Many stately historic homes remain in Rockport's historic downtown and in its adjacent sister-town, Fulton. Today, guests continue to come for the small-town Texas ambiance and delicious seaside dining. Seafood and Texas brisket can be found here in equal measure, making this small town a favorite getaway for foodies.
Proximity to the seaside also attracts water lovers for dockside fishing at Aransas Bay or deep-sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, as well as water sports such as skiing, parasailing, and swimming. Rockport Beach Park is the perfect spot to do it all, from a dip in the saltwater pool, to the boat ramps, ready to facilitate your day on the water. On rainy afternoons, kids love checking out the town's aquarium. If you're up for a party, head over to the Key Allegro Marina, a popular destination for visitors, thanks to its lively atmosphere.
While in Rockport, you must check out the Big Blue Crab, a landmark crab sculpture that is the largest of its kind in the world. Other area attractions can be found in Rockport's downtown, including galleries, shops, and the nearby Fulton Mansion. Families also love to check out the Texas Maritime Museum, a fascinating showcase of Rockport's long-time associations with shipbuilding and fishing industries.
When to Visit Rockport, TX
Though boasting a relatively small population of about 10,000 people, Rockport plays host to numerous festivals each year, including Oysterfest, Rockport-Fulton Seafair, and a wine festival to name a few. The Rockport Art Festival is a highlight, drawing in artists and exhibitors around Fourth of July each year. It's a good time to snag some handmade goods from the creative vendors or try your hand at one of the auctions. The Rockport Film Festival also draws in film aficionados to enter their work into the juried competition each year (or simply to enjoy the screenings).
You can count on a pleasant visit to Rockport, Texas, almost any time of year. The humid subtropical climate guarantees the weather is typically warm, year-long. If you visit in the summer, be prepared for heavy humidity and high temperatures, making summer the perfect season for sunbathers and swimmers. Fall brings some relief in temperature but more risk of hurricane weather. It's a great season for a last-minute trip and balmy weather, provided you check the weather forecast a week ahead.
Each year, Rockport also rings in the holiday season with its Tropical Christmas festival. You won't want to miss a visit with “Tropical Santa,” as well as crafts, the kites over the bay, and a pirate “run for yar treasure” and costume contest. With inflatable games for kids and fireworks at day's end, it's a family-friendly holiday celebration you won't soon forget.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Rockport, TX:
Rockport, TX: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. rate trends by star rating class in Rockport, TX. Browse these charts to determine the best months to stay in Rockport for any future trips.
Luxury Hotel Options in Rockport, TX
La Quinta Inn & Suites Rockport Fulton consistently earns near-perfect marks from its guests for its luxurious accommodations. At first sight of La Quinta's grand outdoor pool and terrace, you may think you have checked into a boutique hotel. Three beach loungers are situated in an unusual shallow end, a fun configuration that puts you right in the action. You can wade in for a cooling dip at any time. On the other end of the kidney-shaped pool, three cabanas await, filled with upholstered seating and decorated with contemporary art.
Inside the hotel, the sleek décor continues to surprise, with punchy yellow, upholstered seating in some guest rooms, silk-like bolster pillows, modern bedding with pillowtop mattresses, and dramatic black and white wallpaper prints. This is a stylish hotel at a bargain price.
The comforts continue to more practical considerations, such as free internet and a fully stocked kitchenette in some rooms, including full-size refrigerators, microwaves, dishwashers, cooktops, and sinks. You can easily cook and eat at your own table in the room. However, don't miss the free, daily hot breakfast downstairs, which includes hot waffles, biscuits and gravy, fresh fruits, and breakfast beverages.
Affordable Hotels in Rockport, TX
3 Star Average Prices: $143.24
Savvy travelers visiting Rockport, Texas, should check into the Motel 6 Rockport Texas. This roadside motel's clean and bright rooms are treated with cheerful blue paint and modern, coordinated bedding. The tile floors keep things tidy, while a microwave and a minifridge make storing snacks convenient. Though wireless internet access costs a minimal fee per day, the savings you'll get from the competitive room rate still make the Motel 6 an excellent choice in Rockport.
If you're looking for a value option with stellar amenities, consider the Quality Inn in Fulton. This hotel is conveniently located away from the main drag of Rockport, yet it is convenient to the sites such as Fulton Mansion and Key Allegro Marina. Guests love the outdoor pool and spa tub, as well as the spacious rooms that allow plenty of room for storing your bikes, lawn chairs, and other beach accessories. A hot and cold buffet, free internet access, and plush beds make this Rockport hotel a steal of a deal.
2 Star Average Prices: $108.49
Where are the real discounts in Rockport
When you want to be close to the beach but also to save money, the Econo Lodge and Suites by the Bay in Rockport is the clear choice. This hotel offers exceptional discounts for everyone, from seniors and military members to AAA members and those checking in for extended stays. This pet-friendly hotel is an ideal place for budget travelers and families who don't want to leave their furry friends behind.
The discounts are certainly not reflected in the amenities or the hotel grounds. Rooms may not be fully renovated, but they are spacious and comfortable. The hotel boasts a charming pool area with plenty of loungers and tree shade. You can also start the day with a hot breakfast of hash browns, pancakes, and sausage, or simply hot coffee and a bowl of cereal. The Econo Lodge and Suites by the Bay is close to the Marina as well as Rockport Beach Park.
Best Value Hotels in Rockport, TX
In the quaint, beachside town of Rockport, you'll find an upscale experience at a value price when you stay at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites Rockport. From the moment you enter this hotel, cheerful patterns of blue and green upholstery, carpeting, and wall treatment will greet you. The upbeat décor is balanced by sophisticated dark wood, making this space both an elegant and a fun retreat for a beach trip.
Despite its swanky appearance and plush upholstery, the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites offers significant value for the money, a quality that will surely appeal to families on vacation. Families love starting the day with a nourishing hot or cold breakfast and coffee downstairs, included in your hotel rate.
The hotel is located close to the beach, and there's a crystal-clear outdoor pool for a convenient dip on site or a few early morning laps. The on-site fitness center will also help you stay on track with a quick workout. Other convenient amenities at this smoke-free property include free wireless internet, an on-site sundries shop, and dry-cleaning and laundry services.
Birding in Rockport, TX
For birding enthusiasts, winter is the best time to visit Rockport. Many birds fly south for the season to this region, beginning in Thanksgiving and through the Christmas season. Hundreds of whooping cranes migrate to the 70,000-acre Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, and you can watch them in action in Rockport from late November through March. Best of all, during this time, the crowds are light and hotel fares decrease during the off-season. During wintertime, you could expect to spot over 100 species on a given day.
In springtime, you could easily spot 200 bird species a day, as the birds migrate to their main habitats. In the summertime, over 100 species nest near the Texas Coastal Bend, including the barrier islands. The best way to see them up close is on a half- or full-day boat tour. With fall comes raptor season in Rockport. Peregrines are just one of the majestic predators you will likely spot, along with an influx of shorebirds and hummingbirds - nearly 200 species in total!
In addition to birding boat tours, you can also travel on foot to the Demo Bird Garden and Wetlands Pond, featuring 19 key stops that highlight bird and plant species. Just a few of the many prime birding sites in the area include the Aransas Pathways Birding Sites, Goose Island State Park, Fennessey Ranch, and Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary.
Whether you come for the sea, the sun, the fishing, or the birding, you're guaranteed to enjoy a good time in Rockport, the best kept secret of the Texas Riviera.