Visit
203 S 11th StPort Aransas, TX 78373About
Summary
Chapel on the Dunes is a historic white chapel located on a sand dune overlooking the Gulf of Mexico in Port Aransas, Texas. Built in 1937 by Aline B. Carter, it serves as a serene and picturesque venue for weddings and events. The chapel is known for its charming architecture and rich history, with interior murals painted by John Patrick Cobb. More about the chapel.
Details
Chapel on the Dunes is a small, white chapel perched on a sand dune in Port Aransas, Texas, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Built in 1937 by Aline B. Carter, a poet and community figure known as the 'White Angel,' the chapel was originally used for Sunday school and community gatherings. Aline commissioned artist Ethel Wilson Harris to construct the chapel, and it was later adorned with biblical murals by John Patrick Cobb in the 1980s. The chapel is now a popular venue for weddings and events, with a maximum capacity of about 24 people. Weddings and events can be booked through the chapel's contact page.
The chapel is not open for regular public worship services but is accessible through guided tours organized by the Port Aransas Museum. Tours are held on the first and third Saturdays of each month, and visitors are encouraged to contact the museum for details. The chapel is surrounded by private residences, and visitors are asked to respect the property and stay on designated paths.
Facilities include a small sanctuary with seating for about 24 people, and the exterior is accessible at all times. The chapel is also home to a small cottage, known as 'Sea Oats Cottage,' which can be rented for stays near the site. More about the chapel's history.
From Faith Near Me
Chapel on the Dunes in Port Aransas, Texas, is a charming historic landmark perched on a sand dune with sweeping Gulf views. Originally built in 1937 as a community gathering space, its interior features biblical murals by John Patrick Cobb, adding to its timeless appeal. While not open for regular worship, the chapel’s serene atmosphere and intimate scale make it a beloved venue for weddings and special events, with guided tours available through the Port Aransas Museum to explore its story.
Pros
- Historic architecture and scenic Gulf of Mexico location
- Intimate venue for weddings and ceremonies with a capacity of 24
- Guided tours offer historical context and are free of charge
- Free parking available for visitors
- Adjacent 'Sea Oats Cottage' available for rental stays
- Exterior accessible at all times for casual visits
Cons
- Not open for regular public worship services
- Tours limited to 1st and 3rd Saturdays, requiring prior reservation
- Interior access may be restricted due to scheduled weddings or events
- Small size may not accommodate larger groups or families
- Visitors must stay on designated paths to respect private residences
- Interior details require advance planning to view (tours or bookings)
Reviews from around the web
Public comments we collected from listing sources. Not written on Faith Near Me.
- Sophia Rogers4 weeks ago
My husband and I got married here in June this year, it was perfect for us! We fit about 24 people in for our cermony, we lucked out as the weather was overcast and not blistering hot. The chapel was so charming and romantic as is that we didn't decorate any of it. The chapel has a very sweet history, built by Miss Aline B Carter there is a museum in town to check out the history of the chapel and island. If you are looking to get up close and personal to the chapel for a few days there is a little cottage at the foot of the dunes called "Sea Oats Cottage." We've stayed a few times and it's always great.
- Golfer3 months ago
We were given a tour by a guide who told the story of the chapel. Initially it was build for a place for kids to come and hear gospel stories and as a chapel, Later it fell in disrepair. Then it was cleaned and repaired. This time the inside walls were painted with stories of the bible. The man who did this did so in a great way. It is beautiful and receives a nice breeze from the coast. Parking is free and no fee to see chapel. However there lotta of weddings in the chapel. Therefore the chapel is sometimes not available to be seen.
- Andrew Sands6 months ago
Interesting story behind this chapel, and interesting place to visit. It seems out of place now that it's surrounded by housing and hotels. But it's a cool story overall.
- Sandra z Rios3 weeks ago
We went the week after the 4th of July, 2026 at sunset. Even though we didn’t get to visit the inside of the chapel. We weren’t disappointed. It’s a must see. When you read the history behind the chapel, it makes you appreciate it a lot more.
- Lara Huey TTa month ago
Cute little chapel but couldn't go inside it was locked.
- Sean Penner3 months ago
Cool little spot to check out, doesn’t take but five minutes to see it.
- Tammy Spence3 years ago
In order to walk and see inside this beautiful Chapel make sure to contact the Port Aransas Museum to reserve your spot the day before the tour as space is limited. Tours are held on the 1st & 3rd Saturdays starting at the museum then moving to the Chapel. The tour is free of charge but I'm sure they would be more than happy to accept a donation if you were so inclined. We were there on a non tour day..... You can visit and wiew the exterior anytime but please be respectful of the property and its neighbors. It is very beautiful and serene, sitting atop a hill.
- Di Leigh3 years ago
We visited this sweet little chapel and it really is tiny. We didn’t get to go inside because we didn’t sign up for the tour but you can see everything through the windows. It is beautiful. This is a must see when visiting this beach city and will only take about five minutes.
- Chris Priebe6 months ago
Picturesque little chapel in the Dunes. Located in Port Aransas
- Brad Collard4 years ago
We visited on a third Saturday of the month between 8:30 and 9:00 AM. I was thinking the tours started at 9:00, but it turns out they start at 9:15. We missed the tour this trip. I will need to plan again soon. If you're going, please stay on the path and do not make your own path for different picture angles. Love this little Chapel on the Dunes.
Services and facilities
Services
- Weddings
- Ceremonies
- Tours
Facilities
- Chapel
- Sea Oats Cottage
- Free Parking
Events and programs
Chapel Tours
1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month
Guided tours starting at the Port Aransas Museum, then moving to the Chapel. Free of charge but require reservation the day before. Tours begin at 9:15 AM.
Connect
- Phone
- 361-240-2291
- Contact page
- Open contact page