Discover Corpus Christi’s Favorite Hidden Gems, made easy just click and your maps will open.
Explore our top dining, attractions, and local favorites that make your stay memorable. McGee Beach is busier and car-free on the beach, while Port Aransas caters to an older crowd with golf carts and vehicles allowed on the beach.
Savor Local Cuisine
Taste authentic Texan flavors at renowned eateries offering fresh seafood and regional specialties.
Visit Iconic Landmarks
Experience history and culture at must-see spots like the USS Lexington and the Texas State Aquarium.
Enjoy Outdoor Adventures
Find scenic trails, parks, and waterfront activities that bring you closer to Corpus Christi’s natural beauty.
Discover Port Aransas
Explore our handpicked dining spots in and near Corpus Christi. Click the images to view their map locations. Port Aransas, part of the Corpus Christi area, is known for its older crowd and calm vibe. It offers a relaxed, authentic island feel, unlike busier Texas ports like Galveston, perfect for a quiet coastal escape. Its main beach allows driving, and golf cart rentals make exploring the town and shore fun and easy.
For an authentic Port Aransas dining experience, visit Virginia’s On the Bay to enjoy fresh, local seafood with beautiful waterfront views. The open-air, casual spot overlooking the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway and marina offers a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. You can even bring your cleaned catch for the kitchen to grill, fry, or blacken. The mix of tasty food, lovely scenery, and a laid-back harbor atmosphere creates a memorable meal.
A popular spot in Port Aransas for a relaxed, island-style experience loved by locals and visitors. The tiki-bar vibe, pet-friendly outdoor seating, and lawn games create a perfect place to unwind. Enjoy tasty food like specialty burgers and classic appetizers such as cheese curds. With a variety of drinks and excellent service, it’s ideal for a casual, laid-back outing.
Sip Yard in Port Aransas features a lively, casual outdoor setting perfect for families and pets. Its unique three-story layout offers drinks from multiple bars, food from various vendors, and live music on the main stage. The rooftop deck boasts 360-degree views of Port Aransas and the marina, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
For coffee lovers in Port Aransas, Coffee Waves is a must-visit known for delicious drinks and a welcoming vibe. They offer locally roasted coffee, artisan espresso drinks, and a wide tea selection, perfect for mornings or afternoon boosts. Besides beverages, they’re popular for homemade gelato, sorbet, pastries, and hearty panini. With a cozy, trendy atmosphere and outdoor seating, it’s ideal for hanging out with friends, working, or enjoying a tasty treat.
Horace Caldwell Pier
in Port Aransas is a great choice for fishing due to its accessibility, extended hours, and varied fishing opportunities. Stretching 1,240 feet into the Gulf of Mexico within I.B. Magee Beach Park, the pier offers access to deeper water where a variety of species like redfish, trout, and even sharks can be caught. Anglers can fish around the clock, with the pier being open 24 hours a day and well-lit for night fishing. For convenience, a concession stand and a store are on-site, where you can rent equipment and purchase bait, snacks, and drinks. This makes it an ideal spot for everyone from seasoned anglers to beginners looking for a convenient and productive fishing experience.
Discover McGee Beach
McGee Beach is an ideal downtown spot for a relaxed, family-friendly day with calm waters and city convenience. Located on Corpus Christi Bay, not the Gulf, it has clean, seaweed-free sand and gentle waves, perfect for young kids. Visitors can lounge, swim, or enjoy volleyball and fishing, with nearby restaurants, hotels, and attractions along the seawall. The beach offers free parking and a paved path for biking or walking, making it an accessible, enjoyable destination. Plus, don’t forget the Selena Statue!
Visit the Mirador de la Flor to honor Tejano superstar Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, a popular spot for her fans. It features a life-size bronze statue of Selena at a scenic bayfront overlook. Visitors can enjoy her music, take photos with the statue, and explore the area’s cultural beauty. COMO LA FLOR??
Visit the USS Lexington museum in Corpus Christi, TX, to explore a WWII aircraft carrier and naval history. Follow self-guided tours through 11 decks, view vintage and modern aircraft on the flight deck, try simulators and a 3D theater, and enjoy the on-site Mess Deck eatery. Be ready for walking, stairs, and tight spaces since the museum is an actual ship.
Fresh Gulf Coast seafood, especially oysters, served in a casual, breezy coastal setting, plus a popular happy hour with half-priced oysters and sushi. Expect a lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere and a wait at dinner, but reservations are available. Enjoy a variety of seafood dishes, a solid cocktail and wine list, and generally good service.
Fresh, from-scratch pastries like croissants and macarons, plus coffee, tea, and specialty drinks in a trendy, romantic setting perfect for special occasions or casual brunch. Expect fast, friendly service, a cozy vibe, and menu items including breakfast, brunch, sandwiches, and vegan choices, available for dine-in, takeout, or delivery. ALL PINK THEMED YAAAAS
Enjoy scenic waterfront views, picnic in the park, and use amenities like lighted walkways, seating, and fish-cleaning stations. The area also has a skate park, children’s play area, and offers a peaceful retreat with fresh sea air.