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Updated: Jan 31, 2023

Rockport Texas
Rockport Texas WaterFront


Welcome to Rockport, Texas


Rockport, Texas is a charming coastal city located in Aransas County, about an hour's drive north of Corpus Christi. Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, Rockport is known for its beautiful beach, world-class fishing, Bird Watching, vibrant art community, super fun festivals, and rich history. Established in 1871 Rockport is a small but vibrant city with a population of just over 7,000 people. Despite its size, it has a lot to offer visitors and residents alike.



Rockport Texas Waterfront
Rockport Texas Waterfront

Rockport Texas Welcome Sign

Rockport Texas Welcome sign is shown when you come into the city.



Rockport Beach Park

One of the top attractions in Rockport is Rockport Beach Park, a serene 1-mile stretch of sandy shoreline where visitors can swim, sunbathe, or just relax and watch the waves roll in. The beach is also a popular spot for birdwatching, as the area is home to a variety of migratory and native species. The beach host several bird-watching observatories and several great spots to set up your camera to get great photos of the birds. The beach is open 7 days a week 365 days a year. Rockport beach also has four event centers available for a party, wedding, or corporate event. You can get more information about the beach by visiting our Rockport Beach Park page here. Rockport Beach Park | rockportfulton





Also, be sure to check out our Rockport Beach Live Camera page where you can see what's happening at the beach anytime. Rockport Beach Live Camera | rockportfulton





If you really want to see something cool you might want to check out our Virtual Tour Page. Here you can click on an icon and it will either provide you with more information or take you to another spot check it out here: Virtual Tour | rockportfulton



 

Rockport Texas hosts world-class fishing

known for its world-class fishing, with a variety of saltwater species that can be found in the bay and offshore. The area is home to a number of popular fish species, including redfish, trout, and flounder, as well as larger game fish like Black Drum and sand shark.







There are many different ways to enjoy fishing in Rockport, depending on your preferences and skill level. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of opportunities to fish from the shore, with a number of public piers and fishing docks scattered throughout the town. If you want to go out on the water, there are a variety of fishing charters and guides available that can take you out on a boat and show you the best spots to catch fish.


Here is a list of all the fishing piers throughout the Rockport Fulton area:



Fulton Fishing Pier 2023
Fulton Fishing Pier, Fulton Texas USA

RockportFulton.com has a list of Rockport Texas fishing guides that only have 4-5 star ratings amongst its clients. These are the Top local Rockport Texas fishing guides that are experts in these local waters. Taking a trip with them will guarantee fishing success but also give you some memories to last a lifetime.


Here is a list of all the 4-5 star rated fishing guides throughout the Rockport Fulton area:


Regardless of how you choose to fish, Rockport is an excellent destination for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, you'll find plenty of opportunities to reel in a big one in this coastal town.






 


Bird watching

Bird watching in Rockport, Texas is a popular activity for both locals and tourists alike. Located on the central coast of Texas, Rockport is home to a diverse array of bird species, including pelicans, herons, and egrets. One of the best places to go bird watching in Rockport is the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to the whooping crane, a critically endangered species that makes its home here during the winter months.


Whooping Cranes at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
Rockport Texas Birding

The refuge is also a stopover point for many migratory birds, making it an excellent place to see a variety of species in one location. In addition to the refuge, Rockport Beach Park and the Rockport Harbor are also great spots for bird watching. Pack your binoculars and be on the lookout for colorful species such as roseate spoonbills, painted buntings, and red-winged blackbirds.


Aransas National Wildlife Refuge has been attracting birders and whooping crane enthusiasts alike. The winter season is their time to shine as they offer tours of nesting cranes for anyone interested. Many local bird clubs such as the ARBCA have contributed greatly to preserving unique areas like Connie Hagar Sanctuary where many hummingbirds migrate through on their way south this fall!

Local operators are offering wintertime tours of nesting Whooping Cranes at large wildlife refuge nearby which sits near Aransas Bird and Nature Club that preserves some other reserves including one called “Connie’s Hagar” sanctuary with easy access from migration routes for several species of Hummingbird.



Pelican Pier in Little Bay Rockport Texas
Pelican Pier


If you would like to go see these birds first hand there is a great boating tour that will take you to where they are. Check them out: Rockport Birding and Kayak Adventures | Whooping Crane & Coastal Birding Tours (whoopingcranetour.com)




 

Rockport's Vibrant art community


For those interested in the arts, Rockport is a true gem. The town is home to a thriving creative community, with galleries, studios, and performance spaces scattered throughout the area. The New Rockport Center for the Arts, located in a historic building in the heart of downtown, is a particularly popular destination for artists and art enthusiasts.



