from coffee crème brûlée, and brownies to delectable key lime pie.
Enjoy Great Encounters in Nature
Port Aransas is an unforgettably exciting place for first-time visitors who have a love for wildlife and a passion for time in nature. That’s because this area is home to everything from dolphins and sea turtles to over 300 species of birds! With binoculars in hand, you can enjoy a stroll along the boardwalk at the local Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center and spot incredible winged creatures thriving in their natural habitats. An afternoon of kayaking through Redfish Bay is always a treat when you enjoy being immersed in landscapes of mangroves as well. Additionally, if you happen to be visiting between April and August, you’ll be in Port Aransas during sea turtle nesting season, which is always a mesmerizing moment to observe.
Get Out and Explore Even More
While you could easily spend all your time in Port Aransas on the sand soaking up the sun in style, there’s a lot more to explore when you’re looking to make the most of every moment. Downtown Port Aransas is a great place to spend an afternoon exploring local boutiques with a shopping bag in hand, and a prime place to pick up everything from beach apparel to whimsical souvenirs. If you’re an adventure-seeker excited to pick up the pace of your exploration, there are a variety of beachfront hubs in Port Aransas offering convenient jet ski rental options to enjoy. Port Aransas is also a perfect place to try surfing for the first time and parasailing options here abound as well. Depending on when you arrive, you might find that your visit aligns with one of the fun annual events hosted in Port Aransas. Be sure to check in on the calendar to see if your trip lines up with the Whooping Crane Festival, Beachtoberfest, or the always highly popular Texas SandFest experience.
Book Your Next Getaway Today
There’s no reason to wait when you’re ready to enjoy the best Port Aransas has to offer for yourself. When you decide to head this way in the name of well-deserved vacation fun, the team at On Island Time Vacation Rentals can help you get settled into a rental that’s fit to your travel preferences and keeps you close to places you’re excited to explore. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting options and to get started! We can’t wait to see you in scenic Port Aransas, Texas soon.
As you sign on the bottom line and take the keys to the Port Aransas beach vacation property you purchased, you are probably already thinking about all the ways this investment is going to change your financial life. Knowing that the real work starts now, however, you sit down and make a list of all the things you must do to get this property ready and you may start to cross through one of the most important items on the list, that of teaming up with a vacation property management company. We at On Island Time understand the temptation, especially as it may appear that the costs involved will just harm your bottom line, but first, let’s discuss the pros and cons of self- managing your Port Aransas rental.
Pro: Obviously You Will Spend Less Money
As much as we love our jobs, we do have to charge for our services, having families to support ourselves, and we understand how it can seem that because you are paying out less, your income will be more. This means that financial security is certainly going to happen even sooner than you originally planned and you can sleep better at night.
Con: But Will You Spend Less Money?
When you add up the dollars and cents going out versus what is coming in, it certainly appears that self-managing is a wise financial decision, but is it really? When you pay for a property management service, you aren’t just paying for the work we do, and there’s a lot of work involved. You are paying for our knowledge of the business, for our expertise in protecting your investment, and for our dedication to making you the highest return on your investment.
Pro: You Will Know About Every Potential Expense Before Spending Any Money
A lot of times a vacation property management company will take care of the problem, fixing it before it becomes an issue and billing you at the end of the month, but if you self-manage, you can determine whether it truly is a problem and how much you are willing to throw at the problem to solve it, if there really is an issue.
Con: Those Middle of the Night Emergency Phone Calls Aren’t Going to Answer Themselves
Advance knowledge is wonderful, but no matter how carefully you maintain the property you have invested in, there are going to be emergencies that arise. Storm damage, electricity outages, or something as simple as a guest forgetting the keycode to get into the rental almost always happens in the middle of the night, and your guests will expect someone to be on the other end of the line when they call to get their issue resolved, meaning that without a property management company, that duty will fall on you.
Pro: You Will Have Total Control Over Aspect of the Business
It can be hard to hand over control of something you spent so much money on, and if you self-manage, you won’t have to. You will have total control over every aspect of owning a vacation rental, ensuring that you don’t spend too much money on repairs, design, or décor, and you will always know that every bill was paid on time. You won’t have to be reliant on the time management skills of others to ensure that everything is done promptly.
Con: Do You Really Have the Time to Deal with Every Detail?
Total control is wonderful, but unless you make this rental your full-time job, are you really going to have the time to deal with all the nitty gritty details? From vetting potential guests to maintaining air conditioners, answering middle of the night phone calls, and paying the mortgage, the HOA fees, even the taxes that may or may not be due at the end of every year, there is so much more that goes into managing a vacation rental than you originally realized, and without a property management company, you will be handling it all yourself.
Con: Do you Know the Laws, the Rules, or the Regulations Regarding Short Term Rentals?
As the police will always tell you, ignorance of the law (rules or regulations too) is no excuse, and if you make a wrong move, there can be financial penalties that will hurt the bottom line you are so worried about.
Con: Housekeeping and Maintenance
There aren’t enough hours in a day to be both maintenance worker and housekeeping, and if you can’t do it all, who will? You can hire your own teams, but finding trustworthy and committed maintenance workers and housekeepers is a lot tougher than it looks, especially in a small town like Port Aransas.
