10 Unforgettable Things to Do Near Corpus Christi, Texas

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Corpus Christi, Texas (Nueces County)

Looking for laid-back coastal vibes, fresh Gulf seafood, and plenty of sunshine? Corpus Christi, Texas, in Nueces County, is one of the best beach towns on the Texas Coast for exactly that. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a spring break trip, or a family vacation, this guide will walk you through 10 awesome things to do in and around Corpus Christi. From beaches and museums to dolphins and tacos, there’s a little something for everyone.

1. Relax On The Beaches Of Padre Island National Seashore

If you came to Corpus Christi for the beach, Padre Island National Seashore is the place to start. It’s about a 30–40 minute drive from downtown, but it feels like another world. You’ll find:
  • Over 60 miles of protected shoreline
  • Soft sand and gentle Gulf waves
  • Plenty of space to spread out—no shoulder-to-shoulder crowds
You can:
  • Swim or wade in the warm Gulf water
  • Drive your car right onto certain sections of the beach (check conditions first)
  • Pack a cooler and spend the day sunbathing
  • Watch for birds and sea turtles
If you’re lucky, you might catch a Kemp’s ridley sea turtle release (usually in season, early morning). It’s one of those simple, quiet moments that stick with you long after vacation ends.

2. Explore The USS Lexington “Blue Ghost” Aircraft Carrier

Sitting right on Corpus Christi Bay, the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay is hard to miss. This retired World War II aircraft carrier is now a floating museum you can walk through. Inside and on deck, you can:
  • Step into the pilot-ready rooms and engine rooms
  • Walk the flight deck and see historic aircraft up close
  • Try out flight simulators
  • Watch short films about the ship’s history
The ship has a few tight stairways and lower ceilings, so wear comfortable shoes. If you’re traveling with kids or history buffs, the Lexington is a must-do in Corpus Christi. And when you step back outside, you get a pretty great view of the bay and downtown skyline.

3. Visit The Texas State Aquarium

Right next to the USS Lexington you’ll find another top Corpus Christi attraction: the Texas State Aquarium. It’s perfect for:
  • Families with kids
  • Animal lovers
  • Anyone needing a break from the sun (hello, AC)
Inside, you can:
  • Get close to stingrays, sharks, sea turtles, and otters
  • Walk through underwater tunnels
  • Watch dolphin presentations
  • Learn about Gulf of Mexico conservation
If you’ve ever dreamed of standing inches away from a shark (safely), this is your chance. Plan at least 2–3 hours here, especially if your kids like to stop and read every sign.

4. Enjoy The Boardwalks And Views On Corpus Christi Bayfront

One of the simplest—and most relaxing—things to do in Corpus Christi is just walk the bayfront. Along Shoreline Boulevard, you’ll find:
  • Palm trees and walking paths
  • Benches with big views of the bay
  • Public art and memorials
  • Access to the marina area and nearby restaurants
Grab a coffee or a cold drink and take a stroll. If you walk near sunset, the sky often turns shades of orange and pink over the water. It’s an easy, low-cost way to enjoy Corpus Christi’s coastal charm.

5. Hit The Sand At McGee Beach & North Beach

You don’t always have to drive out to Padre Island for a beach day. McGee Beach, right along the downtown bayfront, and North Beach, just across the Harbor Bridge, give you easy options close to the city. McGee Beach:
  • Calm, shallow water
  • Gentle waves—good for small kids
  • Easy access from downtown hotels
North Beach:
  • Walking distance from the Texas State Aquarium and USS Lexington
  • Sandy shoreline with space for chairs and umbrellas
  • Casual restaurants and bars nearby
If you’re short on time or don’t want a long drive, these beaches are a simple way to dip your toes in the water without leaving the city.