New Rockport Center for the Arts Building
New Rockport Center for the Arts Building

This organization hosts a variety of exhibitions, classes, and workshops, making it a great place to learn about and engage with the local art scene. In addition to the Rockport Center for the Arts, there are also many independent galleries and studios that showcase the work of local artists. These spaces often feature exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, and other art forms, and some even offer classes and workshops for those who want to learn more about the creative process. In addition to visual art, Rockport is also home to a number of performance spaces, including theaters and music venues, where visitors can enjoy live performances by local and touring artists. Overall, Rockport is a wonderful destination for anyone interested in the arts, with a wide range of opportunities to engage with and appreciate the creative talent of the community.





 

Rockport Texas's famous Live oaks

Besides the abundant waterfront Large windswept live oaks are a dominating feature of the area and the state’s oldest live oak, “The Big Tree,” resides on the nearby Lamar Peninsula.





The Wind-Swept Live Oaks of Rockport, Texas are another popular natural attraction in the area. These majestic oak trees are known for their gnarled and twisted branches, which are shaped by the strong coastal winds that blow through the region. The trees are found along the coast of Rockport and are a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers. They are a testament to the resilience of nature and the beauty of the natural world.

Rockport Texas Wind Swept Oaks

Wind Swept Oaks dominate the Rockport Texas landscape




 

Rockport Texas Festivals Markets, and Events



Rockport, Texas is home to a number of festivals, markets, and events throughout the year, offering something for everyone. One of the most popular events is the monthly Rockport Fulton Market Days, which is held on every third weekend of each month. The market features a variety of vendors selling handmade crafts, locally grown produce, and other goods, as well as food trucks and live music.



Another popular event in Rockport is the Rockport Fulton Seafair, which is held in October and features a variety of activities, including a parade, live music, and crab races.


The Rockport Art Festival, which is held every first weekend in July, is another must-see event, with over 100 artists exhibiting their work in a variety of mediums.



For those looking for more patriotic festivities, the 4th of July Patriot Boat Parade is a can't-miss event, with boats decorated in red, white, and blue parading through the waters of Rockport.






For a full calendar of events in Rockport, visitors can check out the RockportFulton.com Calendar of events page, which has a comprehensive list of all the festivals, markets, and events happening in the area. Overall, Rockport is a lively and vibrant town with a calendar full of exciting events and activities for visitors and residents alike.




 

RockportFulton.com is your official guide to Rockport Fulton Texas


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.


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.





Here are some additional helpful links while exploring the Rockport Texas area:







.



Updated: Jan 17, 2023


Rockport Texas. has always been known for its great fishing, coastal climate, bird watching, and world-class beaches.  It is also famous for its large iconic Big Blue Crab structures that have watched over its shorelines for the last few decades. This article will explain its history and all about the current structure today. 

Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas
Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas

History of the Big Blue Crab of Rockport, Texas

The famous big blue crab has been a popular tourist attraction in Aransas County since 1957. It all started when Sal Silverman, who owned the Del Mar Grill restaurant with his wife Dorothy, had an idea to build something eye-catching on top of it. They both wanted to create something special that would attract people to the restaurant and give them the edge over other restaurants nearby. Dorothy used locally caught blue crabs to make her signature delicious crab cakes. Not only would people come from far and wide seeking out this legendary dish, but people would stop by just to get a picture taken with the famous giant blue crab.

Original Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas

The crab was 18 X 25 feet wide and 25 feet deep from claw to fin. A company in Houston, which built floats for parades, had it constructed from rebar, fiberglass, chicken wire, and Paper Mache. In 1965, the Grill closed. The next year, the crab was purchased by the Chamber of Commerce to be used in parades and displays to promote the Rockport area. In October 1966, the crab was moved to Navigation Park, which is now Veterans Memorial Park. In 1969, a retired painter from Indiana, Ed Warner, repainted the crab. Tourists and locals loved to have their photographs taken in front of the crab.

Original Big Blue Crab of Rockport, Texas

The Original Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas

The first big crab was finally damaged beyond repair.

The crab survived Hurricane Beulah in 1967 and Hurricane Celia in 1970. But eventually, time took its toll and the crab deteriorated. It was removed and later buried out by Palm Harbor. In the summer of 2004, a committee was formed to “Bring Back the Big Blue Crab.” Money was raised at area events by selling crab-themed merchandise.