For Every Pro, There Are Many Cons
As you can see, self-managing a vacation rental business may end up costing you more than you realize, and for many of the pros, On Island Time has solutions that will work for all parties. Give us a call today and let’s work together to find a management policy that works best for you and your investment!
Gone are the days when we looked at vacation rentals as nothing more than a place to rest our heads between adventures. Today, we demand more from the spaces we choose, wanting to feel relaxed, luxurious, and spoiled. Travel is exhausting, and we need that time to recuperate every night, and if it happens to come along with some extra amenities, all the better! We at On Island Time Vacation Rentals want to take you—our past, current, and future guests—on a tour of the top amenities you will find in our Port Aransas vacation rentals, giving you a sneak peek into a vacation experience filled with all the comforts of home and the all the luxury amenities we think you deserve!
Comfortable Furnishings
First, and perhaps most importantly, guests want furniture to not just be clean and in good condition, they want it to be comfortable as well. For everyone who has ever stayed in a place that offered hard sofas topped with scratchy materials, lumpy beds topped with scratchy linens, and chairs that are so hard they make your posterior numb, our comfy furnishings will be much appreciated. Naps will be taken on plush sofas, extra games will be played when seated in the chairs that surround our dining room tables, and sleep will be deep in our cozy beds, ensuring you wake up every morning feeling rested and ready for new Texas adventures.
Modern Conveniences
Chances are you are going to spend at least a few hours at home in your Port A sanctuary, and during that time, if you choose to cook a meal, the appliances will be quality models in excellent working order. If you need to work from our homes, high-speed internet will make virtual meetings practically glitch free, and when you need some downtime, our state of the art televisions will be in the bedrooms as well as the living rooms, so there’s no need to fight over the channel. Laundry rooms will allow you to pack light, and multiple bathrooms also alleviate most of the need to share, with each offering updated fixtures, and some providing steam showers and deep soaking tubs.
Fun Matters
Hotels are not known for their fun amenities, but On Island Time Vacation Rentals sure is, and when you want to play, you don’t have to leave the boundaries of your property if you don’t want to. Swimming pools invite you to enjoy a different type of water fun, while hot tubs can help ease some of the aches and pains associated with travel while also offering a touch of romance. Grilling your catch of the day on charcoal grills and then dining on your meal at picnic tables will make you wish you could enjoy every meal al fresco, and outdoor showers will help keep beach sand outside where it belongs.
Inside, we have already discussed those state of the art televisions, but some of our escapes may offer video game consoles that can be hooked up to the televisions, giving guests hours of entertainment options. Some escapes will be equipped with board games—there is nothing like a beach vacation to bring back the joy of living life unplugged—and you may also find puzzles that you can spend many an hour working together to complete. Bookshelves and cabinet may be lined with books, movies, and the games and puzzles we just mentioned, ensuring that guests can play in all the ways that they like most!
Of Course, There Is More
The views you can enjoy from our balconies on our beachfront retreats might be the amenity that you remember most fondly when it is time to return to real life. Sitting with a frothy margarita in hand watching the sun set over blue waters or waking early in the morning to watch the world awaken around you while you sip that first cup of coffee of the day. Coffee bars and wet bars will ensure that you stay well hydrated during your Port Aransas adventures as well as saving you a bit of money from not having to go out every time you want to sip. And although we aren’t quite sure that you can consider a serene vibe and tranquil ambience an amenity, we do know that they are both more reasons to be happy that you chose On Island Time Vacation Rentals for your Texas sanctuary!
Come Home to On Island Time
Not every retreat that we offer will provide all the amenities we have listed here, but the important ones WILL be found in each and every one. Reserve your favorite On Island Time Vacation Rentals accommodations in Port Aransas today and discover how every day in Texas will be your favorite day on earth!
Summer is a truly picture-perfect time of year to forget your worries, let go of stress, and head to Port Aransas, Texas in the name of seasonal fun. Whether you only have a few days to spare on your own or you’re lucky enough to have an extended stay on the calendar alongside family and friends, Port Aransas is a place with something for everyone to enjoy!
5 Summer Events In Port Aransas You Can’t Miss
At On Island Time Vacation Rentals, we provide travelers with incredible accommodations that keep you close to the fun. When you’re here this time of year, the following are 5 of the many exciting summer events you simply won’t want to miss.
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Check Out the 4th of July Fireworks Celebration with Family and Friends
When your summer travel plans have you enjoying time away from the hustle and bustle of life in Port Aransas this July, you’ll be right on time to take part in the area’s always highly anticipated 4th of July celebration. The family-friendly festivities typically get underway at Roberts Point Park at 4:00 pm and continue well into the evening hours with a dazzling fireworks display around 9:00 pm. In between those times, guests are invited to enjoy a variety of kid-friendly activities on-site as well as live music performed at the Fred Rhodes Memorial Pavilion. There’s plenty of delicious holiday food to go around and great beverages to top off your celebration. This is a fun and friendly experience in Port Aransas each summer that has something for guests of all ages to enjoy and is certainly worth adding to your itinerary this year.
