101
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INSIDE 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN CORPUS CHRISTI Fishing • Sightseeing • Events Beaches • Activities Sports
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WINDSURF WITH THE WORLD’S BEST 12-13
FALL WINTER 2013 ON THE COVER Beaches in the Coastal Bend region are open and enjoyable all yearround. Cook up your own catch or find the freshest seafood and veggies at local markets for a bountiful and delicious beach-side banquet.
EXPERIENCE THE FINEST IN FISHING 22
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Activities
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Walk The Harbor Bridge
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Kite Flying
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Take a Scenic Drive
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Beach Volleyball
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Ride A Buggy
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Disc Golf
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Travel Downtown
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Scuba Diving
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Shopping
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Horseback Riding
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Antique Shopping
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Dolphins
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Best Beaches
TEE OFF AT A PREMIER GOLF COURSE 42
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Welcome.
S
ome call Corpus Christi the Sparkling City by the Sea. Some 300,000 people call it home. Another 5 million visitors a year call it one of the best vacation spots in the world. Home to pristine beaches, nature reserves, numerous museums and art galleries, the ballet, the symphony, professional baseball and hockey, Corpus Christi has it all. How many cities do you know with two marinas, one that can host 150-foot yachts alongside 23-foot sailboats? How many cities do you know where two-thirds of its square-miles are
underwater — and that’s a good thing? Or cities that can claim world class fishing, boating, surf boarding, kite surfing, parasailing and, well, you name the favorite water sport. You’ll find it in the Corpus Christi metropolitan area, along with restaurants for every tastebud and pocketbook and shopping from seasonal fashions to seashells and flip-flops. The best feature, however, is without question the water. “We have marvelous beaches that are safe. We have all these great opportunities,” says the city’s Marina Director Peter Davidson. “We’ve hosted world regattas and Olympic swim events. The water here is absolutely marvelous.”
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Davidson may be one of the ing for the best fishing (Padre city’s biggest boosters. When We have all these Balli Beach), surfing (J.P. Luby), describing the marina, he natgreat opportunities,. kayak fishing (Mustang Island State Park), sun bathing and urally slips into a recital of all We’ve hosted world swimming (North Beach), beach the best features of the city: the regattas and Olympic swim consistent winds that lure sailors events. The water here is combing (San Jose Island), sandand regattas, the pristine, polabsolutely marvelous.” castle building and relaxing (all lution-free bay that’s home to — Peter Davidson, of them!). Want to know more fun prolific schools of fish and pods marina director things you can do on your visit of dolphins, the wildlife that draws birdwatchers and sea turtle enthuto the Sparkling City by the Sea? Just type this simple url into siasts, the sunshine, the waves, the people. your laptop or handheld device to keep up to date And with about a dozen beaches, you’ll find on what’s happening in and around Corpus Christhe one to suit your needs whether you’re lookti: 101corpuschristi.com.
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ACTIVITIES Grab a board and hit the waves, surfing USA! Surfers love Corpus Christi and Port Aransas beaches, among the windiest places on the Texas Gulf Coast. If you’re looking for a local hot spot for surfing and kite boarding, try J.P. Luby Surf Park at 101 N. Shoreline Blvd. in Corpus Christi. Entrance to the beach is free. The Gulf waters grab a consistent offshore wind from the west/northwest, which always promises for good surf. Bob Hall Pier, which is perhaps the most crowded surf spot in the area, offers fishing and surfing accommodations. Surfboards can be rented for $20 per day until 8 p.m. Bob Hall Pier is located at 15820 Park Road 22 in
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Corpus Christi. Look at swell reports and keep track of the best waves by logging on to swellinfo.com. The site tracks hurricanes and provides live video cams and the latest in surf action all along the Coastal Bend region.
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Hike historic seawall, or just relax and enjoy
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The Corpus Christi Seawall is not just a great place to enjoy the bay. The historic — and protective — seawall is a symbol of a city rich in history. Plans for the seawall date to the 1890s when the Corpus Christi Caller-Times featured an article about how the Sparkling City by the Sea would look in the 20th century. Plans included a seawall along its downtown shoreline. But it wasn’t until a Category 4 hurricane devastated the area in September 1919 that people decided something needed to be done to better protect the city. The 1919 hurricane, which happened before hurricanes were named, hit the city with 110mph winds and 16-foot storm surges, killing hundreds of people and sinking 10 major vessels.
The seawall you see and enjoy today wasn’t completed until 1941. It covers almost two miles between the American Bank Convention Center and McGee Beach and raises the shoreline elevation to 14 feet above sea level. The steps are a great place to lounge, walk, roller blade, bicycle, jog or explore with eight gazebos overlooking the bay. You’ll find the Selena Memorial in one of the gazebos. Also nearby is the Corpus Christi Marina and a number of restaurants and shops.
Get married on the beach One of the most romantic places to ask your sweetheart to be yours forever — and even tie the knot — is right on the beach. You could pop the question while sitting on the seawall at sunset or strolling
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along the beach at sunrise. Maybe you could woo your loved one atop Bob Hall Pier or at the botanical gardens among the fresh flowers. And once the date is set, check out these popular locations to tie the knot: the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, the Corpus Christi Water Gardens, the Art Museum of South Texas, the beach and many more. After the wedding, spend your
honeymoon relaxing by the beach, dolphin-watching on a cruise, windsurfing or gathering seashells. You can find 101 ideas right here!
Pick a park for wildlife, beaches, skating and play
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Cole Park is perhaps the most popular and, arguably, the best, park in the area for families.
