Corpus Christi

Stroll along a soft, sandy beach as the warm surf gently nudges your feet, as if beckoning you for a quick swim. Rest your legs on the boardwalk and watch white sailboats glide across a blue-water bay beneath a brilliant orange and yellow sunset. Step inside a legendary World War II aircraft carrier or tour a museum dedicated to international music icon Selena. These are just a few of the many experiences you can have when you visit Corpus Christi, the largest coastal city in Texas. With miles of pristine beaches and a wealth of world-class attractions, Corpus Christi combines outdoor adventure with big-city culture to create a destination that just about any traveler will love.

Beach Bliss & Coastal Vibes

Although there’s an incredible number of ways to enjoy a trip to Corpus Christi, the “Sparkling City by the Sea” is primarily known for its beautiful beaches. There are a total of 10 beaches to choose from, each offering its own unique experiences. Head to North Beach or McGee Beach if you’re looking for soft sand and calm waters ideal for swimming, all just steps from a variety of restaurants and the city’s top attractions. For some of the best fishing around, head to Padre Balli Park, or visit North Packery Beach if you’re into surfing and people-watching. To see some of the birds and wildlife that call the region home, visit Mustang Island State Park or Padre Island National Seashore, home to more than 70 miles of undeveloped coastline.

Iconic Attractions & Museums

Once you’re done soaking up the sun, you’ll find plenty of things to do around the city to keep you busy. One of Corpus Christi’s most prominent attractions is the USS Lexington, a historic aircraft carrier that served in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Stand on the flight deck and take in spectacular views of downtown, then explore the decks below to see what life was like aboard the ship during the war. Walk just down the street to the Texas State Aquarium for a close-up look at the aquatic life—including dolphins and sea turtles—that can be found in the region. The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History and the Selena Museum, founded in honor of legendary recording artist and Corpus Christi native Selena, are just a few of the other attractions in the city.

Festivals & Can't-Miss Events

Along with all the beaches to enjoy and attractions to explore year-round, Corpus Christi hosts numerous annual events that can’t be missed. The Whooping Crane Festival is a four-day celebration held each February to mark the arrival of North America’s tallest bird in the nearby coastal habitats around Port Aransas, making it a must for birding enthusiasts. In April and early May, check out the Buc Days PRCA Rodeo and enjoy a fun night out at the Buc Days Festival & Stripes Carnival, Corpus Christi’s longest-running pirate festival. For music lovers, it’s hard to beat the Texas Jazz Festival, a massive, toe-tapping event held annually in October. 

Corpus Christi’s breathtaking beaches provide all the sunbathing, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and surfing you can handle. Yet its first-rate attractions and jam-packed events calendar mean there’s a little something for everyone in the “Sparkling City by the Sea.”