The ideal Coastal Bend summer night consists of sipping a cocktail, listening to live music and feeling the warm, salty breeze blowing by. Situated on the waterfront in downtown Port Aransas, The Palm Social Club is the perfect summer spot to do just that.
Established in August 2023 by Collie Farley and Winston Caraker, The Palm pays tribute to the historic music culture in downtown Port Aransas. “Downtown was and still is a central hub for live music, boating and fishing,” Farley said. “The outdoor portion of our property is where Shortys was previously located, and as kids, we’d always sneak into Shortys to hear live music. When we heard the property would be coming available, we had to have it.”
The Palm continues the legacy of welcoming music to the area while blending tradition with modern design. Inside the club, comfortable lounge chairs line the green and salmon walls with accents of palm-patterned wallpaper. Outside, zero gravity loungers facing the main stage allow customers to relax and enjoy a cocktail while directing their attention to the musicians. Outdoor lights illuminate the patio in the evenings, creating a cozy atmosphere.
And as for the cocktails, “You’re going to find something you’ve never tried,” Farley said. “Whatever the fresh fruit is for the season, we plan to include it.” The Palm updates its drink menu seasonally and has produced a summer menu filled with vibrant ingredients, including a Sparkling Cucumber Martini, made with freshly squeezed limes and cucumbers, and a Watermelon Margarita, made with fresh watermelon juice and Palm Republic punch. The club also houses a great wine selection, craft beers, seltzers and the coldest longnecks in town.
Country, soul, jazz and funk are a few music genres you will find coming from the stage at The Palm on any given night, and weekly house bands include Los Locals, Riptide and the John Elijah Band. “We have incredible songwriters who perform, and welcome anything easy to listen to,” said Farley. “We also love finding hidden gems. Last year, we booked Uncle Lucius, who has really taken off. Catching people on the come-up is key.”
The true heartbeat of The Palm Social Club is the exceptional music it celebrates. “It takes bravery to be a musician. We receive hundreds of emails from undiscovered artists weekly and listen to all of them. Everyone deserves a spin; it just takes the right person to hear you.”
801 Tarpon St | @thepalmsocialclub | thepalmsocialclub.com