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The beautiful 43-acre park is situated along the shoreline of Corpus Christi Bay. Cole Park features a huge, interactive playground that includes, swings, monkey bars, bridges, tunnels, picnic benches and loads of fun. Adjacent to the park is a lighted fishing pier as well as an outdoor amphitheater used for special events yearround. Additionally, a 10,000-squarefoot skate park built in 2008 provides a place for visitors and locals to practice their tricks. To enjoy Cole Park and all it has to offer, head down to 1900 Ocean Drive, just a hop, skip and jump from downtown. Hans A. Suter Wildlife Park is considered by many to be a haven for watching migratory, coastal and sea-faring birds. This 72-acre park has a viewing pier as well as a hike-andbike trail that runs along the water. Grills and picnic tables are available for those who fancy spending the afternoon in the company of pelicans, seagulls, egrets and ducks. The park is located off Ennis Joslin Road on the western side of Oso Bay. Padre Balli Beach Park is located at 15820 South Padre Island Drive. This beach provides 12 hardtop camping sites with electrical and water hookups for the ultimate camping experience. Other conveniences include a bathhouse, cabanas and picnic tables. The park is located next to local landmark Bob Hall Pier, a-favorite spot for anglers. Port Aransas Community Park has something for everyone. The community park is complete with a heated swimming pool, senior and Little League-sized baseball fields, soccer field, sport court, hiking trail, sand volleyball court and putting green. Located at 700 Clark Parkway off Ross Avenue, Port Aransas Community Park is more like an outdoor athletic club than a county park. The pool has a number of programs and classes to join, including swimming lessons for CONTINUED NEXT PAGE
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adults and children, synchronized swimming classes, a lifeguard training class and kayaking and canoeing lessons. There is a concession stand onsite. Admission is free, but pool entry is $2 for ages 19-59 and $1 for ages 2-18 and 60 and older. The pool is closed Sundays and Mondays.
Go fly a kite in the Gulf Coast winds Chicago has nothing on the Gulf Coast winds of Corpus Christi, labeled appropriately as the Real Windy City. Put those winds to work by taking your kite to one of the many beaches or parks around the city. Cole Park on Ocean Drive is probably the most ideal (and the most popular) spot to toss your kite in the air and let the wind take it away. National Kite Month is usually in
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April, but you don’t need a national celebration of kite flying to take to the Corpus Christi beaches for a fun run in the sun. Wind that is too light or too strong is hard to handle, but along the Texas Gulf beaches, the breezes are almost always perfect. For winds 6-15 miles per hour, you can fly a delta, diamond or dragon kite easily. Box kites and stickless Parafoil kites are best for winds of 8-25 miles per hour. Add a light weight tail to your kite for stronger winds. The tail will help keep the
kite stable. To fly a single line kite, stand with your back to the wind. Hold up the kite by the bottom and let out some string. With a good wind, the kite will take off without much work. Let it fly away from you just a little before pulling gently on the line. Your tugs will help it climb higher into the sky. When it reaches a steady wind it will stay up. On a Coastal Bend beach, keeping your kite aloft is a snap! CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
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Learn with the best
WorldWinds
Windsurfing
W
ith a business goal of “to have fun,” WorldWinds Windsurfing owner Don Jackson can’t help but be successful at water sports in Corpus Christi. WorldWinds has no address, but its location on the Padre Island National Seashore at Bird Island Basin off South Padre Island Drive/ Park Road 22 is world renowned as one of the top three places on the globe to windsurf. The site offers consistent wind patterns, shallow and protected waters and a long season from March to November. “We have the largest rigged and ready rental facility in the country, with availability of beginner to high-advanced performance gear for all levels of windsurfers,” Jackson says. Using all of the equipment available, worldclass instructors — including a Canadian National Champion — teach lessons seven days a week. People ages 7 to 70 who are physically fit
and enjoy the water can participate in a $65 class that lasts three hours — one of instruction and two of assisted practice. The three components taught in this water sport are balance, wind sense and steering. Once a person has experience, more advanced classes and private lessons are available. WorldWinds is Corpus Christi’s best-kept secret. With the accessibility of the national park and the fascinating wildlife there, the link to the mainland of restaurants and entertainment and the one-stop shopping at WorldWinds to plan a trip and rent equipment, it is certainly a “destination vacation” for windsurfers from around the globe. Jackson, who has been in In the business of windsurfing for more than 22 years, truly enjoys his job. He has owned and operated WorldWinds for 11 years. “Friends come to windsurf every day, and we all have fun doing it,” he says.
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Serve for the win playing beach volleyball You always can find a friendly game of volleyball on the beaches around Corpus Christi just about any day of the week. Sand courts are located at nearly every Sonic Drive-in in town, so you can practice in between trips to the shore. Sonic courts can be reserved in advance if you want to schedule a game. You’ll need to conserve your energy to play such a high action game on the hot sand. Take small steps which will give you more power than longer strides. To keep your bare feet from getting scorched, dig your toes (and feet!) a few inches under the top layer of sand. One good thing about the sand — it’s easy on your joints! You’ll need to drink lots of water to keep hydrated! It’s hot on those beaches, despite the cool breezes. There’s not much more to it than that, so SERVE!
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Take the leap at Corpus Christi’s skate park Whether you can nollie, ollie or railstand, or are just looking for a place to watch those who can, Corpus Christi’s 10,000-squarefoot skate park is the place to go. Located right on the bay in the city’s Cole Park at 1526 Ocean Drive, the skating arena is a concrete sanctuary for skaters with a drive to challenge gravity. For everyone else, Cole Park includes a large playground, fishing pier, picnic areas and an amphitheater. Helmets are required for all skaters whether on rollerblades, skates or boards. The park is open from dusk to dawn, 365 days of the year.
