Located in Aransas County and adjacent to the town of Fulton, Rockport is a place with a variety of attractions related to art, culture, and marine recreation. It also hosts a number of fairs and festivals that have attracted people to this area for several decades. All these features make Rockport, TX a popular tourist destination. It’s also a great spot for birding and observing wildlife, especially whooping cranes, and other species of shorebirds.

If you’re interested in going on some guided tours during your stay in the Rockport area, here are some great options.

#1: Whooping Crane and Coastal Birding Tour

This Texas Boat Safari will give you the chance to see the whooping cranes. You will also have an opportunity to see 30-60 different bird species during this three-hour trip. The area you’ll be touring is on one of the best birding areas in the United States, so you can be sure to get the best possible birding experience. The captain and his experienced guides will teach you as much as you want to know about identifying some of the 400+ bird species that have been documented in the Coastal Bend.

#2: Sunset Cruise

The Sunset Cruise in Rockport, TX runs from May to September. It leaves the Fulton Harbor and heads over the protected waters along San Jose Island, where you can see nesting birds and other types of wildlife. You can then watch the sun set over the bay on this 1.5-hour cruise.

#3: Spring Rookery Tour

On this four-hour trip, you can visit three or four different rookeries. You can also travel through six different bays, so you can see some truly wondrous spectacles of nature. It’s a great opportunity to see many types of colonial waterbirds as they’re courting, sparring, building nests, or feeding their chicks. All of these birds are in their breeding plumages during this time of year, which can give you an opportunity to take some amazing photos. It’s a great trip for new birders who want to get in on the action, so be sure to book this trip and enjoy the show.

#4: History Tour by Golf Cart

When you go on this tour, you’ll be able to see architecture from the 1800’s up to the present day. You will also hear stories about the people who settled and developed the area and how it got to where it is today. You will even have an opportunity to learn about the history of Rockport — from pirates and cattle to seafood and shipbuilding.

#5: Aransas Bay Dolphin Watching Cruise

When you go on this cruise, you can leave the Fulton Harbor and look for any Atlantic Bottle-nosed Dolphins on this 1.5-hour cruise. You can take the time to watch these incredible animals up close, as they feed behind the local shrimp fleet. You will also have the opportunity to learn how local shrimp are actually caught.

#6: Rockport Glow Tour

This route has become a highlight for people who want to enjoy Rockport’s nightlife. It will take you along a lighted patch through the southwestern part of Little Bay, which is an important body of water that’s known as the “ski basin” by most locals. The tour starts in the shallows and goes north along HWY 35 toward the bay’s man-made oyster reefs.

As you move along this route, you’ll be able to see a number of small fish. Watch out for any stray shrimp that may jump on board with you because of the lights. On your way back, you might be able to move across some of the reefs. Just keep an eye out for any stone crabs that like to hang around this area.

#7: Rockport Fishing Charters

Fishing the Texas flatlands is an experience that will satisfy any angler. You can find fish feeding in the flawless waters of the coastal shallows, but stealth is essential if you want to catch them. A lot of people compare it to hunting for this reason. Stalking a redfish can be an exciting, engaging, and heart-pounding experience.

If you’re able to cast 30-40 feet both accurately and reliably even in variable winds and lengthy leaders, you have a chance of catching some quality fish. But both beginners and experts can have a great time testing their fishing skills and even learning something new.

If you’re looking for some of the best condos in Rockport for your next vacation in the area, be sure to get in touch with Bayfront Kontiki.

You can find all kinds of amazing birds in Aransas County and throughout the Coastal Bend. From November to March, the world’s only flock of over 265 Whooping Cranes go to their migratory home in the Aransas Wildlife Refuge, and there are a number of scheduled boat trips running through this area. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, Rockport-Fulton enjoys some exceptional weather that’s great for birding. Early in the season, there are plenty of wolfberries and blue crabs for the whooping cranes to eat.

