Visit Port Arthur for abundant culture, birding and beaching, as well as fantastic Port Arthur hotels, restaurants and entertainment. Lake Sabine and the Gulf of Mexico coast connect this amazing city. Their beaches are surrounded by nothing but nature, for miles and miles. Port Arthur has fishing holes for fresh and salt water anglers and Mardi Gras is always a catch away. Taste their Cajun flavor, lose yourself in the dramatic Port Arthur history, and absorb all the natural beauty that the city of Port Arthur has to share. Port Arthur Texas Travel offers wetlands and Gulf beaches, salt and fresh water fishing and a comfortable year-round climate that is perfect to enjoy Sea Rim State Park, a completely natural beach. Experience their strong Cajun and other cultural influences through cuisine and music.
Port Arthur offers wetlands and Gulf beaches, salt and fresh water fishing and a comfortable year-round climate that is perfect to enjoy Sea Rim State Park, a completely natural beach. Read Port Arthur Texas Travel, for everything you need to plan your trip! You can also visit our Best Beaches in Texas page for an in-depth look at all the great Texas Beaches.
Weather (When to Go)
Average temperatures in Port Arthur vary greatly. Port Arthur’s coldest month is January when the average temperature overnight is 43°F. In August, the warmest month, the average day time temperature rises to 92°F. The busiest months in Port Arthur is April thru June. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance.
Port Arthur Attractions
Sea Rim State Park
Sea Rim State ParkSea Rim State Park has 5.2 miles of Gulf shoreline and 4,000 acres of marshlands. At this park, you can camp, go birding and beach combing, paddle in a canoe or kayak, swim, fish, hunt (in season) and walk. Stroll along the Gambusia Nature Trail, a boardwalk through the marsh. Experience the coast from a kayak or canoe. Bring your own or rent one at the park. Visit Sea Rim State Park for more information.
Sabine Pass Battleground
Sabine Pass BattlegroundThe 58-acre site highlights the story of Confederate Lt. Richard “Dick” Dowling and his 46 men thwarting an attempted Union attack on Sabine Pass, a primary Texas port for Confederate shipments of supplies and vital to the war effort. In a battle lasting less than an hour, Dowling and his men destroyed two gunboats, resulting in significant casualties and the capture of nearly 350 prisoners. Thanks to their efforts, area ports escaped capture and Union forces never penetrated the Texas interior. Visit Sabine Pass Battleground for more information.
Pleasure Island
Pleasure IslandThere are lots of outdoor activities on Pleasure Island and the surrounding waters of the Intracoastal Waterway and Sabine Lake. They include sailing, boating, fishing, crabbing, hiking, biking, birding, disc golfing, tent camping, and picnicking. Several parks are located on Pleasure Island. Lakefront Park attracts locals for picnics, volleyball, basketball, and sunning. Fun Island Depot provides fun for children of all ages. Visit Pleasure Island for more information.
Museum of the Gulf Coast
Museum of the Gulf CoastOnly in Port Arthur would you find a replica of Janis Joplin’s psychedelic Porsche featured just a few feet away from a 13-foot taxidermied alligator. That’s exactly what you’ll find at the Museum of the Gulf Coast, a 39,000 square-foot museum that features exhibits covering everything from Port Arthur’s history to its influences on pop culture. Visit Museum of the Gulf Coast for more information.
Veteran’s Memorial Park & Bridge
Veteran’s Memorial Park & BridgeThe Veterans Memorial Bridge, has 143 feet navigational clearance, and its claim to fame is that it is the only cable-stayed bridge built on a Texas highway. The park’s walls bear the names from Orange and Jefferson county’s living and deceased veterans from the Spanish American War to Desert Storm. The Tower of Honor contains the names of local soldiers Killed in Action/Missing in Action.