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Flip your Frisbee in a game of disc golf What was once played at Rice University in Houston by students using trees as targets, disc golf now has its own international federation, standard equipment and courses. Five of these courses can be found in the Corpus Christi-Coastal Bend region. To win a game of disc golf, all you have to do is fling a Frisbee-like disc through the air and into a chain basket in the fewest number of tries. You only need one disc to play, but the truly dedicated discman often has drivers, putters and mid-range discs at hand as well. The secret is all in the wrist, enthusiasts say, but much of the mystery — and fun — also is in the course. And as use of most of the disc courses in the United States is free, the game is
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relatively cheap to play. Discs usually cost less than $10. All four of these Corpus Christi courses are free: · Lamar Park, nine baskets, 4231 Sante Fe · West Guth Park, 11 baskets (#5 is missing), 9700 Up River Road · Waldron Park, nine baskets, St. Peter and St. Francis intersection · Billish Park, nine baskets, 15601 Gypsy St. Also free is this park in Ingleside: · Live Oak Park, 12 baskets, Port Avenue and Vera Lane Time to let your Frisbee freak flag fly!
Hold your next family reunion at the beach! There’s no better place to hold your next family reunion than anywhere in and around Corpus Christi, which features a wide variety of places to stay and play.
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Take the gang down to the Family Fun Center at Funtrackers! Race gokarts, play video games, bump around in bumper boats. You also can play some putt-putt golf, all at the same place. Funtrackers offers group packages and reservations for special events like family reunions. There’s always the beach, a great place to relax and reconnect. Bring the cooler, a football and some tools for building sandcastles. At night, you can snuggle up in front of a bonfire and roast hot dogs and marshmallows to the sound of the waves kissing the shoreline. Fishing, frisbee golf, kayaking, ferry rides, dolphin watching … the possibilities are endless when you bring together the family in Corpus Christi. Whether you rent a hotel or condo, camp in an recreational vehicle or a tent, or maybe even book a room in a bed-and-breakfast, Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend region is ready to welcome you and your family! CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
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Rent a Harley for the ride of your life Rent a Harley on your next beach vacation in Corpus Christi. Harley-Davidson of Corpus Christi is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A number of models are available from which to choose, and every rental includes two helmets, luggage storage, rain gear and 24/7 roadside assistance during the rental period. The sense of freedom and power you’ll feel on the road is also included in the package! To rent, you must be at least 21 years old, hold a valid motorcycle operator’s license, possess a major credit card and have the knowledge and skills needed to operate and handle a heavyweight motorcycle. For rates and reservations, call (361) 854-3146. For more, visit www.corpuschristiharley. com.
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Go under the sea scuba diving in Corpus Christi
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From June to September, scuba diving conditions in the Coastal Bend region are optimal, says
Jim Copeland, owner of Copeland’s Inc, the oldest dive shop in Texas. When it’s not hot, Copeland makes group trips to the tropics, diving the waters around Cozumel, Belize, Honduras and Lesser Antilles, to name a few. For more, visit copelandsdiveski. com, call (361) 854-1135 or just drop by to inquire about scuba-diving classes, certification, rates or any other queries. Store hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. The shop is closed on Sunday. Copeland’s also rents, sells, repairs and services scuba gear.
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Two convenient Corpus Christi locations cater to your water-adventure dreams of kayaking or canoeing — or even paddle boating — the ocean waters of the Gulf. If you are in the downtown area, Fun Time Rentals can get you on your way in a kayak or canoe for $15 per
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hour, $25 per two hours or $50 per eight hours. If a more leisurely paddle is your thing, they can rent you a paddleboat for $15 per hour or $10 per every half hour. Fun Time Rentals is located in the heart of the bay front at 600 N. Shoreline Blvd. and is open March 10-Labor Day weekend from 10:30 a.m. until dark. If you are a bit farther up the highway, Wind and Wave Watersports is a full-line Ocean Kayak dealer with all the latest in kayaking or canoeing equipment and more. They can set you up for $50 per day for a single-seater and $60 for a double-seater. Early pick-ups are available 5-7 p.m. the day before. The rental fee includes tiedowns for your car, paddle, kayak and personal-flotation device.
Search for seashells in the sand Sand dollars, seashells and even shark teeth all are common finds that wash up on the sands of Corpus Christi area beaches. For opportune results, immediately hit the beach after a heavy rain or wind storm. If you’re hunting shark teeth, the Port Aransas South Jetty is especially renowned for its finds. San Jose Island, which is only reachable by ferry, and Mustang Island State Park also are known for the tons of treasure you will find at your feet as you stroll the sand and the surf.
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Dive into the public swimming pools Feel like taking a nonsalty dip away from the dunes? Corpus Christi has several great swimming pools for year-round dips and dives.
