How to Spend A Weekend in Corpus Christi

Summer is in full swing, and Corpus Christi is the place to be. From beach days to family-friendly attractions, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your weekend. Whether you’re here to explore or just kick back, we’ve got your guide to the season’s must-do experiences.

Visit The Beach

No trip to Corpus Christi is complete without hitting the sand, whether you’re driving on the beach or strolling along the shore. Corpus Christi offers over 80 miles of beaches along the Gulf of Mexico and Corpus Christi Bay, making it a top destination on the Texas coast. Explore a range of beach experiences, from calm, family-friendly spots in Downtown Corpus Christi to surf-ready waves on Padre Island and Mustang Island. Whether you're looking to relax or seek adventure, there's a beach for everyone. Make the most of your coastal getaway by enhancing your experience. Try tent camping right on the shoreline or enjoy some shoreline fishing. After a full day of sun and saltwater, wind down at one of the many laid-back local spots to eat on Padre Island.

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 Pier or Doc's Seafood &Steaks.

Explore street art

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, 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.

Visit 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 the 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, or 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 Corpus Christi Attractions Pass, which allows you to bundle multiple stops at a special rate!

Sip your way through the Gulf Coast Capital

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. 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. Like the Beer Trail, the Margarita Pass also earns you some great prizes!

Try a new water sport

Looking to try something new on the water? Corpus Christi offers ideal conditions year-round for a wide range of water sports. Whether you’re gliding across the water on a stand-up paddleboard, catching wind on a sail or a wing, or paddling through quiet coastal trails in a kayak, there’s something for every skill level. Several local businesses offer lessons and guided experiences, making it easy to dive into a new adventure.

And if all the fun doesn't fit into one weekend, we welcome you to coast on over for years to come. Stay connected to us online by following us on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook! And be sure to tag us and #SeeCC in your Gulf Coast adventures during your stay.