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Things to Do in Port Arthur
Sharp’s Canoe & Kayak Rental
Canoeing or kayaking along the twenty-one plus miles of paddling trails is a great way to spend the day, or enjoy an overnight stay. There is something for everyone of all ages and experience levels. Trips can range anywhere from two hours to all day. It’s up to you. Telephone: 409-385-6241 Web: Sharp’s Canoe & Kayak Rental
Captain Randy’s Guide Service
When fishing with Capt. Randy and his crew all you need to bring is food, sun block and your choice of clothing depending on the weather. Capt. Randy provides all of the poles, reels and bait needed for the entire Lake Sabine Fishing Trip. Capt. After catching the limit, you’ll go home with your fish cleaned, prepared and packaged so all you have to do is cook them just the way you like it. Telephone: 409-719-6067 Web: Captain Randy’s Guide Service
Coastal Outfitters Guide Service
Capt. Steve Davis has been fishing the Sabine Lake area for over 30 years and has the experience and know how to give you an affordable, enjoyable Sabine Lake fishing excursion. Capt. Steve runs a 24′ Skeeter center console with the latest equipment and electronics, guaranteeing you and your party will be safe and comfortable on your Sabine Lake fishing trip. Telephone: 409-460-1220 Web: Coastal Outfitters Guide Service
Best Port Arthur Restaurants
El Viejo Tony Mexican Bar & Grill $11 – 30
El Viejo Tony is a Mexican grill serving delicious Mexican food, including the best fajitas and margarita drink specials in Port Arthur, TX. They’re open seven days a week, and provide a great atmosphere for the whole family! Their family recipes and excellent service will give you a dining experience you won’t find at any other Mexican restaurant. Stop by for lunch or dinner and you’ll find treats and drinks that everyone in the family can enjoy. Telephone: 409-853-1301 Web: El Viejo Tony Mexican Bar & Grill.
Miss B’s Take Out $11 – 30
Miss B’s is a fresh, alternative to fast food. Making homemade daily plate lunches, just the way you like it. Making the freshest sandwiches with deli meat sliced daily on site, as well as slow cooked beef & pork. They have the best Chef Salads around, with your choice of chicken breast, ham, roast beef, turkey or a combination of meats. Telephone: 409-300-4044 Web: Miss B’s Take Out.
Big Boi’s Crawfish Hole $11 – 30
Big Boi’s Crawfish Hole specializes in delectable Cajun & Soul Food dishes. They bring authentic Cajun flavor to Port Arthur, TX, as all of their dishes are made from family recipes handed down from generation to generation. They believe that flavor is king, and that’s why all of their dishes are made with the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. They can guarantee that you’ll never leave us feeling hungry, and they look forward to giving you a taste of Louisiana real soon. Telephone: 409-853-1098 Web: Big Boi’s Crawfish Hole
Tony’s Barbecue & Steak House $11 – 30
Texas style, Texas tasty! Try some of their tasty, slow-cooked BBQ and steaks – they´re got the flavor to savor! Their entire menu is based on fresh, quality ingredients. They slow-cook their pork ribs and brisket over South Texas hickory for 12 hours – and they serve only high-quality, never frozen Ribeye and T-bone steaks, too. See why their family owned business stands out from the rest of the BBQ crowd! Telephone: 409-984-5444 Web: Tony’s Barbecue & Steak House.
Sartin’s Seafood $11 – 30
The Bar B Q crabs are what they are famous for! They also offer an array of non seafood items such as Grilled Chicken, Steaks and Chicken Fried Steaks. Gumbo is also available from just a cup to gallons. Telephone: 409-721-9420 Web: Sartin’s Seafood.
Best Port Arthur Bars & Nightlife
The Budain Hut
Some just call them “The Hut”…your local “Cheers” with great food and live bands 5 nights weekly. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner in a laid back, kick your feet up atmosphere. Stop on by…you’ll be glad you did! Telephone: 409-962-5079 Web: The Budain Hut.
Luke’s Ice House
Huge place with a huge outside patio. Lots of options of bar games. The jalapeño burger is straight awesome! The patio when the weather is good has plenty of TV’s and music. They will never let your drinks get low! Telephone: 409-729-2665 Web: Luke’s Ice House.
King’s Cuestick
Kings Cuestick is a local, hangout and dive bar extreme. It is a great venue if what you want is great drinks, loud and hip music, and a great crowd. Bar service is super and Mac, the owner is a “one of a kind original”. There is pool here as it was in the past and a pool and a pool tournament weekly. IF you are looking for a good time, you should not pass this place up! Telephone: 409-722-8899 Web: King’s Cuestick
Top Port Arthur Texas Hotels
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Beaumont Port Arthur
Free WiFi and an outdoor pool are featured at this Port Arthur hotel. The Medical Center of Southeast Texas is 1 miles away. A mini-market and 24-hour reception are among the conveniences offered at TownePlace Suites by Marriott Beaumont Port Arthur. There is also a fitness center, where guests can exercise. For more information, pricing, or to reserve your room, visit TownePlace Suites by Marriott Beaumont Port Arthur.
Holiday Inn Port Arthur Park Central
This hotel is just 10 minutes’ drive from Jack Brooks Regional Airport. Free Wi-Fi and an outdoor pool are included. A fitness center is accessible for guests to exercise during their stay. The business centre at Port Arthur Holiday Inn provides computers, fax, and photocopy services. Metro Grill, the on-site restaurant, serves American cuisine for breakfast and dinner. Manhattan Lounge offers light meals and drinks every evening. For more information, pricing, or to reserve your room, visit Holiday Inn Port Arthur Park Central.
