Casa Azul › Birding
Birding in Port Aransas, Texas
A 10-minute walk to the birding center
Casa Azul is about half a mile from the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center in Old Town Port Aransas. Walk the boardwalk at sunrise, then come back for coffee on the deck.
The birding center at a glance
Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center, 1356 Ross Ave, part of the Port Aransas Nature Preserve.
- 10-minute walkAbout 0.5 mile from Casa Azul, per Google Maps.
- FreeOpen daily from sunrise to sunset.
- 1,250 ft of boardwalkOver a freshwater marsh, with two shaded observation towers.
- Wednesdays, 9 a.m.Free guided "Birding on the Boardwalk" walks.
- Winter cranesWhooping Crane Festival: February 25–28, 2027.
- No petsDogs stay home for this one; they're welcome at Casa Azul.
What you might see
The marsh draws Roseate Spoonbills, herons, egrets, cormorants, Black-necked Stilts, Least Grebes, Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks and Cinnamon Teal. Hummingbirds and warblers come through during migration.
A trail links the boardwalk to the Nature Preserve at Charlie's Pasture, with another observation tower about three-quarters of a mile away.
Best seasons: spring and fall migration for variety; winter for whooping cranes and quiet mornings.
Why birders stay at Casa Azul
- Walk, don't drive: be on the boardwalk at first light without moving the car.
- Quiet street: a no-outlet street in Old Town, inside the golf cart zone.
- Room to spread out: two 2-bedroom units, or the Full House for up to 12.
- Two full kitchens: pack a breakfast, come back for lunch.
- Winter stays: two weeks or more for $88 a night through February 15, right through crane season.
What guests say
Excerpts from verified guest reviews on Airbnb.
“Thank you for hosting our group! Beautiful home right next to the birding center was perfect for us!”
Unit A · April 2025 · Airbnb
“Jerry’s property is minutes from the beach but we also loved the adjacent to a nature preserve on the bay which was perfect for early morning runs. The area was very quiet in the evenings and very comfortable for sleeping.”
Unit A · October 2024 · Airbnb
“Very clean and comfortable. Quiet, peaceful and private with no traffic. Near nature preserve and fishing pier, which were beautiful.”
Unit B · May 2025 · Airbnb
Birding questions
How far is Casa Azul from the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center?
About half a mile, roughly a 10-minute walk from Casa Azul at 635 Ave I to the birding center at 1356 Ross Ave.
Does the birding center cost anything?
No. The Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center is free and open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Are there guided bird walks in Port Aransas?
Yes. Free guided walks, called Birding on the Boardwalk, start at the birding center on Wednesdays at 9 a.m. They're led by naturalist guides and suit beginners and families.
When is the best time for birding in Port Aransas?
Spring and fall migration bring the most variety, and winter is whooping crane season. The 2027 Whooping Crane Festival runs February 25–28, 2027.
Can I bring my dog to the birding center?
No. Pets aren't allowed in the Port Aransas Nature Preserve, which includes the birding center. Dogs are welcome at Casa Azul, so yours can stay back at the house, crated, while you walk.
Details from Port Aransas Tourism, the 2027 Whooping Crane Festival and the City of Port Aransas Nature Preserve. Hours and tours can change, so check before you go.
Wake up a short walk from the marsh
Book direct with your hosts, Jerry and Adriana, and skip the booking-site fees.
Check your dates