Best Western Port Aransas

While motel spaces are often assumed to be characterless, the Best Western Ocean Villa has livened up its lobby with an array of simple, contemporary details. A series of photos depicting blue skies and the rising mast of a sailboat are spread across the wall. A decorative mirror hangs above the area where free coffee, apples, and newspapers are offered. The walls are painted in cool colors -- gray, blue, and beige -- but a scattering of plants give the room a bit more warmth.A few minutes walk from the beach, the venue draws mostly vacationers, though there is a 24-hour business center as well. The motel is essentially no thrills, but offers clean, simple convenience for travelers on a budget.

Port Aransas is the only established town on Mustang Island, one of the longest barrier islands along Texas’ coast, and its main draw is the beach. Conveniently, Best Western Ocean Villa is a few minutes' walk to the water. There are also inexpensive restaurants and shops close by. Other nearby activities include fishing, boating, horseback riding, and golf.

The rooms at the Best Western Ocean Villa are plain but large, with either two queen beds or a king bed, and love seat. Units each come with a table or desk, a mini-fridge, a microwave, and a coffeemaker. There’s also a 37-inch flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi. The wood furniture is simple and may have some nicks, but overall things are well-maintained. Bathrooms each have a separate sink and shower/toilet area and come stocked with Pantene shampoo and conditioner.

The value chain hotel offers free breakfast and Wi-Fi, like most other budget-friendly properties. There’s also free coffee, apples, and local newspapers available in the lobby. The pool is medium-sized and heated, and the barbecue/picnic area offers a gathering space. There’s a 24-hour business center on-site.