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Collier Pool, 3801 Harris Drive, is open seven days a week. Lapswim hours are 5-7:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 4:30-7 p.m. On Saturdays and Sundays, lap hours are noon-3 p.m. General swimming fun occurs 4:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday-Friday and noon-3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. The Corpus Christi Natatorium is an indoor pool located at 3202 Cabaniss Parkway off Saratoga. Lapswim hours are 5 a.m.-7 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Monday-Friday. General swim-
ming is offered 3-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Both pools have the same admission fees: $3 for adults, $1 for kids (ages 3-17) and $1.25 for seniors (60 and older). Five other public swimming pools — Oso Pool, Joe Garza Pool, Greenwood Pool, Parker Memorial Pool and West Guth Pool — also are available for use during the summer. CONTINUED ON PAGE 18
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Achieve the power of flight parasailing Parasailing grants the power of flight to those of us without wings and feathers. The experienced staff at Chute’em Up Parasailing (previously Port A Parasail) has 12 years experience taking even the most earth bound humans high above the waters of the Coastal Bend. While soaring with the birds, flyers ascend to heights of over 300 feet above the Gulf of Mexico and the Lydia Ann Channel. Parasailers report spotting schools of dolphins jumping beneath them. You’ll also see spectacular views of the Aransas Pass Lighthouse, not to mention the coast line. The parasailing experts at Chute’em Up Parasailing promise that on especially beauti-
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ful days, a flyer can see the mystery shipwreck discovered by their own Captain Bryan Evans in the Lydia Ann Channel. The flight lasts around 10 minutes and costs $70 per rider. Come glide with the gulls over the gulf for the experience of a lifetime! For more info or to book a reservation, visit chuteemupparasail.com.
Rustle up a pardner for horseback riding Horses on the Beach can comfortably and safely sit anyone over the age of 6 for an hour-long trek with professional trail bosses. Rides start at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. and cost $45 per person. Horses On The Beach also offers a picturesque sunset ride that begins at 4 p.m., lasts an hour and a half and costs $65 per person. Hayrides are available at varying
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costs for special occasions. Horses On The Beach is open seven days a week except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. To make a reservation, call (361) 949-4944. For more visit horsesonthebeach.com. CONTINUED ON PAGE 20
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SIGHTSEEING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18
Ride a ferry to watch the dolphins
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The ferries of Corpus Christi and Port Aransas are known for dolphin watching. Atlantic bottle-nose dolphins ride the waves near the front of a ferry to get a boost of speed as they travel through area waters. In Corpus Christi, the 90-foot Harbor Ferry is a pedestrian ferry that traverses the waters from the T-heads at Peoples Street in downtown to North Beach, next to the Texas State Aquarium. Even though these locations are connected by land, taking the ferry is always more enjoyable and relaxing.
The Harbor Ferry closes for the winter. Daily service begins in 2013 on March 9 and runs until March 17 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Weekend-only service runs March 30-May 19 and September 7-29, also between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Daily service is available May 24-Sept. 2, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. The cost for a round-trip pass is $3. Reduced fare
passes cost $1.50. The ferry is operated by the Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority. Whether you are in Port Aransas or Aransas Pass, you will find a ferry to link you to either destination. These ferries, which are officially part of CONTINUED ON PAGE 21
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Texas 361 and operated by the Texas Department of Transportation, carry about 20 passenger vehicles each and run about every 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. During the summer and holiday seasons, more ferries are utilized to speed your trip to the beaches. The ferries operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, weather permitting. The best part about riding this ferry: It’s free!
sites, Harrison’s Landing is ready to accommodate. One of the most popular tours at Harrison’s Landing is the one-hour Bay Tour on Japonica, the 50-foot touring cruiser. You will see the sights and sounds of downtown and enjoy the beauty of the Sparkling City by the Sea. After your adventure, step on the only floating bar in the city for a snack and a drink. Also at the landing, Cathy’s Boutique and Gift Shop is a
great place to browse for souvenirs, a beautiful dress or some beach decorations for your home. For a more intimate gathering with your close friends and family, bring some cheese and wine for a two-hour sailing journey by the bay. Visit the Harrison’s Landing website at harrisonslanding.net or call (361) 881-8503 to learn more about yacht rentals, cruise prices and packages for your next party.
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Sail, shop, dine, all in one shaded location. Harrison’s Landing is ready to take you on a voyage of the bay. Whether you want a romantic sunset cruise with your sweetheart, to celebrate with friends on a party boat or go on an hour-long tour of local
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Experience the finest in fishing.
From bay, surf, pier or spear
T
he Texas coast is the place to be for bay, surf, pier, deep sea, and spear fishing. And while anyone with a fishing license can throw a line from a pier, bay fishing requires a boat. Charter companies and guides abound in the area and can lead to the best fishing and best catches. “I like to bay fish Laguna Madre,” says fishing enthusiast Louis Rogers, who uses soft plastic lures with wet head jigs. “I usually use my boat to get to places where I can get out and wade, and I look for an area where bait fish are congregated.” Surf fishing can be a bit more challenging. Wading into the surf with all your equipment, especially in rough waters, can be tough. The basic idea of most surf casting is to throw your bait or lure as far into the water as possible to reach your target from shore. “You have to be careful,” Sifford says. “If it’s rough out there, you can get yourself into trouble. Unless you’re in pretty good shape, I’d only wade out there on calm days.” Deep sea fishing offers the greatest access to different species of fish. Chartered boats can lead to bigger prizes, too, such as sharks, tuna and King Mackerel. Spear fishing is an increasingly popular way to fish the Texas coast — a method of hunting that humans have used for ages. Guides take divers to to oil platforms for the best fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. The platforms provide an underwater structure that many species consider home, including tropical fish, snapper, spade fish, barracuda, ling, sheepshead, grouper and cobia. Paul Hensley owns Canyon Lake Divers, a dive shop that specializes
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in scuba diving and spear fishing instruction and certification. Hensley has been spear fishing for over 18 years along the Texas coast. The shop is based out of Canyon Lake, but offers weekly trips out of Corpus and Port Aransas. “Corpus is the ideal location for spear fishing because of the convenience factor,” he says. “There are an abundance of oil rigs off the coast, and international waters are just 12 to 18 miles off shore.” The summer months, from June to September, are the best time to spear fish for the ease of access and the sheer amount of fish. Hensley warns, however, that spear fishing is not a beginner’s sport. “We only take divers who are certified open-water hunters or certified in spear fishing,” he says. “Spear fishing in the ocean is dangerous, and divers need to be experienced.” Fishermen of all skill levels agree that Corpus Christi and the surrounding area offer a unique fishing environment. Sifford pointed out the abundance of deep channels where fish migrate and an upper lagoon loaded with grass and sand pockets with good habitats for spawning fish. “It’s a good system for bait fish and fin fish and shrimp,” he says. “Corpus Christi Bay is a big bay system, and you have an influence from Port Aransas and jetties. Nueces Bay is just a jump away.” Rogers says he fishes because he loves nature and the Laguna Madre is where you’ll find nature and the best fishing. “There’s 1,000 acres of water there to fish,” he says. “It’s like a hunter hunting on a ranch, except I’m fishing. There’s all kinds of nature to see and experience. In the water and above the water, the birds. It’s just beautiful.”
