Welcome to Rockport Beach!
Rockport Beach is a beautiful coastal beach located in Rockport, Texas. It is the perfect location for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing with family and friends.
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What makes us unique is our shallow waters, which are perfect for swimmers of all ages who want to enjoy the ocean without getting too deep. Come and take a break from your busy day to day life and enjoy the beauty of Rockport Beach.
Rockport Beach is a Blue Wave Beach. This means our Beach is litter free, has handicap accessibility, public restroom facilities and swimmable waters. There are only three other Blue Wave Beaches on Texas’ Gulf Coast.
Hours
Sunday-Thursday
6am - 11pm
Friday & Saturday
6am - Midnight
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee to enter the Rockport Beach?
Yes, there is a $10 daily or $40 annual vehicle parking fee. Residents of Aransas County can purchase annual parking permits with proof of residency at the ACND office for $20 (M-F from 8am to 4:30pm). There is no charge to enter by foot or bicycle.
What do I need to prove my Aransas County residency?
We accept an up-to-date driver's license, ID or any other documentation (e.g. utility bill showing your current Aransas County address). We will also accept documentation from the Aransas County Appraisal District showing your address. For RV Park residents staying in Aransas County, we require documentation (e.g. letter or receipt) showing you have been staying at that location for six (6) months and longer.
I am a disabled veteran do I receive a discounted annual parking permit for Rockport Beach?
​Yes, you qualify for a maximum of two free annual parking permits per person with proof of associated paperwork showing your status. All disabled veterans including non-resident qualify for two free annual parking permits. These permits can be obtained from the ACND office (M-F from 8am to 4:30pm). We do offer a curbside service for those with limited mobility, please call 361 729 6661 for assistance.
​I am a disabled veterans surviving spouse do I receive a discounted annual parking permit for Rockport Beach?
​Yes, you qualify for a maximum of two free annual parking permits per person with proof of associated paperwork showing your status. All disabled veterans’ surviving spouses including non-resident qualify for two free annual parking permits. These permits can be obtained from the ACND office (M-F from 8am to 4:30pm). We do offer a curbside service for those with limited mobility, please call 361 729 6661 for assistance.
Can I buy a residents annual parking permit at the Rockport Beach Booth?
​No, staff are required to verify proof of residency at the time of purchase. This takes extra time and causes traffic to back up at the booths during peak months. To help relieve traffic congestion all residents are asked to purchase their residents parking permits at the ACND office (M-F from 8am to 4:30pm).
Can my family member buy my residents annual parking permit for me?
Yes, as long as you or your assigned family members are a resident of Aransas County and can provide proof then our staff will work with you during the purchasing process.​
When I brought my permit sticker, I received a white replacement receipt. What is the receipt for, and do I need to keep it?
Yes, please keep the receipt so you can get a replacement permit. The white receipt or yearly parking permit receipt is for anyone who has had to change their vehicle or windshield during the year. You are entitled during the same year of purchase to one free replacement permit.
Can I drive on the beach?
No, all vehicles must stay in designated driving/parking areas.
Are dogs (animals) permitted in the Rockport Beach?
No, we're sorry, but dogs are not permitted inside the beach, since it is a bird sanctuary. However, dogs are permitted on a leash at a small beach area just outside the entrance to the Rockport Beach.
Do you allow bonfires on the beach?
No, there are no open flames of any kind allowed. This includes Chinese/Friendship Lanterns!
Is there a location for picnicking?
Yes, there are 65 individual picnic sites spread throughout Rockport Beach. Each site has a covered picnic table with a barbecue grill. These sites are first come/first served.
Do you allow fireworks?
No, fireworks of any kind are NOT allowed, even when there is no burn ban in effect.
Is there a playground for children?
Yes, there are several playground/swing sites along the beachfront.
Is overnight camping permitted inside the Rockport Beach?
No, overnight camping is not permitted on the Rockport Beach.
Are we allowed to bring tents/EZ ups?
Yes, while we don't allow overnight camping you may bring tents/EZ ups to set up for shade.
Is fishing permitted inside the Rockport Beach?
Yes, fishing is permitted just about anywhere, including a popular 800-foot pier at the North end of the beach. Two off-limit fishing sites are the boat dock and the Saltwater pool.
Is sailing permitted?
Yes and no! Wind powered watercraft are not permitted in Little Bay, which is often congested with water skiers and jet ski's during the summer months. However, sail boats, sail boarding, and other wind powered activities are permitted on the Aransas Bay side of the Beach.
Rockport Beach is a certified Blue Wave Beach
Texas Beach Watch is a program funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and administered by the Texas General Land Office to monitor water quality at Texas' recreational beaches.
When bacteria levels in the water exceed the acceptable standards established by the EPA, the GLO works with local governments to issue advisories warning the public not to swim in affected waters.
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The Clean Beaches Coalition (CBC) is a network of coastal organizations and individuals committed to promoting clean, healthy, and well managed beaches around the world.