Nearby Accommodations to Consider: La Juana Court
Travelers who are looking for a welcoming beach vacation rental to enjoy over the 4th of July in Port Aransas will find it through On Island Time Vacation Rentals right at La Juana Court. Here, you’re never far from the shoreline or waves and you can wake up each day on a family-friendly cul-de-sac just off 11th Street. It’s a relaxed setting with property options available that lean into Old-Town Port Aransas vibes.
From your rental at La Juana Court, you’re free to leave your car behind when you head out to explore because great shops and restaurants are easily accessible by a golf cart. You’re never far from hiking trails either, but on those days when you could use a little downtime, you’ll find La Juana Court rentals to be spacious, equipped with a full collection of tasteful furnishings, and designed with full kitchens in place too. Some properties even provide guests with access to a private hot tub on-site as well as convenient RV parking options and an outdoor shower. Whether you’re looking for secure keyless entry to your home-away-from-home during your 4th of July stay, or it’s a covered backyard patio that would make all the difference, reserving your place in a La Juana Court rental is a must.
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Attend the Annual Deep Sea Roundup This Summer
Each July, angling enthusiasts from near and far head to Port Aransas to take part in the annual Deep Sea Roundup in droves. If you have a love for casting a line, or you’re in the mood to see great anglers put their skills to work on the water, this is an event that’s designed just for you. 2025 will mark the 89th annual Deep Sea Roundup and once again the event will draw large crowds. The Deep Sea Roundup has earned the title as the longest-running fishing tournament on the Gulf Coast. This year, you can enjoy the experience for yourself from July 10th to July 13th.
Nearby Accommodations to Consider: Endless Summer Resort
Making the most of your time at the Deep Sea Roundup experience this summer is made even more accessible when you book accommodations through On Island Time Vacation Rentals at Endless Summer Resort. This inviting resort community sits on South Station Street and offers guests a relaxed and luxurious retreat to enjoy with the privacy you deserve during your downtime on vacation. When you’re not out on the water casting a line at the tournament, you can take time to unwind in coastal-inspired surroundings at Endless Summer Resort.
Guests have options here to pick between townhomes and condos that showcase spacious open layouts, tall ceilings throughout, plenty of natural light flow, and comfortable furnishings. Booking your stay here not only puts you within easy reach of tournament fun but also means you can cool off in the resort’s outdoor pool any time you’d like. The resort has covered lounge and observation decks as well as BBQ areas to enjoy when cravings come calling. A golf cart will get you to the beach from this location. If you’re traveling to Port Aransas with a pet, pet-friendly living options are available here as well.
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Attend the Texas Legends Billfish Tournament
It’s certainly no secret that Port Aransas is a haven of opportunity year-round for those who love to fish, and it’s a place that’s rich in history as well. The best of both go hand-in-hand each summer with the arrival of the annual Texas Legends Billfish Tournament in August. This premier offshore fishing competition is built around a unique video release format and in 2025, it will once again be hosted from August 6th through August 10th. Conventional reels and rods are the only gear participants can use in this tournament. It’s designed to honor the fisherman of Texas who have showcased exceptional abilities in saltwater angling throughout the decades. If you choose to participate in the tournament, you depart from any port, but weigh-ins are at the Port Aransas Fisherman’s Wharf.
Nearby Accommodations to Consider: Seascape Villas
While your summer getaway to Port Aransas to participate in the Texas Legends Billfish Tournament will likely have you spending plenty of time out on the water, you also deserve to book a vacation rental near your departure point that infuses luxury, comfort, and exceptional style into your stay. That’s exactly what you’ll find when you reserve your place at Seascape Villas this summer through On Island Time Vacation Rentals. Here, property options are vast and varied, making them a great choice for solo travelers, couples, or groups of family and friends alike. Rentals here are adored by guests for their full kitchens, the private patios with views, and the spacious floor plans. Guests at Seascape Villas can enjoy time in the pools and hot tubs on-site and often find access to nearby restaurants and shops a breeze by golf cart. Master suites and guest rooms alike across Seascape Villas are typically spacious and inviting. Property options are often set up with impressive entertainment features in place as well.
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Enjoy Entertainment at Sip Yard Port Aransas
When you find yourself making the most of time away in Port Aransas in the summertime and love music and food, we recommend not one, but the many events hosted at Sip Yard Port Aransas all season. You’ll find Sip Yard Port Aransas located at 123 W. Cotter Avenue. They’re open Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 am until midnight, Sunday through Tuesday from 11:00 am until 8:00 pm, and Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11:00 am until 10:00 pm. This makes it an easy addition to even the busiest itinerary and a wonderful place to top off your day of shoreline fun.
While you might initially drop by for the seafood tacos and handcrafted cocktails that can be enjoyed on the open air patio, there’s a very good chance that you’re going to stick around for the live musical entertainment that’s on the event lineup here. In June 2025, Sip Yard is slated to host performers like Houston Marchman and the Contraband, Replay, Coastal Benders, and Squeezebox Bandits to name a few. Live music events get underway at 7:00 pm every Thursday throughout the summer season, 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and at 3:00 pm on Sundays.