Have your best fishing adventure with the right guide Whether you’re a novice fisherman or an expert angler, you can have the best fishing adventure of a lifetime with the right Gulf Coast fishing guides. Captain Allen Sifford has been a fishing guide for 20 years. His dad introduced him to fishing when he was just 3 years old. He bought his first boat at age 18. When looking for a guide, he recommends word of mouth. “A good way to find a good guide would be to contact a marina and ask them for a recommendation,” he says. Sifford suggests looking for a guide who has a fairly new boat, and someone who has written articles on the sport. Someone who is good with kids and patient with amateurs is also a plus.
Corpus Christi Fishing Guides Captain Len’s Fishing Guide Service
14130 Bounty Ave. Corpus Christi (361) 563-9806 www.captainlensfishing.com Captain Len is located on North Padre Island, and offers private fishing charters from bay fishing the Laguna Madre to deep sea fishing off the shores of Corpus Christi in the Gulf of Mexico, and south to Baffin Bay. The guides have a “no fish, no pay” policy, and fish from dawn until you’re done!
Captain Carl Wentrcek Fishing
247 Rayfish St. Corpus Christi (361) 937-0868 www.captaincarl.com Captain Carl is a full-time, licensed saltwater fishing guide, fishing the flats of the Laguna Madre, Baffin Bay and the Land CONTINUED ON PAGE 22
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Corpus Christi Fishing Guides
Port Aransas Fishing Guides C&T Bay Charters
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Fish On Guide Services
1025 S. 10th St. Port Aransas (361) 946-5290 www.ctbaycharters.com This company offers saltwater fishing charters to anglers of all ages and skill levels. Charters leave daily for the waters surrounding Port Aransas, Corpus Christi and Rockport for Texas-sized redfish, trout, drum and flounder. The guides guarantee fish and kids under 12 fish free!
Blue Heron Adventures
Dolphin Docks Deep Sea Fishing 300 W. Cotter Ave. Port Aransas (800) 393-3474 Located in Port Aransas on the Gulf of Mexico, this outfit offers a variety of trips for all ages and skill levels. Fishers may enjoy deep sea fishing or bay fishing, and embark on trips that last anywhere from 4 to 80 hours.
Cut Area. He also offers the unique experience of fishing on floating cabins! 218 Portsmouth Dr. Corpus Christi (361) 939-8787 www.fishonpro.com This service is led by Captain Allen Sifford and offers year-round adventures. The guides specialize in fishing for trophy speckled trout and trophy redfish. They have a “no fish, no pay” policy and welcome everyone from kids to experts. 6050 Orms Dr. Corpus Christi (361) 334-2336 www.blueheronadventures.com Captain Steve Utley specializes in shallow water kayak fishing and scenic kayak trips based out of Corpus. He guides clients in fishing for redfish, speckled trout, and flounder in the shallow waters from Bird Island Basin to Shamrock Cove.
Rebel Fishing Charters
819 6th St. Port Aransas (361) 749-7330 www.rebelfishingcharters.com This outfit offers incredible offshore and bay fishing opportunities for all skill levels. It’s a family-owned business. Trips are guided by Captain Charlie Kahn and his son Captain Travis Kahn.
Rusty Texan Fishing Guide
7421 Brush Creek Dr. Corpus Christi (361) 815-6812 www.rustytexan.com Fishers will be on board the “Rusty Texan,” run by Captain Chris James and Captain Gus Lopez. The guides fish from Aransas Pass to Baffin Bay and offer deep sea fishing and state water fishing. Trips focus on catching billfish, Mahi Mahi, grouper, and amberjack, as well as year-round snapper trips in state waters.
Laguna Madre Sightcasters
419 University Dr. Corpus Christi (361) 533-2058 www.lagunamadresightcasters.com Captain Randy Best leads trips from Mesquite Bay, Fence Lake and Cedar Bayou all the way to Baffin Bay and Nine Mile Hole. Enjoy catching seasonal flounder and black drum, as well as trophy-sized redfish and trout.
Fisherman’s Wharf
900 Tarpon St. Port Aransas (361) 749-5760 Enjoy an exciting fishing trip on a catamaran! The Wharf Cat and Scat Cat are comfortable catamarans that offer hot and cold food, snacks and beverages served by a friendly crew. Guides offer half- and fullday trips aboard the Wharf Cat for deep sea, bay and jetty fishing.
