Things to Do in Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi is a beach town through and through. Whether you’re facing the endless possibilities of the open waters or the bustling bright lights of the city, boredom simply isn’t in the cards. In one moment, you could be in a WWII flight simulator, then the very next, you’re windsurfing at Bird Island Basin. In another moment, you could be eating the freshest seafood you’ve ever had in your life, then all of a sudden, you’re riding a horse along the shoreline. Ready to put together your itinerary? We’ve got some ideas for you below!

Visit Corpus Christi's World-Class Attractions

While the hulking USS Lexington is a true attention-grabber, it’s by no means the only thing to see in town. Walk a few blocks south on North Shoreline Boulevard and you’ll be at the Texas State Aquarium, where you’ll get an up-close look at the diverse aquatic animals that live in the region. Watching two Atlantic bottlenose dolphins play, touching and feeding stingrays, and marveling at majestic sea turtles are just a few of the things you’ll do at the aquarium, a popular place for grownups and kids alike.

On the south side of the bay, you’ll find plenty of other things to see and do. Stop by the Corpus Christi Museum of Science & History to learn about the cultural and natural history of this part of the Texas Gulf Coast. Don’t forget to check out the wooden replica of La Nina, one of the three ships used by Christopher Columbus during his maiden voyage to the New World. Then head across Bayfront Science Park to The Art Museum of South Texas, where regional fine art, photography, ceramics, and textiles are on display. All of this may sound like a lot to see and do, but it’s only a fraction of the fantastic places you can visit in Corpus Christi.

Hit the Beaches

As the largest coastal town in Texas, Corpus Christi has developed a well-earned reputation as a beach-goers paradise. That’s not just because of the myriad of scenic beaches found within town, but the many ways you can have fun under the sun. Each of the nine beaches in Corpus Christi offers a difference range of experiences, from swimming and sun bathing to ocean kayaking and surfing.

For example, North Shore Beach combines white sands and calm waters with an ultra-convenient location just steps away from a slew of restaurants, the USS Lexington, and the Texas State Aquarium. If you’re into surfing, look no further than North Packery Beach on Mustang Island, where a constant offshore wind creates wicked waves for you to conquer. Meanwhile, some of the best fishing on the Texas Gulf Coast can be found at Padre Balli Park, home to the 1,240-foot-long Bob Hall Pier from where you just might snare a fish you wouldn’t catch in shallower waters.

With so many different experiences to have and beaches to explore, it’s safe to say that the Sparkling City by the Sea really does have it all. Click here to learn more about Corpus Christi’s beaches.

Pay a Visit to Mother Nature

There’s no better place to enjoy the great outdoors than Corpus Christi. With an average of 223 days of sunshine and steady coastal winds, the Gulf Coast Capital offers endless ways to explore nature year-round. Every adventure comes with a sea breeze, scenic views, and a sense of coastal freedom.

From sunrise to sunset, the natural beauty of Corpus Christi unfolds across its parks, trails, and waterways. Spend the morning kayaking through bays, biking along the shoreline, or walking the scenic trails at Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve and Nature Center. Wander through the gardens and birding boardwalks at the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center or enjoy a peaceful picnic at Cole Park overlooking the bay.

Water enthusiasts can set sail, paddleboard, or explore the calm backwaters that connect the city to the Gulf. For a more relaxed pace, take a stroll along the seawall or explore one of the many coastal parks that highlight the area’s diverse wildlife and vibrant ecosystems.

Whether you’re chasing thrills on the water or savoring quiet moments in nature, Corpus Christi delivers a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility. You’ll discover why outdoor life here is more than recreation; it’s a way of living connected to the coast.

A Birdwatcher's Paradise

For over two decades, Corpus Christi has proudly held the title of the "Birdiest City in America," thanks to its unique mix of coastal habitats that attract an extraordinary variety of birdlife. The region’s saltwater lagoons, marshes, and grasslands create ideal conditions for both resident and migratory species, offering exceptional viewing opportunities year-round.