Nearby Accommodations to Consider: Beachhead Condos
You don’t have to be far away from the seemingly endless summer entertainment at Sip Yard Port Aransas when you choose to make a rental at Beachhead Condos through On Island Time Vacation Rentals your home-away-from-home of choice this year! The beauty of booking your stay in a rental here is that when you’re not enjoying downtime in a cozy and stylish retreat of your own, you’ll only be steps from the boardwalk leading to the beach. Beachhead Condos also offers its guests access to a heated pool to enjoy and stunning Gulf views to savor every single day of their stay. When you’re looking forward to an al fresco meal, the community BBQ Grilling area and picnic spots right at your fingertips have you covered while on-site laundry facilities make your stay that much more convenient.
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See a Show at Bron’s Backyard
Yet another terrific summertime experience you won’t want to miss out on in Port Aransas in 2025 is the opportunity to see a show at Bron’s Backyard. Located at 314 E Avenue G right in the heart of Port Aransas, Bron’s Backyard is a one-of-a-kind music venue in town that doubles as a delicious eatery, game station, golf cart rental destination, and so much more! Bron’s Backyard is open from 10:00 am until 10:00 pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and from 10:00 am until 11:00 pm on Thursdays, Sundays, and Mondays. On Fridays and Saturdays, guests are invited to drop by between 10:00 am and midnight to enjoy nightly events all summer long. While you might come for the shaved ice to cool off after a day on the sand, Bron’s Backyard will have you lingering to see the shows. Just a few of the great performances on the calendar this summer here include John Cortez, The Drive, Clear Tones, Triptonite, and many more. There’s also karaoke hosted from time to time, so if you want to include your skills in the lineup of entertaining fun, this is the place to be.
Nearby Accommodations to Consider: Sandhill Townhomes
When townhome living is your style and you’d like to stay within easy proximity to Bron’s Backyard performances this summer, we would point you toward our welcoming rental options at Sandhill Townhomes. Here, spacious and modern living standards are firmly in place while guests can enjoy access to a community pool, hot tub, picnic area, and BBQ grilling section on-site too. Great local shops and restaurants are always right at your fingertips. When you’re not hanging out and enjoying the friendly atmosphere at Bron’s, you can spend quality time on the beach, which is within reach too. Sandhill Townhomes offers travelers access to a gated community where townhomes host private parking options on-site, and many rentals showcase 3 bedrooms across open floor plans. If you’re traveling with a dog in tow, be sure to inquire about our pet-friendly property options here as well.
Book Your Port Aransas Adventure Today
Your summer journey to Port Aransas this year should be unforgettable and at On Island Time Vacation Rentals, we believe that begins with booking accommodations that fit your travel style perfectly. Reach out to our team today to learn more about our many exciting property options available across Port Aransas’ most inviting communities and resorts that will keep you close to the events you’re excited to attend and enjoying world-class amenities along the way as well. We’re more than happy to handle the details of your stay while you focus exclusively on the summer vacation fun ahead. We can’t wait to help you turn your summer travel plans into a well-deserved reality and look forward to seeing you in sunny Port Aransas, Texas soon.
As an owner of a vacation rental in Port Aransas, you have the responsibility to ensure that your tenants deserve the dream-come-true vacation they have always wanted, especially as the summer months arrive. There is a magic to beach life, and that magic doesn’t have to end at the front door leading into their escapes, it should continue on inside, and at On Island Time, we know how to make our spaces as pleasing, serene, and magical as the white sand beaches that frame turquoise waters and we want to share our secrets with you. This guide to preparing your Port Aransas property to enjoy maximum bookings during the peak summer months will help you learn the magic of our ways.
Make Sure your Air Conditioner is Running in Top Form
Obviously, this tip should be taken care of before the season starts, and we generally schedule maintenance in the spring months, giving us time to get any repairs made before the crowds begin flocking to our doorstep. As you well know, summers are hot and muggy in this part of the world, and if your guests can stay nice and chill in the interim moments, the reviews on your home will be good ones!
Consider Adding a Blender and Wine Refrigerator to your Amenities
Staying hydrated is important in the summer months, and we aren’t just talking about water. There’s a certain pleasure that comes from watching the sunset from the balcony with a glass of chilled wine in hand, but for some, that pleasure is multiplied if the beverage in hand is a frothy margarita! Guests appreciate the extras, and when they find joy in the vacation retreat they are renting, they will remember yours when it is time for a return visit.
Provide a Local Guidebook
The first thing we do when checking into our own vacation rentals (after picking our bedrooms), is search out the local guidebook that offers important information about the area and the space we have rented. Knowing this, we ensure that every place we manage is equipped with one that we keep updated with current festivals and special events that may be taking place in the area during the time they are going to be in town.
