Do I need a permit to park on Port Aransas beach?

Yes, on the stretch the city defines as beach markers 0 through 62. A permit is not required outside that range, but other rules still apply.

How much is a Port Aransas beach parking permit?

$12 per vehicle, valid through December 31 of the year it is bought. Check the city for the current price before you travel.

Is there free parking on Port Aransas beach?

Yes, in two limited areas inside the city: between the South Jetty and Horace Caldwell Pier, and between markers 52 and 58. Both fill early.

Port Aransas beach parking permit

You can drive and park on the beach in Port Aransas, but on most of the city stretch you need a permit on the windshield. Here is what it costs, where to buy one, and exactly which markers it covers.

Which markers need a permit

The city applies the permit to the beach between markers 0 and 62. That is the stretch from the north jetty down past Horace Caldwell Pier. If you are parking anywhere in that range, you need one.

Every marker page on this site tells you whether it sits inside the permit zone. For example marker 20 and marker 52 are inside it; marker 103 is well south of it.

Cost

$12 per vehicle, valid through 31 December of the year you buy it — so a permit bought in December expires within weeks. Prices change; confirm with the City of Port Aransas before you travel.

Where to buy one

Permits are sold at the Welcome Center, City Hall, and a number of local businesses including Lowe's, Ace Hardware, Islander, and participating convenience stores. The city's permit page keeps the current list.

Where parking is free

Two areas inside the city are free, and both fill up early in the day:

Between the South Jetty and Horace Caldwell Pier.
Between marker 52 and marker 58.

Markers where our survey recorded free parking: marker 52.

South of the permit zone

Past marker 62 you leave the Port Aransas permit area, but you are not in a free-for-all: different stretches fall under different authorities, and the far south end has its own rules. See North Padre Island beach markers.

Common questions

Do I need a permit just to walk on the beach?: No. The permit is for parking a vehicle on the beach, not for beach access on foot.
What if I only stop for a few minutes?: The permit applies to parking in the zone regardless of how long you intend to stay. Check the city's current wording if you are unsure.
Which marker am I actually at?: Open the map and tap “Where am I?” — it will name the nearest marker so you can tell whether you are inside the permit zone.