The Rockport-Fulton area has always had an abundance of birds. Some of them include, but may not be limited to:

When you visit this area, you can not only enjoy the birds, but can also discover a friendly and vibrant community. Aside from the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge (which is a 70,00-acre sanctuary on Blackjack Peninsula), another well-known birding location is Goose Island State Park (which is located 12 miles north of Rockport). Running along the shores of Aransas and St. Charles Bay, this outdoor treasure is great for a camping and birding adventure. When you arrive, you’ll have the opportunity to see all kinds of waterfowl, shorebirds, and passerines.

Birding Seasons of the Coastal Bend

No matter what time of year you decide to visit, you can enjoy birding in Rockport, Texas. There are several notable places that are worth mentioning. There’s even a 19-stop walking trail that highlights all the different birds, plants, and subjects related to the wonders of nature. It’s eight-tenths of a mile long and starts at the Demo Bird Garden. Then, it loops back to the cemetery and ends at Fulton Beach Road.

Here is a breakdown of all the birding during all four seasons of the Coastal Bend:

• Spring — With over 200 migratory species coming to this area per day, this is one of the best times for birding in Rockport, Texas. The different habitats in this area are attractive to many birds, especially during migration.
• Summer — During this time, there are approximately 100 nesting species in the Coastal Bend. Almost all of the barrier islands host a variety of colonial nesting birds, which can be seen from the birding tour boats operating in this area.
• Fall — This is a great time of year to see spectacular raptor flights. Shorebirds fill up the marshes, hummingbirds hit the feeders during mid-September, and there can be 200 birds in a single backyard.
• Winter — With over 100 winter residents, lingering migrants, southern vagrants, and permanent residents, this time of year makes for some spectacular birding.

Aside from all the areas along the Gulf Coast, there are also some great places for inland birding. The Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary was purchased 1994 for the purpose of establishing a bird sanctuary and historical site. This wooded area has over six acres of trails and is a great place for inland birding.

Birding Festivals of the Coastal Bend

If you visit Rockport at the right time, you can participate in one of the Coastal Bend’s birding events. This includes the Whooping Crane Festival (which has been held in Port Aransas every year since 1996). It celebrates the annual return of the Whooping Cranes to their wintering habitat at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. In fact, the Coastal Bend is the only place where you can see the last of the naturally occurring population of Whooping Cranes in the world.

In the end of April, the City of Corpus Christi hosts the Birdiest Festival in America where you can book full-day and half-day trips, as well as a variety of bird walks. You can also attend a number of presentations, workshops, and raptor project shows. You will even get a southern welcome with some Texas barbecue. Whether it’s on foot, by car, or in a boat, there’s a lot to see at this incredible festival.

If you like hummingbirds, then you’ll love Rockport’s annual HummerBird Celebration (which will be held September 15-18 this year). Richard Crossley (who is an internationally acclaimed birder, author, and photographer) will be the keynote speaker. He is a public speaker who is known for his thought-provoking and entertaining style, which is why he is sought after by many people.

If you want to book your next birding adventure and are looking for a condo in Rockport, be sure to get in touch with Bayfront Kontiki.

Located in Aransas County and adjacent to the town of Fulton, Rockport is a popular tourist destination because of its access to a variety of marine recreation (such as boating, fishing, waterskiing, and swimming). It’s also a popular place for birdwatchers and duck hunters, because of the large number of bird species in the area. The city hosts several fairs and festivals throughout the year (such as Oyster Fest, Seafair, and even a wine festival).
If you’re planning your next family vacation or condo purchase in Rockport, TX, here are some kid-friendly activities that are in or near the area.

1: Rockport Beach

Located at 210 Seabreeze Drive, Rockport Beach has great facilities, gorgeous views, and plenty of places for family fun. It’s also the first Blue Wave Beach in the State of Texas and is one of four on the Texas Gulf Coast. The beach is open from 6am to 11pm Sunday through Thursday as well as from 6am to 12am on Friday and Saturday. Parking costs for Rockport Beach are $10 a day, but you can also pay annually for $40. Disabled veterans are given a free annual pass once they provide the appropriate documentation.

