You'll also find a host of seaside communities, many of which make their living on tourism and travel. Whether you are looking for a family vacation spot, a romantic getaway, or a great place to stay while traveling on business, Portland, Texas is the perfect place.
Portland, Texas is a small town situated on a bluff that overlooks Nueces Bay to the west, and Corpus Christi Bay to the south. Mustang Island stretches across the mouth of Corpus Christi Bay, acting like a natural breakwater for the heavier seas of the Gulf of Mexico.
The original parcel of 640 acres was settled in the early 1800s, and then purchased by John Willacy in 1890. Willacy sold the parcel to investors based in Portland, Maine the following year, and thus the name Portland was given to this Gulf Coast community.
An odd fact about Portland, Texas is that it is nearly the same distance from Portland, Maine (1,854 miles) as it is from Portland, Oregon (1,845 miles). This creates an upside-down isosceles triangle connecting three Portland cities located in the far northeast and northwest corners of the United States to this central southern city in the country.
Portland, Texas has been called the Gem City of the Gulf, and for good reason. Its beautiful location is perfect for the sportsman, fisherman, and those just seeking to relax. The bays are rich with sea life, especially oysters. More oysters have been pulled from these waters than anywhere else along the Texas Coast.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Portland, Texas?
Unless you're traveling on business, the weather is usually a consideration when planning travel. Portland, Texas is known for its long, hot summers. The average temperature crests 80 degrees in May and doesn't dip below that until late October. The most oppressive month is typically July where temperatures can rise above 90 degrees.
Yet for a city on the Gulf of Mexico, these temperatures are inviting for those looking to enjoy beaches, boating, and other water sports. There are great options for hotels, motels, and AirBnBs but expect to pay a little more during the peak summer months, especially if you want something on the water.
The best part about the warm summers in Portland, Texas is how long they last. With the high temperatures reaching the mid-70s in March, if you are flexible you can find better deals without sacrificing great weather by going in the Spring.
While the temperature remains warm through November, the rainy season sets in around late August and runs through October. If you're looking for a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of your busy life, and don't really like the outdoors, this is an ideal time to get a great rate. Peak rainfall is September where Portland, Texas averages over 7 inches for the month.
Winter is a bit of an oxymoron to those in Portland, Texas. While it does cool off, daytime highs rarely dip below 60 degrees. Nighttime lows rarely dip below 50 degrees. Snow is a curiosity here, seen on television, or if you are lucky enough to visit cooler climates.
This stability of weather makes year-round travel to Portland, Texas appealing to many. You'll definitely find the lowest rates in the winter, with the obvious exception of the holidays. Expect travel to be expensive, and plan early as bookings disappear quickly.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Portland, TX:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average nightly cost trends by star rating class in Portland, TX. Analyze these charts to evaluate the most cost effective time to stay in Portland for your upcoming travels.
What Are Some of the Best Hotels in Portland, Texas?
4 Star Average Prices: $147.65
There aren't any luxury brand hotels in Portland, Texas, but that doesn't mean there aren't some great places to stay. Home2 Suites by Hilton Portland is a fantastic hotel with lots of amenities like an outdoor pool, and free breakfast. The hotel earned 4 stars and is located in downtown Portland, minutes from everything.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Portland is another fine option. Located right on US Highway 181 and minutes from everything, this hotel offers all the usual amenities for vacation travelers like free breakfast and an outdoor pool.
If you don't mind staying in nearby Corpus Christi, then the Emerald Beach Hotel is one of the finest around. This hotel is right on the beach, has an indoor pool, a restaurant on-site, as well as, a beach bar, and two lounges.
Enjoy the breakfast buffet before heading to the beach to work on your tan on one of the provided beach loungers. You can cool off with a frozen cocktail at the beach bar, and then head out for a night on the town.
The Omni Corpus Christi Hotel is another high-end hotel, also right on the beach in Corpus Christi. Amenities include an outdoor pool with a poolside bar, steam room, and sauna. Just minutes from Portland, Texas, and downtown Corpus Christi, you can take in all the local attractions from this hotel.
Are There Affordable Hotel Options In Portland, Texas?
3 Star Average Prices: $131.31
The budget-conscious traveler will find a few great options in Portland, Texas. The Motel 6 Portland is probably the best budget-friendly hotel and is located right on Sunset Lake on US Highway 181 right before crossing the bay to Corpus Christi.
Conveniently located to all the beaches, Sunset Lake Park, and other attractions, this hotel offers free Wi-Fi, laundry services, and free RV parking. The hotel also offers tour planning and ticketing services.
Days Inn by Wyndham Portland is another affordable option with more amenities. Located in downtown Portland, Texas on US Highway 181 this hotel features an outdoor pool, free breakfast, and has a 4-star rating.
If you're OK with staying across the bay in Corpus Christi, then the Days Inn by Wyndham Corpus Christi Beach is another fine option. Located on North Beach, you are steps away from the water, and less than three miles from major attractions like the Texas State Aquarium.
