Corpus Christi Travel Guide

Corpus Christi means "Body of Christ" and indeed, it is truly blessed with breathtaking scenery, spacious beaches, abundant seafood and of course, unique things to do and see. Where most beach vacations are now priced only for the gods, this city that's only a two-hour drive from San Antonio is still affordable to mere mortals seeking a little fun in the sun. While in Corpus Christi, you can walk down the steps of The Bayfront and stroll along the stunning Magee Beach. You can also take in some great museums or feast to your heart's content on some of the best seafood you'll ever taste.

Sights

The beaches of Corpus Christi, the most popular of which is Corpus Christi Beach, also known as North Beach by the locals, have plenty to offer – including dolphins playing along the coast. After a day at the beach, marvel at the different museums in the city. Start with the USS Lexington, the famous aircraft carrier from WWII, docked in the N. Shoreline. Other museums worth visiting are the Art Museum of South Texas, Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History and the Texas State Aquarium where you can marvel at the underwater world of dolphins, sharks and stingrays. Take in the diverse flora at the Corpus Christi Botanical Gardens. Be sure to walk the Shaded Bird and Butterfly Trail and stop by Gator Lake while you're there. There are also curious structures called miradors located on The Bayfront that are well worth checking out. Aside from being cool places to relax, these structures, built like gazebos, also commemorate the important people, places and events of the city. One of the most popular miradors is the memorial to famous singer Selena who was murdered by the president of her fan club.

Restaurants

The restaurants along South Padre Island Drive or more popularly known as S.P.I.D (pronounce the letters separately, please) are where you go for great-tasting shrimp, oysters and other treats from the sea. If you so wish, you can buy shrimps straight from the shrimp boats that dock around 11 A.M. at the Corpus Christi Marina, which is fondly known as the T-heads by the locals.

Shopping

S.P.I.D is the main shopping district in Corpus Christi. You can explore more shopping choices at the La Palmera Mall and the Sunrise Mall, a two-storey enclosed shopping mall. For amazing digital prints and photographs of local marine life, head to Phil Slattery Art.

Where to Go in Corpus Christi