Bordering Corpus Christi Bay and stretching across the upper Laguna Madre, Corpus Christi offers an open door to the coast. The state’s eighth most populous city inhabits both mainland and island, extending north to Mustang Island and south along Padre Island National Seashore, the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world. The sprawling city offers sites as well, including the Texas State Aquarium, where visitors can encounter ocelots and watch dolphins do tricks; and the USS Lexington, a floating aircraft carrier-turned-museum that hosts guided tours, overnight camps, and escape rooms. There’s also a slew of educational outposts, from the massive Museum of Science and History to the Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures. Cast your net in the city, and you’re bound to catch a diverse array of attractions.
DISTANCE FROM
San Antonio
2 hours
Austin
3 hours
Houston
3 hours
Dallas
6 hours
El Paso
10 hours
Stay
Bluff’s Landing Lodge
This angler’s paradise on the mainland sports views of the upper Laguna Madre, one of six hypersaline lagoons on earth. The nearby marina offers access to the body of water, where guests can fish for spotted sea trout and red drum, and the hotel has a pool with a bayside view. Rooms start at $78/night.
eat & drink
Water Street Oyster Bar
Open since 1983, this downtown mainstay offers fresh catches and Gulf oyster varietals, including Blackjack Point’s briny batch raised in Rockport. Grab dessert around the corner at Central Kitchen, a scratch bakery with delectable croissants, scones, muffins, and cookies.
eAT & DRINK
COFFEE WAVES
With five locations throughout the city, this coffee shop founded in 2008 serves classic coffees and fruity, caffeine-packed “energy waves.” Several locations serve gelato, a welcome relief on a humid afternoon.
Learn & eat
Art Museum of South Texas
The striking structure houses rotating and permanent exhibits that showcase local artists and Indigenous and Spanish paintings and artifacts. Refuel at on-site Mediterranean café Elizabeth’s, which offers shared plates like ahi tuna crudo and devils on horseback.
SHOP
Sew Bonita
Elena Flores began selling sewn creations at pop-up markets 12 years ago. Now, her storefront features colorful textiles from artisans celebrating Latino culture. Find dish towels, handbags, clothing, and taco-themed merchandise designed by her husband, Gerald.
see & learn
Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve
A 24-foot-tall metal heron named Rusty greets visitors to this 162-acre nature preserve. Hike 2 miles of easy trails, watch for birds including the black-bellied whistling duck, and visit the learning center to understand the importance of coastal wetland preservation.