Hampton Inn & Suites Port Arthur
The Hampton Inn and Suites Port Arthur hotel is close to big companies, including Valero, Chevron Phillips, and The Medical Center of Southeast Texas. It has a fitness center, outdoor pool, business center, and meeting room. Each hotel room and suite has a clean and fresh Hampton bed, free high-speed internet and WiFi, and 32-inch flat screen TV. Enjoy a full hot breakfast served complimentary daily.
Days Inn & Suites Port Arthur
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Port Arthur is an excellent choice for travelers visiting Port Arthur, offering a family-friendly environment alongside many helpful amenities designed to enhance your stay. Guest rooms offer amenities such as a kitchenette, a refrigerator, and air conditioning, and guests can go online with free wifi offered by the hotel. The property also boasts a fitness center, to help make your stay more enjoyable.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Port Arthur
With convenient access to the highway, our hotel is the ideal location for your extended stay in Port Arthur, TX. We are within walking distance to restaurants and shopping. Our All-suite rooms include a separate kitchen, living and sleeping areas. Enjoy free breakfast with hot and healthy options. Unwind in the outdoor pool or lounge around the firepit or have a cookout on the patio.
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I enjoyed reading this post. Great places in Texas. I lived along the Gulf Coast when I attended college. Thanks for are the valuable information about weather, restaurants, and recreation. I think I would pick going to Sea Rim State Park as well as Pleasure Island. Texas, here we come!–someday.
I lived in Texas for 10 years and absolutely loved it. I miss it actually, and might end up back there some day. Sea Rim State Park and Pleasure Island are both wonderful! You will have a wonderful time! Thanks for stopping by Robert and reading Port Arthur Texas Travel!
Hey.
Great article! Very detailed and helpful. When is the best time to visit Port Arthur? I was also wondering if there are any local car rental companies to get in touch with, besides the ‘standard’ ones at the airport?
How about ATV, scooter and bike rentals? I would love to see a map or something, to guide me whiel hiking or cycling around.
Luka
Depends on what you plan on doing 🙂 Weather is great year round, not really going below 60 degrees. However, the water is going to be a bit chilly during the winter months. So if you want to swim in the ocean too, I’d stick to May thru September. You know, I totally forgot to add the car rental companies. Please visit my post again shortly ( I will correct today) for car rental companies. You know, I do not know of any RV, Scooter or bike rentals in Port Arthur. I am going to do some digging and calling and I will let you know what I find 🙂 Thanks for visiting!
I used to live in Texas and unfortunately never saw this beach. It’s gorgeous, if ever I make it down there again, I’m certainly checking this place out. Great water, excellent sites to visit and a history to love. Thank you for this travel review, keep up the good work.
Thank you Nathan! I can’t believe you lived here and never say a Texas beach! You definitely missed out 🙂 I love it here, so many things to see and so many things to do!
Hey Mattysmom, great job on the site. its clean and precise. it is very easy to navigate for the reader and it give me a sense of peace. it is also very informative and interesting. i am looking forward to reading your next post. I have never been to Texas but this makes me want to visit. keep up the good work.
Thank you so much Travis and yes, you will want to visit Texas! Great place with so much 🙂
Hi,
seems like Port Arthur is a fine place with lots of room to relax and enjoy nature. When I was to Washington State, I had to buy a license to go fishing, so it is surprising to me that you don´t need one in the park.
When I think of Texas, I most often imagine a lot of desert, but I have never been there…. thank you for the informative article about Port Arthur.
You are most welcome Fabi! I am glad I changed your impression of Texas. We are definitely not mostly desert 🙂
Hi Leahrae,
Those are great survival tips to save up a chunk of money! I love to travel mainly because I love to experience a different culture from different parts of the world but most importantly, I love photography! Kind of going hand-in-hand with travelling. To be frank, I didn’t know Texas has such beautiful stretch of beach (I seriously have a different picture in my mind!). Your introduction of beaches in Texas altered my “places to visit” list! Thank you for sharing!
Cheers,
Jen
You are very welcome Jen. Yes, I get that a lot about Texas. We are on the Gulf coast 🙂 which makes for a great beach location. Thanks for visiting the Texas Beaches Jen.
