Whether you’re an avid adventurer or in need of a relaxing escape, this beach destination provides the perfect mix of winter activities for any kind of traveler.
From the crisp coastal breeze to the calm Gulf Shores, there’s something enchanting about wintertime at the beach—especially in a city as charming and bountiful as Corpus Christi, Texas. Tucked into a bay on the Gulf of Mexico, this coastal town offers an alluring winter getaway full of beachy activities, cultural excitement and outdoor adventures. Read on to learn why Corpus Christi should be at the top of your winter travel list.
Enjoying a campfire on the beach is magical in any season, but the experience is elevated when the temperatures start to dip. Corpus Christi has several campfire-approved beaches on the Gulf, including local favorite Padre Balli Beach, serene Whitecap Beach (named for its gorgeous white sands) and more. So pick your favorite, pack up your blankets, s’mores, drinks and speakers, and head out just before sunset to soak up the views.
Corpus Christi is home to many museums, but the USS Lexington is one of the coolest. Aboard the real WWII aircraft carrier, you can learn about naval history, explore the inner workings of the ship and investigate the massive flight deck and fleet of historic aircraft. Take the experience up a notch by trying your hand at the onboard LEX escape room, testing out the flight simulator or visiting the 3D theater.
While birds migrate away from many destinations in the winter, Corpus Christi’s tropical climate allows birds to hang around all year long. Dubbed the “Birdiest City in America,” this area is home to more than 200 avian species. Find a variety of crane and goose species feeding in the pastures, or head to Hazel Bazemore County Park to catch sight of the songbirds. Pro tip: Make a day of it by booking a Winter Birding Tour at King Ranch.
Wander through Downtown Corpus Christi on a self-guided mural tour to take in the vibrant colors that tell stories of local history and creativity. Some of our favorites include: “Where The Music Meets The Bay,” a piece that represents the Tejano music and culture in Corpus Christi’s arts scene, and “La Galeria,” a collaborative work representing sisterhood, empowerment, social change and freedom. Check out the guide to plan your route.
Corpus Christi Downtown Seawall brings a whole new meaning to “beach walk.” Located along scenic Shoreline Blvd., this 1.5-mile waterfront promenade not only provides beautiful views of the Gulf, but it also offers unique features to explore and beautiful spots to unwind—relax in one of the gazebo-like structures called “Miradores del Mar” or meander through the planets in “Journey Through Our Solar System,” a new outdoor exhibit along the seawall.
When you’re at the beach, you want to eat on the water, and Snoopy’s Pier has one of the only unobstructed views of the sunset over the water in all of Corpus Christi. Founded by a long-time fisherman in 1980, this old-fashioned seafood restaurant has become one of the area’s favorites. With an on-site fish house and shrimp breading facility, Snoopy’s serves up the freshest catches in a casual, open-air setting.
With so many different locations to fish, including several lakes and rivers, there’s a reason anglers from around the world travel to Corpus Christi to cast a line in its abundant waters. In the winter, you’ll have the opportunity to catch sought-after fish like largemouth bass, flounder, speckled trout and more. For a luxury fishing experience, book a guide to navigate the waters with you.
Sustainable shopping is all the rage right now, and Corpus Christi delivers with several unique vintage and antique stores. Stroll down Antique Row or meander through downtown, and you’re sure to find a secondhand knickknack that calls your name. Stop into Renaissance Antiques to peruse their plethora of vintage clothing, art, pop culture memorabilia, decor and more, or browse cool vintage t-shirts and streetwear at VNP Gallery.
Situated in a former Greyhound Bus Station, Bar Under The Sun (AKA Bus) is a patio-style cocktail garden and kitchen in Downtown Corpus Christi. Serving up creative cocktails, brunch specials and a delicious mix of shareable and individual plates, like ahi tuna tacos and spicy grilled quail, this unique spot is the perfect place for a nightcap.
Plan your next winter beach trip to Corpus Christi visitcorpuschristi.com.
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