Horace Caldwell Pier
Iconic fishing pier in Port Aransas, offering great catches, stunning sunrises/sunsets, and beach access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene sunrises & fewer crowds
Horace Caldwell Pier
Best Time
Serene sunrises & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic fishing pier in Port Aransas, offering great catches, stunning sunrises/sunsets, and beach access.
"Fantastic fishing, beautiful views, and accessible amenities make this pier a must-visit."
🎟️ All-Day Access
Your $3 (adult) hand stamp lasts all day, even into the next morning!
🎣 Bait & Tackle Tips
If live shrimp is out, try thawing frozen bait in water at the fish cleaning station.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pier Fishing Adventures
Horace Caldwell Pier
Cast a line for redfish, flounder, black drum, sharks, and more. A popular spot for both casual anglers and serious fishermen.
Sunrise & Sunset Views
Horace Caldwell Pier
Witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the Gulf. Perfect for a peaceful morning stroll or a romantic evening.
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Surfing & Beach Activities
Adjacent Beach
Catch some waves or simply relax on the sandy shores. The area is a hub for beachgoers and surfers alike.
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Wildlife Watching
Horace Caldwell Pier
Spot pelicans and other coastal birds. Keep an eye out for marine life from the pier's vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pier Access & Fees
Surf vs. Fish Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ All-Day Access
Your $3 (adult) hand stamp lasts all day, even into the next morning!
🎣 Bait & Tackle Tips
If live shrimp is out, try thawing frozen bait in water at the fish cleaning station.
🐚 Seashell Treasures
The area under and near the pier is fantastic for finding seashells.
🧘♀️ Morning Yoga
Join beach yoga sessions by the pier on M/W/F mornings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ All-Day Access
Your $3 (adult) hand stamp lasts all day, even into the next morning!
🎣 Bait & Tackle Tips
If live shrimp is out, try thawing frozen bait in water at the fish cleaning station.
🐚 Seashell Treasures
The area under and near the pier is fantastic for finding seashells.
🧘♀️ Morning Yoga
Join beach yoga sessions by the pier on M/W/F mornings.
🚗 Parking Convenience
Look for the new check-in booth with an open sign for easy access.
♿ Accessible Exploration
The pier is accessible for mobility scooters from the parking lot.
📸 Capture the Moment
Great spot for photos, especially during sunrise and sunset. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Horace Caldwell Pier for its excellent fishing opportunities, diverse catches, and stunning sunrise/sunset views. The pier's accessibility, clean facilities, and friendly staff enhance the experience, though some find the entry fee steep for non-fishing walks. Occasional crowding with surfers can be a minor concern.
"We stayed at the IB Magee campground for the month of April and the pier is a couple hundred feet from the entrance. I have been going to Port -A for years and have had mixed results on the pier, but this year was absolutely fantastic. Caught reds, flounder, black drum, sharks and lots of cool fish. The new check in booth with an open sign you can see from the street is great. The attendants are great. They were friendly and helpful! They ask if you need bait, drinks or a snack and stamp your hand so you can come and go as you need. I’m 63 so I need some reminders! One young man had me take a picture of my stamp in case I sweat it off, which is a great idea! When the bait shops were out of live shrimp and I had to buy frozen the attendant suggested I take it to the fish cleaning station on the pier and run water over it to thaw it out so I wasn’t waiting for it to thaw. After that I would dump the frozen bait in a small bucket of water and never had to fight frozen bait again. I wore a hole in the streets between Island Tackle and the pier. Normally the surfers keep a good distance from your casting range and everyone enjoys the water. This year during Sandfest I had them surfing over my lines and after a hook set a fish came out of the water a couple of feet from a guy. I was reeling in a hard head that came off and dropped between a guys legs who was crossing under the pier right where I was fishing. Be safe and watch out for others who may not be paying attention!"
CB Creative
"Beautiful morning walk down the pier, lots of fishing, and surfers! $3 gets ya in, and hand stamp lasts all day until next morning."
jennifer Blackstone
"Great place to take the family very nice clean restrooms I was able to ride my mobility scooter from the parking lot all the way to the end of the pier no issues I highly recommend"
Mike Rodriguez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Horace Caldwell Pier is located in Port Aransas, Texas. It's easily accessible by car and is a prominent landmark on the island. Many visitors stay at nearby campgrounds like IB Magee, which is just a short walk away.
Yes, there is parking available. A new check-in booth with an open sign makes it easy to find.
