Set on the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi is best known as a beach vacation destination, and for good reason — there are nine beautiful beaches here and plenty of opportunities to swim, kayak, paddleboard, and sail. Adrenaline junkies come for the world-class windsurfing at gulfside beaches like Whitecap.

But Corpus Christi also offers all the convenience and culture of an urban getaway — it’s the largest seaside city in Texas, after all. Stroll through the buzzy downtown areas, and you’ll find trendy restaurants, bars, and boutiques housed in restored historic buildings. During the summer, escape the heat or spend a rainy afternoon at one of the city’s many museums. There are water parks and botanical gardens around town as well, and Corpus Christi’s central location makes it a great home base for exploring other parts of the coast. At the end of the day, be sure to pause to enjoy the sunset — they’re particularly stunning here.

Corpus Christi International Airport (CRP) is located within the city limits and is served by a handful of major airlines. Corpus Christi is also within driving distance of many big Texas cities: San Antonio, Austin, and Houston are all fewer than four hours away, and Dallas is about a six-hour drive from the city center.

There are public transportation options around town, but most visitors find it easier to navigate by car. You may also want to rent a car for day trips to other parts of the South Texas coast, such as charming Port Aransas or artsy Rockport, both of which are about 45 minutes away.

Summers in Corpus Christi are hot and humid, with temperatures of around 95 degrees Fahrenheit that sometimes climb into triple digits. But you should pack sunscreen and a hat any time of year. In the mild, warm winters, daytime temperatures are usually in the high 70s Fahrenheit, though nighttime temperatures dip to around 50 degrees during the coldest months.

Along the subtropical Texas Gulf Coast, the wet season lasts from April to October, with a risk of hurricanes in late summer, so you can expect a rainy afternoon or two if you’re visiting during peak season. And hold on to that hat you packed — Corpus has one of the highest wind speeds of coastal cities in North America. If you would rather avoid the gusts, visit between mid-July and mid-October when the winds are calmest.

Padre Island National Seashore

Just a 45-minute drive southeast of the city, Padre Island National Seashore encompasses 130,000 acres of rolling dunes, prairies, mudflats, and beaches. A paved road runs partway down this barrier island, but beyond that, you’ll need a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle to reach the more remote parts of the park.

USS Lexington

A retired aircraft carrier, the USS Lexington serves as a museum and education center. Tour the ship’s many decks, including the flight deck, which features 20 aircraft from the National Museum of Naval Aviation. There’s also a Pearl Harbor exhibit, a flight simulator, virtual battle stations, and an escape room.

Selena Memorial

The beloved Tejano singer is memorialized in a Corpus Christi museum built by her family and in a life-sized bronze sculpture located on the Corpus Christi Bayfront Seawall. Her music is broadcast from the outdoor memorial, which has been named Mirador de la Flor, or Overlook of the Flower.