Beaches, Tacos, and Adventure in Corpus Christi

Experience the charm of Corpus Christi without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Corpus Christi is perfect for travelers on a budget. With plenty of free attractions like the beautiful beaches, Padre Island National Seashore, and the Art Museum of South Texas, there's no shortage of things to do for less. Plus, there are numerous affordable accommodations and cheap eats to enjoy in this laid-back coastal city.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Beach and Tacos

  • Start your day with breakfast tacos at Chacho's, a local dive with a reputation for mouth-watering Tex-Mex.
  • Hit the beach at North Padre Island for some sunbathing and swimming. Make sure to snap a photo with the iconic USS Lexington in the background.
  • Grab lunch at Fajitaville, a casual spot with oceanfront views and killer margaritas.
  • Afternoon activities include a visit to the Texas State Aquarium or a stroll around the Art Museum of South Texas.
  • Finish off the day with dinner at Taqueria El Potro, where the pork carnitas will make your taste buds dance.
Day 2

History and Seafood

  • Start the morning with a visit to the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay. Climb aboard the aircraft carrier and be transported back in time.
  • Grab lunch at Snoopy's Pier, a casual seafood joint with picture-perfect views of the water.
  • After lunch, take a stroll along the bayfront and check out the public art installations.
  • Spend the afternoon at the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, where you can see hundreds of species of plants and animals.
  • End the day with dinner at Water Street Seafood Company, known for their fresh catch of the day and creative cocktails.
Day 3

Island Adventure

  • Take a ferry to Port Aransas and rent a golf cart to explore the island.
  • Hit the beach for some sun and sand or take a dolphin-watching tour.
  • Grab lunch at Irie's Island Food, a quirky Caribbean-inspired spot with stellar jerk chicken.
  • Spend the afternoon at Mustang Island State Park, where you can hike, bird watch, or rent a kayak.
  • Head back to Corpus Christi for dinner at Yoli's Mexican Kitchen, where you can enjoy classics like mole and chiles rellenos.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Corpus Christi by plane is to fly into Corpus Christi International Airport (CRP) from major airports such as Houston, Dallas or San Antonio.

Car

Driving to Corpus Christi is a great way to see the beautiful scenery along the way. You can take Interstate 37 South from San Antonio or Interstate 35 South from Austin.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Corpus Christi, so this mode of transport is not possible.

Boat

If you are traveling by boat, you can dock at the Corpus Christi Marina located downtown. However, this mode of transport is not recommended unless you have experience navigating the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Bus

Taking a Greyhound bus to Corpus Christi from major cities such as Houston, San Antonio or Dallas is a convenient and affordable option.

More travel plans

Maximize Your Fun in Corpus Christi

Visiting Corpus Christi on a limited budget may seem daunting, but it is possible with some careful planning. Start by exploring the free attractions such as the Padre Island National Seashore and the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center. Accommodation options range from budget motels to affordable vacation rentals, and food can be found at local food trucks and eateries offering freshly caught seafood.

Corpus Christi Delight: Fun, Seafood, and Sun!

A trip to Corpus Christi in the United States offers a perfect family-friendly vacation. This coastal city boasts beautiful beaches, such as Mustang Island and Padre Island, where kids can enjoy building sandcastles and swimming in the ocean. The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, the Texas State Aquarium, and the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center provide educational and entertaining experiences for the whole family to enjoy.

Coastal Chic: A 5-Day Family Adventure in Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi, located on the coast of Texas, offers a perfect family-friendly destination with its stunning beaches, rich history, and plenty of outdoor activities. Dive into the fascinating world of marine life at the Texas State Aquarium, stroll along the picturesque beaches of Padre Island National Seashore, and explore the USS Lexington, an aircraft carrier turned museum, to create lasting memories with your loved ones in Corpus Christi.

Coastal Charms and Cheap Thrills in Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi, located on the Gulf of Mexico, offers affordable opportunities for tourists on a limited budget. Enjoy fishing and bird watching on the bay, visit the free South Texas Botanical Gardens, and take a stroll through the popular downtown Bayfront area.