Offer a Closet Filled with Beach Supplies
As owners of vacation properties, many offering a community or private pool, we often remember to provide beach towels and floats, but what about adding some supplies for a day spent at the beach? No one is going to want to travel cross country with a wagon, beach chairs, and beach umbrella in their luggage, nor are they going to want to lug a cooler with them on the plane either, and for a relatively small initial cost, you can make your guest’s vacation experience one they won’t ever want to end. Amazon sells a selection of collapsible beach wagons with prices that start at $50, and beach umbrellas starting costs are about the same. A beach umbrella can take up a lot of space in said closet, and can be bulky and hard to handle, so you might want to consider a shibumi beach shade, which costs a little more, but can be rolled up into a tight roll and take up far less space in your closet. Include a bag of plastic toys, a couple of boogie boards, some frisbees, and maybe even some floaties for the kids’ safety, and your guests can enjoy the complete day at the beach experience, one they will remember for years to come.
Board Games, Puzzles, Movies, and Books
It’s a Port Aransas fact of life that in every summer vacation, a little (or a lot) of rain will fall, and although there are plenty of things guests can do in town during a rainy day, rainy nights are best enjoyed in the cozy spaces of home. Stocking your vacation rental with a selection of board games, puzzles, movies, and books will give every guest a little something extra to enjoy when the rain falls and dark clouds block out the moon and stars. Encouraging guests to stay in and enjoy the amenities of home will tip the scales in your favor, and as they fall even deeper in love with your rental, you can bet that when they return home they will be telling their friends, their family members, their coworkers and bosses about all the comfortable adventures they enjoyed during their stay in your rental. And you can watch the bookings roll in, just as YOU have always dreamed they would.
Happy Guests are the Least Expensive Form of Advertising
Happy guests are the least expensive form of advertising, something we at On Island Time learned long ago. We put a lot of work into ensuring that guests enjoy the best vacation of their lives, and if you have been thinking about finding someone to help you manage your Port Aransas escape, we would like to apply for the job. Give us a call today and let’s discuss all the ways we can share the work of keeping your property rented and your guests happy.
As a vacation rental owner in North Padre Island, you will have a lot of competition. Our island is the only tropical one in Texas and everyone wants to stay here, meaning that everyone else wants to own property and profit from its desirability. So, to stay in the game, you really need to make your escape stand out, something at which we at On Island Time Vacation Rentals shine, knowing the things travelers want and the best way to get them those things, often without spending a ton of money. Today, we want to talk about making your North Padre Island vacation rental ready for the 4th of July, exploring the little extras you can do to make guests decide your space is where they want to celebrate the holiday!
Keep It Chill
Although maintaining air conditioning units does not really make it in the listing, if yours should fail before this very warm weekend, it can affect your future rental status, so before your first guests check in, we advise that you ensure that it is running well, no hiccups, and can handle the heat. Temperatures are going to be near 90 degrees on the holiday with high levels of humidity needing to be considered, and if your air conditioning unit wimps out at temps above 80, there will be complaints. Additionally, and this is just a little extra we like to provide, some people sleep hot and finding a circulating fan tucked away in a closet is a bonus they will love you for, even with ceiling fans in every bedroom.
Welcome Your Guests
You really are grateful that your guests have chosen your property for their home sweet vacation home, so why not show it with a little welcome gift? Provide a selection of snacks, of fancy waters, maybe even a travel sized bottle of sunscreen, tucked away in a basket with one of those small flags added to it for festive purposes. We also like to add a listing of special events that may be taking place over the holiday so they have that information at their fingertips and don’t have to vacation blindly over the July 4th holiday!
Blenders in the Kitchen
Is there anything more wonderful than watching the sunset from the balcony of your vacation rental with a frosty margarita in hand? Summers are hot on North Padre Island, and although your guests could enjoy one on the rocks with salt on the rim, a frozen margarita ranks up there as one of life’s greatest joys. We aren’t saying you need to provide the tequila and the margarita mix; all you need to do in the form of offering this gift to your guests is provide the blender. Giving them the option to blend together a frosty treat will make their memories of your vacation sanctuary very good ones.
Propane for the Grill
Another way to ensure that your property is completely ready for the 4th is to make sure that the propane grill you provide has a full tank of propane or in the alternative, if a charcoal grill is what’s on your back deck, why not leave a small bag of charcoal as a holiday welcome gift? We are assuming that you already have provided the tools needed to cook on the grill, but if not, now is the perfect time to remedy that. Just as the kitchen is fully equipped, having the tools to grill should be considered standard.
Beach and Baby Gear
If you have ever traveled across the country toting pack and plays, strollers, and car seats, you understand the very real need for vacation rentals to provide at least the bare minimum, and the same goes with beach gear. Who wants to carry umbrellas and beach chairs across the miles? The delight on your guest’s faces will be very clear when they realize that the place they rented offers its own pack and play and highchair for baby (we don’t recommend providing car seats, due to safety concerns). And because you know that your guests are going to want to spend as much time at the beach as possible on this holiday weekend, invest in a beach umbrella, some beach chairs, even boogie boards for your guests to use and know that they will remember, choosing your North Padre Island rental on a return trip, because you showed how much you care.
Choose On Island Time for Your Vacation Rental Property Management Services
The best thing you can do to prepare your rental for the 4th of July is choose our property management services to handle everything for you! You lead a busy life and we know you probably would have thought of everything we listed here if you had the time to really think about it; choose our services and you won’t have to! Give us a call today and let’s discuss all the ways we can help you with your rental.
