Something about this coastal city keeps calling me back—the salty breeze, the beautiful beaches, and miles of sandy shores. From paddling through glowing waters at night to exploring historic naval ships and getting up close with sea turtles, Corpus Christi knows how to do Spring Break right. And if you’re all about soaking up the sun? The pristine shores of Mustang Island and Padre Island National Seashore are waiting. And these are not even the highlights.
This ultimate Corpus Christi Spring Break bucket list will make your trip unforgettable.
Fun Things To Do in Corpus Christi This Spring Break
Whether you’re a college student craving a week of beachside fun, a family looking for kid-friendly exploration, or an outdoor enthusiast eager to soak up Texas’ coastal beauty, this city delivers on all fronts. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Corpus Christi this spring!
Stroll Through Spring Blooms at South Texas Botanical Gardens
There can’t be a better place to kick off your spring adventure than South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center. Swap flip-flops for walking shoes and wander through 182 acres of tropical blooms and nature trails. Explore the butterfly house and meet over 60 resident reptiles and exotic parrots. With creative educational programming on topics like Texas wildflower folklore, organic gardening, and summer lawn care, it’s perfect for all ages. Kids aged 5 to 18 can enjoy camps focused on nature, photography, and birding, making it an ideal family spring break.
Don’t miss this essential spring stop on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. It’s celebrated at the “Birdiest Festival in America” from April 23 to 27, 2025. Witness an inspiring spring migration along the Texas Gulf Coast. Engage in full-day and half-day trips, a vendor trade show, and a family fun day with an art fair. Spring breakers will be greeted with an authentic Texas BBQ welcome dinner, followed by sipping in their favorites at an all-new “Birds & Beers” at a birder-friendly bar.
Discover Wildlife at Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve & Learning Center
Calling all nature nerds! Trek the boardwalks and 4 miles of trails at Oso Bay Wetlands, where herons, cuckoos, hawks, and maybe even a bobcat are often spotted. This 162-acre nature preserve is dedicated to furthering knowledge of the flora and fauna of South Texas through birding tours and field trips to help visitors understand the importance of protecting the wetlands for future generations.
With Guided Nature Walks (Tuesdays and Saturdays, March 2025) planned throughout this spring, it’s a great place for college kids and adults to learn about local wildlife, birds, wetlands and native plants. Bring good walking shoes and plenty of water, and don’t forget your binoculars!
Soak Up the Sun at Padre Island National Seashore
With 66 miles of untouched coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, the pristine beaches of Padre Island National Seashore are ideal for those sun-soaking lazy days you have been waiting desperately for. As the world’s longest undeveloped barrier island, it offers serene spots for sunbathing, swimming, building sandcastles, and beachcombing. Home to over 380 species, the national seashore provides an extraordinary opportunity to observe birds and tick off new species on your list.
Clear spring skies offer excellent nightly stargazing opportunities at The Night Sky Observatory by the Malaquite Visitor Center parking lot or in less-lit beach areas. Speaking of nightly activities, the 1.5-mile-long North Beach is open to primitive beach camping if you are interested in an overnight adventure by the water.
Marvel at Masterful Creations at Texas SandFest
The Largest Beach Sand Sculpture Competition in the USA, Texas SandFest (April 25 – 27, 2025), is scheduled right in the spring season this year. Held in Port Aransas, here you can wander through a mesmerizing showcase of incredible sand sculptures, enjoy the rhythm of live music, and savor the flavors of the coast from local food vendors.
Young artists can join renowned YouTube personality and professional sand sculptor Andy Hancock, who will inspire them to build remarkable sandcastles through the wonders of science. The Kids’ Corner at SandFest is a joyful haven filled with games, free face painting, hula hooping, and activities that delight the young and the young at heart!
Visit the Sandfest website for the full event lineup and plan ahead to make the most of your beach trip
Camp Under the Stars at Mustang Island State Park
Mustang Island State Park offers a day trip worthy of beach fun for the whole family. Mustang Beach, part of the state park, is an 18-mile-long barrier island on the Texas coast and an ideal spring break spot. Activities include bird-watching (especially during spring migration), picnicking, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and sunbathing during the day. At night, gather around a campfire to roast s’mores and stargaze under the clear spring sky.
Craving waves? Mustang Island serves up prime surfing, kayaking, and beach camping. Rent gear onsite or stake your spot in the sand. Facilities in the park include campsites with water and electricity, primitive beach sites, shaded picnic areas, restrooms, and showers.
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Dive into History at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
Rainy day? No problem. The interactive experiences of the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History promise a deep dive into history and a jolly good time for both young minds and adults. Explore artifacts from the 1686 French shipwreck “La Belle.” Visit Paleontology Hall to compare Mosasaur and Megalodon teeth and learn about the Texas coast’s evolution over 500 million years. The new H-E-B Science Center boasts a 3-story DNA Climber, a planetarium, and interactive exhibits for all ages. It also includes an outdoor playground and a Music Garden with giant instruments.
Spring Break: Backyard Science (March 8 to 16, 2025) will be a week-long event with activities that spark curiosity about the natural world. Each day focuses on the wonders found in your backyard, featuring special guests, discovery carts, science shows, and interactive experiences with Museum Live! You can check out detailed information about this event on the museum’s website.