There have been talks about having this original crab dug up and having a team of archeologists try and gather some information about the dimensions and colors to have a new one rebuilt as well.

Big Blue Crab #2 was Created

Big Blue Crab # 2 of Rockport Texas

In 2012, local artist David Allgood worked day and night on building a new crab. That August, the crab was installed on Little Bay to the west of the Beach entrance. The crab was one foot bigger than the original one which sat on top of the Del Mar Grill. Folks could once again have their photo taken in front of this famous Rockport icon.

David Allgood With the Big Blue Crab #2 Claws

Assembly of Crab #2 in Rockport Texas

Big Blue Crab #2 of Rockport, Texas

The Iconic structure was huge! People would travel to the area just to look at the crab and to take its picture. Many say this was the greatest of the 3 crabs. 

Crab #2 Destroyed by Hurricane Harvey

Everything in Rockport was thriving and going well for the crab until August 2017 when the area was hit by a devastating category 4 hurricane. Its eyewall went right over Rockport bringing winds well over 150mph. The Great Big Blue Crab could not sustain the force. 

Hurricane Harvey Destroys the Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas

The next morning when officials were out assessing the damage this image emerged and everyone knew that the Great Giant Blue Crab was damaged beyond repair. 


Crab #2 Destroyed by Hurricane Harvey

Damaged Big Blue Crab #2 of Rockport Texas

Big Blue Crab #3 begins.

As the community got well on its way to restoring and cleaning up the damage left from the storm a group was formed and begin plans to have a new Crab Built and set in the place of the old one. The new Crab would need to be built to be able to withstand not only the ravages of time but also to sustain any future storms that may impact the area. Proposals for artists were sent out and a renowned artist named Joe Barrington was selected for the project. 


Joe Barrington artist for the Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas

In November 2017, Winery on the Bay held a fundraiser and silent auction to raise funds for crab #3. About $5,000 was raised at this event. More money was raised selling T-shirts and Crab Merchandise at the Winery. Don Adoff and many others have spearheaded the efforts. Fabrication Began. 

Joe Barrington Working on the Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas Underbelly

Joe Barrington working on the crab structure for Rockport Texas

Joe Barrington welding out the crab Claws for the big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas

The crab arrived in Aransas County on Tuesday, July 27th and installation began on July 28th, 2021. There still needs to be work on the brickwork and the landscaping phase. The world will be able to enjoy the crab from now on. Aransas County residents and all of our visitors miss the crab. The Big Blue Crab will be the centerpiece of our waterfront development. It’s going to be an amazing place for people to come and enjoy themselves

Check out the Video of the Crab's Arrival


The Rockport Fulton big blue crab has finally been installed and completed! The project took 4 years to complete, spanning a concerted effort of many dedicated volunteers. Joe Barrington is the award-winning artist that designed this new landmark sculpture lovingly called “The Big Blue Crab.”

The New crab weighs around 6000 pounds, is made of stainless steel, and has a powder coat that is designed to last for at least 10 years. 

The landmark sculpture stands at a towering height and symbolizes protection for all those who visit.

The Leadership of Keep Aransas County Beautiful, The Aransas County Navigation District, The City of Rockport, Aransas County, and all of those who kept hope alive after Hurricane Harvey. The Big Blue Crab will be a pillar of your love for our community and the people who love RockportFulton.

We would like to recognize the dedicated leaders who brought this project to life. 

the wonderful artist Joe Barrington for taking on this project along with Debbie Hirsch Parker, Rosemary White, Neli Spurrell, Don Aboff, John Aquilino, D’Ann Janysek Williams, Judy Sutterfield, Amanda Sutterfield Wilson, Donna Gregory, Mary Brydon Aquilino, Mark Waters, Malcolm Dieckow, Kerry Mauch Goodall, Sue Bonnar, and Diana Harrington.

Big Blue Crab #3 of Rockport Texas

The restoration efforts continue today

The Big Blue Crab #3 structure is now finished. The sponsor's bricks have been installed. Benches have also been added along with a plaque showing the crab's history as well as some local oyster shells under the new crab.


This big blue crab is located between the Rockport Harbor Festival Grounds and the Little Bay Shoreline about 1 min walking distance of the Rockport Beach Park entrance in Rockport, Texas

Here are the directions for the Big Blue Crab Structure



Thank you for reading. We hope you found it insightful and enjoyable to learn about the Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas. Please be sure to visit our Home page RockportFulton.com for more stories and information

Large Print of the big blue crab of rockport texasCrabs
Large Prints available of the different Crabs


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











Updated: Jan 4, 2023

If you're in need of a weekend adventure, Look no further than Rockport, Texas! From pristine beaches to outdoor activities and delicious restaurants- you can spend your weekend lounging on the beach or exploring new attractions. Let loose on a wide array of outdoor activities or take it easy at one of many cozy lodging options. So come make memories that last forever in beautiful Rockport, TX; where every weekend can be an adventure!

Rockport, Texas is the perfect spot for an ultimate weekend getaway! Spend your days exploring the local shops and boutiques downtown, strolling along the beach, or visiting one of the city's many historical sites and museums. From Fulton Mansion State Historic Site to The Big Tree, Rockport has plenty of history to discover. Take a day trip to Aransas National Wildlife Refuge for some wildlife spotting or Goose Island State Park for camping, kayaking, and fishing. After dark, check out Rockport's thriving nightlife with live music venues and stunning views of the harbor. With its beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and captivating culture, Rockport makes for the perfect weekend getaway destination!


Check out our Calendar of Events page to see what's going on or coming up.



Every Third Weekend of every month we have Rockport Fulton Market Days which features over 100 unique vendors, food, and live music at the Festival Grounds at Rockport Harbor.

Here's a link if you would like to know more about the monthly event or to become a vendor.



The Ultimate Weekend Getaway

With its vibrant coastal communities and stunning Rockport Beach, Rockport, Texas is the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend away with friends or a romantic getaway with your significant other, you’ll find something special. From exciting outdoor activities to delicious seafood restaurants, Rockport, Texas has something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags and plan your trip for the ultimate weekend getaway!



Where to Stay

When wondering where the best place to stay in Rockport and Fulton both have many hotels and Vacation Rentals available. With a variety of waterfront hotels, featuring fishing piers and boat slips, you can enjoy the beauty of the Gulf Coast from the comfort of your own room. For something a little more unique, there are plenty of short-term vacation rentals, including houses and condos, scattered throughout the city that is perfect for any size family or group. Whatever your budget or preferences, Rockport has it all!


Here are a couple of links and a map that stays current with the properties currently available.




What to Do

With so much to do and see, you'll never be bored! Rockport Beach Park is a must-see, with its beautiful white sand beaches and stunning sunsets. If you're looking for some outdoor activities, the Fulton Texas area has plenty of fishing spots where you can cast a line or just relax and enjoy the scenery. For nature lovers, there are plenty of parks with hiking and biking trails to explore. Like we mentioned earlier visit our Calendar of Events Page.




If you're more of an urban explorer, downtown Rockport offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and dining. There's also the Texas Maritime Museum, which features exhibits on the state's maritime history and culture. Rockport vacation rentals are plentiful and perfect for groups of all sizes, so it's easy to find a place to stay while you explore the area. No matter what kind of activity you're interested in, Rockport has something for everyone!



Where to Eat

Visit the Local Restaurants and Bars: Rockport is filled with delicious seafood eateries, as well as fun bars and pubs that serve up craft beers or cocktails. You won't want to miss out on sampling some of the local cuisines while you're there!


When it comes to dining, Rockport TX has something for everyone. With over 40 unique restaurants in the area, you can find the perfect spot for any occasion. From casual to fine dining, there's something for all budgets and tastes. Whether you're looking for fresh local seafood or classic comfort food, you'll find it in Rockport.


Seafood lovers will be happy to know that there is a plethora of restaurants serving up freshly harvested seafood straight from the Gulf. Enjoy a dinner of fish tacos at Charolette Plumbers, savor succulent seafood gumbo at The Boiling Pot, or treat yourself to a classic fried shrimp dinner at Pier 77


No matter what type of cuisine you're craving, you'll find it in Rockport TX. With so many restaurants to choose from, you'll be sure to have a delicious meal each time you visit!



What are you waiting for?

Rockport, Texas is the perfect weekend getaway destination. With its beautiful beach, abundance of outdoor activities, and delicious restaurants, why wouldn't you want to visit? Whether you want to relax and soak up the sun or explore the outdoors, Rockport, Texas has you covered. From cozy accommodations to exciting things to do, Rockport TX is your ideal spot.


Check out our Photo gallery and virtual Tour page to get a better look around at what we have to offer.






Here are some additional helpful links while exploring the Rockport Texas area:







Don't forget to bookmark and check out the Calendar of events page to see what's happening every day. The Calendar gets updated constantly and you don't want to miss out on all the fun.



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

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