Texas is such a diverse state and Port Arthur is often overlooked. But the rich gulf coast fauna and flora, excellent Cajun eating, superb fishing and birdwatching make Port Arthur and coastal southeast Texas a great place to visit, especially in the winter months when the temperatures are very nice. As a special aside, Texas is known for it alligators and the biggest Texas gators are located in the Port Arthur area!
That is very true Mike! I did not want to mention the alligators. But they are a plenty at Sea Rim Park. No need to go to Florida if that is what you are looking for 🙂
You gave me a homework! To visit those places! I love it and I have never been in Port of St.Arthur. I am from Serbia (the country in Eastern Europe)I used to be a crew member for the CCL and visited many beautiful places.. I hope I will have a chance to get to this city.
I only had a chance to sea Galveston as I was disembarking at the end of one of my contracts.
So Texas – my next destination!
Thanks for the review!
Best,
Sunny
Galveston is close, but no comparison. Port Arthur has a lot more charm and southern feel to it. It has a lot to see and then of course you have the Sea Rim Park for beaches 🙂 Port Arthur Texas can’t be beat!
You wrote a very informative post on why we should visit Texas! Especially the sun shining city of Port Arthur, TX. I have got to go see it soon. I have always wondered what it would be like living on the gulf of Texas. I hear the weather is mostly warm, sunny and gorgeous there. Not to mention the abundant fishing 🙂
I’d have the say the weather is darn near perfect, in my opinion. I have lived in cold and will never go back to it. And yes, you can fish to your hearts content on the gulf. Thanks for reading about Port Arthur Texas!
Port Arthur! That’s interesting! Vacation beaches, and relax! My first thought for a holiday in the past will be Mexico, Dominican or Hawaii. What I find on your site is a mix of relaxing adventure and discovery. That is what I am looking for, and I am sure most of the people is looking for this type of holiday. I put Port Arthur on my list. One more thing. I am never Ben in Texas before. What is your recommendation for bucking my trip?
I find the lowest airfares on CheapO Air. It also depends on where you live. Frontier, American, and Spirit appear to have the best rate into Texas. However, I am not a fan of Spirit (will not fly them) or Frontier. American and Southwest are both great! Of course this is under the assumption you are in the U.S. 🙂 Thanks for reading all about Port Arthur!
Sounds like a fun place to be with such a diversity of possibilities. Something for everyone. During reading several questions came to mind, but after I finished the article all those had been answered, as you covered it all.
I am living in Thailand and here we also are not short of beaches. Maybe you can do an article on them and when I can be of help, just ask.
I plan on it Jerry and I will ask for your help 🙂 First hand information is always the best! Thanks for reading about Texas beaches in Port Arthur!
Hi there Mattysmom, I love the beach, any beach for that matter, I wish I could go right now, your site makes me want to start packing.
You have pretty much all the information one would need to make the trip to beaches and tons of fun.
I know I for one would not think of making parking arrangements and if the destination is a busy as most beaches that I have been to, you are so right to suggest this aspect. I also like that there are so many flight options.
The next time I have a chance to go I will consider these options.
Good Luck to you in all that you strive for,
Wanda!
Thank you so much Wanda for visiting and your thoughtful comments 🙂 I too love the beach, almost any beach. So providing this information to other like me, is quite enjoyable. I am glad you enjoyed reading and thanks for stopping in to Port Arthur, Texas!
Hi there, this place sounds absolutely stunning. The climate, the surroundings the scenery all sound so idylic and perfect for a romantic getaway.
You mention the hottest day and the coolest day. Are they really that specific that they are the same day every year, 10th August and the 11th January, or is this just a guide? Thanks
It’s just a guide Paula 🙂 An average over the years. And you are right, Port Arthur has a LOT going for it. Wonderful spot to visit in Texas!
Hi Leahrae,
You wrote a truly outstanding article promoting all that is available in the city of Port Arthur, TX. The city so close to the Louisiana border has that Cajun flavor as you stated and has so many, many other diverse activities sure to please everyone.
As I love history I know that if ever in the city I would pay a visit to the Sabine Battle Underpass where that Civil War engagement between the Union and Confederate soldiers took place.
The city also has a variety of restaurants and nightlife/club options available in addition to the Cajun food I mentioned above coming from Louisiana culture.
In visiting Texas previously a few times I went to Dallas and also El Paso as I knew friends 20 years ago who lived in that city.
To be honest I had never heard of Port Arthur before reading this excellent article. It just goes to show the incredibly diverse amount of cities and culture available to visitors in the large state of Texas!
Thanks for writing this article Leahrae!
Jeff
You are very welcome Jeff. Port Arthur is a very fun and diverse place to visit. A Texas gem for sure. Thank you for reading about Port Arthur Texas Travel 🙂