Where to Drink in Port Aransas this Memorial Day Weekend
At Cinnamon Shore, we're pulling out all the stops this Memorial Day as we've created a jam-packed schedule of fun activities for you and your family. However, after spending all day in the sun, nothing sounds more refreshing than an ice cold beer or cocktail. If you’re looking for a place to drink in Port Aransas this Memorial Day, we’ve created a list of our favorite local spots that we’re sure you’ll love.
Shorty's Place
Drink Recommendation: Lone Star...because Texas
Known as “The Island’s Oldest and Friendliest,” Shorty’s is a popular dive bar among the locals. Established in 1946, this bar is known for its friendly staff and patrons as well as their cheap drinks. Each weekend, they have live music which is never short of a good time. This Memorial Weekend, you can enjoy blues music from Antone & the All Stars on Friday, and folk rock from Michael Martin and George Batista on Saturday. So, if you’re looking for a friendly place where you’ll be treated like a local, Shorty’s Place is your spot.
(Photo provided by Matthew Odam's Instagram)
Treasure Island
Drink Recommendation: Moscow Mule
When we asked around the office for everyone’s favorite bars, Treasure Island was the immediate first answer. Tommy and Linda are the two founders and you’ll quickly get to know them on a first name basis as they love getting to know everyone that comes through the door. Simply check out the reviews for Treasure Island, and you’ll quickly notice that everyone comments on the friendly atmosphere and customer service. If you’re drinking with a large party, Treasure Island has plenty of room to house you and your friends as they have both a large inside area and an outdoor patio. They also own several bars connected to the back patio, including The Lounge, The Backyard, and their newest dance club, Pleasure. Pleasure offers VIP seating with bottle service, a dance floor with a live DJ, and a shot bar. If you're not wanting the club scene and are looking for something more upscale, you’ll enjoy the relaxed atmosphere at The Lounge. They have 14 beers on tap, a good selection of wine, and a great cocktail menu. Lastly, if you’re hoping to catch the game or listen to live music, head over to The Backyard, a dog-friendly bar where you can play corn hole, darts, ring toss, and giant jenga. No matter what vibe you're going for, Treasure Island has it all, so make sure you check this place out!
(Photo taken by Yelp reviewer)
The Back Porch
Drink Recommendation: Porch Punch
Looking for a drink with a view? The Back Porch sits on the harbor where you can look out at the water and boats coming in. This bar is dog-friendly (until 8pm) with a laid-back atmosphere and is ideal for those looking to catch up and chill with friends while enjoying a nice view. In the chance you arrive early for Memorial Day, make sure to stop for Wacky Wednesday where you can enjoy incredibly low prices on almost everything. You can also enjoy live music this weekend with Mark McKinney taking the stage on Friday, Larry Joe Taylor on Saturday, and Cruise Control on Sunday. One thing to note is that Back Porch does not sell food, so you’ll have to walk next door to Harbour Lights Catering and Grill and order there. We recommend the Blackened Drum nachos - it’s a Port Aransas staple that is typically devoured within seconds.
(Photo provided by The Bend Magazine's Instagram)
Bluewater Cowboy Saloon & Mercantile
Drink Recommendation: Rebel Rita
Bluewater Cowboy Saloon & Mercantile is a newer establishment in Port Aransas and is already winning the hearts of locals. With three stories, this place has lots to offer with a mercantile on the first floor, a restaurant on the second, and a bar on the third - giving you a great view over the water. As with the other local bars in the area, you can expect excellent service from a friendly staff. So, if you’re looking to grab dinner and then drinks afterwards, head over to Bluewater Cowboy where you can kill two birds with one stone.
(Photo provided by Bluewater Cowboy's Facebook page)
Bernie's Beach House
Drink Recommendation: Anything on their happy hour - $1 Draft Beer, $2 Domestic Bottles/Wells, $3-4 Select Liquors, $5 All Bombs until 7PM - Everyday
As “Port A’s Hottest Night Spot and Coolest Day Spot,” Bernie’s Beach House has an excellent happy hour until 7pm everyday. The atmosphere is quite lively, and if you’re up for Jukebox and Karaoke until the early morning hours, Bernie’s is your spot. They also have a live DJ, a dance floor, outdoor seating, and plenty of parking. So hop in your golf cart and head down to Bernie’s for a guaranteed good time.
(Photo provided by Lauren Brockwell's Instagram)
C Bar
Drink Recommendation: Lazy Lemonade
If you’re staying at Cinnamon Shore but aren’t wanting to drive out, walk over to C Bar which is located right next to Kiera’s Pool. Here you can enjoy a bite to eat and a refreshing drink while watching your little one’s play in the pool. If you’re a sports fan, head inside where you can catch the score of the game. C Bar is open daily from 11am - 8pm and often has live music in the evenings.
Lisabella's
Drink Recommendation: Wine
Although Lisabella’s is known to have some of the best food on the island, they also have an impressive drink menu if you’re looking to grab a drink within Cinnamon Shore. Given the coastal upscale atmosphere, we typically lean towards ordering a glass of wine as they have a really great selection. If you happen to get the munchies while drinking, you’re in the perfect place, because nothing on the menu disappoints. For those with a sweet tooth - we recommend the carrot cake, it’s to die for!
La Playa Mexican Grille
Drink Recommendation: House Margarita
Again, this place is more of a restaurant than a bar, but with over 70+ tequilas, how can this not be an option? And with complimentary chips and salsa, La Playa should be at the top of your list of places to visit while in Port Aransas. In our opinion, their margaritas are the best in the city and are so refreshing after spending all day in the sun. One important thing to note is that this is a CASH ONLY restaurant, so plan ahead before putting in an order. They are also only open between 5pm-9pm, so make sure you fit them into your schedule!
The Gaff
Drink Recommendation: $8 Pitcher of beer
Looking for a pirate-themed dive bar with incredible pizza? Head over to The Gaff where you’ll be greeted with an incredibly friendly staff. You won’t find any hard liquor on their menu as they only serve wine and beer - which both pair great with pizza. The Gaff is also home of the belt sander races. Not sure what that is? Join them this Saturday for the event and you’ll be in for a treat.
(Photo provided by The Gaff's Facebook page)
As you can see, Port Aransas has a wide variety of places to relax with a nice, cool beverage in hand. By getting out into the town, you’re helping local businesses thrive. Despite Hurricane Harvey's destruction through our city, the people of this town are resilient and haven’t let Harvey get the best of them, which is why it’s great for out-of-town guests to continually visit Port Aransas as we continue to rebuild. Anyone of these establishments will bring you a guaranteed good time, so grab your friends, head into town, and make some memories!
Published on Thursday, May 24, 2018