The Port Isabel Historical Museum which is housed in the historic Charles Champion building opened its doors in 1997 and chronicles the history of Port Isabel and South Padre Island from the time of the Coahuilitican Indians to the glory days of the Shrimp Industry. This two-story museum showcases artifacts, videos and hands-on displays for a well rounded walk through history. The Historical Museum also houses one of the largest collections of Mexican military artifacts from the U.S. Mexican War in the world.

The Treasures of the Gulf Museum opened in 2000 and is located adjacent to the Historical Museum in the former Merchant Marine Bank building. Treasures interprets the 1554 shipwreck which were excavated in the 1960s, 30 miles from Port Isabel on the Port Mansfield Cut. Silver coins, plates, cannons, murals and a Children’s Discovery area tell the story of the ill-fated fleet that was washed ashore during an April storm in 1554.

The Point Isabel Lighthouse, which was restored to its 1880s appearance in 2000, continues to lure tourists to stroll the 75 steps to the top to enjoy a breathtaking 16 mile view in any direction. Originally constructed in 1852, the Point Isabel Lighthouse has outlived the U.S. Mexican War, the U.S. Civil War, during which time both Union and Confederate forces used the lighthouse as a lookout, and two World Wars before finally undergoing its first restoration in 1952.