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Best Things to Do in Rockport Texas This Spring Break

Updated: May 1, 2023


Rockport Beach - Rockport Texas
Rockport Beach - Rockport Texas

If you're planning a trip to Rockport, Texas this spring break, you're in for a treat. This charming coastal town has a lot to offer visitors, from beautiful beaches and wildlife reserves to art galleries and museums. Whether you're traveling with family or friends, or as a solo traveler, there are plenty of things to see and do in Rockport this spring break.


In this article, we'll cover the best things to do in Rockport, Texas this spring break, so you can make the most of your time in this delightful town.


You can start here by checking out our local events calendar. It's updated constantly and has all the great things going on.



Visit the Rockport Beach

Rockport Beach is a must-see attraction in this coastal town. With its pristine sands and calm waters, it's the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The beach is also home to several pavilions, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it a great destination for families.

Rockport Beach Park in Rockport Texas March 2023
Rockport Beach Park in Rockport Texas March 2023

Here is a link to Rockport Beach Page to learn more: Rockport Beach Park | Rockport Texas (rockportfulton.com)



Explore the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site

The Fulton Mansion State Historic Site is a stunning mansion that was built in 1877 by George Fulton. The mansion has been beautifully restored and now serves as a museum, where visitors can learn about the history of the town and its inhabitants. Guided tours are available, and the mansion is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM, and Sunday from 1 PM to 4 PM.

Old Photo of the Fulton Mansion in Rockport Texas
Old Photo of the Fulton Mansion in Rockport Texas

Here is an article about the Fulton Mansion to learn more about it:



Go Fishing

Rockport is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, and there are plenty of charters and guides available to take you out on the water. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-time fisherman, you're sure to have a great time fishing in Rockport and Fulton Texas.

The Fulton Fishing Pier in Fulton Texas USA
The Fulton Fishing Pier in Fulton Texas USA

Here is our list of all the fishing piers in the area:


Here is our page to learn more about the Fulton Fishing Pier:


If you really want to go big you can hire a Top Local Fishing Guide as well:




Visit the Texas Maritime Museum

The Texas Maritime Museum is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in maritime history. The museum features exhibits on everything from shipbuilding and navigation to fishing and oil drilling. There are some great displays, photos, and old maps visitors can explore.

Texas Maritime Museum and Rockport Harbor
Texas Maritime Museum and Rockport Harbor

Here is their website if you want to learn more:


Take a walk through Downtown Rockport Texas

Taking a walk through Downtown Rockport Texas is the perfect way to explore the city and see the sights. From historic buildings to modern cafes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. You can stroll through the streets, admire art galleries, and shop in unique stores. The waterfront provides great views of the harbor, while quaint restaurants make for a cozy break from exploring. Whether it's your first time or a regular visit, taking a walk through Downtown Rockport Texas is always an enjoyable experience.

Rowdy Maui's Downtown Rockport Texas
Rowdy Maui's Downtown Rockport Texas


Visit the Rockport Center for the Arts

The Rockport Center for the Arts is a hub for art and culture in this coastal town. The center features galleries, studios, and classrooms, as well as a sculpture garden and a gift shop. The center also hosts events and workshops throughout the year, so be sure to check their calendar before your visit.


New Rockport Center for the Art Building Downtown Rockport Texas
New Rockport Center for the Art Building Downtown Rockport Texas

Visit The Big Tree

Visiting the Big Tree at Goose Island State Park is a must for any outdoor enthusiast. Standing nearly 1,000 years old, this majestic ancient oak tree stands as a reminder of the beauty of nature. The tree is surrounded by lush vegetation, providing a tranquil atmosphere and a sense of peace. Take a walk around the base, explore the area, and take in all the natural wonders that make this state park so special. With so much to see and do, visiting the Big Tree at Goose Island State Park is sure to be an unforgettable experience.


