The Corpus Christi area is the destination for a beach escape in Texas! Here are all the vital details from stays, beaches, activities, restaurants, and more!
It's important to know that there are multiple areas near Corpus Christi where you can stay, depending on what you are looking for.
If you're looking to spend most of your time at the beach:
Port Aransas: This colorful beach town located on Mustang Island is probably your best bet if you are looking to spend all your time at the beach! You can access the beach for free and the town itself has plenty of food/drink and activity options.
Another option on the island side of Corpus Christi
Add to
Details
If you're looking for more of a balance:
Corpus Christi (city): Staying in the city, you'll be a short drive away from the beaches but with all the amenities of the city. There is actually some beach access in town, but I'd still recommend heading across to Mustang Island for that purpose.
Rooms have more of a B&B feel vs hotel, but direct beach access and steps from the Aquarium and USS Lexington
Add to
Details
If you're looking to save money:
Rockport: I believe Rockport is worth it regardless! Their beach is so cute and they have some great restaurants and activities. But their location outside of Corpus Christi does make them a more affordable option to the city itself and the Island beaches.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rockport - Bay View, an IHG Hotel
This is probably my favorite Fairfield Inn that I've ever stayed!
Add to
Details
The Best Beaches:
One thing you should know before heading to the coast: many beaches are accessible only by 4 wheel drive vehicle (meaning you will drive directly onto the beach - no parking). I've noted below which have more standard access and which are drive ons. If you plan on driving on the beach, be sure to check the conditions prior to attempting.
This beach is one of the most popular in the area and due to its (mostly) paved access, it is usually one of the more crowded. But don't worry, the beach has plenty of room to spread out and facilities so you can stay all day! From the tip of the island, you can also watch the boats roll in from the golf coast!
The closest Island beach access from Corpus Christi, the vibe is very similar to Port Aransas, as it is just a couple miles down the island and similarly offers paved access and facilities.
If you're looking to get away from the crowds and don't mind driving on the sand, you can head southwest from Mustang Island to reach Padre Island. Here you'll find less crowds and you can drive down miles of beach to find the perfect spot! If you head to the visitors center, there is paved parking options as an alternative
While this beach, as the name may suggest, is not as smooth of a sand as the islands, its still plenty comfortable and such a cute option for a smaller beach feel. Paved access and facilities available.
Take your travel advice from someone who has lived there 👀
When I started traveling full-time, I learned very quickly that travel burnout is real and changing destinations every couple of days or even weeks was really not for me. I quickly pivoted to slow travel and now spend 1-3 months in each destination I visit. Spending more time in fewer locations means I am able to truly immerse myself into local culture and connect with the community on a deeper level...
And it also means I can provide the best travel recommendations!
Through my own in-depth experience and tapping into knowledge of the locals I meet along the way, I'm able to provide high quality travel tips to help you make the best out of your trip!
I specialize in USA Travel, where I've explored 46/50 states extensively (with plans to reach all 50 by the end of 2025). I am a proud Michigan native and will never pass up the opportunity to introduce more people to it's beauty! My work has been featured on tourism boards such as UP Travel (MI), Saugautck/Douglas (MI), TN Vacation (TN), Visit Kentucky (KY), and more.
While I specialize in USA Travel, I also love sharing my international adventures. Most recently, I spent one month chasing the Northern Lights in Norway and have also traveled extensively through Europe and Central America.
Check out my guides for all the insider tips you need to top destinations, or contact me to help craft your perfect trip!