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Take a scenic drive along the bay Take a scenic drive along the beautiful bay front avenue in downtown Corpus Christi for a true sense of this coastal community. The roughly 10-mile stretch of road begins at Shoreline Boulevard near the American Bank Center and extends south all the way to the Naval Air Station. Shoreline Blvd. is a section of about four miles in downtown Corpus Christi. Driving south, it becomes Ocean Drive as it enters the most scenic part of the city. Cruising along the bay front, you’ll soon see why this route is known as one of the loveliest drives in Texas. Ocean Drive showcases the beautiful waters of Corpus Christi Bay surrounded by both historic and contemporary homes.
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Early birds almost always take in breathtaking panoramic views of the sunrise, while night owls can capture the lighted downtown skyline. The boulevard also offers plenty of activities if you want to pull over and linger a while. The bay front is home to pristine parks, prime fishing spots and perfect picnic areas.
Walk the Harbor Bridge for scenic adventure
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Join a group of bridge enthusiasts on the first Sunday of each month to walk the Harbor Bridge in Corpus Christi. The walks are part of the Corpus Christi First Initiative, an organization that plans events on first weekends. Other events include BeachWalk, ArtWalk, MusicWalk and Market Days.
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The BridgeWalk begins at around 7:30 a.m. on the first Sunday of each month. Registration is not required but requested on the website so organizers can have an idea of the number of people. Around 200 usually take part. Beginning in Heritage Park, the route travels along Resaca to Broadway then on to the Power St US181 access ramp. Once over the bridge northwards, walkers cross under the bridge on the north side and then back over the bridge southwards. The final stages are down the off ramp to Belden St, left onto Broadway, right to Resaca and back to Heritage Park. Check out the website at bridgewalkcc.com. Or you can drive! Take the ultimate Corpus Christi scenic drive over the iconic Harbor Bridge on US 181. Construction of the 620-foot Harbor Bridge started in June CONTINUED ON PAGE 27
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1956 and was completed in September 1959. At the time, the project was the largest ever tackled by the Texas Highway Commission. It cost $9 million and included five construction contracts. Four men died building the bridge.
Hop aboard a buggy rental by the beach Buggy rentals, whether battery- or self-powered are the way to go on the beach. Don’t take a leisurely bike ride alone. Grab a friend to ride beside you on a four-wheeled surrey! These bright red bikes are a common way for tourist and locals alike to soak up the Corpus Christi Bay next to the T-heads. The surreys have a canopy above that provides shade. The basket up front is designed to hold a kiddo or two. Fun Time Rentals can put you in a surrey for $15 per hour or $10 for half an hour. You’ll find them at the intersection of Peoples Street and Shoreline Boulevard in Corpus Christi. Rentals are available March 10 through Labor Day from 10:30 a.m. until dark. For more, call (361) 443-0707 or check out the Fun Time Rentals website at funtimerental.tripod.com. In Port Aransas, you’ll need a little more get-up in your bike to get across the sand. Rent a beach-cruiser bicycle from Nautical Wheelers for fun and easy traveling along the shore. You even can get one with tandem seats or rent children’s bikes for the little ones. An easier way to traverse the beach is in a rented electric dune buggy. These eco-friendly buggies top out at 25 mph and are favorites among locals and tourists alike. Nautical Wheelers is located at 428 S. Alister in Port Aransas. Visit the Nautical Wheelers website or call
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(361) 749-3003 for rates and reservations. Wind and Wave Watersports is located at 10721 South Padre Island Drive. Call (361) 937-9283 to reserve your kayak today!
Take the trolley for downtown travels Hop aboard the B Trolley, Corpus Christi’s downtown transportation system. The Regional Transportation Authority — or the RTA, as the locals call it — makes enjoying the sights, restaurants, entertainment venues and hotels of downtown extremely easy and affordable to traverse. Transportation on the trolley can be as much fun as one of the city’s many attractions.
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tagious spirit and her hometown has done her proud. From a downtown statue to the gravesite to a memorial museum, Corpus Christi pays tribute to the late singing sensation. Selena was only 23 when she was murdered in 1995, just as her fame was taking off. Sculptor H.W. “Buddy” Tatum’s life-sized bronze statue honors young Selena with a monument against the beautiful backdrop of the seawall on Shoreline Drive. Called “Mirador de la Flor” (View of the Flower), the Selena statue is one of the city’s most popular attractions. The Selena gravesite at Seaside Memorial Park also is a must-see. As you drive into the cemetery at 4357 Ocean Drive, turn left at the first road and follow it almost to the end. The grave is located on the right-hand side. You can usually tell it by the flowers left year-round by her fans. The untimely death of the “Mexican
Just look for signs around town with the red, blue and orange stripes behind the letter “B” — that’s your trolley stop. The waits shouldn’t be too long as a trolley makes its rounds every 10 to 15 minutes. And if you’re in Port Aransas and want to make your way to Corpus Christi for a day’s adventure, you can hop aboard the Flexi-B trolley, which provides daily express transportation between the two communities Monday through Friday. For fares and passes, as well as bus schedules for the B Trolley and the Flexi-B trolley, visit ccrta.org.
See the Selena hometown memorials
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Take a day to remember Selena, the Queen of Tejano music. She rocked the world with her chart-topping tunes and her con-
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Madonna” prompted her adoring fans to also request a memorial museum in her honor. In response, Selena Quintanilla’s family transformed their recording studio into a memorial that honors her life and accomplishments.