The Big Tree in Lamar Texas
The Big Tree in Lamar Texas

Here is some more information about going to visit:



Explore the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a sprawling wildlife reserve that's home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. Visitors can hike, bike, or drive through the refuge and observe animals like alligators, coyotes, and over 400 species of birds.

You can learn more here:


Whooping Cranes at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
Whooping Cranes at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge


Experience a Sunset over Copano Bay

Watching the sunset over Copano Bay is a magical experience, and one of the best spots that offer open views of the sunset is Howard Murph Memorial Park. There are benches and untouched natural beaches for you to enjoy. The spot is also a great place to launch a kayak or go wade fishing. Be sure to pack a light snack and some cold beverages. It's a great way to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.


Also if you would like to rent a Golf Cart, kayak or standup paddleboard here is a company that can make it happen: Golf Cart, Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals | Rockport Birding and Kayak Adventures (whoopingcranetour.com)

Sunset over Copano Bay
Sunset over Copano Bay


Rockport, Texas is a fantastic destination for anyone looking for a fun and relaxing spring break. Whether you're interested in outdoor activities, history, or art, there's something for everyone in this charming coastal town.


Who we are

The RockportFulton.com website is a comprehensive guide to the towns of Rockport and Fulton, Texas. The website provides a wealth of information about the local area, including events, activities, and attractions.



Arial View of the Rockport Texas Waterfront
Rockport Texas USA


Visitors to the website can find information about local festivals, markets, and events, as well as details about local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. The website also features a calendar of events, so visitors can easily plan their trip and make the most of their time in Rockport and Fulton.


In addition to providing information about the local area.


RockportFulton.com is also a great resource for those who are interested in the history and culture of Rockport and Fulton. The website includes articles and photos that highlight the rich history of the towns and their unique character.


Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.



The Town of Fulton Texas at sunset
The Town of Fulton Texas

Here are some additional links to help you explore the area







Catching Huge Black Drum at the Fulton Fishing Pier in Fulton, TX

Updated: Jan 4, 2023




If you are looking for a place to catch some of the most amazing fish in the world then The Fulton Fishing Pier is the perfect spot for you.




Fulton’s pier has been catching some huge black drums lately. People have been coming from all over the state just for this opportunity. The Fulton Fishing Pier has not been disappointing to anyone who has come out! You can’t beat catching one of these big fish at your own leisurely pace on this beautiful pier! Fulton Fishing Pier is one of Fulton’s best places to fish from. Fulton, Texas has been a great spot for fishing in the past and will continue to be a popular destination for fishermen around the state! We get lots of inquiries about the fish and how to catch them from the pier.






Sit back and enjoy some knowledge of how to land one of these “Big Uglies”




Caught on the New Fulton Fishing Pier in Fulton, Texas

To catch a Drum, you need to understand a few things.

For those who may not know this, A black drum is a Saltwater Fish. They can be up to 30 pounds, but some people have caught them with weights over 90! The mouth of this creature has teeth that can crush oysters or shellfish. The Fulton Fishing Pier has been catching some of the biggest black drums around.


You need to know the Black Drum.

Black drum larvae eat mostly zooplankton, and young black drums (less than 12in length) eat worms and small fish. Black drums are mostly bottom feeders, with adults eating mostly mollusks and crabs. In shallow water, they have been reported to feed with their heads down so that their tails show above the water's surface. Their sensitive chin barbels help locate food, and strong pharyngeal teeth crush the shells of these preferred foods. It has been reported that, in captivity, large drums were able to eat more than two commercial-sized oysters per kilogram of body weight each day. This translates into the potential for a 45-pounder to eat 40 oysters a day.



Black Drum of the Texas Gulf Coast

More information about the Black Drum.