2: Fulton Fishing Pier

The newly updated Fulton Fishing Pier has been open to the public since October 30, 2021 and has some new state-of-the-art fishing lights that will illuminate the water so fish are more visible below surface level. Anyone can walk down the pier for free. But, if you want a more interactive experience, be sure to bring your fishing pole. You can even rent some in a little shack at the pier’s entrance for $5 a rod (with a maximum of four poles per person). There’s also a shop where you can buy drinks, frozen shrimp, snacks, and a few other items. There are, however, some rules that you should keep in mind during your visit:
• All children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
• No jumping from the pier.
• Do not dispose of fish carcasses, debris, or remains in the water. Use the trash cans located on the pier.
• Use nonfillament receptacles for any discarded fishing lines.
• Report any injured or strained sea turtles by calling the Texas Sea Turtle Hotline at (866)877-8535.
Make sure to pick up your trash, and you should always be courteous of others because it’s a family-friendly place.

3: Texas Maritime Museum

The history of the Texas Maritime Museum goes back to the late 1970’s at the Rockport annual Seafair Festival where maritime enthusiasts would bring their personal collection of motors, fishing equipment and mounted fish for public viewing. The museum’s establishment was a community-wide project led by a few dedicated members until it opened its doors on July 1, 1989. Its mission is to educated and excite people about maritime history as well as its important to the state’s development and livelihood.

4: Birding Tours

The Rockport area offers one-of-a-kind photography tours and charters that can be custom-designed to fit your group’s specific needs. Some of them have different decks at separate elevations, and they’ll have enclosed cabins so you can take a break while getting out of the elements. You can even find boats with shallow draft capabilities, so you can get really close to the birds. It’s not uncommon for people to get within 50 feet of a flock of whooping cranes, and you can get even closer to shorebirds.

5: Hiking and Biking Trails

Whether you’re looking for an easy walking trail or something through which you can ride your bike, Rockport has some of the best in South Texas. The city has several trails that cover 14 miles, so you can be sure to find one for you and your entire family. One of them includes the Tule Creek Hike and Bike Trail, which is a 10-foot-wide concrete path with a painted center line that goes through a live oak forest, runs parallel to Tule Creek, and ends at Enterprise Boulevard.

6: The Big Tree

The “Big Tree” near Rockport is one of the most famous live oaks in the world after it was named the “Texas State Champion Virginia Live Oak” in 1969, which is a title that it kept until 2003 when a larger oak tree was discovered in Brazoria County. It’s still considered to be one of the largest live oak specimens in the United States and is located in Goose Island State Park.
If you’re planning a family vacation in the area and are looking for one of the best condos in Rockport, TX, be sure to get in touch with Bayfront Kontiki.

Located in Aransas County, Rockport is a popular tourist destination because of its access to marine recreation (such as boating and fishing). It’s also a popular spot for people who enjoy the following activities:

• Duck hunting
• Waterskiing
• Swimming
• Birdwatching

The city hosts several fairs and expositions on an annual basis (including Oyster Fest, Seafair, and a Wine Festival). The Rockport Art Festival has been held every single year since 1970. But, aside from all its various attractions, Rockport is close to several state and national parks in Texas (all of which are close to Bayfront Kontiki). Here are five popular national and state parks in Texas that you can visit during your stay.

#1: Padre Island National Seashore

Padre Island National Seashore separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Laguna Madre, which is one of the few hypersaline lagoons in the world. This national park protects 66 miles of coastline, dunes, prairies, and wind tidal flats — all of which are teeming with life. It’s a safe nesting ground for the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle and a haven for over 380 bird species. It also has a rich history, which includes the Spanish shipwrecks of 1554. Solitude, warm nights, sea breezes, and dark skies are some of the things that make camping at the seashore an unforgettable experience. You can get more information about park entrance fees and passes once you arrive.

https://www.nps.gov/pais/index.htm

#2: Mustang Island State Park

With more than five miles of coastline, Mustang Island State Park will give you more than enough time for “fun in the sun.” You can hang out on the beach, fish in the bay, add birds to your life list, and explore every part of this undisturbed barrier island park. At Mustang Island, you can decide what you want to do. You can participate in all kinds of activities at the beach (such as swim, surf, or build a sand castle). You can also camp, have a picnic, fish, kayak, or do some birdwatching (especially during spring and fall migrations).

