VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
COASTAL BEND VISITORS GUIDE
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COASTAL BEND VISITORS GUIDE
OCTOBER 2016
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COASTAL BEND VISITORS GUIDE
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WATERFRONT DINING • SHOPPING • BOATING
108 Peoples Street T-Head, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401 361-881-8503 | harrisonslanding.net
DEEP SEA FISHING Aboard the Wharf Cat or Scat Cat
Year-round Gulf Fishing, including 5, 9 and 12-hour trips
• Private & Corporate Group Charters Available • Full Service Marina & Gift Shop • Bay & Gulf Private Charter Boats • Fish Cleaning and Packing Service • Heated & Air Conditioned Cabins
FISHERMAN’S WHARF 900 N. Tarpon St Port Aransas, Texas 78373
(361) 749-5448 1-800-605-5448
www.wharfcat.com
C OASTA L B E N D V I S I TO RS G U I D E
CONTENTS
COASTAL
Whether you’re looking f a great pier for a great fishing information befor
THINGS TO DO & SEE
10 14 There are many fun attractions and things to do in the Coastal Bend... Check them out in our list of Must See things to do.
Concrete Street................... 2 Rockits Whiskey Bar............ 2 Catfish Charlies................... 3 Oso Beach/Lozano Golf....... 4 The Tarpon Inn.................... 5 Roosevelt’s at the Tarpon.... 5 The Tarpon Bar & Grill.......... 5 Harrison’s Landing Shop..... 6 Texas State Aquarium.......... 6 Fisherman’s Wharf.............. 6
INDEX
ADVERTISER
FIND THE BEST FISH
MORE THAN JUST A
VACATION WELCOME TO THE COASTAL BEND AREA
Ingleside Renaissance Fair.. 6 S. TX Botanical Gardens....... 7 Physicians Premier ER....... 11 Port A Fitness..................... 11 Wahoo Harley Davidson.... 11 Schlitterbahn CC............... 17 Peace of Mind................... 18 WB Liquors & Wine........... 18 Art Center Corpus Christi... 18 Treehouse Art Collective.... 18 Corpus Christi RTA............. 19
Texas Surf Museum........... 19 Harrison’s Landing Boats.. 19 King Ranch........................ 19 Water Street Market.......... 19 Tiki Tours Boat Rides......... 19 La Palmera........................ 30 Republic of Texas.............. 30 CC Museum of Science & History.. 32 Art Museum of S. Texas..... 32 Harbor Playhouse............. 32 Harrison’s Landing Dining... 34
Pizza State......................... 34 Paradise Key & Dockside... 34 Takeniwa........................... 35 Lamar Park........................ 35 Shweiki Media.................. 40 Bleu Frog Mercantile......... 40 Niko’s Steakhouse............. 41 Ol’ Steakhouse Co............. 41 Port Aransas Chamber....... 47 Water Street Seafood Co... 48
HING LOCATIONS IN THE
CATCH A BREAK... AND A DEAL AT OUR
BEND AREA LOCAL SHOPS
for offshore fishing or catch, check out our re you go!
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From antiques to surf wear, the Coastal Bend Bay Area features many upscale and eclectic shopping venues.
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TOP COASTAL BEND
RESTAURANTS
28 36 WHAT’S GOING ON? See Our Local Event Calendar Inside!
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FEATURE: A ROARING OCTOBER Summer is not the only fun time on the Coast. October is roaring with fun featuring two of the biggest festivals 'Roar by the Shore Bike Festival' and 'Dia de los Muertos Street Festival.'
COVER & FEATURE PHOTOS BY: DIVA DULCE PHOTOGRAPHY & MAKEUP BY EMA RODRIGUEZ YOU COULD WIN A FREE
FAMILY FUN PACKAGE Win Free Admission to some of the best attractions in the Coastal Bend by signing up online today. New Winners picked each month!
ENTER ONLINE AT WWW.FAMILYFUNGETAWAY.COM
LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER
COASTAL BEND
WELCOME TO THE
VISITORS GUIDE
THE COASTAL BEND IS MORE THAN A VACATION WITH FAMILY & FRIENDS... IT’S AN EXPERIENCE!
Publisher & Vice President
COASTAL BEND
Please allow me to be the first to welcome you to the Coastal Bend Bay Area! As the Summer Season comes to a close, we say thanks to those who chose the beautiful Coastal Bend Bay Area for their vacation destination. For those of you who are just now getting a bit of rest & relaxation with us during the Fall, we hope that this guide will help you make the best of your stay with us. The Coastal Bend Visitors Guide is the longest lasting visitors guide in the Coastal Bend Bay Area and has been offering a guide to help visitors like you each month for over 43 years.
Our Sponsors In addition to the great features and editorial, you’ll also find promotional spots from the best attractions and businesses in the Coastal Bend Bay Area. By advertising with the guide, these advertisers have committed to helping visitors enjoy their travel experiences in the area with the most up-to-date visitors information and maps of the area. We appreciate each of our sponsors and know that they’ll give our visitors the best experience when traveling to the Coastal Bend. To your safe travels,
Stephan Noack Publisher & Vice President
STEPHAN NOACK
MARTHA CASTRO Marketing Director
RUBY ACUNA
Business Development Manager
The Coastal Bend Visitors Guide is the longest existing visitors information guide in the Coastal Bend Bay Area. In partnership with the Excellence Team, the Coastal Bend Visitors Guide helps travelers get the best guest experience during their stay with us.
6317 State Highway 361 Port Aransas, Texas 78373 phone 361.994.9100
ADVERTISING SALES
If you are interested in advertising in the Coastal Bend Visitors Guide, please contact Ruby Acuna, Business Development Manager at 361.695.6733.
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OCTOBER 2016
A ROARING
OCTOBER
An inside look at Corpus Christi's 2016 Roar by the Shore Bike Festival and the Dia de los Muertos Street Festival WRITTEN BY MARTHA CASTRO BY MARTHA CASTRO MARKETING DIRECTOR MARKETING DIRECTOR PHOTOS BY DIVA DULCE PHOTOGRAPHY MAKEUP BY EMA RODRIGUEZ
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C O A S TA L B E N D V I S I T O R S G U I D E
SPECIAL FEATURE
It's no secret that Downtown Corpus Christi has become a premier location for festivals and city wide events in the last few years. After a slow drought of activity over the last decade, two groups have been leading the charge to revitalize downtown, and it is clearly working. The Sports, Entertainment and Arts District of Corpus Christi, S.E.A District for short, and the Marina Arts District along with the Corpus Christi Visitor's Bureau are the two strong forces pushing to revitalize downtown with a collection of events, nightlife, and festivals that attract visitors from around the entire country and beyond. October is a great time to be at the coast because Downtown Corpus Christi will be hosting two huge festivals all in one month.
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CORPUS CHRISTI BIKEFEST 2016 "ROAR BY THE SHORE" The Corpus Christi Bike Fest also known as "Roar by the Shore" is the longest running motorcycle rally in Texas. It will be returning to Downtown Corpus Christi October 7th - 9th. Vendors from across the country showcase motorcycle accessories, leather goods, custom jewelry, and more at the indoor shopping mall for motorcycle enthusiast from around the country. Each rally pass holder also gets admission to rockin' concerts, autographs from celebrity appearances, cool stunt shows, and the MMA FightFest at BikeFest. This year's venue will be Concrete Street Amphitheatre located in the S.E.A District. Don't miss a minute of the action! For more information on the Corpus Christi BikeFest visit ccbikefest.com or call 956.668.7484.
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS STREET FESTIVAL The Dia de los Muertos celebration has gone on for centuries in Mexico and its culture. KSpace in collaboration with Electra Art Axis tattoo have brought this charismatic celebration to Corpus Christi and have turned it into one of the largest street festivals to be held in downtown Corpus Christi. It has grown from a single block festival to ten blocks of festivities, vendors, arts, and more. The Dia de los Muertos Street Festival brings downtown to life with it's vibrant colors, 3 stages with energetic and cultural live music, a kid's corner with crafts and activities, sugar skull face painting, games, and a multitude of other family friendly activities.
OCTOBER 2016
VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
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You can visit the Altar of Remembrance located in the Ritz Theater. The altar honors family, military heroes, celebrities, writers, activists, and community leaders who have passed with ofrendas/altars created by members of our community. Join in on the fun on October 29th from 11AM - 11:59PM to celebrate the culture and history behind Dia de los Muertos! More information on Dia de Los Muertos Street Festival can be found at diadelosmuertoscc. com or kspacecontemporary. org. With events this big, it is no wonder Downtown Corpus Christi has become a premier location. Both Corpus Christi BikeFest and the Dia de los Muertos Street Festival will attract thousands of visitors to the area this month.
TWO HUGE FESTIVALS ALL IN ONE MONTH"
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BEHIND THE SCENES OF A ROARING OCTOBER By Martha Castro If you're thinking that the coast is only fun in the summer, you're greatly mistaking. In fact, the name 'A Roaring October' is the only way to describe the fun festivities happening during the Fall in the Coastal Bend. October brings in two of the largest festivals to Corpus Christi; the hard-work and a plethora of information we as a Visitors Guide need to share,w must be put together into one issue. So how do we bring together two unconnected events into one feature? Corpus Christi's Harley Davidson, Diva Dulce Photography, and theatrical makeup professional Ema Rodriguez helped us do just that! Liana with Dulce Diva Photography and Ema Rodriguez were able to give us insight on Dia de los Muertos to help put together this fun and amazing photoshoot. There's a very distinct eccentricity to each of these events, but the ability to connect all these professionals somehow managed to bring together two unconnected festivities and make them hang together for our feature story. We are sure this month's cover and feature story creates an element of surprise for both our local and visiting readers.
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OCTOBER 2016
WINTER WINTER TEXANS TEXANS WELCOME WELCOME FULL-SERVICERESORT RESORT FULL-SERVICE 90CHARMING CHARMINGROOMS ROOMS 90 VERANDA VERANDA RESTAURANT&&BAR BAR RESTAURANT BREAKFAST• •LUNCH LUNCH• •DINNER DINNER BREAKFAST 9-HOLE 9-HOLEGOLF GOLFCOURSE COURSE WINTER WINTERTEXAN TEXAN GOLF GOLFMEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP HEATED HEATEDPOOL POOL TENNIS TENNISCOURTS COURTS
VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
COASTAL BEND VISITORS GUIDE 17 schlitterbahn.com
MADE IN MEXICO, RAISED IN TEXAS OUR UNIQUE TEQUILA HAS THE TASTE AND QUALITY OF BOTH MEXICO AND TEXAS. AT WB LIQUORS, WE TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN OUR GREAT SELECTION OF LIQUOR, WINE, AND BEER.
O RO RR AR HA C CH L L E T E ST T E T ES E R E R G A G A E E N N R UR OU S S YO R R TY O A O AT U QU B LLIIQ W WB Y!! AY DA OD T TO
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• Sailing Cruises • Bay Tours • Private Parties THE YACHTING CENTER AT
WATERFRONT DINING • SHOPPING • BOATING
108 Peoples Street T-Head, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401 361-881-8503 | harrisonslanding.net
VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
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TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM
2710 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78402 361.881.1200 • www.texasstateaquarium.com
The Texas State Aquarium is a place where people of all ages can get up close and interact with many different kinds of animals, enjoy educational and entertaining exhibits featuring over 330 species, learn about conservation and how our actions impact the other inhabitants of both the ocean and land, and thrill at exciting shows featuring bottle-nose dolphins, raptors and other kinds of birds, and an assortment of fascinating mammals. In addition, to the many exhibits, the Texas State Aquarium features a new Splash Park and presentations daily. The Texas State Aquarium is open daily from 9am till 6pm March 1st to Labor Day, and 9am till 5pm from Labor Day until February 28th.
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ARANSAS QUEEN CASINO
E 2200 Texas Highway 361, Aransas Pass TX, 78336 844.426.2534 • www.aransasqueencasino.com
The Aransas Queen is a 155 foot vessel sailing seven days a week! This luxuriously-appointed vessel is beautifully outfitted with the latest slots and table games, including 181 Ticket-in/Ticket-out Slots, Craps, Roulette, 3-Card Poker and Blackjack. Come enjoy a day or night cruise with Las Vegas style gambling with the Aransas Queen!
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RED DRAGON PIRATE CRUISES 440 Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373 361.749.2469 • www.reddragonpiratecruises.com
Red Dragon Pirate Cruises is one of Port Aransas' newest attractions and a definite hit among the Port Aransas visitors. These daily two-hour cruises offer exciting sword fights, water pistol battles, treasure hunting and tons more Pirate fun! Open cruises are family friendly and a great time for families of all ages and they're also available for private charters and educational field trips.
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FUNTRACKERS FAMILY FUN CENTER
9605 South Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 361-937-9400 • www.funtrackers.com
Funtrackers is the place for family fun! From Go Karts and arcade games, to a new mini golf course, bumper boats and batting cages! Exciting new “adventure” attractions now include a ropes course and bungy dome too! Raceway Cafe serving beer, wine and great food add to the experience. Things are always happening at Funtrackers just over the bridge in Flour Bluff. VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
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C O A S TA L B E N D V I S I T O R S G U I D E
COME PLAY V CORPUS CHRISTI HOOKS & WHATABURGER FIELD 734 E Port Ave, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.561.4665 • www.cchooks.com
Come see the exciting times at Whataburger Field with the Corpus Christi Hooks! Tons of fun for the family of all ages. During the game, visit the Kid Zone area behind the outfield complete with Basketball Hoops, Jump Houses, and even a Friday Night firework extravaganza. Grab a seat and Get Hooked!
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SEGCITY TOURS
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ART CENTER OF CORPUS CHRISTI SOUTH TEXAS BOTANICAL GARDENS
403 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.563.4050 • www.segcity.com
100 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.884.6406 • www.artcentercc.org
8545 S Staples, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 361.852.2100 • www.stxbot.org
For the most amazing guided tour experience of the Corpus Christi Bayfront area, jump on a Segway at SegCity! As an authorized Segway Tour company, their entertaining guides are properly trained to make your journey with them beyond expectations.
Enjoy monthly rotating exhibitions featuring unique works by local and regional artists and art classes for children, youth and adults! The Art Center also provides on-going Saturday art activities geared towards families. The monthly Art Market every 2nd Saturday features original artwork for sale by local artisans.
This 182-acre Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail site features a unique blend of informal, vibrant floral exhibits bordered by vast areas of native trails and beautiful wetlands. Enjoy the Butterfly House, Bromeliad and Orchid Conservatories, and massive Rose Garden. More gardens, Resident Reptiles, exotic parrots, plus Plumeria Garden blooming May through October lead to a Birding Tower and Palapa Grande on Gator Lake, and Wetland Boardwalk. A unique shopping experience awaits you in Nature’s Boutique! FLORA, FAUNA, FUN.
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PADRE BALLI PARK / BOB HALL PIER
15820 S.P.I.D. Corpus Christi, TX 78418 361.949.8121 • www.nuecesbeachparks.com
One of the most famous fishing piers and beach parks in the Coastal Bend Bay Area, the Padre Balli Park and Bob Hall Pier is located on the North end of Padre Island. Required beach parking permits are needed for beach parking and Camping/RV information is available at the park office near Bob Hall Pier.
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BREWSTER STREET ICEHOUSE
1724 N Tancahua, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 • 361.884.2739 • www.brewsterstreet.net
Over the last decade, Brewster Street Icehouse has become the center of the Downtown Corpus Christi Sports, Entertainment and Arts District. Enjoy some of the best live music in the Coastal Bend Bay Area at their family friendly establishment. Let the kids play in the play park while you enjoy some great food and drinks on the big deck!
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PADRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE
20420 Park Rd 22, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 361.949.4944 • www.nps.gov/PAIS
The longest undeveloped stretch of barrier island in the world. Home to an important nesting beach for the endangered Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle. Museum, bookstore, concession stand, observation decks and showers. Come experience nature and all it has to offer today! VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
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FISHERMAN’S WHARF
900 Tarpon Street, Port Aransas, TX 78373 • 800.605.5448 • www.wharfcat.com
Experience offshore fishing for the whole family aboard the smoothest riding boats in the Gulf of Mexico! Catch big fish, like Yellowfin Tuna, Amberjack, Mahi and much more. Come join us on a fun 4, 5, 8 or 12 hour fishing trip and enjoy the fishing adventure of a lifetime.
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TEXAS SURF MUSEUM
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CONCRETE STREET AMPHITHEATER ART MUSEUM OF SOUTH TEXAS
309 N Water, Suite A, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.882.2364 • www.texassurfmuseum.org
700 Concrete St., Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.884.8085 • www.concretestreet.net
The Texas Surf Museum, located in the Water Street Market is a nonprofit museum is devoted to surf music and culture. Exhibits on Texas surfers, board makers and the birth of surfing along the Texas Coast. Home to an extensive collection of surfing memorabilia and over 35 classic boards from the 30’s to mid 70’s!
As the premier outdoor live music venue in the Coastal Bend, Concrete Street hosts many different concerts and events throughout the year. See some of the best acts in the business, including ZZ Top, Josh Abbott Band and many more! Come Live it Live at Concrete Street!
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USS LEXINGTON MUSEUM
2914 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78402 361.888.4873 • www.usslexington.com
With over 5 million visitors since she opened as a museum in 1992, the U.S.S. Lexington museum is one of the best educational and entertaining museums in the Coastal Bend. Learn the story of the World War II aircraft carrier by climbing through the ladders and passageways of the ship and feel the excitement as you climb into the flight simulator and virtual battle stations.
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KING RANCH MUSEUM
405 N 6th St., Kingsville, TX 78363 361.595.1881 • www.king-ranch.com
Get a real taste of the mythic past of the King Ranch with a trip to the King Ranch Museum in Kingsville, Texas! Discover some of the King Ranch Museum’s permanent collections, saddles from around the world, historic guns and full scale replicas of historic Texas flags. Visitors can view videos about the great history of the King Ranch and it’s main residence. Open daily, except most major holidays.
1902 N Shoreline, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.825.3500 • www.artmuseumofsouthtexas.org
A museum addition by architect Ricardo Legorreta joins the iconic Philip Johnson - designed Art Museum building against the background of Corpus Christi Bay. The museum houses works from the Permanent Collection as well as traveling exhibits.
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SELENA MUSEUM & STATUE
5410 Leopard St. Corpus Christi, TX 78408 361.289.9013 • www.q-productions.com
The Selena Museum was built by the Quintanilla family in 1998 in response to the thousands of letters mailed to them by fans expressing their desire to have Selena’s memory shared with the public. The Quintanilla family offers the museum as a memorial to the achievements and life of their beloved daughter. Visit the Selena Memorial Statue on Shoreline & Peoples Street downtown. OCTOBER 2016
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AMERICAN BANK CENTER
1901 N Shoreline, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 • 361.826.4700 www.americanbankcenter.com
The American Bank Center is the Coastal Bend’s Premier Entertainment Facility hosting tons of conventions, live entertainment and sporting events all year long like the upcoming Miranda Lambert show September 15th!
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OSO BEACH & LOZANO GOLF
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HARBOR PLAYHOUSE
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HARRISON’S LANDING
5601 S Alameda, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 361.826.8010 • www.osobeachgolf.com
1802 N Chaparral Bldg 2, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 361.888.7469 • www.harborplayhouse.com
108 Peoples St T-Head, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.881.8503 • www.harrisonslanding.net
4401 Old Brownsville, Corpus Christi, TX 78405 361.826.8016 • www.lozanogolfcenter.com
It’s showtime at Harbor Playhouse located in the Arts District in Corpus Christi, TX. Filled with a year round schedule of contemporary and classical musicals and plays for both adults and children Harbor Playhouse truly presents exceptional works of art by the community for everyone to enjoy.
Put some wind in your sails and view the beautiful Corpus Christi Shoreline from the water! From one 3 hour charters offered Saturdays & Sundays, dto a lunch break cruise or sunset/dinner cruise package! Visit Cathy’s Boutique & Gifts for tickets and pick up some great gifts, apparel and jewelry during your visit.
Grab your clubs and come play some of the best golf in the Coastal Bend! Designed to promote better golf through organized play days and quality lessons for individuals or groups. VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
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FISH TOP PLACES TO
C O A S TA L B E N D V I S I T O R S G U I D E
OUTDOORS
W I T H O U T
A BOAT NORTH & SOUTH JETTY The Port Aransas Jetties are some of the most popular places to fish in South Texas. Most popular catches include flounder, speckled trout and drum here.
FISHING
COASTAL BEND Fishing in the Coastal Bend Bay area is excellent all year round. In the Coastal Bend, there are typically three kinds of fishing; Shallow Water, Deep Water and Fresh Water.
SHALLOW WATER Along the bays, Laguna Madre and the shores of Padre Island and Port Aransas is where you’ll catch speckled trout, redfish, whiting, drum and flounder. DEEP WATER Typically, off the shores of Port Aransas to Rockport are “where they bite everyday”. Whether you’re in a private or chartered boat, sport fishermen can try for amberjack, red snapper and tuna year round - if you’re searching for a big marlin and bill fish, you’re best bet is from May to September.
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FRESH WATER Located 40 miles northwest of Corpus Christi in Mathis, at Lake Corpus Christi, there are 200 miles of shoreline with excellent fishing for bass, catfish and crappie.
FISHING LICENSES AND PRICES In order to go fresh or salt water fishing, you must have a Texas fishing license. Annual fees for Out of State licenses range from $55-$65 - however one day licenses are only $15. For Texas residents, licenses range from $28-$38. Licenses can be picked up at any local Stripes® store and local sporting goods stores.
HORACE CALDWELL PIER A lighted 1,280 foot pier located in Port Aransas where fishermen catch shark, trout, redfish, drum and more. BOB HALL PIER A lighted 1,280 foot pier located on Padre Island where fishermen catch shark, whiting, trout and drum. INDIAN POINT PIER Located in Portland, this 1000 foot pier juts into the Corpus Christi Bay. Anglers do well at night catching drum and redfish. RED DOT & COSWAY FISHING PIERS Two Bait & Tackle shops on the JFK Causeway going towards the island both feature piers to fish the humble channel. Definitely a Local Favorite! PACKERY CHANNEL Wade fish from the shores of Packery Channel right off Highway 361 on Padre Island. OCTOBER 2016
DAILY TIDE CHARTS OCTOBER 2016 • PORT ARANSAS JETTIES
Data collected at The University of Texas Marine Science Institute Pier Laboratory on the Aransas Pass Ship Channel linking Corpus Christi Bay to the Gulf of Mexico (27 50.3N; 97 03.1W). This data is uncorrected and are provided for information purposes only. Time is reported as Central Standard Time (CST). Add VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
one hour during Daylight Savings Time. We will eventually display time as Local Time (CST or CDT, whichever is in force). As is typical with continuously recording instruments, there are occasional spikes in the data. These are usually obvious and should be ignored.
Data courtesy of: Tony Amos The University of Texas at Austin Marine Science Institute 750 Channel Drive Port Aransas, Texas 78373 Data collected at: NOAA/National Weather Service Cooperative Weather Observer Station #1071, Port Aransas
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C O A S TA L B E N D V I S I T O R S G U I D E
PHOTO BY: EDGAR DE LA GARZA • DLGPHOTO.COM
FOOD & DINING TOP RESTAURANTS OF THE COASTAL BEND BAY AREA The Coastal Bend Bay Area is the home to some of the most unique flavors from some of the most extraordinary culinary artists in the state.
900 N Shoreline Blvd Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.887.1600
Four-Diamond Rated, offering a unique dining experience unlike any other available in the area. Dine high above Corpus Christi and experience impeccably prepared meals and an extensive wine list. The elegant atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious cuisine are everything you expect from a Four-Diamond Restaurant.
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REPUBLIC OF TEXAS
5409 Saratoga Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 361.992.2333 • www.nikossteakhouse.com
Niko’s Steakhouse will exceed steak lovers’ expectations with their perfectly assorted menu and casually elegant atmosphere. Before you walk in the door, you’ll smell the Mesquite wood that is their secret for bringing out the unique flavors in their grilled specialties. Make sure you leave room for one of their fabulous desserts and a glass of wine from their extensive wine list.
PHOTO BY: JASON PAGE PHOTOGRAPHY • JASONDAVIDPAGE.COM
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NIKO’S STEAKHOUSE
OCTOBER 2016
314 N Chaparral, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.881.9448 • www.waterstreetseafood.com
In the heart of downtown Corpus Christi, just one block from the bayfront, you’ll find the Water Street Seafood Company and Oyster Bar. With a reputation for “Best Seafood” in town, the Water Street Seafood Co. is surely a great stop for a great dining experience. Try one of the best bets “black board” fresh fish specials or one of their great appetizers during happy hour daily from 4pm-7pm.
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WATERSTREET SEAFOOD CO.
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5830 McArdle, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 361.993.0363 • www.catfishcharlies.net
Catfish Charlies is a “must do” for visitors for over 30 years. Providing the best in southern style food and service that visitors and locals have come to rely on. Known for their Cajun specialties, enjoy the fried catfish, fried shrimp, gumbo and bottomless baskets of hushpuppies. Land lovers will enjoy their famous Chicken Fried Steak, Fried Chicken and Red Beans and Rice.
6133 Ennis Joslin, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 361.993.3283 www.pizzastate.com
Who doesn’t love fresh handmade pizza? A favorite with Texas A&M - Corpus Christi students, Naval Station personnel and locals alike. Featuring dough made fresh daily, load your pizza, calzone or stromboli with a variety of classic and unique toppings. Eat in and enjoy their beer specials, big screen TVs and free Wifi Internet Access... or take it to go!
PIZZA STATE
CATFISH CHARLIES
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104 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373 361.749.4800 • www.tsbag.com
With some of the most beautiful waterfront dinners and awesome laid back atmosphere, Trout Street Bar & Grill is a great place to unwind in Port Aransas. Start out your meal with one of their great appetizers like the Harbor Fries or crab cakes followed by some of the freshest featured catches in the Coastal Bend or their famous Jumbo Gulf Shrimp. VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
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TROUT STREET BAR & GRILL
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5488 S. Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christi
lapalmera.com
More than 130 of the finest names in style, services & cuisine.
Your Your table table is is ready. ready.
DineDine in elegance in elegance 20 fl20 oors floors above above the city the city where where onlyonly our food our food surpasses surpasses the the spectacular spectacular view.view. Experience Experience the fi the nest finest steaks, steaks, fresh fresh seafood seafood and and free-range free-range game game dishes dishes in Corpus in Corpus Christi Christi at Republic at Republic of Texas, of Texas, located located inside inside the the Omni Omni Corpus Corpus Christi Christi Hotel. Hotel. For For special special occasions, occasions, reserve reserve our private our private Wine Wine Room, Room, which which features features a prix a prix fixe fi menu xe menu of exquisitely of exquisitely paired paired meals meals and and wines. wines.
30 COASTAL BEND VISITORS GUIDE 361-886-3515 361-886-3515 • omnihotels.com/republic • omnihotels.com/republic
OCTOBER 2016
108 Peoples Street T-Head, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.881.8503 • www.harrisonslanding.net
Within walking distance from the Bayfront hotels, this family-owned restaurant has become a local favorite. Known for their lobster bisque, snapper tacos, and colossal fried shrimp, this unique restaurant also has a floating dining area and tiki bar. Primarily an outdoor facility, upstairs in the floating building built upon a barge, there is an indoor dining area. Lunch & dinner offer an assortment of seafood and chicken, salads, burgers, sandwiches and more. Harrison’s Landing is family-friendly as well as fido-friendly, and offers live music Wed-Sun. With a delicious array of food and drinks Harrison’s Landing sure makes for a great dinner catch.
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HARRISON’S LANDING
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TAKENIWA ASIAN FUSION 5216 S.P.I.D., Corpus Christi, TX 78411 361.356.6888 • www.takeniwa.com
Savor authentic Asian Cuisine from many different cultures, including Chinese, Japanese and Thai, highlighted by a live Hibachi show where their specialty trained chefs cook your entrées before your eyes with flare and excitement. Takeniwa also features an extensive menu with over 100 varieties of sushi and rolls.
224 E Cotter, Port Aransas, TX 78373 361.749.1947 • thetarponbarandgrill.com
The Tarpon Bar & Grill is a local favorite to those traveling to the Port Aransas area. Stop in for great treats and eats for the whole family! Start out your dining experience with one of their delicious starters - from fried pickles to oysters and grab one of their awesome entrees and their fresh fish tacos! VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
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TARPON BAR & GRILL
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15820 Park Rd 22, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 361.949.7437 • www.mikelmays.com
Enjoy Live Music and cool breezes every weekend while drinking an Ice Cold Beer, Frozen Cocktail or a variety of mixed drinks. Choose from our full menu all while sitting on Bob Hall Pier overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Mexico! Mikel May’s is open daily for lunch and dinner.
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MIKEL MAY’S
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HESTER’S CAFE 1714 Alameda • 361.815.0558 1902 N Shoreline • 361.885.0151 3812 S Alameda • 361.885.1892 www.hesterscafe.com
With three sweet locations to choose from, the original in the heart of Old Town, another inside the Art Museum of South Texas and their newest in Lamar Park, Hester’s is a lovely place to grab fresh and healthy food. Known for their hearty and creative sandwiches, crisp salads, omelettes, waffles and homemade desserts.
5274 S Staples, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 361.991.6888
Don’t take the words “supreme buffet” lightly - the Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet features seafood, sushi, steaks, hibachi grill, Chinese, American and Italian food at a great buffet price. Great for families of all ages, this delicious and very clean buffet has entrées and desserts to meet any palette. VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
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HIBACHI GRILL & SUPREME BUFFET
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WATERFRONT DINING • SHOPPING • BOATING 108 Peoples Street T-Head, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401 361-881-8503 | harrisonslanding.net
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HOEGEMEYER’S BBQ
711 Concrete St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.884.4227 • www.hoegemeyers.com
If you’re looking for quality BBQ
in the Coastal Bend, Hoegemeyer’s BBQ Barn is the place to go. Hoegemeyer’s
currently
offers
eight beers on tap and more in the bottle that pairs well with their famous brisket,
chopped
beef,
sausage,
pulled pork and St. Louis style ribs!
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PARADISE KEY BAR & GRILL
165 Cove Harbor North, Rockport, TX 78382 361.729.6000 • www.paradisekeydocksidebarandgrill.com
Paradise Key Dockside Bar & Grill has opened and is one of the coolest places in town with great food and great views of Arasnas Bay & the Intercoastal Waterway. The whole family can enjoy the many menu features such as choice steaks, seafood sandwiches, crisp salads, and hom estyle desserts. This is a popular spot for both locals and visitors a like.
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SOUTH TEXAS SUSHI
5433 S Staples, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 361.334.3369 • www.stxsushi.com
South Texas Sushi is located in Corpus Christi’s premier shopping center, The Boardwalk. Chef Michelle Mendez's culinary concepts compliment her one-of-a-kind sushi atmosphere, available only in the Coastal Bend. This local restaurant has a menu inspired by exquisite Mexican and Japanese recipes and offers BYOB.
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VIETNAM RESTAURANT
701 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.853.2682 • www.vietnam-restaurant.com
Located in downtown Corpus Christi, Vietnam Restaurant serves a contemporary Vietnamese fusion menu of high quality, fresh ingredients. Their fine dining menu boasts of tasty herbs and vegetables, seafood, poultry, pork, and beef dishes. Operated by Chef Tony Lam & family, Vietnam Restaurant culminates the fine dining experience in Corpus Christi. VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
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OCT
OCT
1
7
FRIGHT NIGHT OPENING
Looking for a good Halloween thrill? Head on over to the Fright Night Haunted House in downtown Corpus Christi kicking off at 7PM.
JON WOLFE W/ JOSH WARD THROWDOWN
Join the first Texas Throwdown of the Month featuring Jon Wolfe with Josh Ward at Brewster Street Icehouse. Advance tickets available for only $15 or $20 at the door. For more information visit brewsterstreet.net.
OCT OCT
2
CORPUS CHRISTI BRIDGEWALK
Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Corpus Christi skyline at the monthly BridgeWalk at the Harbor Bridge. For more information visit marinaartscc.com and join the tradition.
36 COASTAL BEND VISITORS GUIDE
OCT FOR TODAY LIVE
6
Looking for a night of rock? For Today is taking over House of Rock with Gideon, Wage Ware, Bloodlines on Thursday, Oct. 6th! Don’t miss out on this rockin’ show.
7
CORPUS CHRISTI BIKEFEST
Head on out to Concrete Street Oct. 7th - 9th for the 2016 Corpus Christi BikeFest featuring motorcycle & accessory vendors from across the country, hot musical groups, celebrity appearances and more!
OCTOBER 2016
OCT
OCT
8
ELTON JOHN LIVE
Looking for a night filled with legendary hits? Elton John will be live at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi on October 8th for more infor visit americanbankcenter.com
14
MOONLIGHT IN THE GARDENS
Looking for an entertainment packed night? Join in on the Moonlight in the Gardens South Texas Botanical Gardens Fundraiser. There will be live music, great food, pictures with parrots, auctions and more! For more info at: stxbot.org or call 361-852-2100.
OCT
21
BALLOONAPALOOZA TOUR
OCT
22
Head out to Robstown’s Richard M. Borchard Fairgrounds for the best Hot Air Balloon Glow on the coast. This 3-day festival will feature music, vendors, a carnival, and tethered rides. For more info visit balloonapaloozatour.com.
BACON FEST TEXAS @ ARANSAS PASS
Get the entire family together on October 22nd & 23rd and head on out to Red Fish Bay Boathouse for a family-friendly celebration of all-things-related-to-bacon featuring live music, contests, games, booths, and cooking competitions. For more information on Bacon Fest Texas visit www.baconfesttexas.us.
OCT
28
TREASURE ISLAND
Make it a family weekend with Treasure Island at Harbor Playhouse. The play is available every Friday Sunday between Oct. 7 - 31st. Don't miss out on this masterful adventure! VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
OCT
29
ZIEGENBOCK MUSIC FEST
See the hottest Texas Country performances liVe on one stage Gary Allan, Cody Johnson, Jack Ingram, Bart Crow, Dirty River Boys and more at Concrete Street Amphitheatre!
OCT
29
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS FESTIVAL
It's a night of celebrations at the Dia de los Muertos Street Festival! Check out the 3 stages with live entertainment, Hecho-a-Mano Art Expo, facepainting, and more. This street festival is located in downtown Corpus Christi on Mesquite Street. COASTAL BEND VISITORS GUIDE
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C O A S TA L B E N D V I S I T O R S G U I D E
SHOPPING
LAMAR PARK 3850 S Alameda, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Lamar Park is the lifestyle shopping center of choice. Without a doubt, the premier shopping destination in Corpus Christi. You will find intriguing specialty shops, designer and name brand stores, high quality ladies, men’s and children’s apparel as well as unique dining and jewelry stores. For a complete listing of stores please visit their website listings at www.lamarpark.com.
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WATER STREET MARKET
38 COASTAL BEND VISITORS GUIDE
309 N Water Street, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
At the heart of Corpus Christi’s downtown marina and entertainment district is this popular oasis and landmark. With numerous specialty stores and excellent restaurants, it is a definite hot spot for locals and travelers alike. While there, don’t miss the live music at the Executive Surf Club or the famous Texas Surf Museum with over 3000 square feed of exhibits and Gulf Coast surfing history. OCTOBER 2016
PEACE OF MIND In the heart of downtown Corpus Christi, it’s not hard to stumble upon one of the city’s most favorite hot spots for relaxation, Peace of Mind. Peace of Mind will transform your aches and pains internal and external into comfort by giving ease of relief with massage therapy and natural healing.
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602 N Lower Broadway Street, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.737.7813 • www. peaceofmindcorpuschristi.com
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TREEHOUSE ART COLLECTIVE
PILAR
309 N Water St #D, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.882.4822 • www.treehouseartcc.com
This art gallery showcases the work of local artists from the Texas Coastal Bend and features watercolors, oils, acrylics, multi-media, photographs, dichroic and tons more! Take home a great piece of art today as a memento of your trip to the Coastal Bend.
BLEU FROG ////////////////////////////////
3850 S Alameda, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 361.853.7171
The most exciting shopping in the area with imports from over 30 countries. At Pilar, you’ll find beautiful, unique and extraordinary jewelry and clothing from lines like Oh My Gauze, Dunes, Dilemma and Comfy USA just to name a few. Pilar also carries accessories, home accents, collectibles and tons of gift options for all occasions.
1710 S Alameda, Corpus Christi, TX 78404 361.881.1091 • bleufrogmercantile.com
Fun. Funky. Fabulous. The perfect definition of Bleu Frog. Recently under new management, Bleu Frog is expanding and transforming. Here you will be swept up in the elegance of fine home furnishings, enamored with the whimsy of décor, and thrilled with all of our new coastal apparel and accessories! Bleu Frog is family owned and stands on the traditions of Honesty, Integrity, and Superior Customer Service.
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SIMPLY EXQUISITE BOUTIQUE
VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
1117 Railroad, Portland, TX 78374 361.749.0302
The name says it all. Simply Exquisite is located in a unique shopping center in the city of Portland, TX. Only a 10 minute drive from downtown Corpus Christi. This boutique features anything from Corkcicle Tumblers to an entire updated Vera Bradley Collection of purses and accessories to Costa accessories. Whatever your style is Simply Exquisite has it!
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SHOPPING
LA PALMERA MALL //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
C O A S TA L B E N D V I S I T O R S G U I D E
5488 S.P.I.D., Corpus Christi, TX 78411 361.991.5718 • www.lapalmera.com
The La Palmera Shopping District
is Corpus Christi’s 80-acre premiere shopping and leisure destination. La
Palmera, the 1-million-square-foot super regional mall, and The Shops
at La Palmera, a 230,000-square-
foot center conveniently located across from La Palmera, offer more
than 130 retail and restaurant
options including Dillard’s, J.C. Penney, Macy’s, Coach, P.F. Chang’s and LongHorn Steakhouse, a 600seat food court with a 4,500-gallon
feature aquarium, and a children’s ocean-themed play area.
4954 Space Center Dr. | San Antonio, TX 78218 210.804.0390 | www.shweiki.com
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OCTOBER 2016
VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
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DOWNTOWN CORPUS CHRISTI
2 1 4 3
1. Whataburger Field/CC Hooks Hurricane Alley Waterpark 2. Museum of Science & History Harbor Playhouse
6
7
5
3. Brewster Street Icehouse
8
4. American Bank Center Selena Auditorium Art Museum of South Texas Hester’s Cafe @ the Art Museum Corpus Christi Visitors Info
9
5. Concrete Street Amphitheater Hoegemeyer’s BBQ Barn
10
11 12
6. Railroad Seafood Station 7. U.S. District Court
13
8. Mulligan’s Pub Rockit’s Whiskey Bar & Saloon House of Rock Peace of Mind 9. Thrill Seeker Tours Harrison’s Landing 10. Water Street Seafood Company Treehouse Art Collective Texas Surf Museum Executive Surf Club 11. Joe’s Crab Shack 12. Fun-Time Rentals 13. Corpus Christi CVB 14
14. Spohn Hospital Shoreline 16
15
15. Bleu Frog Hester’s Cafe - Six Points Price’s Chef 16. Cole Park / Skate Park / Pier
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OCTOBER 2016
SOUTHSIDE CORPUS CHRISTI 17. Best Buy Shoe Carnival Bed, Bath & Beyond Michael’s Subway Baskin Robin’s Chic-fil-A
17
18. Physicians Premiere ER 19
19. Academy Sports & Outdoors 18
20. HEB Grocery Target Half Price Books Freebirds Party City World Market
20
21
21. La Palmera Mall 22. Sunrise Mall
22 23
23. Catfish Charlie’s
24
24. Panjo’s Pizza Jason’s Deli Supercuts Stinger’s Coffee 25. Physicians Premier ER 26
26. Oso Beach Golf Course 27. Coffee Waves
27
28. Sutter Park 29. Pizza State 28 25
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COASTAL BEND VISITORS GUIDE
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NORTH PADRE ISLAND
30
30. Bangkok Star Island Joe’s Coffee Padre Island Hair Salon
31
32
33
31. Scuttlebutt’s Bar & Grill 32. Whataburger Farah’s
34
35 36
33. Pelican Lounge Island Gym
37
38
34. Island Car Wash 39
35. Sonic Drive Thru The Medical Center 36. CVS Pharmacy Isle Mail & More Padre Pizzeria Texas Mesquite BBQ Third Coast Beach Company WB Liquors & Wine 37. Stripes Padre Island Burger Company Padre Island Gift Shop
40
38. Schlitterbahn Riverpark Resort 41
39. Dragonfly 42
44
43
40. Rock and Rolls Sushi Costa Sur Wok & Ceviche Bar Surfside Sandwich Shoppe 41. Black Sheep Bistro The Barrel Wine & Tapas 42. Stripes La Palma 43. Boathouse Bar & Grill 44. Island Italian
45
44 COASTAL BEND VISITORS GUIDE
45. Bob Hall Pier / Padre Balli Park Horse Riding on the Beach (Further South) Angry Marlin OCTOBER 2016
63
46
50
47
49 48 52
51 53 54
55
56
57 58
59 60
61 62
PORT ARANSAS 46. Ferry Landing Aransas Queen Casino 47. FINS / Deep Sea Headquarters Port Aransas Chamber & Tourist Information Center 48. Tarpon Inn
Trout Street Bar & Grill
56. Family Center IGA
Virginia’s on the Bay
57. Moby Dick’s
50. Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center
58. Spanky’s Liquor
51. The Brewery
59. Winton’s Candies
52. University of Texas Marine
60. Seafood & Spaghetti Works
Science Institute
61. Whataburger
53. Castaway’s Seafood & Grill
Island Car Wash
54. The Crazy Cajun
Surf & Gift Shops
Roosevelt’s at the Tarpon Inn
Gratitude
62. WB Liquors & Wine
Tarpon Bar & Grill
MacDaddy’s Family Kitchen
63. Tiki Tours TX
49. Fisherman’s Wharf VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
55. Stingrays Taphouse and Grill COASTAL BEND VISITORS GUIDE
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64 65 66
67
68
69
72
71
70
63
73
ROCKPORT
66. Panjo’s Pizza & Pasta Taqueria Puerto Vallarta
64. Charlotte Plummer Seafaire
67. WB Liquors & Wine
Hu-Dat Oriental Restaurant
K-Bob’s Steakhouse
Moondog Seaside Eatery
Bleu Crab Cafe
Cheryl’s By the Bay
Golden Gate Chinese
Fulton Beach Bar & Grill 65. Bellino’s Italian Restaurant Boiling Pot Restaurant Fulton Mansion Historic Site Lighthouse Inn at Aransas Bay 46 COASTAL BEND VISITORS GUIDE
Rockport Center for the Arts LATITUDE 28°02’ Restaurant Hemingway’s Bar & Grill Mac’s Pit Barbecue 71. Los Camales Mexican Hatfield’s BBQ
68. GLOW Seafood Restaurant
72. Faifoo Cafe
69. Capparelli’s Italian Food
73. Original Vallarta Restaurant
70. Rockport Chamber of Commerce Texas Maritime Museum Bay Education Center
Paradise Key Dockside Bar & Grill 74. Whataburger OCTOBER 2016
CORPUS CHRISTI NORTH BEACH 75. Grommers Seafood Market 76. Fajitaville Restaurant 77. Yo Philly Cheese Steaks
74
78. Islands Bar & Grill 79. Lexington Bar & Grill 80. Dot’z Restaurant Pier 99 Restaurant 75
81. U.S.S. Lexington Museum 82. Texas State Aquarium
BOUTIQUES, EATS, ART & MUSIC? 76
77
78
79
80
81
YOU BET YOUR BOTTOM SAND DOLLAR! SCAN TO PLAN
82 VISIT THE PORT ARANSAS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR MORE ACTIVITIES, MAPS, BROCHURES AND FRIENDLY CONVERSATION. 403 W. COTTER. CLOSE TO THE FERRY.
VISITCOASTALBEND.COM
Where to STAY & How to PLAY
COASTAL BEND VISITORS GUIDE
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