Port Aransas

The best family-friendly destination on Mustang Island, the small, sleepy town of Port Aransas draws more visitors than Mustang's state park, but not as many as the ever-popular Galveston or South Padre Island. Convenience is essential in this situation. The 18-mile-long beach is lined with laid-back restaurants and vacation homes for rent, and it's only a short walk to the sand. Bathrooms and outdoor showers are among the well-kept amenities.

Because of the beach's popularity, celebrations take place all year. Texas SandFest, a weekend sand-sculpture competition with concessions, live music, and activities that draws tens of thousands of people, is the biggest event of the year in Port Aransas. Every February, the Whooping Crane Festival is also held for bird enthusiasts.