Here are some other things you can do at this state park:

• Camping — You can stay on of the park’s 48 water and electric campsites or one of the 50 drive-up primitive sites. There are a number of portable toilets along two miles of the beach. There are even full restrooms and showers with hot water, which are located near the water-electric campground.
• Paddling — The three segments of the park’s paddling trail follow the western shoreline, and this 20-mile stretch passes through some of the best shallow-water fishing areas in Texas. You can even enjoy close-up views of coastal birds.

Be sure to speak with park staff about entrance fees and other amenities that the park provides.

https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/mustang-island

#3: Goose Island State Park

Goose Island has a lot of places for camping, fishing, and birdwatching along the St. Charles and Aransas Bays (both of which are located North of Corpus Christi). You can also go hiking, geocaching, or boating. If you want to watch and take photos of wildlife (especially birds), this is one of the many state parks in Texas that will give you plenty of opportunity. But, swimming isn’t recommended here because the shoreline has concrete bulkheads, oyster shells, mud flats, and marsh grass.

https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/goose-island

#4: Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is known for being the winter home of the last wild flock of endangered whooping cranes. Visitors can also enjoy amazing scenery, a plethora of wildlife, and a variety of recreational opportunities. Once you get to the main gate, there will be a wooden kiosk to your right just past the first road. Make sure you stop there to pay your fee or register your pass, and don’t forget to pick up a map. To get to the auto tour, turn right at the new road past the kiosk, follow it around the visitor center, and turn right onto the auto tour road. This route is open every day from a half an hour before sunrise until a half an hour after sunset.

https://www.fws.gov/refuge/aransas

#5: Lake Corpus Christi State Park

This placid lake is one of the remaining stands of South Texas brush country and is a great place for swimming, boating, and fishing. Families have been enjoying Lake Corpus Christi State Park for more than 80 years, because it’s a place where you can enjoy all kinds of water sports (all while taking in the variety of wildlife and relaxed atmosphere). On the water, you can swim (though there are no lifeguards), paddle, fish, boat, and water ski. On the shore, you can camp, hike, bike, geocache, go birdwatching, or observe nature. You can even rent one of their pavilions for your next gathering.

https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lake-corpus-christi

If you’re looking for some of the best condos in Rockport, TX, be sure to reach out to Bayfront Kontiki.

The Texas Gulf Coast is home to all kinds of tasty fish. That’s why it has piqued the interest of many fishermen — both for sport and on a commercial level. The climate is almost perfect for sport fishing, as well as for many types of recreational and commercial fishing. Many people see the Texas Gulf Coast as the proverbial Mecca of fishing because of its many marshes, inlets, and “secret spots” located offshore. There is also a variety of reefs, wrecks, and oil rigs that can attract some of the most famous and tastiest fish species in the waters of the Gulf.

Here are some of the tastiest fish that are home to the Texas Gulf Coast.

#1: Cobia

Cobia is known to some people as “black salmon” and is a very delicious fish. The meat is white with large flakes and has a solid texture. People often say it has mild taste with some sweet undertones, which makes it a versatile fish with which to cook. It can be sauteed, pan-seared, smoked, braised, grilled, or even poached. They tend to migrate seasonally across the Gulf — with preference for the southern waters in the summer and the northern waters in the winter.

#2: Snook

Because of its culinary value, Snook is another popular Gulf Coast fish. Because this fish has been commercially caught and harvested so much, the states of Texas and Florida have banned it for commercial fishing. But, there is a “slot limit” for recreational fishing, which has been put in place to protect the species. The meat has a golden color with a distinctive black lateral line. They prefer near-shore vegetation (such as the ones found in river mouths), sea grass meadows, and salt marshes. They also have a very delicate texture and a subtle flavor. That’s why you need to use a gentle hand and be light on the seasoning while yo,u’re cooking this fish.

#3: Scamp Grouper

While they tend to stick around all year, recreational fishermen aren’t always allowed to catch it. So, if you want to catch some for yourself, make sure you check local and federal regulations. The season for Scamp Grouper is closed in the Gulf from February through March, but the open season for this type of Gulf Coast fish will depend on the state. Scamp Grouper has a mild flavor that’s also slightly sweet. The meat is large with chunky flakes, which makes it one of the best fish meats in terms of food value. Its taste is similar to halibut and sea bass, but it’s also known for having a great deal of nutritional value. A single serving will have lots of protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.

