january/february - 2012

Port Isabel, Texas
Set sail for this scenic coastal getaway

By Kerry Pipes

With old man winter bearing down on the metroplex you may be thinking about getting away for the weekend. Port Isabel on the far south tip of the Texas coast is a perfect place to escape.

Port Isabel was first established by Europeans in 1554 and is located just across the causeway from South Padre Island. The seaside town makes a great casual winter getaway featuring great restaurants, comfortable and affordable lodging, shopping and a chance to explore some maritime history.

Maybe you start by climbing to the top of the Port Isabel Lighthouse for a great panoramic view of the gulf ocean and nearby South Padre. It’s actually the only lighthouse in Texas that’s still open to the public. Check out the old lighthouse keeper’s cottage which now houses the Chamber of Commerce. Then walk the historic Lighthouse Square where you can have lunch or dinner at one of the many nearby restaurants and watering holes. Follow that up with some shopping.

If the kids are in tow, consider a swashbuckling ride on the Black Dragon, a replica of a 17th century galleon ship. All cruises include pirates, sword fighting, music and food.

If you are a shutterbug or just love bird watching there’s even more to see and do in the Port Isabel area. The town is located right in the middle of North America’s migratory fly zone and numerous birds can be spotted throughout the wetlands that surround the area. You’ll spy plenty of osprey, falcons, eagles and hawks, and you’re likely to see numerous cranes. In fact, there are more than 400 varieties of migratory birds found here.

Of course fisherman will find an abundance of shoreline and deep sea fishing opportunities in this gulf coast retreat. Trout, flounder, red fish, marlin and more can be landed with a little help from any of the local guides and charters. Not into fishing, try a dolphin cruise or the nearby Sea Life Center.

You’ll need a place to stay while you’re in town and one centralized choice is the Marchan’s White Sands Motel, Marina & Restaurant. This family-owned and operated catch-all has been here since 1952. As its name implies, it offers a unique place to stay, fish and dine. The restaurant specializes, of course, in fresh seafood prepared with original Marchan family recipes. Try the breakfast tacos or coconut shrimp.

You might also consider the Port Isabel Yacht Club for something a little more off the beaten path. This Prohibition-era restaurant and hotel was originally built in 1926 and has been restored to all its 1920’s glory.

Enjoy a quick trip and the scent of the salt air and sea in Port Isabel.