About Port Isabel
With a subtropical climate and rich Gulf culture, Port Isabel is known as the Shrimp Capital of the World. Home to the World Championship Shrimp Cook-Off, Port Isabel draws expert anglers and novice fisherman alike to cast in Laguna Madre Bay.
Walk the longest pier in Texas or take a historic trolley tour of this charming coastal town. There's plenty to see and do, both on the beach and off.
Getting There
By Land
Located 25 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, Port Isabel is an easy drive from Harlingen or Brownsville, Texas.
By Air
The Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport is located in Brownsville, Texas, about 20 miles from Port Isabel.
Port Isabel Lighthouse
Built in 1852, the Port Isabel Lighthouse is a fixture in the community. A century later Texas designated the area around the lighthouse as an official state park. While the lighthouse is no longer in commission, the public is welcome to climb to the top. The city also shows weekly movies on the site of the lighthouse.
Treasures of the
Gulf Museum
This museum highlights three shipwrecks that occurred off the coast of Port Isabel, including the 1554 wreck of a Spanish fleet that left only two survivors.
Black Dragon
Pirate Cruises
Board the Black Dragon, a replica of a 17th century pirate ship, for an afternoon adventure or sunset cruise with real pirates and real pirate entertainment.
Activities
Dolphin watching, surfing, kite boarding, shell collecting, windsurfing, kayaking, jetskiing and bird watching.