Corpus Christi Beach - Texas

Address:Corpus Christi, Texas

More than oil, cattle and cowboy boots, Texas can boast its sun-kissed, Gulf of Mexico coasts. Just a short drive from the ever-popular Padre Island, Corpus Christi Beach in Southeastern Texas, has recently been making a coastal comeback. And beach lovers are starting to pay attention. Dr. Beach, Stephen Leatherman, director of the Laboratory for Coastal Research at Florida International University, listed Corpus Christi Beach as one of five top urban beaches in the country for its "super-fine sand, crystal-clear water, and nice breeze." In fact, the breeze is so nice, it has put Corpus Christi's Bayfront on the windsurfing map; every spring Oleander Point hosts the annual U.S. Windsurfing Regatta. Kiteboarders, surfers and fishermen are also praising Corpus Christi Beach's action. And with shopping, jazzy Bob Hall Pier, great live music joints and ocean view seafood eateries, Corpus Christi Beach is an irresistible attraction along the coasts of the Lone Star State.

For a great introduction to Corpus Christi Beach and sweeping vistas of the water, drive the local Beach Loop, a scenic drive beginning in downtown Corpus Christi and tracing Ocean Drive. Or walk along Corpus Christi Bayfront and you will come across the biggest collection of waterfront tourist attractions. The Columbus Fleet, an authentic reconstruction of Christopher Columbus' ship, is on display, and at the Texas State Aquarium, you can get the low-down on Gulf of Mexico marine life. Or check out the USS Lexington Aircraft Carrier used during the war against Japan in the Pacific. Stop by one of the local seafood shacks for lunch and then head out onto the sand. Corpus Christi Beach is fully equipped with showers, restrooms, and picnic tables. Lifeguards supervise Corpus Christi Beach from Memorial Day through Labor Day, but you will need to keep your own eyes peeled for beach's overwhelming number of jellyfish.

Surfers and fishermen often compete for the best angle on Corpus Christi's Bob Hall Pier. Considered one of the best, most productive fishing piers on the U.S. Gulf Coast, Bob Hall Pier is open 24-hours a day for fishing. Pick up bait at one of the shops along the pier and then get ready to reel in your fish. Fishermen regularly reel in large shark (tigers, bulls, blacktips and spinners), tarpon, king mackerel and huge redfish. If you would rather go out on a party boat or fishing charter, one of the local outfits can set you up. Because Corpus Christi Beach's waters are so popular, surfers often jockey with the anglers for the best side of Bob Hall Pier. Local, Southern Texas surfers usually line up along the sandbars and there is sometimes fierce competition to conquer the swells. If you are touring Corpus Christi by boat, you can dock at the Corpus Christi Municipal Marina which offers boat slips and services.

Stroll along the Gulf of Mexico's golden sands and take the Texas plunge, because Corpus Christi Beach is a worthy spot to spend your precious holiday.