Tour exquisite architecture from museums to skyscrapers Much time and consideration has gone into planning the architecture of Corpus Christi, also known as the Real Windy City. Whether tall, short or in-between, the buildings here have to withstand the elements when a violent storm threatens. Corpus Christi has managed to mix durability, function and beauty in
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its city planning. A few standouts among the city’s architecture include: • The Art Museum of South Texas, designed by world-famed architect Phillip Johnson. The museum is located at 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd. • One Shoreline Plaza, the tallest building south of San Antonio. The address is actually two side-by-side skyscrapers considered the central focus of Corpus Christi’s skyline. The view from the 28th floor of the south tower at 800 N. Shoreline Blvd. is one you won’t forget. • Wynne Seal Academy of Fine Arts, located at 1707 Ayers St., is designed with classical style architecture embellished with cast stonework. • The Old Nueces County Courthouse, built in 1914. Located at Highway 37 and North Mesquite Street, the courthouse is a classical revival-style structure. The building has been closed since 1977 but has withstood the test of time. It will mark its centennial in 2014. And just as a side note, many
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Slide smoothly on a Segway in downtown Corpus Christi
Take in the views of downtown Corpus Christi on the latest in personal transportation: the Segway. These two-wheeled, electric transporters effortlessly balance you as they glide over almost any surface. SegCity tours in downtown Corpus Christi offers guided excursions in four different price ranges to view the sparkling city by the sea. The two-hour Premiere City Tour takes you down Shoreline Boulevard and through the city’s historic district. The Executive Tour is a one-hour glide around the seafront and T-heads — perfect for some leisurely fun! The Beat the Heat Tour is an hourlong sunset tour that begins at 7 p.m. This tour is perfect for a date before dinner or if you are just looking to keep out of the blazing Texas sun. Last, SegCity offers the Ride It! Experience Tour for those who want to learn how to ride and experience the feeling of a Segway. For prices and times, give SegCity Tours a visit at 403 N. Shoreline Blvd. or call (361) 563-4050.
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SHOPPING Make it to the mall for magnificant shopping at La Palmera A newly redesigned indoor mall, La Palmera has more than 100 shops and restaurants in a family-friendly atmosphere that reflects the flavor of the seaside. New additions to the mall include retailers such as Forever 21 (two stories), Charming Charlie, Build-A-Bear Workshop, Southern Swag, Pandora and eateries such as P.F. Chang’s, Grimaldi’s Pizzeria and Longhorn Steakhouse. Get your walk on with a free membership to the Wave Walkers Mall
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Walkers Club so you can window shop while getting in shape in air-conditioned comfort. The Tide Turners Kids Club for ages 5 and under holds events on the first Tuesday of the month. Both clubs offer exclusive discount incentives and special offers at particular retailers in the mall. Put on some comfy shoes, grab your friends and family and come enjoy the lovely shops and eateries at La Palmera.
Seek seaside souvenirs as you make memories
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Locating a souvenir shop in Corpus Christi is easier than digging your toes in the sand.
Shop antiques in the Coastal Bend
Well, maybe not that easy, but there are quite a few of them and the unique design of most makes them simple to spot! The downtown area located between the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington has a surplus of souvenir shops filled with mementos that mimic the beach theme of Corpus Christi. Right past the JFK Causeway, and just before you hit the beaches, the Padre Island area also teems with stores filled with shells, bathing suits, beach wear and even live hermit crabs with a choice of decorated shells for homes. Once you get past the Corpus Christi beaches and mosey into Port Aransas, finding a souvenir shop is literally a hop, skip and jump away, as one is located on just about every corner. Look for giant sharks, neon octopi, flags and enormous sand mermaids. That’s where you’ll find a souvenir shop and a quirky fun photo op to boot (or should it be flip-flop!).
Whether you are looking for a rare collectable or simply enjoy antiques, try browsing the selections at any of the antique stores in Corpus Christi:
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• Deluxe Antiques 821 S. Staples • Bleu Frog Mercantile 1710 S. Alameda • Third Coast Antiques 4325 S. Alameda • Codi’s Crafts & Collectibles 5428 McArdle Lane • Baba One of A Kind 2756 Santa Fe St. • Renaissance Shop 4317 S. Alameda CONTINUED ON PAGE 32
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Shop in Sinton
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No antique shopping is complete without a stop in Sinton, which is about 28 miles from Corpus Christi. Sinton is known as the Antique Capital of South Texas. The main street — Sinton Street — is chock full of quaint antique stores, specialty shops and some of the best antique dealers in South Texas. To get to this antique haven, just head north over the Harbor Bridge and pass through Portland. Within 30 minutes, you’ll reach Sinton and some sensational shopping.
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Mark your calendar for the first Saturday of every month for Marina Market Day in Corpus Christi. The city gathers at the downtown T-heads on
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Lawrence Street to celebrate life by the waterfront. You’ll find food, live music and a variety of unique art vendors. Shopping bags made from T-shirts, jewelry made from silverware, handblown glass, hula hoops and barnacle bracelets are just a sample of the unique items vendors showcase and sell at this monthly festival.