#4: Lane Snapper

Also called “Candy Snapper,” Lane Snapper can be found in many different places (including the Gulf of Mexico). You can recognize this Gulf Coast fish by its silvery pink to reddish color and its series of horizontal yellow lines that run from its face to the base of its tail fin. The most common habitats for this kind of snapper are coral reefs and vegetative sandy areas of shallow waters running along shorelines. You can find them in deeper waters, but they’re not as common.

Like many other snapper species, Lane Snapper is a great-tasting fish. Because of its varied diet, it has a sweet flavor and a firm texture. Some of the best cooking methods for this type of Gulf Coast fish include:

• Pan-searing.
• Baking.
• Roasting.
• Deep-frying.

It’s a common ingredient for fish tacos and has a great deal of health benefits. It’s also rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to reduce the risk of heart disease.

#5: Yellowedge Grouper

This kind of Gulf Coast fish got its name because of the yellow lines that run along the edge of its fin. It’s a large type of grouper that is among the most popular in the group. It’s known for being solitary and for a maturation cycle that’s longer than most species of fish. It’s carnivorous, but it prefers to feed on invertebrates and smaller fish that are within reach. You can find this Gulf Coast fish species in deeper waters and can typically be found in rocky, muddy, sandy areas, or reefs. According to chefs, the meat is better at holding in moisture than most types of fish. This makes it easier to prepare, which can be done in a variety of ways.

If you’re planning to fish in the Gulf Coast and are looking for some of the best condos in Rockport, TX, be sure to get in touch with Bayfront Kontiki.

If you have ever been to Rockport, TX, you have probably noticed that this charming coastal town has a vibrant cultural scene that’s full of festivals, events, and the arts. Many of them have a coastal theme, while others simply celebrate the artists who have made Rockport their home. There’s always something to discover most of the year — from the Art Festival to the Wine Festival. But, here are some of the events that are going on in Rockport for the Summer of 2022.

#1: Rockport Business Expo

On April 27 from 4pm to 7pm, Rockport will hold its annual Business Expo. Free and open to the public, this event will feature booths from a variety of vendors. There will also be music, prizes, and much more. This event will give you the opportunity to interact and network with different businesses and organizations within the Rockport-Fulton community.

#2: Rockport Kite Festival

On April 27 from 10am to 5pm at the Rockport Festival Grounds, this free family event will feature professional kite-flying demonstrations, kiteboarders in the ski basin, food vendors, and music. A variety of kites will be on display. Among other things, there will be an arts and crafts booth for children (including an area where they can make their own paper kites).

#3: Nautical Flea Market

On May 6 and 7, the Rockport Yacht Club will host its Nautical Flea Market where people will have the opportunity to purchase the following:

• Fishing gear.
• Sailing gear.
• Gear for power boating.
• Windsurfing gear.
• Scuba diving equipment.
• New and used parts.
• Tools.
• Motors.
• Rods and reels.
• Sails.
• Nautical art.
• New and used boats.
• Dinghies and kayaks.

All of these items can be bought, sold, or traded. There is a $5 entrance fee for each day, but children under 12 can attend for free.

#4: Babes on the Bay

Babes on the Bay is a women’s fishing tournament in Rockport that attracts more than 1,300 competitors. For two days in mid-May (May 13 -14), teams of experienced anglers will compete in five different divisions (including one for contestants who are younger than 16) for who will catch the heaviest fish.

#5: Rockport Pirate Festival

On May 14-16, Rockport will hold its second annual Pirate Festival. There will be costume contests and a 3-legged race, where they will give away prize money to the selected winners. It will also have live music throughout the entire weekend as well as over 4,000 square feet of covered seating and event areas. There will even be free face painting, five different pirate shows, and a dunking booth. Over 150 of the best vendors in Texas will participate in this event. There will also be plenty of things do with your children and even your pets.

#6: Rockport Wine Festival

On May 27 at the Texas Maritime Museum, Rockport will hold its annual wine festival. By attending this event, you will have the opportunity to sample over 75 different types of wines and draft beer. There will also be lectures, live music, vendors, and good food.