Splash Around and Discover Marine Wonders at the Texas State Aquarium
Get up close with dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, and colorful marine life at the Texas State Aquarium. Students and families can make the most of the visit by participating in the aquarium’s exhibits, exclusive encounters, and educational programs.
For the most adventurous water lovers, the Snorkel with a Shark Exclusive Encounter offers a safe and educational way to get close to sandbar sharks and other fish. Learn about the species and their conservation before entering a 10’x10’ cage in 400,000 gallons of 72-degree water. The aquarium’s marine adventure is just the beginning! The 15,000-square-foot H-E-B Splash Park, included with admission, will reopen for Spring Break 2025.
his water park is three times the size of the previous splash park, offering something for everyone. It features tall slides for tweens and interactive water features for toddlers. Thanks to all new expansions and additional amenities like a multi-level slide play structure, a 350-gallon water dump, and plenty of seating and shade!
Appreciate Art at the Art Museum of South Texas
Fuel your creative side by exploring diverse collections from regional to global visual arts at the Art Museum of South Texas. With ever-changing exhibitions, permanent collections, and enriching educational programs, the museum beautifully reflects the vibrant multicultural heritage of the region. The stunning architecture alone is a feast for the eyes, featuring majestic buildings with floor-to-ceiling windows that harmonize with the South Texas sun and the breathtaking Corpus Christi Bay.
If you’re bringing your little ones along on your spring adventure, don’t miss the museum’s Spring Break Camp from March 10 to 14, 2025. Children aged 5 to 12 can enjoy a week-long series of spring-themed visual and performing arts activities. And remember, you can enjoy free admission on the first Friday, second Saturday, and third Thursday of every month!
Step Aboard History at the USS Lexington Museum
Tour the historic USS Lexington, a World War II aircraft carrier turned museum. Explore flight decks, climb into cockpits, watch crew quarters of a naval ship, try flight simulators, and witness a fleet of historic aircraft offering a profound insight into maritime history. The overnight camping experience aboard this historic ship is not just unique; it’s extraordinary.
Enjoy all five tour routes, hear the powerful stories of the USS Lexington’s past, and embark on a scavenger hunt. You’ll also view a film in the 3D MEGA Theater, delve into LEX ghost stories, savor two trips through the chow line, sleep in the original crew quarters, and participate in an unforgettable patriotic flag ceremony. This adventure promises so much more!
Soar the Skies with Splendid Aviation
Want epic bird’s eye views of Corpus Christi? Splendid Aviation offers scenic flights over the shoreline and downtown under the guidance of experienced pilots. It’s an unforgettable way to see the city from a new perspective. Plus, you’ll have the chance to dive deeper into the world of aviation and savor a delightful stop for dinner.
Enjoy the view of Corpus Christi from above and reach the flight deck by booking here.
Glide Over the Water on a Glowing Kayak Tour
Cap off your spring adventure in Corpus Christi, gliding over the water on a nighttime glowing kayak tour in illuminated LED-lit kayaks.
Departing from Sunset Island, a beloved spot just outside Corpus Christi, this nighttime adventure takes you through the shallows. You’ll lose yourself in nature’s beauty as you paddle under the stars. Gliding across the water, you may encounter fascinating creatures like stingrays, blue crabs, redfish, and more. Check availability here!
More Spring Break Getaways in Texas
Looking for more Spring Break adventures in Texas? From charming small towns to outdoor escapes, Texas has endless getaways waiting for you. Explore these top destinations!
Where To Stay in Corpus Christi for Spring Break
Planning your Spring Break in Corpus Christi and wondering where to stay? The Omni Corpus Christi is an ideal choice, offering a luxurious stay with breathtaking views of the bay. With top-notch amenities, comfortable rooms, and a central location, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Click here to read our full review of Omni Corpus Christi
Things To Do in Corpus Christi for Spring Break: FAQs
Are there any Free things to do in Corpus Christi for spring break?
Corpus Christi offers plenty of free things to do for Spring Break. Enjoy the sun and surf at Padre Island National Seashore or Mustang Island State Park. For a scenic stroll, visit the Corpus Christi Bayfront Seawall or explore nature at the Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve & Learning Center.
Art lovers can visit the Art Museum of South Texas on the first Friday of the month for free admission. Plus, don’t miss Texas SandFest in nearby Port Aransas to see incredible sand sculptures!
What are some of the best things to do in Corpus Christi for spring break at night?
Corpus Christi offers plenty of exciting things to do at night during Spring Break! Take a glowing kayak tour for a mesmerizing paddle through illuminated waters. For a thrilling history-meets-adventure experience, book an overnight stay at the USS Lexington Museum. For beach lovers, Padre Island National Seashore and Mustang Island State Park are perfect spots to relax under the stars or have a bonfire with friends.
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Things To Do in Corpus Christi for Spring Break: Final Thoughts
Corpus Christi is the perfect place to spend your Spring Break. With its beautiful beaches and exciting activities, it’s a destination everyone can enjoy. As someone who loves to explore new places, I can tell you Corpus Christi has so much to offer. It’s a great spot for a Spring Break getaway with family or friends, and there’s no shortage of things to do.
Also, checkout our blogs about things to do in Corpus Christi this weekend and list of the best places to eat. I hope this guide helps you plan the perfect trip and enjoy all that this beautiful coastal city has in store!
Last Updated 1 month ago by Jessica Serna | Published: February 16, 2025
