Port Isabel, Historic Port Isabel, the “Point” of the Laguna Madre Bay, land of history, legend and lore was originally inhabited by the Coahilitecan Indians prior to European settlements. This quaint fishing village’s strategic location, once having a 25-foot bluff in the area where the Point Isabel Lighthouse now stands, was a natural lookout for viewing both the Laguna Madre Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. This natural formation was instrumental in the settlement and development of this area.

Today, Port Isabel is a thriving community with many unique shops, restaurants, historic hotels, and museums that make up this historic and colorful area. Spend a day discovering Port Isabel, and take advantage of the many places that are within walking distance of each other. We hope you enjoy your visit to Port Isabel.

If your vacation plans bring you to the Laguna Madre area during the winter months, check out the World Championship Shrimp Cook-Off in November and the Longest Causeway Run held in January. The Shrimp Cook-Off features dozens of amateur and professional chef teams competing for the title of “World Champion”. Thousands of spectators’ line up to taste competing recipes of delicious Texas gulf shrimp. The Longest Causeway Run is a 6.2 miles race that starts in Port Isabel and takes participants across the Queen Isabella Causeway and ends on South Padre Island. There is also a 3 mile wellness walk which provides a casual stroll across the Causeway.