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 brimming with shops, restaurants, museums, water activities, and a beautiful beach, and it makes 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Visit the Port Isabel tourism website or Facebook page to learn more.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
TripAdvisor/ArkansasEagle
Conveniently located just down the street from the lighthouse, this iconic eatery is the perfect way to end your trip.
TripAdvisor/Llhansen
You can even bring your own catch, and they’ll cook it up right in front of you!
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.
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Address: Port Isabel, TX, USA