6. Discover Local Wildlife At Laguna Madre & Birding Spots

On the bay side of Padre Island, you’ll find the Laguna Madre, one of the only hypersaline lagoons in the world. What does that mean for you as a visitor? Great birding, peaceful views, and plenty of chances to see coastal wildlife. Popular spots include:
  • Packery Channel – good for fishing, watching boats, and sometimes dolphins
  • Hans & Pat Suter Wildlife Refuge – boardwalks, observation decks, and quiet trails
  • Blucher Park – a small, green birding hotspot right in Corpus Christi
Even if you’re not a serious birder, it’s fun to bring a simple pair of binoculars and see how many herons, pelicans, and shorebirds you can spot. It’s a calm break from busier beaches and attractions.

7. Take A Dolphin-Watching Or Bay Cruise

If you’ve never seen dolphins in the wild, Corpus Christi and nearby Port Aransas offer several dolphin-watching tours and Bay cruises. Typical tours:
  • Last 1.5 to 2 hours
  • Run from the marina or nearby towns along the coast
  • Offer chances to see dolphins surfing the boat’s wake
  • Often include local history and fun facts from the captain
Pack a light jacket (it can get breezy on the water) and a hat. If you’re traveling with kids, these tours are often a highlight—they get to be out on a boat, and there’s a good shot at seeing wild dolphins up close.

8. Visit Art And Culture Spots Downtown

Beyond beaches and boats, Corpus Christi has a growing arts and culture scene, especially around downtown. A few places to check out:
  • Art Museum of South Texas – modern and contemporary art with big bay windows and water views
  • Heritage Park – historic homes and cultural events
  • Local murals and street art scattered around downtown
If you like a slower-paced afternoon, pair the museum with a walk along the bayfront and a stop at a local coffee shop. It’s a nice balance to the more “outdoorsy” things to do in Corpus Christi.

9. Try Fresh Gulf Seafood & Local Eats

You can’t talk about things to do in Corpus Christi without mentioning the food. Being right on the Gulf, this area has some seriously good seafood. Look for:
  • Fried shrimp baskets with hushpuppies
  • Fish tacos loaded with fresh Gulf catch
  • Oysters in season
  • Cold beer or a margarita with a water view
You’ll find a mix of:
  • Casual bayside spots where you can show up in flip-flops
  • Family-friendly restaurants with kids’ menus
  • Tex-Mex joints serving big plates of fajitas and queso
If you’re not sure where to go, ask a local where they grab shrimp after work. Locals almost always know the best little places that don’t look fancy but taste amazing.

10. Spend An Evening On The Water Or At A Sunset Spot

Corpus Christi does sunsets very well. When the day starts to cool down, head to a place where you can watch the sun drop over the water. Good sunset spots include:
  • Bob Hall Pier (check status before you go, as piers can be under repair after storms)
  • Cole Park along the bayfront
  • The marina area facing west
If you enjoy fishing, this is also prime time to cast a line from a pier or along the shore. Even if you don’t catch anything, being out there with the evening breeze and sound of waves is part of the Corpus Christi experience.

Tips For Planning Your Corpus Christi Trip

To make the most of your visit to Nueces County and Corpus Christi:
  • Best time to visit: Late spring and early fall often bring warm temps without peak summer crowds.
  • What to pack: Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, flip-flops, and a light jacket for breezy nights on the water.
  • Getting around: A car makes it much easier to reach beaches and attractions, especially Padre Island.
  • Family-friendly: The aquarium, USS Lexington, and bayfront parks are great for kids.
If you love beach towns but want something a little more relaxed than a big tourist hotspot, Corpus Christi might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Have You Been To Corpus Christi?

Have you visited Corpus Christi, Texas or anywhere else in Nueces County? Which beach, restaurant, or attraction was your favorite? Did you find a hidden gem I didn’t mention? I’d love to hear your experiences and tips.
  • Drop a comment below and share your favorite thing to do in Corpus Christi.
  • If you found this guide helpful, share it with a friend or family member planning a trip to the Texas coast.
The more we share our travel stories, the easier it is for everyone to plan their next great getaway to the Gulf Coast.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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