Each season paints a new picture across the landscape, from colorful spoonbills and elegant herons wading in the shallows to pelicans gliding over the bay and warblers passing through on their migratory journeys. Birders can explore renowned spots like Blucher Park, Packery Channel Park, Hans & Pat Suter Wildlife Refuge, and Padre Island National Seashore for incredible sightings and photography.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder with binoculars in hand or simply someone who enjoys watching nature unfold, Corpus Christi’s skies and shorelines are alive with movement and song, offering endless opportunities to experience the beauty of the Gulf Coast Capital.

Fishing for a Good Time

Corpus Christi is one of the premier fishing destinations on the Texas Gulf Coast, offering some of the most diverse angling opportunities in the state. Whether you’re casting from a pier, wading in shallow flats, or venturing offshore for deep-sea adventure, the Gulf Coast Capital is a true paradise for anglers of all levels.

Reel in speckled trout, redfish, and flounder from the bay, or chase kingfish, snapper, and marlin beyond the jetties. The waters here are teeming with life year-round, making every outing a chance to catch something special.

From family-friendly piers and scenic boardwalks to guided charters led by local experts, there’s no shortage of ways to experience fishing in Corpus Christi. Spend the morning watching the sunrise over the Gulf, enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the water, or test your skill in one of the city’s many fishing tournaments. Whether you prefer surf fishing, kayak fishing, or a full day offshore, every cast brings you closer to the beauty and excitement of the Texas Coast.

Ride the Wind at the Gulf Coast Captial

For those who crave excitement on the water, Corpus Christi is one of the best places in the country to dive into adventure. With steady coastal winds, warm waters, and wide-open bays, the Gulf Coast Capital has long been a haven for water sports enthusiasts.

Try your hand at windsurfing or kitesurfing at popular spots like Bird Island Basin, known worldwide for its ideal wind conditions. Paddleboard along the calm bayfront, kayak through scenic inlets, or ride the waves at North Packery Channel and Bob Hall Pier. Local outfitters and instructors make it easy to learn a new water sport or rent gear for a carefree day on the water.

Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or simply enjoying the spray of the Gulf, Corpus Christi’s connection to the water is unmatched. Every adventure brings you closer to the energy, rhythm, and spirit of the coast.

Feast on the Freshest Seafood & Real Tex-Mex

Corpus Christi’s dining scene is full of flavor, variety, and coastal charm. From casual beachside cafes to fine dining with a view, every meal reflects the city’s passion for fresh ingredients and bold taste.

Savor fresh Gulf seafood caught just offshore, authentic Tex-Mex made with local flair, and slow-smoked barbecue that’s been perfected over generations. Dine along the waterfront for sunset views, explore neighborhood favorites that blend global inspiration with South Texas hospitality, or grab a quick bite after a day at the beach.

With a growing mix of restaurants, food trucks, breweries, and dessert shops, Corpus Christi invites you to eat like a local and experience the heart of the coast, one delicious bite at a time.

Live Music, Local Art, & Baseball

Creativity and culture take center stage in Corpus Christi, where art, music, and community come together to celebrate life on the Texas Coast. The city’s thriving arts and entertainment scene offers something for everyone from live performances and colorful festivals to world-class museums and local galleries that showcase the region’s spirit and talent.

Explore the Art Museum of South Texas, where striking architecture meets an impressive collection of regional and national works, or visit the Art Center of Corpus Christi along the bayfront to discover exhibitions by local artists and hands-on workshops for all ages. Stroll downtown and you’ll find murals and sculptures that turn city streets into an open-air gallery reflecting the coastal lifestyle and creative energy of the Gulf Coast Capital.

Evenings come alive with live music, theater, and cultural celebrations across the city. Catch a performance at the Harbor Playhouse, enjoy outdoor concerts under the stars, or take part in annual events that highlight Corpus Christi’s diverse heritage through food, art, and sound.

Entertainment here extends far beyond the galleries. Catch a Hooks baseball game at Whataburger Field, enjoy live music and outdoor performances at Concrete Street Amphitheater, or dance under the stars at one of Corpus Christi’s many waterfront festivals.

From nightlife venues and local bands to museum halls, music stages, and festival grounds, Corpus Christi’s arts and entertainment scene captures the vibrant soul of the coast, welcoming, creative, and full of life.