Black drums are bottom feeders, so they are mostly caught with bait either on the bottom or suspended within a couple of feet of the bottom. Bottom fishing methods are used both in surf fishing and inshore fishing. Shrimp is a typical bait that works well; squid can also be used and is less subject to bait stealing by hardhead catfish and Atlantic croakers which often frequent the same waters. There are times when the older, larger fish are more readily caught on half or a quarter of a blue crab with the top shell removed and cut or broken to fit on a 4/0 to 9/0 hook. This type of fishing is often combined with chumming, a baiting practice that involves scattering bits of fish parts and blood into the water as an attractant. Sometimes black drums are caught on spoons and jigs.




Black drums are reported to mouth a natural bait, so anglers need to wait a few seconds before setting the hook. Once a big adult drum grabs the bait, it takes off with gusto and can put up quite a fight. An unsecured rod can easily be pulled into the water. Landing these big fish on light tackle can be challenging, and since drums are primarily scent-based feeders, there is a little disadvantage in using heavier lines and tackle. A 40-lb braided line with a comparable weight fluorocarbon leader is a good compromise between castability and strength. However, big drums are frequently caught with everything from 8-lb monofilament to 100-lb braided lines with heavy steel leaders.



An effective strategy for fishing from a boat is to select a spot with a sandy bottom or oyster bed where food is plentiful at a time of day with some tidal movement. Pier or bank fishing should target jetties, structures, or a boat channel near a rapid increase in depth and some tidal movement. With stout tackle, black drums above 10 pounds are relatively easy for children to catch because they are not particularly skittish and do not easily come off once they are hooked. Because a bigger drum can make a long, strong run right after taking the bait, preventing a broken line often requires a relatively light drag setting early in the fight. You’ll also need some sort of drop net to pull these monsters up to the pier. There have been recent reports of people catching up to 11 in one night.



One researcher reported good success with trotline fishing techniques, which he used to catch a large sample of black drums for tagging and scientific study.

Some states, such as Texas (as of summer 2017), allow spearfishing for black drums which often frequent jetties and other near-shore structures.




The Fulton Fishing Pier is located in Fulton Texas and it’s a great spot to catch all types of fish, but Black Drum is one of their best! The pier also offers amenities such as a new snack shop, tackle shop, public restrooms, bait shops, and restaurants within walking distance for those long fishing trips.


Eating Black Drum

Black drums are edible, with a moderate flavor, and are not oily. Some restaurants in the southern US serve smaller black drums. The big drum can be challenging to clean; removing the large scales is a challenge. Many fishermen prefer to fillet with an electric knife, first removing the fillet from along the backbone, and then using the electric knife to cut the fillet from the skin and scales. Fish over 15 pounds can become tough and have a consistency comparable to chicken, rather than the flakey texture of many species of fish. 


Plan a trip to Fulton, Texas

A coastal town in the heart of beautiful Aransas County, Texas. Fulton is a gem of small towns throughout Lone Star State.





Fulton, Texas Waterfront

The Pier is located at Fulton Harbor Park. There are some great hotels, bars, restaurants, and bait shops within walking distance of the pier. You can visit our page on accommodations and book a room or an Airbnb nearby. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, we have plenty of options for camping as well! Come see what all the fuss is about in this small town with big attractions!


We recommend these hotels as they are within walking distance of the pier:



You can search also our entire accommodations map that shows everything available for the area. Some places may even have their own private fishing piers:





Here is the address to the Fulton Fishing Pier.



We are RockportFulton.com your personal guide to everything in the beautiful Aransas County of Texas and we have a lot for you! Be sure to visit our Home Page, where there will be lots more information available on all things local including events going on now or coming soon that might pique your interest as well as fun facts about this area’s rich history, and things to explore.


Here are some helpful links for things around the area


Take a look around Fulton Texas:


Check out some items we have in our shop





Who we are

The RockportFulton.com website is a comprehensive guide to the towns of Rockport and Fulton, Texas. The website provides a wealth of information about the local area, including events, activities, and attractions.



Arial View of the Rockport Texas Waterfront
Rockport Texas USA


Visitors to the website can find information about local festivals, markets, and events, as well as details about local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. The website also features a calendar of events, so visitors can easily plan their trip and make the most of their time in Rockport and Fulton.


