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Now that the fuss around Thanksgiving and Black Friday has subsided, winter plans are in full effect.
While your electricity bill continues to rise even though you’re using your heating properly, you’re better off spending money by booking a sunny getaway.
How about an often overlooked Texas coastal city with easy flying, 70-degree beach days and 100 miles of coastline?
While many travelers flock to Florida as their beach destination of choice, you can experience fewer crowds and cheaper stays in one of the South’s most underrated escapes.
Corpus Christi is a vibrant city with a fascinating history ranging from pop icon tragedies to military might.
Better yet, the coast is an endless playground for all things beach: lounging, fishing, camping, you name it, or just taking the whole crew for a day out. warm winter holidays.
Corpus Christi‘s Surprising Urban Treasures
If you’ve never visited Corpus Christi, you might be surprised to find its towering skyline and revitalized downtown.
Those who have never been there have probably heard of Corpus, but it is often talked about as a small town.
That is not the case. More than 300,000 people call this underrated beach paradise home to three major airlines serving Corpus Christi International Airport.
There have been several hotels in the center given new life as well as a laundry list of new businesses scheduled to open.
Downtown Corpus is no longer an urban ghost town; there is plenty to see and do. Of course you can’t explore the city center without taking a nice walk along the 2.4 kilometer long ‘Sea wall‘lining Shoreline Blvd.
Although the center does not have the most beautiful beach in the region, it is at least a great starting point. As you look out over the Bay of Corpus Christi, you can’t help but notice numerous naval vessels, which may pique your interest in touring the USS Lexington Museum ($20.95 admission).
This fascinating ship is just the start of Corpus’ attractions as you can also visit:
- The Art Museum of South Texas
- Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
- South Texas Botanical Gardens
- Tejano Civil Rights Museum
Most notable, however, would be the Selena Museuma tribute to the life of Corpus Christi’s own Selena, a world-famous pop star who tragically died in her hometown in 1995.
Budget Travel Tip: Check out Corpus Christi’s recently updated list of ‘15 free things to do‘.
100 miles of coast
If you’re trying to narrow down your vacation options, let this be a selling point: 100 miles of coastline.
Some are more remote and spacious than others. There is no doubt that you will find a beach that suits your mood.
If you drive to Corpus or rent a car, there are several beaches where licensed vehicles are allowed. One of the many reasons why both Mustang Island State Park ($7 admission) and Padre Island National Seashore ($10 entrance fee) are the most popular beach outings around here.
One that is a sleeper, however, is JP Luby Beach – home to soft white sand, great surfing conditions and evening campfires.
Though nearby is a secret beach town beloved by Texans across the state Rock Gate. Because it offers a mix of small-town charm, historic sights, and idyllic coastlines, booking a Gulfside vacation rental here is never a bad idea.
Delicious food and affordable accommodation
They say everything is bigger in Texas, and you’ll quickly understand why when you eat out. It
Corpus is no different, except that the Texas-sized portions are more of the seafood variety than typical barbecue and Mexican food.
Not to mention Texas’ favorite burger chain, Whataburgerwhich started here in Corpus. There’s even a replica of the original storefront that you can take a selfie with.
As great (and huge) as their burgers are, my favorite place to eat out is Fajitaville.
Just like it sounds, order your fajitas beachside at what is essentially the ‘Fajita’ version of Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville (but there are no ties).
And after treating your taste buds to Corpus’ delicious food scene, you’ll need a place to relax and recharge.
According to TripAdvisorHere are the top 5 hotels in Corpus Christi this winter: (ranked by value):
- Omni Corpus Christi Hotel (my favorite!)
- Hyatt Place Corpus Christi
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Corpus Christi
- Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Corpus Christi
- Hotel De Ville
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