There are 11 federal holidays that take place in our country every year, most of which we all receive a paid day off that we often use for travel, and always have a list of things that we feel we need to do to celebrate them properly.
With the exception of Labor Day which is literally a day that we celebrate how hard we work by not doing anything we HAVE to do, and if your journey is bringing you to North Padre Island for a Labor Day weekend getaway in Texas of doing nothing, choosing to stay in our On Island Time Vacation Rentals holiday hideaway is the best way to feel pampered as you live the life of leisure.
Offering luxury, comfort, and style that will complement the stunning beauty of the paradise each property is located in, this guide to Labor Day Weekend on North Padre Island will show you all the ways you can play, relax, and feel totally spoiled.
Every Lazy Day Deserves a Visit to the Beach
The beaches of North Padre Island never fail to thrill, and they are one of our favorite places to go and do absolutely nothing. We find our landing spot in the sand, spread out towels, beach chairs, and plant a colorful umbrella, staking our claim much as the astronauts did with a flag on the moon. And as the ocean roars, the seabirds cry out, and the sounds of laughter and conversation provide a musical backdrop, we nap, we read, and we let our troubles, fears, and worries fly away in ocean breezes. You too, can follow in our footsteps, enjoying a carefree holiday on white sands, but if you are a little bit allergic to sitting around doing nothing, the Gulf waters offer plenty of opportunity for adventure, some of which we will talk about below.
Padre Island Jet Ski, 13317 S Padre Island Drive in Corpus Christi
Offering a variety of jet ski tours that take guests along the canals, seeking dolphins, or simply zipping along the Padre Island National Seashore, reveling in the beauty of an almost fall day on North Padre Island. Your kids will love their Pirate Treasure Hunt Tour, which comes complete with a treasure map and a buried treasure filled with pirate gold; this one encourages dressing in your favorite pirate gear, enhancing the fun everyone can have on the adventure!
Spot N’ Tails Fishing Charters
You can pack your pole and gear and head to the Packery Channel Jetties for a morning of fishing and relaxation or you can enjoy a day of fishing fun on a Spot N’ Tails fishing charter, going out to where the big fish swim and ensuring your tale about the one who got away is a little more believable! With prices ranging from $650 for 1-2 anglers up to $850 for 4 anglers, this adventure may seem a little pricey until you realize that if you don’t catch a fish, you don’t have to pay! You will need to get your saltwater license and bring your own food, drinks, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, but when you catch the fish that is almost as big as you are, we don’t think you will mind.
Snoopy’s Pier, 13313 S Padre Island Drive in Corpus Christi
You’ve spent the day at the beach or out on the water, and when dinner time rolls around, we can assure you that you will feel really hungry. You probably won’t be tired of sea views, however, no matter how hungry you are, and that’s ok, because we are sending you to Snoopy’s Pier, a local favorite that sits right on the water, offering sunset views to go along with that locally sourced seafood dinner you will soon be devouring! Everything on their menu is wonderful, but if you forget to order some hushpuppies to go along with your meal, you will be very disappointed in yourself!
Do Nothing Luxuriously at Home with On Island Time Vacation Rentals
Doing nothing takes on capital letter proportions in our North Padre Island holiday hideaways. Sitting out on balconies that overlook the water, swimming in community pools that are clear and blue, even soaking in the community hot tubs after a long day of jet skiing; these are just a few things that will make your vacation experience feel hedonistic. Also offering retreats with boat slips that you can tie your rental boat to, heading out for a day of exploration guaranteed to be exciting. Some communities will offer barbecue areas, encouraging travelers to enjoy a family barbecue, just as they would at home. And every property will offer a happy place to land at the end of every day; reserve your favorite holiday haven today and discover all the ways Labor Day is about to become your new favorite holiday!
Summer vacations with the kiddos can be a little intimidating when you realize that you have to choose a place they would want to visit, engage in activities that they will enjoy too, and find restaurants that cater to the tinier travelers, but you are well on your way to the best vacation ever. You’ve chosen Corpus Christi for your vacation destination, a place well known for its kid-friendly activities and you are scrolling through our On Island Time vacation retreats, seeking the space that will make you and your children feel comfortable and at home. We have no fears that you won’t find the vacation home of your dreams. We are so confident, we are also providing this guide to planning a kid-friendly summer vacation in Corpus Christi, ensuring that every minute spent with us will be the best!
Let’s Talk About Packing On Summer Vacation in Corpus Christi
Why are we always overthinkers when it comes time to pack our suitcases, especially when we are packing for our kids? We are so afraid we will leave something behind that will ruin the entire vacation, but a Corpus Christi vacation is destined to be a laidback one, requiring nothing more than shorts, tees, sundresses, and swimsuits. Flip flops are always the shoe of choice, and yes, we do recommend a gallon of sunscreen; their tender skin is not prepared for the harsh rays of the sun, and no one wants to look like a lobster in all the vacation pictures. A little sunburn on your nose, some heightened color on cheekbones are both something wonderful, but a full-fledged sunburn is painful and will decrease their joy in this Texas trip of a lifetime!
