From Rockport and Aransas Pass to Mustang Island, more adventures are all around Coastal Bend. Kayaking is a popular, user-friendly sport for just about everyone to get out on the water. Certified by the American Canoe Association and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Coastal Bend Kayaking offers beginner, intermediate, and advanced-level paddles along with refresher courses and parent-child kayaking and fishing classes. Located in Aransas Pass, Coastal Bend Kayaking provides kayaking expeditions in multiple areas, including Corpus Christi, the Lighthouse Lakes, Mustang Island State Park’s Paddling Trail, and the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.

Kayaking Services in Corpus Christi:

• Glow Row
• Nature Trails Kayaking
• Coastal Bend Kayaking

On a sunny day with a southeast sea breeze blowing across the Gulf of Mexico, a choppy surf makes prime conditions along the South Texas Coast for novices and surf addicts alike. Head to North Packery Beach (JP Luby) for a memorable surfing experience, and if you don't have a board, head to Wind and Wave for the largest selection of surfboards and accessories in the Corpus Christi area. If you’ve longed to learn how to surf, Padre Island Surf Camp and Texas Surf Camps offer private lessons, full-day courses, and 5-day camps. Before hitting the waves, take a crash course on basic surfing safety.

If you prefer a larger vessel, set sail from Harrison’s Landing on Japonica, a bay tour sailing excursion. The Yachting Center offers many packages, including private party cruises, dolphin watching, full moon cruises, and sunset cruises near the Harbor Bridge. The center is open every day except Sundays. Also located in the heart of the marina area is Fun Time Rentals. This locally owned service offers rentals for jet skis, pedal boats, and four-wheel family bikes for those looking for adventure on the Bayfront. Fun Time Rentals prides themselves in helping create safe and memorable experiences for the whole family when visiting the Gulf Coast Capital. You don’t need to own a yacht or book a rental to enjoy the thrills of Corpus Christi Bay. Every Wednesday night, depending on the weather, the local sailing community gathers at the docks to rig their boats and set sail for Wednesday Night Regattas. The Lawrence St. T-Head offers a great spot for onlookers to watch the local races at the starting line. The races start at 6 p.m. and end around 8 p.m.

With steady winds and shallow waters, Corpus Christi is a world-class destination for windsurfing and winging. Windsurfing blends the thrill of surfing with the skill of sailing, using a board and sail to ride the wind across the water. Winging, also called wing foiling, uses a handheld inflatable wing and hydrofoil board, letting riders glide smoothly above the surface. Local outfitters like Worldwinds Windsurfing offer lessons for all skill levels, plus rentals for boards, sails, and wings so you can get on the water faster. Popular spots include Bird Island Basin in Padre Island National Seashore for beginner-friendly conditions and North Packery Channel Beach (J.P. Luby Surf Park) for more advanced wave action.

For an adrenaline rush on the water, hop on a jet ski and explore Corpus Christi’s coastline. Guided tours with Padre Island Jet Ski launch from Marker 37 Marina and can even venture into Padre Island National Seashore for scenic rides. Explore the open waters of Corpus Christi Bay for speed and sharp turns, or cruise the calm stretches of the Intracoastal Waterway for a more laid-back ride. Rentals are available at Fun Time Rentals  on the Lawrence Street T-Head and BF Rentals on McGee Beach, with options for exploring everything from the Laguna Madre  to the Ski Basin. 

Corpus Christi’s consistent winds and mix of flatwater and waves make it a prime kiteboarding destination. Beginners can learn the basics with real-time coaching from local schools like 361 Kite or Kiteboarding North Padre Island, while experienced riders can sharpen their skills with advanced instruction. Favorite launch points include University Beach for sandy, protected waters, Wildcat Park in Portland for strong winds and a sandy bottom, and North Beach for deep water and rolling waves. With all gear provided by local outfitters, it’s easy to just show up, learn, and ride.

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) offers a unique way to explore Corpus Christi’s waterways, blending relaxation, adventure, and fitness. Calm spots like McGee Beach, North Beach, and Packery Channel Nature Park are perfect for cruising, spotting wildlife, and soaking in the views. Join a group paddle or SUP yoga session with Water Dog Yoga, SUP & Barre, or rent gear from Wind & Wave Watersports to chart your own course. Popular launch sites also include Gypsy Park Boat Ramp, Caravel Street, Whitecap Street, and Packery Channel Park.