Why Corpus Christi, the Gateway to  Padre Island National Seashore, Is Worth a Visit in Its Own Right

Padre Island National Seashore is beautiful, but 30 short minutes away, the seashore’s gateway city, Corpus Christi, is just as much fun of a destination to spend time in. Boasting more than 100 miles of shoreline and a beach for every personality, Corpus Christi, which is known as the Gulf Coast Capital, features nine beaches and a variety of things to do. This city offers 223 days of sunshine and an average temperature of 79 degrees, making it a perfect escape for those who seek sun, sea, dining, drinking, and seemingly endless opportunities to explore arts and culture. 

Things to Do and See

For an activity that feels straight out of a movie, embark on a dreamy horseback ride along the beach. Or, if you don’t mind getting wet, try out a popular watersport like windsurfing. By night, embark on a paddling adventure under the stars inside translucent kayaks illuminated by colorful LED lights with GlowRow. Bring Fido for a standup paddleboard class from Water Dog around the downtown marina. Other top indoor attractions, such as the Texas State Aquarium or the Selena Museum, are bound to both educate and excite. 

Where to Drink and Dine

Dig into the region’s smokiest flavors on the Corpus Christi BBQ Trail, which features some of the most iconic BBQ joints in Corpus Christi, ready to explore in any order you choose. Those who seek an exceptionally picture-perfect waterside dining experience can book a one–of–a–kind picnic package with food, drinks, and epic views curated by Pretty Picnics Corpus Christi. Feeling competitive? Engage in friendly games at the restaurant, bar, and arcade combo with its own rooftop bar space, RETRO. For another unique dining experience, look into Corpus Christi’s “Cook Your Catch” opportunities, as several local restaurants will cook the fish you caught in a freshly prepared meal (without any hassle to you).

Where to Spend the Night

Stay overnight at a sustainable accommodation destination surrounded by natural wetlands and the largest sand dune on Mustang Island. Lively Beach is a 111-acre resort-style condominium built using a low-impact construction system and sustainable practices. This unique building method preserves the surrounding 35-acre nature reserve. 

Corpus Christi can be an Enjoyable Alternative to the National Seashore

From traversing the miles of sand and surf across Corpus Christi’s nine different beaches to diving into delicious dining opportunities, including the freshest seafood, most flavorful barbecue, and more, this city is a fabulous spot to spend time outside the National Seashore. During summertime, don’t miss visiting this legendary ice cream shop in town, which feels like taking a step back into a more nostalgic era of summertime frozen treat beachside bliss. Plus, check out Only In Your State’s "Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Texas Who Loves The Outdoors,” which offers additional ideas on how to spend an exciting day outside, across the Lone Star State — including tubing on the Guadalupe River in New Braunfels and exploring the The Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend.