Explore over 80 miles of scenic bay beaches and drivable gulf beaches
ECO-FRIENDLY BEACH PRACTICES
Discover sea turtle releases, unique coastal activities, and more.
Welcome to Corpus Christi, where the sun shines bright and the coastline stretches for over 80 miles, inviting you to unwind in true Texas style. Take a moment and take it all in. Sink your toes into the sand, feel that Gulf breeze, and listen to the rhythm of the waves crashing ashore. Relax on the beach or dive right into world-class water sports – the choice is yours.
CONTRIBUTORS
PIERS
Red Dot Pier
Philip Dimitt Municipal Fishing Pier
Thank you to all the contributors who made this beaches field guide possible. Your collaboration has transformed this project into a valuable resource for all who share a passion for roaming the beach.
Cos Way Pier
Cole Park Pier
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Kathryn Hyatt
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Danielle Galindo
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Kylie Marchitello
Hannah Ryan
COPYWRITER
Jacqueline Gonzalez
CONTRIBUTORS
Kelly Taylor, Program Manager for the Division of Interpretation and Education - Padre Island
National Seashore
PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS
@cityofcc @fuso_olly Kelly Taylor Pexels
@padreislandexpeditions @hillary.bowles
@the_casual_corpus_christian @mahotle
Texas State Aquarium @garrett_hughes
@jasonheritage @mimilopezphotography
@debbienoble @triggertimephotography
@fmcctx_color @downtime.guide
@accessibility_with_aspen_sage
@laurielyngimagery @txsurfcamp
GULF VS. BAY BEACHES
Corpus Christi has two types of beaches you can enjoy – Gulf and Bay. Our drivable Gulf beaches offer a vibrant beach scene with crashing waves, miles of sand, and wide-open views, while the Bay beaches provide a more relaxed vibe with scenic spots like the Seawall and Shoreline Blvd. Whether you’re after excitement or tranquility, there’s a beach for you!
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GULF BEACHES
Roam gulf beaches on miles of sandy shores and endless adventures.
BAY BEACHES
Coast your way through the calm waters of our laid-back bay beaches.
MAP OF BEACHES
Locate key beach locations in the Gulf Coast Capital.
BEACH RULES
Learn important beach rules and regulations to abide by during your visit.
BEACH SAFETY
Find essential tips and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable beach experience.
INTERVIEW WITH AN EXPERT
Gain valuable insights from Padre Island National Seashore Park Ranger, Kelly Taylor.
SEA LIFE & CONSERVATION
See how to help protect critically endangered Kemp’s Ridley Sea turtles and beach wildlife.
ANNUAL BEACH EVENTS
Mark your calendar for exciting annual beach events in the Gulf Coast Capital.
BEACH ACTIVITIES
Elevate your beach experience with these unique coastal activities.
PADRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE 20420 P ARK RD 22
PADRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE | Padre Island
GRASSLANDS NATURE TRAIL 20301 PARK RD 22
Kick back on the world’s longest undeveloped barrier island, Padre Island National Seashore. Explore over 130,000 acres of dunes, grasslands, and beaches, including federally protected wildlife and the Laguna Madre. Watch sea turtle releases, stroll along the Grasslands Nature Trail, and visit the observation deck at the Malaquite Visitor Center for stunning wildlife views. You can also enjoy shell hunting at Little Shell Beach and Big Shell Beach. If you’re driving, after Mile 5, you’ll need a 4-Wheel Drive to proceed.
MUSTANG ISLAND STATE PARK | Mustang Island
Unwind on Mustang Island State Park, where you’ll find a serene getaway with miles of sandy beach perfect for day trips or longer vacations. The beach spans 18 miles of pristine coastline, offering camping, beachcombing, and wildlife sightings including turtles, dolphins, and birds. Ranger Programs and the Mustang Island Paddling Trail offer fun additions for visitors to enjoy the park’s natural beauty year-round.
JP LUBY | Mustang Island
Rule the waves year-round at this watersports wonderland with surfing, jet-skiing, kiteboarding, and more. Surfing conditions are prime here, thanks to northwest offshore winds, while fishing is a popular pastime with no license required. Don’t miss the chance to also catch a stunning sunset by a campfire on the shore with the various camping options available.
PADRE BALLI | Padre Island
Live it up on Padre Balli, a local gem spanning 400 acres of coastline, and a great place to go shore fishing. Featuring nearly 100 paved RV sites with various amenities, stunning shores, and endless possibilities for adventure, it’s no surprise that this sunny spot is a year-round favorite!
WHITECAP | Padre Island
Enjoy a laid-back beach trip at Whitecap Beach. Whether you’re into surfing, fishing, or just relaxing in the sun, Whitecap is a popular destination to kick back and enjoy the sun-soaked shores.
MICHAEL J. ELLIS AND SEAWALL | Padre Island
Just a short walk from Whitecap Beach, you’ll find Michael J. Ellis Beach and Seawall. This ADA accessible beach offers free parking, clean facilities, showers, and dressing rooms in its paved Windward Parking lot. The well-maintained packed sand and lifeguards make it a great place to relax, while biking, jogging, and walking are enjoyed on the scenic mile-long seawall. Rental vendors are also close by, ensuring you have everything you need for a pictureperfect beach day.
NORTH BEACH | North Beach
Catch every moment on North Beach, from burying your toes in the sand and strolling down the beach to fishing from the jetties. Enjoy the comfortable rooms and amenities at the Doubletree and grab a bite to eat at Eighteen18 Eat & Drink before heading down to the USS Lexington where you can discover the history of her role in WWII, and enjoy an underwater adventure with over 250 species of marine life at the Texas State Aquarium.
MCGEE BEACH | Downtown Corpus Christi
Coast your way in Downtown Corpus Christi and discover McGee Beach and its warm waters and soft sands. Located on Shoreline Blvd., it’s close to various hotels and within walking distance of the only major downtown marina on the Texas coast. Whether you’re renting a jet ski or surrey bicycle from Fun Time Rentals, strolling down the seawall, or exploring nearby parks, McGee Beach is perfect for family trips.
MCGEE BEACH
Your Pocket Guide To: Fishing Your Pocket Guide To: Beaches
Beach
Rules YOU NEED TO KNOW
Your Pocket Guide To: Beaches
ESSENTIAL Beach Safety TIPS TO KNOW
RULES FOR ALL BEACHES CHECK CONDITIONS
Please use plastic containers only and dispose of all litter in trash receptacles. Be sure to take all items with you at the end of the day.
RULES FOR DOGS ON BEACHES
Dogs must be on a leash, or they should be under verbal command. Please properly dispose of all pet waste. Access Rd. 3 to Zahn is off limits to dogs on all major holidays. At this time, redirect to Padre Balli Park.
ADDITIONAL BAY BEACH RULES
For your safety, driving on the beach is not allowed. Please use designated parking areas. BBQ pits, inflatable games, and campfires are also prohibited.
ADDITIONAL GULF BEACH RULES
Please keep your speed at 15 mph. Beach parking permits are required for Whitecap, JP Luby/North Packery, and Padre Balli Park beaches.
RULES FOR CAMPFIRES
Keep campfires within 3’x3’, fully extinguish them after use, and refill any holes with sand. Campfires are allowed for up to 3 days at a time and 6 days per month. Avoid using pallets or building materials, and remember, campfires are not permitted in front of hotels and condos.
Check the local beach forecast for potentially hazardous water conditions. For more information on beach safety, stop by the Visitor Information Center.
KNOW THE FLAGS
RED: Water conditions are extremely hazardous, such as the presence of strong wind, strong current, or large surf, and beachgoers should avoid the water.
YELLOW: Water conditions are moderately hazardous due to wind conditions. Swimming is permitted but be mindful of your surroundings.
GREEN: The most common of the colors you’ll encounter – this means the water conditions are safe for you to enjoy.
PURPLE: Indicates that marine life (i.e. jellyfish, stingrays, man-o-war) is present in the water and could pose potential risks to swimmers.
ORANGE: Indicates that environmental pollution is present and could be harmful. This may include high bacteria levels, especially after high tides, or poor air and water quality.
The Je’Sani Smith Foundation educates on beach safety and rip currents, offering awareness and water skills training to prevent danger on our beaches.
Scan the QR for more information on beach rules and safety tips.
LET’S TALK BEACHES
Q. WHAT ARE SOME RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE TO VISITORS?
Q&A WITH KELLY TAYLOR, CHIEF OF INTERPRETATION & EDUCATION AND PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICERPADRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE is contiguous and protected, but it’s also where migratory birds and insects hunker down for food and protection. The Laguna Madre itself is unique since it is one of 6 hypersaline bodies of water in the world.
A: There are plenty of activities, but the most popular is beach driving. Visitors also enjoy anything from camping, fishing, and kayaking to beach combing, collecting shells, and stargazing. Others simply come down to disconnect since there is no reception down here.
Q. DESCRIBE THE UNIQUE HABITATS WITHIN THE NATIONAL SEASHORE.
A: The barrier island itself is unique, and the first protector for the mainland from storms. We have the coastal prairie on the national seashore that
Q. WHAT CONSERVATION EFFORTS ARE IN PLACE TO PROTECT ENDANGERED SPECIES AND ECOSYSTEMS WITHIN PADRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE?
A: The 66 miles of wild coastline is a conservation effort that allows us to maintain this unobstructed and undeveloped area. Another effort is through our work with turtles. We look for the turtles and take the eggs back to the lab to hatch them, and then we release those turtles back into the water.
Q. ARE THERE SAFETY MEASURES IN PLACE FOR THE WELL-BEING OF VISITORS AND WILDLIFE?
A: We always encourage people to check out our website prior to visiting or download the NPS app. There is a section called Plan Your Visit and it provides all the information they should know before visiting, both for their enjoyment and their safety. This can range from proper clothing for the weather and bringing plenty of food and water to using the proper vehicle for beach driving.
Q. DO YOU HAVE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR VISITORS?
A: Please do not leave any trash behind on the beach. We have onion skin bags that they can pick up any time outside the visitor center doors at any time. These bags have holes in them, and the sand will pour out while keeping the trash secure. Keep in mind that it is typically 10 degrees cooler at the beach because of the vast body of water and direction of the wind, so plan accordingly with your choice of clothing.
Scan the QR Code to read the full interview
SEALIFE & CONSERVATION
PROTECTING AND RESPECTING CORPUS
CHRISTI'S BEACHSIDE RESIDENTS
Prioritizing eco-friendly practices on our beaches not only preserves the natural beauty but also safeguards marine life and habitats. Corpus Christi’s beaches offer a look into the region’s wildlife, including over 300 bird species and Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtles. Inland, you might spot animals like coyotes and deer. Remember, feeding them can lead to harmful habituation, resulting in their euthanasia to protect both them and visitors.
Visitors can help reduce plastic waste by using reusable bags and water bottles, while biodegradable sunscreen protects both skin and sea life. Respecting beach signs and wildlife ensures a balanced ecosystem, and using beach trash bags makes it easy to keep the shores clean. Together, we can enjoy and protect these beaches for future generations.
KEMP’S RIDLEY SEA TURTLES HATCHINGS
Every year, thousands of endangered Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtles are nested and hatched in Corpus Christi, then released into the Gulf of Mexico. You can enjoy these turtle releases on Whitecap Beach or Mustang Island courtesy of the Texas Sealife Center. While
roaming our beaches, avoid any areas with reflective lollipop stakes in the sand near the dunes.
Experience the comprehensive care and rehabilitation of marine mammals, raptors, shorebirds, and sea turtles at Texas’s premier coastal wildlife rescue facility, featuring cutting-edge medical services and educational exhibits, including the state’s only wildlife-specific CAT scan.
Since sea turtles and their nests are difficult to see, biologists use these reflectors and flagging tape to mark their locations to avoid them being crushed by vehicles on the beach. By making these delicate areas more visible, these markers ensure that drivers steer clear of them. It is imperative that the reflectors remain undisturbed until the biologists remove them once the nest has been recovered.
THE PORT OF CORPUS CHRISTI CENTER FOR WILDLIFE RESCUE
ANNUAL EVENTS ON THE BEACH
ELEVATE YOUR COASTAL EXPERIENCE WITH THESE ANNUAL BEACHSIDE EVENTS
BEACH TO BAY | MAY
BAREFOOT MARDI GRAS | FEBRUARY
Corpus Christi and Cajun culture come together on the beach for the annual Barefoot Mardi Gras celebration with music, a parade, food, and more, so kick off your shoes and enjoy a one-of-a-kind
Join runners from around the world at the largest relay marathon in the U.S. The course winds along the shoreline, through the Naval Air Station, over the JFK Causeway, and finishes along the beautiful Ocean Drive.
TEXAS SANDFEST | SEPTEMBER
Gather with people from across the country at this three-day family event to see magnificent sculptures made only from sand at the largest nativesand sculpture competition in the U.S.
ADVENTURES ON THE BEACH
ELEVATE YOUR BEACH EXPERIENCE WITH THESE UNIQUE COASTAL ACTIVITIES
SURFING LESSONS
The ideal weather on the coast calls for surfing lessons. Padre Island Surf Camp and Texas Surf Camp offer single and group lessons or challenge yourself with windsurfing lessons at Worldwinds Windsurfing.
SEASIDE PICNICS
Enjoy a luxury pop-up customizable picnic experience with Pretty Picnics or test your art skills with Paint and Picnic while dining on locally made treats from French restaurant Bien Mérité.
HORSES ON THE BEACH
Explore the coastline with Horses on the Beach. Whether you’re experienced or trying it for the first time, enjoy a relaxed ride along the shore with welltrained horses. With one-hour or sunset rides, it’s a unique way to experience the beach and take in the ocean views from a new perspective. Perfect for a quiet, scenic outing.
PRETTY PICNICS
BEACH RENTALS
Cruise the coast on an eco-friendly, zero-emission vehicle, designed for beach adventures from Gulf Coast Mokes. With comfortable seating for 4 people, and up to 8 hours of drive time on a full charge, a Moke rental is perfect for a day of fun in the sun.
When you’re
ready to relax, Corpus Beach
Rentals at JP Luby Beach (marker 206) provides everything you need, from tables and chairs to snackleboxes with fresh charcuterie delights in a convenient and food-safe tackle box. Choose from Bundle and Save packages or build your own perfect beach day with a custom package.
Party into the night with a full-day rental from Love Shack Tiki Hut. Pick your spot on the beach, give them your mile marker, and prepare to sip on margaritas and relax on hammock swings on a tiki hut with string lights, bluetooth speakers for music, and more.
GULF COASTERS
While roaming our beaches, look out for our friendly Gulf Coasters! You can spot them in their signature orange fishing shirts and cruising around on their ‘Gulf Carts.’ They are ready to make sure you enjoy everything Corpus Christi has to offer.