Plan a Visit to the Texas State Aquarium, Located at 2710 N Shoreline Boulevard
It never ceases to amaze us how easily our children learn new things and how excited they are to learn, as long as they don’t realize they are being educated. A visit to the Texas State Aquarium is the perfect opportunity, offering an undersea adventure that will develop a love of the creatures that live there in the hearts of your littles. Their exhibits include coral reefs, a peek into the Caribbean sea, and so much more, but it is the sea creatures who call this aquarium their home, including sharks, otters, stingrays, ducks, eels, dolphins, and an ocelot. Wait, an ocelot? We’re not exactly sure why Milla the ocelot lives at an aquarium, but we are sure they are open to your kiddo’s questions should they choose to ask. Ticket prices range from $36.95 to $46.95 and kids two and under are three.
Hurricane Alley Waterpark, 702 E Port Avenue
Of course you are going to spend a LOT of time at the beach, frolicking in the surf, building sandcastles, and just relaxing overall, but a visit to Hurricane Alley Waterpark is something that will turn you into heroes in your children’s eyes! Offering opportunities to try your hand at surfing, giant slides (the Cat 5 reaches over 65 feet in height), a lazy river, and best of all for travelers with smaller children, Captain Kid’s Cove. The latter features smaller versions of the larger attractions, but it is the USS Dusty that will capture their excitement, being a replica of an aircraft carrier, which also leads us to your next kid-friendly adventure, which we will talk about below. Tickets for the waterpark, however, cost $20 per person, Monday through Friday, and $25 per person on weekends. Kids under 2 are always free.
USS Lexington, 2914 N Shoreline Boulevard
Remember the replica aircraft carrier we were just talking about at Hurricane Alley? Your kids will THRILL to see a genuine version, and the USS Lexington, constructed during WWII, is where we are sending you next. Converted into a museum, guests can explore aircraft simulators and genuine aircraft, watch a 3D movie, and learn all about Pearl Harbor in an exhibit that will make you feel like you watched it all go down—from a safe distance, of course. Also featuring an escape room that is always popular with the teens, many of their special events are ghost related, as the ship is reputed to be haunted. Ticket prices range from $14.95 to $20.95, kids 4 and under are free, and parking will cost you $5.
Explore All that Awaits you in Corpus Christi On Island Time Vacation Escapes
Sometimes it is just easier to stay home and play, and when you choose On Island Time, easier is also a heck of a lot of fun! Offering swimming pools, hot tubs, beachfront escapes with private beach access, your at-home adventures are destined to become memories you will cherish forevermore, and your kids will never cry out that they are bored. Reserve your favorite sanctuary for a summer vacation in Corpus Christi today!
Sometimes the simple adventures in life are the best ones, something you will soon discover when beginning to plan your Texas Memorial Day weekend getaway to Mustang Island. Offering 5 miles of pristine coastline and being one of the few beaches that allows guests to drive their cars on the sand, Mustang Island is sure to be one of your favorite vacation adventures and our On Island Time holiday hideaways on the island will be a large reason why! Offering all the comforts of home blended with the modern conveniences of life, these spaces are sure to make you feel at home and because most of our Mustang Island retreats will feature views of the beach, peace and serenity will be one of the best amenities provided!
Plan to Pack Very Light
Memorial Day temps are sure to be on the warm side, making packing for your adventures an easy thing to do; just toss a bunch of swimsuits into your luggage, add flip flops, shorts, tees, and sun dresses or cover ups and you have a complete holiday wardrobe that won’t take up much space. But don’t make the rookie mistake of bringing your smallest bags—oh no, that won’t do at all. Bring the big bags, and when you can tear yourself away from the unspoiled beaches you can enjoy a shopping spree in the Port Aransas shops or even the Corpus Christi shops that will fill your heart with joy! But we will talk more about shopping later, because there are still a few things you need to pack and we want to get that out of the way first. Sunglasses, baseball hats or those big floppy hats that you see all the movie stars wear, and a gallon of sunscreen are highly recommended!
A Little About Mustang Island
Named for the wild horses that used to roam the shores of our island home, we’re not really sure how they got here in the first place or where they all disappeared to over the years, but that’s ok. There is still plenty to do on this barrier island that stretches out 18 miles over the Texas coastline, including riding horses on the beach with the company aptly named Horses on the Beach providing the necessary equipment, in other words, the horses you will need to make your beach dreams come true. Located at 19136 Park Road in Corpus Christi, guests are offered the choice of an hour long ride in the daytime for $79 per person (ages 8 and up) or an hour and a half long ride at sunset for $109 per person (also ages 8 and up) making memories you will cherish forever.
Angling for a Good Memorial Day Time
Fishing is big on Mustang Island, and whether you choose to fish from the beach or jetties at Port Aransas Beach or think that hiring a fishing charter to go out in the deep waters seeking to make your trophy fish dreams come true, this adventure will be better than you imagined it could. Inshore you can expect to catch redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and black drum as well as sheepshead and sand trout. Offshore, however, the skies the limit on types of fish and, of course, the size of the fish you will catch! Marlin, tarpon, tuna, mahi mahi, and even sharks are on the list of deep sea fish that can be caught and Deep Sea Headquarters, located at 440 W Cotter Avenue, can help lead the way to your dream fishing vacation!
