Did you know San Jose Island is one of Texas’ last undeveloped barrier islands, with 98% of its 21 km (13 mi) of pristine coastline untouched by commercial development? This hidden gem, affectionately known as “St. Jo” by locals, offers a rare glimpse into what the Texas Gulf Coast looked like before development. Just a short ferry ride from Port Aransas, this privately-owned sanctuary provides visitors with unspoiled beaches, world-class shelling, and remarkable wildlife viewing opportunities that can’t be found anywhere else in Texas.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
San Jose Island is accessible only by boat, with no bridges connecting it to the mainland. The most common way to reach the island is via the Jetty Boat, a passenger ferry that departs from Fisherman’s Wharf in Port Aransas. The ferry operates daily (weather permitting) and takes approximately 10-15 minutes to cross the ship channel.
Jetty Boat Information
- Round-trip fare: $20 for adults (13+), $10 for children (6-12), free for children 5 and under
- Operating hours vary by season (typically 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM in summer, shorter hours in winter)
- No reservations required – first come, first served
- Check the latest schedule before planning your trip
Nearest Airports
The closest airport to San Jose Island is Corpus Christi International Airport (CRP), approximately 45 minutes from Port Aransas. Larger airports include San Antonio International (SAT) and Austin-Bergstrom International (AUS), both within a 3-4 hour drive.
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Best Time to Visit San Jose Island
Recommended Seasons
Spring (March-May)
Perhaps the ideal time to visit with temperatures ranging from 18-26°C (65-80°F). The water begins warming up, wildflowers bloom, and migratory birds pass through. Spring break (March) can bring more visitors to the area.
Fall (September-November)
Another excellent time with temperatures gradually cooling from 29°C to 21°C (85°F to 70°F). The water remains warm enough for swimming, and crowds diminish after Labor Day. Fall also brings excellent fishing opportunities.
Seasons to Avoid
Summer (June-August)
While popular, summer brings temperatures of 32-35°C (90-95°F) with high humidity. The island has no shade structures, making heat exposure a concern. This is also hurricane season, with peak storm activity in August and September.
Winter (December-February)
Temperatures can be unpredictable, ranging from 10-21°C (50-70°F). Cold fronts can bring chilly winds and rough waters that may interrupt ferry service. However, winter offers excellent birding as many species winter in the area.
Weather Tip: Always check the forecast before your visit. The island has no shelter, so inclement weather can make your trip uncomfortable or even dangerous. The Jetty Boat may cancel service during high winds or storms.
Getting Around Locally
San Jose Island is completely undeveloped with no roads, facilities, or vehicles. All exploration is done on foot, and visitors must stay on the beach below the mean high tide line since the interior of the island is private property.
Transportation Options
- Walking: The only way to explore the island. The beach stretches for 21 km (13 mi), though most visitors stay within 1-3 km of the ferry landing.
- No Vehicles: Unlike nearby Mustang Island, no cars, ATVs, or even bicycles are permitted on San Jose Island.
- Private Boats: Visitors with their own boats can anchor offshore, but must still respect private property boundaries.
Need Transportation to Port Aransas?
Rent a car to reach Port Aransas and the Jetty Boat departure point at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Where to Stay
San Jose Island has no accommodations as it’s an undeveloped private island where overnight stays are not permitted. All visitors must return to Port Aransas on the last Jetty Boat of the day. Fortunately, nearby Port Aransas offers numerous lodging options just a short ferry ride away.
Recommended Lodging in Port Aransas
Beachfront Resorts
Full-service properties with pools, restaurants, and direct beach access. Perfect for families wanting amenities after a day exploring San Jose Island.
Vacation Rentals
Condos and beach houses offering kitchen facilities and more space. Ideal for longer stays or groups planning multiple trips to San Jose Island.
Boutique Inns
Smaller, charming properties with personalized service. Great for couples or those seeking a more intimate lodging experience.
Find Your Perfect Port Aransas Stay
Browse accommodations in Port Aransas to serve as your base for exploring San Jose Island.
Dining & Local Cuisine
There are no dining facilities on San Jose Island, so visitors must bring all food and drinks needed for their day trip. However, Port Aransas offers excellent dining options before and after your island adventure.
What to Pack for Your Island Picnic
- Water: Bring more than you think you’ll need (at least 1 liter per person per hour in summer)
- Portable Food: Sandwiches, wraps, fruit, and snacks that won’t spoil in the heat
- Cooler: A small, lightweight cooler to keep food and drinks cold
- Trash Bags: The island has a strict pack-in, pack-out policy
Port Aransas Dining Highlights
After your island adventure, Port Aransas offers numerous dining options specializing in fresh Gulf seafood. Local specialties include:
- Fresh-caught red snapper, redfish, and flounder
- Gulf shrimp prepared in countless ways
- Oysters (in season from November to April)
- Texas-style seafood gumbo
- Fish tacos with house-made salsas
- Key lime pie and other coastal desserts
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
San Jose Island offers pristine natural attractions rather than commercial developments. The island’s untouched beauty is its main draw, with activities centered around enjoying its natural resources.
