The Portland center point is around 6 miles northeast of USS Lexington Museum on the Bay and 7 miles northeast of Texas State Aquarium.
Unless you're traveling on business, the weather is usually a consideration when planning travel. Portland, Texas is known for its long, hot summers. The average temperature crests 80 degrees in May and doesn't dip below that until late October. The most oppressive month is typically July where temperatures can rise above 90 degrees.
Yet for a city on the Gulf of Mexico, these temperatures are inviting for those looking to enjoy beaches, boating, and other water sports. There are great options for hotels, motels, and AirBnBs but expect to pay a little more during the peak summer months, especially if you want something on the water.
The best part about the warm summers in Portland, Texas is how long they last. With the high temperatures reaching the mid-70s in March, if you are flexible you can find better deals without sacrificing great weather by going in the Spring.
While the temperature remains warm through November, the rainy season sets in around late August and runs through October. If you're looking for a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of your busy life, and don't really like the outdoors, this is an ideal time to get a great rate. Peak rainfall is September where Portland, Texas averages over 7 inches for the month.
Winter is a bit of an oxymoron to those in Portland, Texas. While it does cool off, daytime highs rarely dip below 60 degrees. Nighttime lows rarely dip below 50 degrees. Snow is a curiosity here, seen on television, or if you are lucky enough to visit cooler climates.
This stability of weather makes year-round travel to Portland, Texas appealing to many. You'll definitely find the lowest rates in the winter, with the obvious exception of the holidays. Expect travel to be expensive, and plan early as bookings disappear quickly.
AAA members can get discounts of up to 9 percent off at the Days Inn by Wyndham Portland, and up to 15 percent off at the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Portland. Home2 Suites by Hilton Portland offers a 5 percent discount to members.
Many hotels offer senior citizen discounts as well. Nearby Best Western Ingleside Inn & Suites, and Quality Inn Ingleside offer discounts from 2 percent to 15 percent for seniors.
Hampton Inn & Suites Portland offers a 4 percent discount to retired and active-duty military personnel. They also offer business travelers the same discount. The Days Inn by Wyndham Portland offers a 9 percent discount to military personnel.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites has one of the best business travel discounts in Portland. This business-friendly hotel discounts up to 9 percent off regular rates, and has meeting rooms, a banquet hall, free Wi-Fi, and a fitness facility.
Finding value is important to everyone, whether you are traveling within a budget, or are looking to pamper yourself for the weekend. Getting the proverbial most bang for your buck is the goal. Perhaps the Airbnb realm offers the best values for staying in Portland, Texas.
A Beach Front Oasis Airbnb is a great example. This condominium is right on the beach, sleeps up to six people, and can be had for rates comparable to those at most national hotel brands.
Another great value is the Seaside Bungalow in nearby Corpus Christi. This two-bedroom bungalow is private, located two blocks from Ocean Drive, and features a deck/patio area with grill, and fenced in backyard.
Portland, Texas truly is the Gem of the Gulf Coast. Its beautiful beaches are only the tip of the iceberg of things to enjoy. There is the North Shore Country Club nearby for the avid golfer. If you like boating, there are plenty of charters for fishing, sailboats for pleasure cruising, and even private rentals to take out on your own for water skiing, tubing, and island-hopping.
The pride of Portland, Texas is Sunset Lake Park. This park is a 333-acre protected area with marsh and a saltwater lake full of wildlife. Swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, and bird watching are just a few of the many things to do there.
A trip to Winton's Candy Company will thrill the kids and the kid in you. Winton's is an institution in the Portland, Texas area. Homemade truffles, candies, and more are all found here.
The Texas Aquarium is just across the bridge, and there is the USS Lexington to visit if you like naval military history. For those who appreciate art, there is also the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History to visit, and the Art Museum of South Texas.
No matter the reason that brings you to Portland, Texas, you'll find plenty of reasons to stay. And no matter what your tastes and budget are, there is sure to be a great place to stay.
Below are reviews of the city of Portland, TX from an actual visitor's perspective.
Good stores and eating places close by.
Good food!