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BEST BEACHES Galavant with ghosts on San Jose Islands Karankawa Indians first claimed San Jose Island as their home, followed by pirates. In fact, legend has it that pirate Jean Lafitte’s ghost still guards a buried treasure on this barrier island across the bay from Port Aransas. Although privately owned, “Saint Joe,” as the locals call it, is open to the public. It is undeveloped — there are no bathrooms, bait stands or beer — so you have to come prepared. The folks at Jetty Boat on Fisherman’s Wharf in Port Aransas can help you with that. They run the only ferry boat to the island and back. The boat can carry 45 passengers at a time, but they’re happy to make multiple trips if
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needed. Cost is $12 for adults and $6 for kids ages 2-10. The boat runs daily from 7 a.m. to noon and then at 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. You can stay as long as you like — even overnight. You’ll need to rent a cart to haul your fishing gear and umbrellas. There
are only a few palm trees on the island — no real shade. No reservations are needed, but if you want more information about availability, call (361) 7495448. Fisherman’s Wharf is located at 900 N. Tarpon St. in Port Aransas. CONTINUED ON PAGE 35
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Make your way to popular J.P. Luby Beach Without a doubt, the most popular beach in Corpus Christi is J.P. Luby Beach. It’s the hotspot for teens and young adults for surfing, kiteboarding and skimboarding. This is where you’ll find pick-up sand games of football and soccer. And it’s the ideal spot for beach volleyball players to set up their nets and serve. If you didn’t bring your own beach equipment, you’ll find vendors up and down J.P. Luby with boogie boards, surfboards and personal watercraft for rent. Entrance to the beach is free, and there are public restrooms year-round. Also, located just a few miles down J.P. Luby Beach is Bob Hall Pier — the largest pier in Corpus Christi and a landmark for locals. You are almost always guaranteed warm waters for good fishing and a constant wind for surfing. So, gather your friends and family for a day of building sandcastles, barbecuing and boogie boarding! You’ll find J.P. Luby Beach on Texas 361 near Access Road 3A-1 in Corpus Christi.
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O D O T T A H W E E S O T T A H W Y A T S O T E R E re ... o H m W nd so much A
Padre Balli Beach Padre Balli Beach is a beloved local landmark known for its surfing, shore fishing and the popular Bob Hall — an esteemed sanctuary for anglers. The beach includes 54 paved campsites and 12 hardtop areas for tents with electrical and water hookups for the ultimate camping experience. Other conveniences include a bathhouse, cabanas and picnic tables. You
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also can opt for primitive camping on the beach. Padre Balli Beach is a popular beach for bonfire building. After a full day under the sun, prepare a cozy fire by your campsite. Now you’ll have a place to cook your marshmallows and char your hotdogs, tell scary stories or just watch the driftwood blaze. To find Padre Balli Beach, take Texas 358 from Corpus Christi across the JFK Causeway. Keep going straight until the road ends at Park Road 22. Drive down Park Road 22 until you see the pier.
Find perfection at Mustang Island Beach and State Park
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The barrier island that stretches from Corpus Christi north to Port
Aransas is known as Mustang Island Beach. Mustang Island State Park is a five-mile expanse of open beach in the southern third of Mustang Island and requires a beach-parking permit. Mustang Island is an exquisite stretch of beach perfect for swimming, fishing, skimboarding, bodysurfing, boogie boarding and surfing. Or, you can just hang out on the sand for some sunbathing, picnicking, camping, hiking,
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running, biking or birding. Birding is especially excellent during the fall and spring when birds migrate to South Texas. For the kayakers and fishermen, the park also offers the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail, which follows the west shoreline of Mustang Island and features top-notch shalCONTINUED ON PAGE 37
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low-water fishing spots. Entrance into this protected part of the beach is available year-round, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is $5 per person and free for children 12 and under. Mustang Island access outside the state park is free.
Hit the waves on Relax at family friendly North Beach Located on a manmade island in Corpus Christi Bay, North Beach (also known as Corpus Christi Beach), is one of the top five urban beaches in America. In 2012, it received the Best Restored Beach award from the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association. A family-friendly beach, North Beach is located just across the Harbor Bridge with great access to both the USS Lexington and the Texas State Aquarium. A recreational-vehicle campground is located right on the beach! Many great seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, hotels, condos and viewpoints can be found within walking distance of this particular sandy shore. You can expect super-fine sand and calm waters at this beach. Waves don’t wander over to this side of the bay, so this seaside is best for families with children or those who just want to do a bit of sunbathing. No driving is allowed on the beach.
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Fish, eat, watch the waves from Bob Hall Pier
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For great fishing, seafood eating and ocean watching, head to Bob Hall Pier in Padre Balli Park. Surfers compete with fisherman
for the best catch, whether waves or wildlife, along this perfect stretch of South Padre Island beach. The pier is 1,240 feet long and 15.5 feet wide with a T-head at the end spanning 165 feet. Once a wooden pier that fell victim to several hurricanes, the most recent structure uses gravity instead of bolts and nails to hold it together. The construction has now lasted 30 years.
Offering daily weather and surf reports as well as a record of the daily catch, Bob Hall Pier welcomes fishermen from the professional to the amateur. You don’t even need to bring your poles or bait. Rent a pole at the pier for $12.95 per day until 10 p.m. Surfboards are also available for rent for $20 per day until 8 p.m. After all that fishing and surfing, the pier is a great place to sample the area’s sensational seafood cuisine at Barnacle Bill’s Pier-House and Grill. The restaurant is open Sunday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m to 11 p.m. To keep this historic landmark in tip-top shape, the pier charges $2 per person and $1 for seniors (65+). The money goes toward maintenance and upkeep. Bob Hall Pier is located at 15820 Park Road 22 and is open Sunday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Check out the website at bobhallpier.org.