Top Activities on San Jose Island
World-Class Shelling
The island’s undeveloped beaches are renowned for excellent shell collecting. Look for lightning whelks (Texas state shell), sand dollars, angel wings, and countless other varieties. Early morning after high tide offers the best finds.
Fishing
The North Jetty offers exceptional fishing opportunities. Common catches include redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and Spanish mackerel. A valid Texas fishing license is required, and size/bag limits apply.
Beachcombing
Beyond shells, the island’s shoreline reveals fascinating treasures including driftwood, sea beans (seeds that float across the ocean), and occasionally sea glass or other marine curiosities.
Enhance Your Island Experience
Book guided fishing trips, nature tours, or birding excursions to make the most of your San Jose Island visit.
Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Wildlife Viewing
San Jose Island’s protected status makes it a haven for wildlife. The island sits on the Central Flyway migration route, making it an exceptional destination for birding enthusiasts.
Birds to Watch For
- Shorebirds: Sanderlings, willets, ruddy turnstones, and plovers
- Wading Birds: Roseate spoonbills, great blue herons, and egrets
- Seabirds: Brown pelicans, laughing gulls, and terns
- Seasonal Migrants: Various warblers and other songbirds during spring and fall migrations
Natural Features
Tidal Pools
Explore the fascinating miniature ecosystems in tidal pools along the shoreline. These natural aquariums often contain small crabs, sea anemones, tiny fish, and other marine creatures.
Dune Systems
While visitors must stay below the high tide line, you can observe the island’s natural dune systems from the beach. These critical habitats protect the island’s interior and provide homes for numerous plant and animal species.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Important: San Jose Island is privately owned. Visitors must remain on the beach below the mean high tide line. The interior of the island is strictly off-limits.
Safety Considerations
- No Facilities: The island has no restrooms, shelters, fresh water, or emergency services
- Sun Protection: Bring ample sunscreen, hats, and lightweight covering clothing
- Hydration: Pack more water than you think you’ll need
- Tide Awareness: Check tide schedules and be aware of changing water levels
- Marine Life: Watch for jellyfish, stingrays, and other potentially harmful creatures
Environmental Etiquette
- Pack In, Pack Out: Take all trash with you when you leave
- Shell Ethically: Take only empty shells and leave live creatures
- Respect Wildlife: Observe birds and other animals from a distance
- Stay on Beach: Do not venture into dunes or island interior
- No Fires: Open fires are not permitted on the island
Explore More Texas Coastal Destinations
Consider a cruise to experience more of the beautiful Texas Gulf Coast.
Practical Travel Tips
Essential Packing List
- Water: At least 2 liters per person
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, light cover-up
- Food: Enough for your entire stay plus extra
- Footwear: Water shoes or sturdy sandals
- First Aid: Basic kit with bandages and pain relievers
- Bags: For collecting shells and packing out trash
- Binoculars: For wildlife viewing
- Camera: To capture the natural beauty
- Beach Umbrella: For shade (there is none on the island)
- Cash: For Jetty Boat fare (credit cards accepted but cash is faster)
Ferry Planning Tips
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before scheduled departure, especially in summer
- Check the return schedule and don’t miss the last boat (typically around 6:00 PM in summer)
- Verify the Jetty Boat is running before heading to Fisherman’s Wharf (weather cancellations happen)
- Consider weekday visits to avoid weekend crowds, especially during summer
Experience Texas’ Hidden Coastal Treasure
San Jose Island offers a rare opportunity to experience the Texas Gulf Coast in its natural, undeveloped state. Unlike more commercialized beach destinations, this pristine barrier island rewards visitors with solitude, natural beauty, and the simple pleasures of beachcombing, wildlife watching, and connecting with nature.
Whether you’re collecting prized seashells along its untouched shoreline, casting a line from the North Jetty, or simply enjoying the peaceful rhythm of waves on sand, San Jose Island provides an authentic coastal experience that’s increasingly hard to find. Just remember to come prepared, respect the island’s private status, and leave no trace of your visit so this special place remains pristine for generations to come.
Ready to explore Texas’ hidden coastal gem? Grab your sunscreen, pack your water bottle, and prepare for an unforgettable day trip to one of the last wild islands on the Gulf Coast!
Start Planning Your San Jose Island Adventure
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