Fall in Port Aransas means warm water, shorter wait times, and miles of wide-open beaches. This season is a tried-and-true favorite time of the year, when generations of Texans take loved ones on quiet morning walks along the coast, cast a line into salty waters, and ride bikes in the cool sea breezes.
October also means a bevy of autumnal events happening every weekend, a time the island likes to call “Beachtober!” These events range from a month-long “Sweet Traditions” dessert trail to Flynn’s Beach Run, a fun run benefitting the local community. See the full list of happenings below!
Taco & Margarita Trail: All October
A dozen local restaurants are part of the 2024 Taco and Margarita Trail, and these culinary combos are top-notch. Chefs and mixologists got crafty, and the pairings range from Castaways Seafood and Grill’s combo of Birria Chicken Tacos and a Fall Harvest Margarita to Trout Street Bar & Grill’s Nashville-Style Shrimp Tacos and a Cucumber Thyme Margarita. These combos are good all month long, so you have plenty of time to try out a few…or all of them!
Sweet Traditions Trail: All October
The fun continues with the Sweet Traditions Trail. Fulfill all your candied daydreams with dessert deals all month long. Whether you try out a pumpkin cheesecake from Seafood & Spaghetti Works or tote home a pound of homemade fudge or caramel from Winton’s Island Candy, you’ll find out just how sweet the island life really is with the Sweet Traditions Trail.
Island Science Day: October 12
Explore the natural wonder of Port Aransas at Island Science Day, brought to you by the University of Texas Marine Science Institute. At this open-house style event, you’ll be able to take boat rides, go on interactive field trips, learn about the work UTMSI scientists are doing, and more. All events are FREE, but you are highly encouraged to make a reservation and secure your spot for the activities that have limited occupancy. Make your reservation online.
Shoptober: October 18–20
Shoptober is the prime weekend to score deals on all those summer finds you missed out on! Your favorite Port A boutiques are having storewide sales, so you can snag that great pair of flip flops or that must-have swimsuit you’ve been eyeing. It’s also a fabulous time to bring a touch of fall decor into your home.
Flynn’s Beach Run: October 26
Experience the ultimate coastal run this October with Flynn’s Beach Run! With a variety of options including a 5k, 10k, and family-friendly fun run, this October 26th event welcomes all to enjoy the stunning beach views while staying active. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or looking for a memorable family adventure, sign up now for a race that combines the beauty of the beach with the thrill of running. Proceeds from the race support the Port Aransas Independent School District cross country team and local sustainability efforts.
Wooden Boat Festival: October 25–27
The Wooden Boat Festival is annual celebration of the island’s boat-building heritage, hosted by the Port Aransas Preservation & Historical Association. The festival is an annual three-day family friendly event that features handcrafted kayaks, paddleboards, skiffs and sailing boats—as well as historic Farley boats.