Live Music, Cold Drinks, and a Seriously Good Time
Bron’s Backyard is a seasonal place in part and open year-round in part and we can’t help but feel like summer has begun every time we step through the doors of this venue that offers a little of everything! Located at 314 E Avenue G in Port Aransas, Bron’s is the kind of place you want to make your own, offering a casual vibe that makes everyone feel welcome, during the season (which begins in March) guests can enjoy good food, fantastic drinks, shaved ice, and live music, with the party only stopping at the end of the season. When you first arrive on Mustang Island you may notice that many people drive around in golf carts and if you want to join in the fun, Bron’s Backyard is one of the top golf cart rental places on Mustang Island, open year round for this activity!
Time to Live On Island Time This Memorial Day!
Your plans for a relaxed and fun Memorial Day Weekend will downshift into quieter, calmer, and more comfortable gears when you set aside time to explore all the wonders of our On Island Time holiday hideaways. Family barbecues, pool parties, or serene sunset watching sessions from the comfy chairs on decks or balconies that overlook the blue waters of the Gulf, all add to the sparkle of a Mustang Island Memorial Day adventure. Reserve your favorite escape today!
If the long nights and frigid temperatures your hometown has been experiencing has you looking for sunshine but you don’t have the vacation hours to use until summer, that’s ok, now is the perfect time to start planning your summer escape to Port Aransas. Our Texas town is known for its white sand beaches, golden sunshine, and the comforts found in our On Island Time Port A retreats, and we would like to spend a few minutes of your day showing you all there is to enjoy. Pour yourself a glass of wine, sit back with laptop in lap, and let us bring summer into your dark with this guide to getting a head start on your summer Texas vacation planning in Port Aransas!
Do You Really Need That?
Packing your suitcase can be the most difficult part of your vacation experience, but a summer getaway to our coastal town doesn’t require much in the way of clothing. Summers are sultry and warm and clothing is casual, so toss in those shorts, tees, and sundresses, leaving the long pants and jackets behind. Add a few swimsuits for each traveler in your group, because whether you are swimming in the community pool or are chilling at the beach, you will be spending a lot of time in the water, and do you really want to be seen in the same old suit day after day after day? Sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun hats of some type, baseball hats work fine, are practically required, especially if you don’t want to sport the lobster look that so many other tourists will. And although flip flops and sandals are fine for your beach and in-town explorations, you may want to pack a comfortable pair of hiking shoes for biking or hiking. See how easy that was?
How Have You Waited This Long?
It is our white sand beaches that drew you to our doorstep, and as you have been reading this, you have probably wondered if we were ever going to get there! Wake up early every morning to walk along the shoreline as the world comes awake around you and then spend the day relaxing in beach chairs placed under beach umbrellas, letting the sounds of the sea speak to and soothe your soul. Many of our properties will offer a few items you can use for your beach adventures and because once you stake your claim on a spot you will never want to leave, a cooler packed with sandwiches and cocktails will let you enjoy your day without interruption. Last but not least, shore fishing is a popular activity and for an added adrenaline rush, why not look into a shark fishing adventure with Captain’s Experiences. Costing less than a normal fishing expedition because you do it from the shoreline, the Captain provides beach chairs, tackle, folding tables, beach games, and so much more!
The Gulf Awaits
So far, most of the adventures we are discussing take place in the sand, but the Gulf awaits with a large selection of exciting activities. Rent jet skis and zip across the waves, or rent canoes, kayaks, or Standup Paddleboards and enjoy the softer side of the sea. Port Aransas is a great surf destination and Texas Surf Camps offers lessons for all skill levels, or you could take it down a notch and explore the world under the sea with goggles and flippers; snorkeling reveals all! Spotting dolphins will excite the imagination and the Scarlett Lady Dolphin Adventures, 440 W Cotter Avenue, will take you to where they frolic and play. Take the sunset tour and revel in the romance of a chattering dolphin, a fiery sky, and the boat bobbing gently in the water with a full bar ensuring you will love the experience even more.
No Hangry Necessary
Don’t you hate the feeling of being so hungry you can’t think of anything else? That may happen a lot during diets and real life, but the restaurants of Port A take extra care to ensure no one leaves feeling hungry or dissatisfied. Kody’s Restaurant & Bar, 2034 TX-361, offers a kitchen that stays open until 1 AM and Dave’s Garlic Fish always hits just right. Donuts from the Donut Palace, ice cream at Desserted Island Ice Cream and a fun meal at Blue Water Cowboy Saloon & Mercantile are more examples of where you are going to want to eat!
Plan on Feeling Welcome
Your stay in our On Island Time summer sanctuaries will bring you as much joy as it brings comfort, and as you relax, recharge, and remember again why Texas is the best summer adventures state on the map, you will be making memories you cherish forever. Reserve your favorite escape today!