It still blows my mind how much there is to see in America. So, when Texas Tourism invited me to road trip around the Gulf Coast, I couldn’t say no! And even though I had already been to Texas, I was eager to explore a new region of the state. And Texas is massive, so regardless that I’ve now been there twice, I’m definitely going to be heading back again soon!
Road Tripping The Gulf Coast
Getting There
The great thing about The Gulf Coast is that you can reach it by car or plane. I ended up taking a commuter plane from Houston to Corpus Christi and started my adventure there. The flight was less than an hour so it was really simple. If you’d prefer to drive from Austin or Houston, it should take you about three hours.
Day One
Hop in your car and head to Rockport. The drive will take you about 45 minutes. Stop for a quick lunch at Apple Dumpling Deli. It’s a great local spot that serves up delicious sandwiches, and you guessed it, apple dumplings for dessert!
Afterward, it’s time to check out the Rockport Center for the Arts and the Texas Maritime Museum. The two properties are located walking distance from each other and easy to find. The Center For The Arts has a rotation of exhibits as well as workshops for children in the back. The Maritime Museum is a great spot to check out if you’re interested in the history of the area. It also has an awesome view from the top deck.
Hop back in your car and head to the History Center which also has rotating exhibits. Make sure you also take time out to visit the Fulton Mansion and Fulton Schoolhouse Museum. Both places have a ton of original items and are really interesting to visit.
Finish the day off with a visit to The Big Tree in Goose Island State Park. The tree has been standing for a very long time and has been that way through over 40 major hurricanes. It’s really something special to look at!
Grab dinner at Charlotte Plummers, a cute restaurant by the marina. I suggest the fish tacos!
Day Two
Wake up early and start the drive to Port Aransas (keep in mind that you’ll probably have to wait in line to board the car ferry). Once you arrive in Port A, it’s time for breakfast! Island Cafe serves up some delicious breakfast taquitos.
From there, head down to the harbor and board your boat for the Scarlet Lady Dolphin Cruise. You’ll see dolphins and learn more about the Gulf and the Port A area.
When you’re done with the cruise, make sure you pick up a golf cart. It’s the best way to get around the island and it’s better for the environment! Plus it’s just a ton of fun to drive them down on the beach!
Next up is lunch at Black Marlin’s Bar and Grill. You have to order the ahi tuna tostadas. They were divine. Oh. And get a side of sweet potato waffle fries and caesar dressing. Thank me later.
After lunch, you’ve got to grab some dessert! Desserted Island is the cutest little ice cream shop serving up delicious flavors like Salted Caramel and Cotton Candy.
Spend the rest of the day popping in and out of the local shops!
Day Three
Day Three for me was all about Sandfest. So if you’re able to head to Port A during the weekend for the annual sand building festival, do it. You’ll get to see some pretty amazing creations by artists from all over the place!
After Sandfest, it’s time to head to Mustang Island State Park. I never knew the gulf could be so blue! Chat up one of the park rangers to learn more about the wildlife that you can find in the gulf. You may get lucky and spot some sea turtles like we did!
Oh, and if you’re looking for a little more physical activity by the end of the day, grab a paddleboard or kayak and explore the area by water!
End the day with dinner at Trout Street. Hopefully, they have black drum as their catch of the day!
Day Four
Finish your adventure on the Gulf Coast by heading back up to Corpus Christi before catching a flight back home. Stop by the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington to see some wildlife and some military airplanes.
Travel Colorfully was a welcomed guest of Texas Tourism. As always, all opinions are my own.
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