F.R.
L.:
Our family has an annual beach trip in Port Aransas every summer. I can only speak from experience. We normally stay at Port Royal. The pool area is beautiful and very large. (what I would call several adjoining pools and water slides. Your eight yr old would love it! Covered tables and lounge chairs and music on certain nights. Also it is very convenient to the beach. They have shuffleboard, tennis courts, hot tubs and close to Port Aransas should you wish to shop and dine. We have been very pleased and enjoy this annually. My children have been since they were babies. Now 11, 7 and 3. Pack lots of sunscreen, beach buckets and tools and dvd's and books for the children to enjoy. They will provide you with a playpen for your 2 year old. I have packed crib sheets and blankets before. The rooms provide washer/dryer and kitchen area. Make your meals ahead of time so you don't spend it cooking. Each of our families take turns making a breakfast and a dinner for a day. Pack favorite snacks & drinks. Take a portable cooler for the beach and some type of umbrella for coverage on the beach if you plan on staying several hours. Also mosquito spray to be on the safe side for the evenings (expecially if you play shuffleboard-located near grass.) Hope this helps. Hope you have a blast!!
F.