In addition to providing information about the local area.


RockportFulton.com is also a great resource for those who are interested in the history and culture of Rockport and Fulton. The website includes articles and photos that highlight the rich history of the towns and their unique character.


Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.



The Town of Fulton Texas at sunset
The Town of Fulton Texas

Here are some additional links to help you explore the area

Thank you for visiting our page:



Fulton Mansion

Updated: Apr 11, 2024

The Fulton Mansion is a state historic site located in Rockport, Texas. It is recognized as one of the most important historical landmarks of its period and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The mansion was built by George Fulton overlooking Aransas Bay in 1874 and finished in 1877. George Fulton was an important figure in establishing Rockport's shipping industry during the late 1800s. The mansion is a classic example of Second Empire-style architecture and has been well preserved over the decades.


Here is an article talking more about it.


The Fulton Mansion State Historic Site
The Fulton Mansion State Historic Site


Visitors to the home today will be transported back in time as they explore this historic landmark. Hear stories about how George Fulton made his fortune, and see rare photos of life inside an affluent family's household during the late 1800s and early 1900s! Located behind the mansion on site is our Education & History Center which features interactive exhibits with hands-on activities for all ages or you can shop at the Fulton Mansions gift shop.





The Fulton Mansion State Historic Site today
The Fulton Mansion State Historic Site today

Fulton Mansion History


In 1840, East Coast entrepreneur George W. Fulton married Harriet Smith, daughter of powerful Republic-era politician Henry Smith. After Harriet’s father died, Fulton turned Harriet’s land inheritance on Aransas Bay into a ranching and meatpacking empire as part of the Coleman-Fulton Pasture Company. During the 1870s, the Fultons made their fortune shipping cattle tallow and hide between Rockport and New Orleans. To symbolize their success, they built a mansion called Oakhurst. The mansion was built over a period of three years, 1874–1877, and was the showplace of the town named for them.


Fulton Mansion historical photo
Oakhurst Fulton Mansion



The Great George Fulton

Fulton was a man of many talents who achieved some success as an engineer and inventor as well as a ranching entrepreneur and promoter of the Texas Gulf Coast. Harriet Smith Fulton was a devoted wife and companion throughout their marriage of more than 50 years, with many talents and skills of her own. Their bayside residence is a classic example of French Second Empire domestic architecture and is also a very personal and innovative dwelling. The historical significance of the house lies in its noteworthy architectural style, unique construction methods, and advanced mechanical systems — which featured gas lighting, central heating, and indoor plumbing with hot and cold running water — and includes the history of the Fulton family who built it and lived in it for 18 years.



Hours Tuesday-Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The last admission to the mansion is at 4 p.m. Open until 8 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. Admission Fees Adults $7 Seniors 65+ $6 5 and under Free Active Duty Military Free Ages 6-18 College Students (with ID) Adult Tour Groups $4 Per Person Family Fee (2 Adults/1 Child or 1 Adult/2 Child) $14 Each additional child is $1 School Groups Reservations required. Please call our Museum Educator (361-729-0386) to make reservations and for pricing on our educational programs.



Give them a call at 361-729-0386


Getting to the Fulton Mansion





We are RockportFulton.com your personal guide to everything in the beautiful Aransas County of Texas and we have a lot for you! Be sure to visit our Home Page, where there will be lots more information available on all things local including events going on now or coming soon that might pique your interest as well as fun facts about this area’s rich history, and things to explore.





Here are some helpful links for things around the area


Check out a few items from our shop







Take a look around the Town of Fulton





Check out our page about the History of Aransas County. It provides additional information about the Fulton Family and the great things they did in Aransas County.


Also, we just added a Post about the Fulton Family Windmill Blade located in an Oak tree behind the mansion...







Early Ranching painting of Aransas County
Early Ranching painting of Aransas County





Fulton Mansion

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