Discovering the Coastal Charm of Corpus Christi: Your Guide to Sun, Sand and Seafood Delights

• Relax on the Beaches: Spend a day soaking up the sun and enjoying the sandy shores of Corpus Christi's beautiful beaches, including North Beach, Mustang Island State Park and Padre Island National Seashore.

• Visit the Texas State Aquarium: Explore the wonders of the Gulf of Mexico at the Texas State Aquarium, where you can encounter marine life from sharks and stingrays to dolphins and sea turtles through interactive exhibits and educational programs.

• Tour the USS Lexington Museum: Step aboard the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay, a historic aircraft carrier-turned-museum and explore exhibits showcasing naval aviation history, vintage aircraft and artifacts from World War II.

• Stroll along the Corpus Christi Bayfront: Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Corpus Christi Bayfront, where you can enjoy scenic views of the bay, visit waterfront parks and discover public art installations and statues.

• Explore the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center: Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center, featuring lush gardens, walking trails and diverse plant collections from around the world.

• Discover the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History: Delve into the history and culture of Corpus Christi at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, where you can explore exhibits on South Texas heritage, natural history and science.

• Take a Dolphin Watching Tour: Embark on a dolphin-watching tour in the waters of Corpus Christi Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, where you can observe playful dolphins in their natural habitat and learn about marine life from knowledgeable guides.

• Go Fishing: Cast a line and enjoy world-class fishing opportunities in Corpus Christi, known for its abundant fisheries and diverse marine habitats. Whether you're fishing from a shore, pier or boat, you're sure to reel in a memorable catch.

• Enjoy Water Sports: Try your hand at water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing and kiteboarding in Corpus Christi's bay waters and coastal areas, where you can enjoy scenic views and exhilarating adventures on the water.

• Attend a Live Music Performance: Experience the vibrant music scene of Corpus Christi by attending a live performance at local venues, bars, and restaurants showcasing talented musicians and bands playing a variety of genres from country and rock to blues and Tejano.

• Visit the Art Museum of South Texas: Explore the Art Museum of South Texas, located along the Corpus Christi Bayfront, and admire a diverse collection of contemporary art, regional artists and rotating exhibitions that celebrate the cultural heritage of South Texas.

• Indulge in Gulf Coast Cuisine: Savor the flavors of the Gulf Coast at Corpus Christi's many seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh catches like shrimp, oysters and fish prepared in deliciously inventive dishes that reflect the city's coastal culture and culinary traditions.

Day Trips:

• Padre Island National Seashore (Approximately a one-hour drive): Escape to the pristine shores of Padre Island National Seashore, the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world. Spend the day relaxing on sandy beaches, swimming in the Gulf of Mexico and exploring coastal dunes and tidal flats. Hike along nature trails, go birdwatching or embark on a sea turtle hatchling release tour for a memorable outdoor adventure.

• Rockport-Fulton (Approximately a 45-minute drive): Discover the charming coastal towns of Rockport and Fulton, located along the shores of Aransas Bay. Explore historic downtown districts filled with art galleries, boutiques and seafood restaurants. Visit the Rockport Beach Park for swimming, fishing and birdwatching, or take a boat tour to spot dolphins and explore nearby barrier islands like San Jose Island and St. Charles Bay.

• Port Aransas (Approximately a 45-minute drive and ferry ride): Embark on a scenic drive to Port Aransas, a laid-back beach town on Mustang Island. Take the free ferry ride across the Corpus Christi Ship Channel for panoramic views of the bay and skyline. Once in Port Aransas, enjoy beachcombing, surfing, fishing and dolphin watching along miles of sandy coastline. Explore local attractions like the Port Aransas Nature Preserve, the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center and the Port Aransas Museum for a taste of coastal life and natural beauty.

• Water Street Oyster Bar: Indulge in fresh seafood and Gulf Coast specialties at Water Street Oyster Bar, known for its oysters on-the half-shell, shrimp cocktail and seafood platters served in a casual waterfront setting.

• Harrison's Landing: Enjoy waterfront dining at Harrison's Landing, where you can savor seafood classics, burgers and Tex-Mex dishes while taking in panoramic views of Corpus Christi Bay from the outdoor patio.

• The Post at Lamar Park: Experience upscale dining at The Post at Lamar Park, featuring a seasonal menu of contemporary American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, craft cocktails and an extensive wine list.

• Republic of Texas Bar & Grill: Dine atop the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel at Republic of Texas Bar & Grill, offering fine dining with breathtaking views of the bay. Enjoy steakhouse classics, fresh seafood and signature cocktails in an elegant atmosphere.

• Andy's Kitchen: Start your day with breakfast or brunch at Andy's Kitchen, a beloved local diner known for its hearty portions of classic comfort food, including omelets, pancakes and biscuits with gravy.

• Yardarm Restaurant: Dine on the waterfront at Yardarm Restaurant, a casual eatery offering seafood, steaks and burgers in a laid-back atmosphere with outdoor seating overlooking the marina.

• Brewster Street Ice House: Experience live music and Texas-style barbecue at Brewster Street Ice House, a popular venue featuring smoked meats, burgers and cold drinks served in a vibrant setting with indoor and outdoor stages.

• Catfish Charlie's: Feast on Southern-style seafood at Catfish Charlie's, where you can enjoy all-you-can-eat catfish, hushpuppies and sides in a family-friendly atmosphere with rustic decor.

• Luciano's Italian Restaurant: Indulge in classic Italian cuisine at Luciano's Italian Restaurant, known for its homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas and traditional dishes like chicken marsala and eggplant parmesan.