As one of Texas’s most beloved gulf-coast cities, Corpus Christi boasts pristine sun-soaked beaches, sparkling turquoise water, playful dolphins, and surfing, sailing, or horseback riding on the beach.
This unique destination has six islands, nine beaches, and over 100 miles of sandy shores. From the 70 miles of Padre Island National Seashore and the protected Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtles to the Texas State Aquarium with sharks, dolphins, and stingrays, you can plunge into an inspiring adventure to entertain your whole family.
Getting To Corpus Christi
Getting to Corpus Christi from the DFW metroplex is an hour-and-a-half flight or a six-hour drive down I-35W through San Antonio and connecting via I-37 to Corpus Christi.
Things To Do in Corpus Christi
The city prides itself on fresh, delectable seafood and lively Hispanic heritage festivals. It is considered the “birdiest” city with 357 species of birds and is home to dark skies for star gazing and eclipses.
Catch a seasonal baseball game at Whataburger Field, home of the Hooks, a Double-A Texas League affiliate to the Houston Astros. The ballpark resides on land once utilized by cotton warehouses at the Port of Corpus Christi. Check out a game in any seat in the stadium. Our group watched the Hooks play the Frisco Roughriders inside the luxurious Gulf Coast Capital Suite. There’s nothing better than a baseball game hotdog with a cold brew!
From learning to catch your first wave to perfecting your surfboard technique, Texas Surf Camps shows you the thrill of surfing while connecting with the laid-back coastal lifestyle that makes Corpus Christi a true surfing destination.
If riding the waves is not your style, ride calm, majestic horses along the beach at Horses On The Beach for experienced riders or beginners. My horse Jac was lustrous and sure-footed. Our trip took us through the deeply carved trails in the sand dunes to the beach, where waves gently kissed the shore. After my ride, I gave Jac a good scratch around his withers and told him I appreciated his hard work.
Back on the water and perfect for all skill levels, GlowRow Kayaking offers a mesmerizing aquatic adventure as you glide along the serene bay waters under a magical moon. Enjoy the otherworldly glow of special glow-in-the-dark kayaks and illuminated paddles. The kayaks are transparent, so the neon lights glow brightly.
If art is your thing, engage with the dynamic art community when you explore the Art Museum of South Texas. You’ll see exhibitions like Remembering the West, De La Torre Brothers Art Glass, and the Spanish Colonial Gallery of Art.
For a modern art experience, tour the K Space Contemporary, a non-profit organization dedicated to presenting and promoting contemporary art. Experience thought-provoking art exhibitions by local and international artists. Review coastal arts, engage with the dynamic art community, and explore diverse perspectives while enjoying this captivating cultural art space.
Visit the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay, called “The Blue Ghost,” the last remaining World War II Essex Class aircraft carrier. The Flight Deck tour is wheelchair accessible and includes a closeup view of twenty historic aircraft. Explore the Flight Simulator, which is a launch from a carrier involving a “Top Gun” flight. A bit of trivia: The USS Lexington Museum is as tall as a 19-story building and as long as three New York City blocks!
For a one-of-a-kind jaunt around downtown — Hop aboard the Blue Shore Pedal Lounge for memorable fun as you peddle the streets of downtown Corpus Christi pub- hopping with closeup views of the colorful street art.
Grab a Bite to Eat
Love fish? Get fresh Gulf shrimp, assorted fish, steak, and salad specialties at Doc’s Seafood & Steaks Restaurant on the waterfront with the best sunsets on the island. My favorite is the coastal bacon-wrapped shrimp. For oysters, get the Oysters Rockefeller topped with spinach, bacon, and Parmesan cheese.
A unique dining experience, Dokyo Dauntaun, in the heart of downtown Corpus Christi, is a neo-Asian-inspired eatery famous for sushi, teriyaki bowls, bento boxes, and Korean short rib quesadillas.
Taste Mediterranean-inspired coastal artistic cuisine at Elizabeth’s in the Art Museum, surrounded by gorgeous harbor views. Order shared plates of eggplant caponata, Margherita flatbread, bacon-wrapped dates with goat cheese filling, a charcuterie plate, and more.
A Cool Place to Stay
In the heart of downtown, the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel sits across the street from the bay front and boasts spectacular views from every room. Relax in the sun loungers at the outdoor pool, access the sauna and steam room, and the 24-hour workout facility.
Plus, there are excellent dining choices inside the hotel — Have breakfast at the Glass Pavilion Restaurant; savor a chef-made three-egg omelet with all the trimmings, fruit, pastries, hot coffee, and juice. Consider the Republic of Texas Bar and Grill on the rooftop for a lovely dinner, offering delicious steak and seafood entrees. Be sure to make a reservation to dine at the Republic of Texas Bar and Grill.
A Joyful Holiday Event
If you want a quick weekend getaway and a unique holiday experience, visit Corpus Christi for the city’s illuminated boat parade on December 2. The Bay will sparkle with dozens of decorated and lit water vessels of all shapes and sizes! After the parade, stroll along the seawall and enjoy food trucks, pop-up vendors, and more.
Where: Corpus Christi Downtown Seawall
When: Saturday, December 2 | Boat Line-up 7 PM | Boat Parade: 7:30 PM
Cost: FREE
Web: CLICK HERE for more information
Did You Know?
- Actresses Farah Fawcett and Eva Longoria, and world champion wake surfer Ashley Kidd were born in Corpus Christi.
- The Laguna Madre is one of only six hypersaline lagoons in the world! What that means is the water is saltier than the oceans, which makes it easier to float.
