Why Rockport, Texas?

Affectionately known as the "charm of the Texas coast," Rockport has something to offer you whether it be summer, spring, fall or winter, whether you come with the kids, honeymooning, or not. As a native of Rockport I can give you the inside scoop on just about everything. Ask yourself these questions, and see what answers I have for you.

Where on earth is Rockport?
Rockport-Fulton is located on the coast of Texas, conveniently located only forty five minutes from the "big city" of Corpus Christi, and thirty minutes from the surf crazy town of Port Aransas. With a mild climate, and a constant gulf breeze blowing it's perfect!

Now just where will I be staying in this town?
There are a multitude of places to stay in Rockport. Everything from the Suntan Motel to the Radisson and everything in between. One of my favorites however is The Pelican Bay Resort. These new england style cottages, and mini suites are just to die for. The establishment is pushed off the highway and nestled comfortably into our famous windswept live oak trees. They boast a beautiful clubhouse, gazebo and pier perfect for weddings, reunions, and business meetings. The Lodge boasts three bedrooms, fireplace, and washer and dryer perfect for an out of town family down for a wedding, or a large family staying awhile! With a luxurious swimming pool and heated jacuzzi what more could you ask for ? And like most resorts in the area they offer golf and fishing packages as well!

What can I eat here?
What are you in the mood for? Whatever it may be I'm sure we have it! Whether you're in the mood for some country cookin', gourmet cuisine, or fresh seafood, it's all here! For a quick lunch stop by the Apple Dumpling Deli downtown and grab a delicious sandwich and a cup of broccoli cheese soup! If you're looking for an upscale dinner try Hemingway's,"A Landmark on the Texas Coast," also located downtown. Sit down for a drink at their famous Blue Marlin Bar, or try Chef James' signature mustard crusted rack of lamb. If you are looking for the best seafood in town, with a family friendly atmosphere drop by The Boiling Pot. Leave your mark on the graffiti wall, and enjoy the bucket of fresh seafood, spicy if you like, dumped on your butcher paper covered table! For your morning coffee you can drop by our local Starbucks, or pop over to Java Bay Caffe, known not only for their coffee but also for their delicious lunch specials.

Alright, my belly is full. Now what's there to do around here?
There are all kinds of things to do here! This is what makes Rockport the best vacation spot around.

Lets get specific, and go into detail on these, as there the most important things one does on vacation!

Are you into historical outings?

Well then you're in luck. Visit the Fulton Mansion located on Fulton Beach Road. Built in 1877 by George and Harriet Fulton, it features many modern conveniences for its time including indoor plumbing, and central heat and a gas light system! It's spectacular, one of the most sees.
You can also see the over 1,000 year old Big Tree in Lamar! While you're out in that neck of the woods, you might want to stop by the Lamar Cemetery. The oldest grave marker is that of Patrick O'Connor (1822-1854), a direct descendant of Roderick O'Connor, the last king of Ireland. You might also want to stop by the Texas Maritime Museum located on Rockport Beach.

Speaking of beaches, Rockport can boast that it is "the First and Only Blue Wave Beach," an award won for environmental awareness. This beach park also boasts so many things you won't know what to do with yourself! You can rent kayaks, jet skis, and paddle boats. You can enjoy a nature walk, or admire the wildlife sanctuary. You can rent one of the Beach front Pavilions or the Salt Water Pavilion for any event you can imagine. Take a dip in the natural salt water pool or wade in the gulf. Fish off a lighted jetty, or let the kids loose on one of the many play sets, while you barbecue it up at one of the covered picnic tables. You can also stroll down the harbor and watch shrimpers and yachters alike. The harbor also features a lot of art in way of statues, check those out as well. And while we're on the subject of art-- stroll into the Rockport Center for the arts. With their many traveling exhibits, and art programs for young and old alike, as well as a souvenir shop you're sure to find something you'll love.

And if you didn't get your art fix there stroll down historic Austin street in downtown Rockport, just seconds away from the beach. There are tons of knick-knack shops, and art galleries to spark your fancy. Try the Felder Gallery, Main street Arts, Popo's, the Estelle Stair gallery and Simon Michael's gallery for some breathtaking art.

Rockport is also heaven for bird watchers! Home to over 200 species of birds over the course of the seasons, including the whooping crane, hummingbird, great blue heron, and the infamous sea gull. View a number of these magnificent birds from our nature trail, Goose Island State Park, Aransas County Wildlife Refuge, Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary, or the Fennessey Ranch. Rockport also offers birding tours, and specialty whooping crane boating tours through a number of companies.

What better place to fish than in the Gulf of Mexico?
With a number of reputable fishing guides to take you out and show you the hot spots you'll be sure to catch something photo worthy! Whether it be a red fish, speckled trout, flounder & drum, all of which are plentiful in these waters, or a mullet you'll be sure to have a good time. Great for families, a group of buddies, or clients! One of my personal favorites, and has always shown anyone who's gone out with them a good time, ReelTime Charters.

You'll find plenty of souvenirs to take home with you at the shell shops, antique stores and boutiques that line Austin Street! If you need an extra swim suit or some sunblock check the local Wal- Mart of H.E.B. Need something fancy to wear to dinner? Check Beall's or one of the many boutiques in town, like Bay Window. If you need bigger shopping you can head over the Harbor Bridge into Corpus Christi just forty five minutes away.

And finally, Rockport is famous for their festivals. If you come in October you can join in SeaFair! A celebration of the Sea. With live music, crab races, contents, arts and crafts stalls, and carnival rides its got something the whole family will enjoy! Come back again the first weekend in March for OysterFest! Twenty eight years running, this event supports Fulton's volunteer fire department. With oyster eating contests, unique vendor booths, food, music, and rides this is another must do in Rockport. Other festivals hosted by Rockport include Fiesta en la Playa, the Wine Tasting Festival, the Rockport Art Festival and many other smaller festivals and events throughout the year.

I'm sure that after you've had a taste of this little town, with its rich heritage, mixed cultures, honest and friendly people you'll want to come back again and again. Next time bring the whole family, bring your friends, and spread the word! Or maybe you want to keep this oasis your little secret?