Absolutely! If you're staying at places like the IB Magee campground, the pier is just a few hundred feet away, making it a convenient walk.
Port Aransas is accessible via Highway 361. You'll typically drive onto the island, and the pier is a well-known destination once you're there.
While specific public transport routes directly to the pier might be limited, Port Aransas has a free island shuttle service that can help you get around the island. Check local listings for current routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The pier is generally open 24 hours, with a hand stamp allowing re-entry until the next morning.
The entrance fee is $3 per adult and $1 for seniors. This fee grants you all-day access with a hand stamp.
Yes, there is a fee of $3 per adult to walk on the pier, even if you are not fishing.
Yes, your hand stamp allows you to come and go as you please throughout the day and into the next morning.
Seniors receive a discounted rate of $1 for entry. Information on child pricing may vary, so it's best to check on-site.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Activities
Anglers frequently catch redfish, flounder, black drum, sharks, kingfish, Spanish mackerel, and whiting. +3
Yes, the pier is known for king fishing, with some anglers using trolley rigs specifically for this purpose.
While specific rental information isn't detailed, bait and snack services are available on the pier. It's advisable to bring your own gear or check with local bait shops.
Yes, there is a fish cleaning station located on the pier.
Besides fishing, visitors enjoy surfing, beachcombing for seashells, wildlife watching (especially pelicans), and capturing beautiful sunrise and sunset views. +1
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer stunning light for photography. The pier itself and the surrounding beach provide picturesque scenes.
You'll have expansive views of the Gulf of Mexico, the ship channel, and the coastline. It's also a great spot to watch surfers.
The pier's structure, the ocean, and the wildlife like pelicans offer numerous photo opportunities. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly popular.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the Port Aransas tourism office for current drone flying policies in the area.
Yes, the pier is accessible for mobility scooters, allowing for easy photography from various points.
🎫 🏨 Nearby Attractions & Stays
Accommodations range from campgrounds like IB Magee to condos such as The Dunes and Sandcastle Condominiums, offering various views and amenities.
Port Aransas offers beaches, the harbor, jetties, and various water activities. The town itself has shops and restaurants to explore.
While there are attendants who can assist with bait and snacks, dedicated restaurants or shops are not explicitly mentioned on the pier itself. Local bait shops are nearby.
The South Jetty, along with the pier, is a popular spot for fishing and offers a different perspective of the coastline and marine activity.
Yes, events like beach volleyball tournaments have been hosted at the pier, attracting participants and spectators.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Watching pelicans and other seabirds can be a highlight for young nature enthusiasts. The pier's location also offers a safe vantage point to observe surfers, which can be mesmerizing for children. Remember to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, as the Texas sun can be intense. The all-day access with a hand stamp is also a bonus, allowing families to easily pop back to their accommodation or car if needed.
🎣 Anglers & Fishing Enthusiasts
Take advantage of the fish cleaning station on the pier to prepare your catch. If you run out of bait or need supplies, local bait shops are conveniently located nearby. The pier's attendants can also offer helpful advice, such as tips for thawing frozen bait. Remember that the pier is shared with surfers, so practicing good fishing etiquette is crucial to ensure a harmonious experience for everyone.
📸 Photographers & Sunset Chasers
+2Beyond the sky, the pier provides excellent opportunities to photograph marine wildlife, such as pelicans in flight or diving for fish. You can also capture the dynamic action of surfers riding the waves. The pier's accessibility, even with mobility aids, means photographers can set up their shots comfortably. Consider visiting during the week or early mornings to avoid larger crowds and have more freedom to find the perfect composition.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Fishing at Horace Caldwell Pier
For those targeting kingfish, the pier is known to be a good location, with some anglers employing specialized rigs like the trolley rig. Even if you're not an experienced angler, the pier offers a fantastic opportunity to try your hand at fishing. The presence of bait and snack services on the pier, along with nearby bait shops, ensures you can get what you need for a successful outing. Remember to be aware of other visitors, especially surfers, to ensure a safe fishing experience.
The Pier Experience: Beyond Fishing
+2The pier also serves as a hub for beach activities. Surfers often ride the waves near the pier, providing entertainment for onlookers. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, a beautiful morning walk down the pier offers a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and observe coastal wildlife, such as pelicans.
Accessibility and Amenities
For added convenience, a new check-in booth has been implemented, making the entry process smoother. The hand stamp system allows for all-day re-entry, which is particularly helpful for those who wish to leave and return, perhaps to grab supplies or take a break.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit