Photo: Albert Amor / CC0 via Wikimedia Commons (representative Gulf shorebird)
The undeveloped barrier island across the channel
San Jose Island
An undeveloped private island reachable only by the jetty boat — empty beaches, great shelling and fishing, and no facilities at all.
Verified 05/22/20261 min read“The closest thing to a desert-island day you can have before lunch — pack everything, the island has nothing.”
Where to stay nearby
Similar spots
Lydia Ann Lighthouse
One of the oldest lighthouses on the Texas coast — reachable only by water, and an easy highlight of any Port Aransas boat tour.
Mustang Island State Park
A Texas state park with five miles of natural Gulf beach, camping and a paddling trail — the wild, uncrowded side of Mustang Island.
Port A South Jetty
The Port A South Jetty is a wonderful spot for fishing or for simply taking in your surroundings and appreciating the magnificent view and diverse wildlife.