Summer is here and the Gulf Coast Capital was born ready. Temps are warming up, the sun is shining down, and there's no shortage of family fun, making Corpus Christi the ultimate weekend destination. And with so many sights to see and places to chill, we're here to give you the rundown on the summer essentials.
1. Beach it up!
A trip to Corpus Christi isn't complete until you've gotten your toes and tires wet! Whether you're looking to roam the beach by vehicle or foot, there's something for everyone. And if you're interested in elevating your adventure, try tent camping along the shore or fishing (no boat required)! You're definitely going to work up an appetite from all of the adventuring, so be sure to check out these yummy places to eat on Padre Island.
2. Dine on the water.
The Gulf Coast Capital loves a beautiful sunset at sea. And when it's paired with a fresh platter of seafood and live music, you know it's going to be a good time! Check out our guide to dining with a view in Corpus Christi. From Downtown Corpus Christi and the Bayfront to Padre Island, there are patios and views for days. If you're looking for an elevated dining experience with waterfront views, check out the Republic of Texas Bar & Grill or The Yardarm. Want something more casual? Coast on over to Marker 37 at Sunset Island and have your choice of Snoopy's or Doc's. If you're downtown, check out the only restaurant in Corpus Christi that floats!
And dinner on the water isn't the only way to have a culinary experience in Corpus Christi. We've got brunch spots for days on those weekend mornings! Try classic diner dishes at Price's Chef, a modern take on brunch at The Post, and a locally loved gem like Hester's Cafe. Check out the Ultimate Brunch Guide here. And if you're looking to go off the beaten path, there are plenty of unique food trucks with yummy, comfort dishes you have to try. For all you taco aficionados, here are 10 of the Ultimate Breakfast Taco Joints in Corpus Christi, including a taqueria that Selena used to be a regular at.
3. Explore murals & art in the city.
Take a free outdoor tour of Corpus Christi through public art! From Loteria artwork to electrical box murals and sculptures, our city is vibrant as ever. And when you take part in the Mural & Art Trail, a free pass, you can earn prizes along the way from the Visitor Info Center. Don't forget to coast over to the Art Museum of South Texas, an architectural gem on the bayfront with renowned work inside. Keep the art tour going with other galleries nearby like K Space Contemporary and the Art Center of Corpus Christi, which have free admission! Each museum and gallery mentioned even has fun shops that feature local art to take home to commemorate your trip.
And if you find yourself in Corpus Christi on the first Friday of the month, ArtWalk is a must-do activity in our city! Downtown comes alive with a multi-street festival filled with live music, art, and all things local.
4. Coast your way through local attractions.
There's something for everyone in Corpus Christi! Whether you're a history buff, animal lover, art enthusiast, or plant lover, we've got what you need in the Gulf Coast Capital. Enjoy nature trails, scenic views, floral gardens, and hands-on activities with animals at the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center. Step back in time at the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay, a WWII aircraft carrier where you can discover naval history, explore the ship, try out a flight simulator, and even do paranormal tours! Learn about South Texas history with live museum actors, a science center, a planetarium, and more at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science & History. And the fun doesn't stop there -- check out the Texas State Aquarium and make friends with animals from the land and sea including dolphins, sea turtles, and flamingos!
Elevate your attractions adventure and get the "Coast Your Own Way" Attractions Pass, which allows you to bundle multiple stops at a special rate! Attractions you can choose from include:
5. Sip your way through South Texas!
Beyond the beach, awesome weather, and outdoor recreation, we've also got impressive craft breweries and we know how to make a mean margarita. Sample some beers designed for Gulf Coast livin' like a Mexican-style lager from Nueces Brewing Co. and the Selena-themed Cerveza de la Flor from Railroad Seafood Station Brewing Co.. And when you participate in the Corpus Christi Beer Trail, you not only try the best local breweries on the coast, but you also earn prizes from the Visitor Info Center!
And if frozen drinks are more your flavor, we've got just the thing for you. The Margarita Pass takes you on a tour of unique margaritas that have a unique South Texas flare. Sip on some of the tangiest, spiciest margs on the Texas Coast like the Mango Chamoy Margarita from Executive Surf Club or The Sexy Mexy from House of Rock. And like the Beer Trail, the Margarita Pass also earns you some sweet prizes from the Visitor Info Center like stickers, tote bags, and even a margarita cocktail kit!
We couldn't end this without mentioning the famous Peach to Bay beer at Rebel Toad Brewing, a limited edition brew to commemorate the Beach to Bay Relay Marathon! It's only released during the summer months, so coast your way over after the race and see what it's all about!
6. Embrace the outdoors with a water sport.
They don't call us the Gulf Coast Capital for nothing! Corpus Christi is your destination for all things outdoor recreation. From surfing to SUP yoga and even glow-in-the-dark kayaking, you can rule the waves in more ways than one on your next trip. If you need a place to start, check out our Guide to Water and Wind Sports in Corpus Christi.
If you're wanting a laidback day setting sail on the sea, check out a number of ways to enjoy the water with a helpful guide and boat rental. If you're looking for an easy way to plan your water adventure, check out our Sun Seekers experience, where you can choose from a select number of experiences like glow-in-the-dark kayaking, SUP yoga, and a cruise along the Corpus Christi Bay.
