Photo: Albert Amor / CC0 via Wikimedia Commons (representative Gulf shorebird)
The undeveloped barrier island across the channel
San Jose Island
An undeveloped private island reachable only by the jetty boat — empty beaches, great shelling and fishing, and no facilities at all.
A whole island with nothing on it
San Jose Island — "St. Jo" to locals — is the long barrier island directly across the ship channel from Port Aransas. It is privately owned and completely undeveloped: no houses, no shops, no restrooms. What it has is miles of empty beach, some of the best shelling on the Texas coast, and excellent surf and channel fishing.
Getting there and what to know
You reach it by the jetty boat, a short shuttle that runs from town across the channel. The day is entirely self-contained — pack everything you will need (water, food, shade, sun protection) and carry out everything you bring. The beach and the area near the jetty are open to visitors; the island's interior is private. Check the jetty boat's current schedule and last return time before you go — missing the boat is a real and memorable mistake.
Where to stay nearby
Similar spots
Lydia Ann Lighthouse
One of the oldest lighthouses on the Texas coast — reachable only by water, and an easy highlight of any Port Aransas boat tour.
Mustang Island State Park
A Texas state park with five miles of natural Gulf beach, camping and a paddling trail — the wild, uncrowded side of Mustang Island.
Port A South Jetty
The Port A South Jetty is a wonderful spot for fishing or for simply taking in your surroundings and appreciating the magnificent view and diverse wildlife.