If you’ve spent time on Corpus Christi beaches, chances are you’ve spotted jellyfish washed ashore or floating in the water. While many of these sea creatures are fascinating to look at, some can deliver painful stings if touched. Jellyfish season along the Texas coast typically begins in May and can continue through the summer months. Knowing which species you may encounter and how to respond if you’re stung can help keep your beach day safe and enjoyable. Jace Tunnell, Director of Community Engagement at the Harte Research Institute at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, shares insight into some of the most common jellyfish found along Gulf and Bay beaches near Corpus Christi, along with tips on what to do if you encounter one.

Portuguese Man O' War

If you see a vibrant blue or purple bottle-like creature floating above the Gulf beach waters, steer clear. This is most likely a Portuguese Man O’ War. It's striking to look at, but not something you want to get close to. This species of jellyfish has long, venomous tentacles that can extend to about 90 feet long, and deliver a painful sting, even when washed ashore, so maintain a safe distance. They show up during the spring and are here throughout the summer. When the winds are strong, the Man O’ War gets pushed onshore, so keep an eye out for them there, as well, since they do still sting onshore.  

If you happen to get stung by a Portuguese Man O’ War:
  • Do not try to rub the tentacles off. Once they are on you, if you move them around, they become agitated and begin to spread more. 
  • Instead, pick the tentacles up slowly and remove them from your skin. This is difficult, but the safest method. 
  • Rub vinegar on the stung area to neutralize stinging cells, followed by warm water to soothe the affected area.
  • Pain will last for about 3 hours and will remain tender for several hours.
  • These care techniques will work on other jellyfish stings, as well. 
If someone has difficulty breathing or their face starts to swell, immediately call 911. In the summertime, there are lifeguards present that can contact medics or 911.  
 
Pro tip: 

Keep a small bottle of vinegar as part of your beachgoing kit just to be safe. You never know when you’re going to encounter a jellyfish.   

 

Sea Nettles

This species has a translucent, bell-shaped body that can grow up to 12 inches in diameter. It is reddish-brown in color and has long, trailing tentacles. Its sting can cause a painful rash, but overall, it is not dangerous to humans.  When they wash ashore, they look like a clear puddle.   

Cabbage Head

Its dome shaped, compact bell that resembles a cabbage is 10 inches in diameter and makes this species easily identifiable. This jellyfish is relatively harmless to humans, with a mild sting that is barely noticeable. You may notice these washed ashore quite often, especially on beaches with cooler water.    

Blue Buttons

Blue Buttons are small jellyfish with a striking bright blue and turquoise design that makes them easy to spot. Their central disc is surrounded by delicate tentacles, and while they do have a mild sting, they are generally harmless to humans. These jellyfish are typically found floating on the ocean’s surface and may appear along Corpus Christi beaches during the spring months, usually from late February through June. 

 

By the Wind Sailors

By the Wind Sailors are small, oval-shaped blue floats that feature a triangular sail, which allows them to glide across the water’s surface with the wind. Usually about three inches long, they are not dangerous to humans and their sting is too weak to penetrate human skin. However, strong winds can push large numbers of them ashore, where they may sometimes be found scattered across the beach. They most commonly appear along the Texas coast in spring, from late February through June. 

 

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