#7: Rockport Art Festival

The Rockport Art Festival was founded in 1969 as a way to bring more life to the area’s art community. Since then, it has become a staple of the area’s summer season. Over 120 artists sell their work to over 10,000 art buyers. It also serves as a fundraiser for Rockport’s Center for the Arts, where all proceeds go toward creating and sustaining as many free to low-cost programs being hosted year-round. This year’s event will be held on July 1 from 10am – 6pm and on July 2 from 9am – 9pm. By attending this event, you will not only be able to see works from talented artists but will also be able to listen to local bands and eat some delicious food.

#8: Patriotic Boat Parade

In addition to a firework show, Rockport will have its July 4 Patriotic Boat Parade (which will be sponsored by the Rockport Yacht Club). You can get in the patriotic mood by watching this parade starting at noon.  In the evening hours, you can watch the Wendell Family Fireworks Show. This free event is a great way to celebrate the birth of our great nation on the Fourth of July.

#9: Lemonade Day

Rockport’s Lemonade Day, where over 30 different lemonade stands will be placed throughout the town. It’s a fun and experiential program that teaches young people how to start, own, and operate their own business (in this case, a lemonade stand). Every year in participating cities, kids will have the opportunity to experience entrepreneurship by setting up their own lemonade stand in the city’s community.

If you’re planning to visit the area and are looking for some of the best condos in Rockport, be sure to get in touch with Bayfront Kontiki.

Great Texas beaches and gorgeous coastal scenery,  Rockport, TX is a good time waiting to happen.  Annual events are held throughout the year, including music festivals, an oyster festival, and an art festival, a wine festival, and more!  These community events are a fun way to experience what the South Texas coast has to offer.   If you’re planning a trip, make sure you consider attending some of the local attractions.  You won’t regret it!

The Fulton Oysterfest (Mar 2 – 5) is a four-day festival celebrating one of the most iconic symbols of the gulf coast.  Eating contests, carnival rides, games, music, and local vendors.  This festival can be found in March at South Fulton Beach Road, Fulton, TX 78358.

Babes on the Bay (May 19 – 20) is a fishing tournament for women only.  More than 1,300 competitors take part for two days in May.  Female anglers compete in five divisions, including one for under 16, attempting to catch the heaviest fish.  Located at 210 Seabreeze Drive in Rockport, TX 78382.  If you like to fish, this one is a must.

The Festival of Wines  (May 27) lets you sample your choice of more than 100 wines at the Texas Maritime Museum at 1202 Navigation Circle Rockport, TX 78382. Lectures, live music, vendors, beer, booths, and tasty food awaits you if you choose to take part of the festival.

The Rockport Art Festival  (July 1 – 2) is a long-running community event held in early July at the Rockport Center for the Arts located at 902 Navigation Circle Rockport, TX 78382.  Attend this event and you’ll see works from more than 120 artists, hear music from great local bands, and eat delicious food.

The HummerBird Celebration (Sept 14-17) kicks off every fall when a flock of ruby-throated hummingbirds show up in the Rockport-Fulton area.  It’s a birding festival that also has walking tours around Rockport, boating trips, and outdoor exhibits. It takes place at various locations in Rockport-Fulton.

SeaFair (Oct. 6 – Oct. 8) starts with a Battle of the Bands and continues on with all sorts of other fun competitions, including gumbo and chili cook-offs, a stand up paddleboard race,  crab races,  car shows, arts and crafts, a market, and food vendors.   Four days of fun in early October, this event is located at Aransas Navigation District Festival Grounds, Rockport, TX 78382.

Christmas by the Bay brings traditional holiday cheer to the Rockport-Fulton area.  Bring the kids to meet with Santa Claus and enjoy a full stocking full of fun and surprise.  Events include a Christmas decorating contest, an ornament workshop for kids, a lighted boat parade, a historic home tour, the symphony by the sea, caroling at the mansion, Christmas in Fulton, and a fireworks show.   Located at the Downtown Heritage District and the Rockport Harbor Area in 78382, this event is an absolute joy to attend.