Birdwatching in Port Aransas

Port Aransas is one of the best places in the United States to go birdwatching! This laid-back beach town is the home and stopover spot to hundreds of species of birds. Not only do people head to Port A for our amazing beach and water activities, but also to try to spy these feathered friends. If you’ve come here on an avian adventure, you may wonder where the best birding spots are. That’s where we come in; we’ve compiled a list of where to go birdwatching in Port Aransas. So grab your binoculars and camera, and let’s get to it!

Want a home base for all your birdwatching adventures in Port A? Rent a luxurious beachfront condo from Aransas Princess Resort. Our condos, right on the beach, are just a short drive from all the top birding spots.

Browse our rentals today!

In This Blog

• Why is Birdwatching So Good in Port Aransas?
• Where is the Best Birdwatching in Port Aransas?
• What Are Some Birdwatching Tips?
• Book a Birdwatching Adventure in Port Aransas

Why is Birdwatching So Good in Port Aransas?

Port Aransas is a fantastic spot for birdwatching for several reasons. First, it sits right on two major migratory bird routes: the Central Flyway and the Mississippi Flyway. Second, the diverse coastal ecosystem in Port A makes it a hotspot for all kinds of avian visitors—and human ones, too!

Where is the Best Birdwatching in Port Aransas?

If you are looking for the best places to go birdwatching, here are a few suggestions.

Port Aransas Nature Preserve

The Port Aransas Nature Preserve is the ultimate destination for birders. This preserve comprises four separate sites for excellent birdwatching: the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center, Wetland Park, Charlie’s Pasture, and the Joan and Scott Holt Paradise Pond.

Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center

For good reason, this gem of a location sees plenty of eager birdwatchers each year. With two observation towers and a 1,250-foot boardwalk, you get an unparalleled view of the marshland surrounding you and the birds that flock to the marsh. Along with birds, you might also see a well-known and beloved alligator named Boots!

Pro Tip: The Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center hosts a free, guided birding walk and talk called Birding on the Boardwalk. This occurs Wednesdays at 9:00 AM. 

What kinds of birds can you see? Pelicans, songbirds, Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks, herons, shorebirds, Cormorants, Egrets, and Roseate Spoonbills

• Cost: Free
• Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
• Location: 1356 Ross Avenue, Port Aransas, TX 78373

Wetland Park

Wetland Park is tiny but still an excellent place to spy different kinds of water birds. Park and walk just a few steps to the gazebo that overlooks the water, whip out your binoculars, and see what you can spot.

What kinds of birds can you see?  Roseate Spoonbills, White-winged Doves, Piping Plovers, Marsh Wrens, and ducks

• Cost: Free
• Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
• Location: 1112 TX-361, Port Aransas, TX 78373

Charlie’s Pasture

Charlie’s Pasture is a sprawling, 1,217-acre protected habitat. Its mixture of woods, marshes, tidal flats, and estuaries supports diverse plants and wildlife. You can see some truly incredible birds on three different trails. 

What kinds of birds can you see?  Great Blue Herons, Roseate Spoonbills, Dunlins, Tricolored Herons, and Common Nighthawks

• Cost: Free
• Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
• Location:  2650 TX-361, Port Aransas, TX 78373

The Joan and Scott Holt Paradise Pond

The Joan and Scott Holt Paradise Pond has a boardwalk leading to a large 2-acre pond and a beautiful pollinator garden where you can watch butterflies, dragonflies, and more. It was restored with native plants after Hurricane Harvey destroyed much of the vegetation in 2017. During the fall and spring, it supports migrating neotropical birds, which makes it an excellent little spot to go birding.

What kinds of birds can you see? Magnificent Frigatebirds, Least Grebes, Great Kiskadees, Black-bellied Whistling Ducks, Great Blue Herons, and the Green Kingfishers

• Cost: Free
• Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
• Location: 408 Cut-Off Road, Port Aransas, TX 78373

Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island State Park is last on the list! This park features a 5-mile stretch of beach, salt marshes, coastal dunes, and tidal flats, creating a rich tapestry of habitats that attract and support a wide variety of bird species. The state park provides easy access for birdwatchers, thanks to a mix of beachfront access and nature trails. You can observe birds from your car, explore the dunes and marshes on foot, or take a leisurely walk along the beach. Whichever way you explore this park, you will surely see a marvelous slice of nature.

What kinds of birds can you see? Great Egrets, Roseat Spoonbills, Reddish Egrets, plovers, willets, sanderlings, Ospreys, Northern Harriers, songbirds, and warblers

• Cost: $7 for adults; Children under 12 are free
• Hours: Open daily 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Location: 9394 State Highway 361, Corpus Christi, TX 78418

Helpful Port Aransas Bird Watching Tips

Here are some tips to get you started!

• Bring a bird guide: Whether you buy a book or download an app on your phone, many bird guides will help you identify birds.
• Head out early: Birds are most active right after sunrise!
• Be as still as possible: Sudden movements can startle birds, so staying as still as possible will help you see more birds.
• Bring binoculars: Binoculars are vital to birding, helping you see things you might not be able to see with your eyes alone.
• Wear natural colors: Birds can easily see bright colors, which will ward them off.

Book a Birdwatching Adventure in Port Aransas

Featured Rental: Aransas Princess #807

Ready to go birdwatching in Port Aransas? Then it’s time to book your stay with Aransas Princess Resort! Our luxurious beachfront condos are available in one-, two-, or three-bedroom configurations, allowing you to book a room for yourself or for a group, making your stay as comfortable as possible. In between your birding expeditions, walk to the beach,  lounge by the pool, and get dinner at one of the nearby waterfront restaurants.  We promise that you’ll have a fantastic time in Port Aransas. Make the trip happen and browse our vacation rentals today!