Challenge yourself and discover a new water sport.
With a consistent breeze, warm temperatures, and multiple inviting bodies of water, the South Texas coast hosts a variety of water sport adventures.
Whether you prefer the adrenaline rush of windsurfing or the laid-back and relaxing vibe of a kayak, Corpus Christi offers water activities for all ages and experience levels. Dive in and explore the endless possibilities on the water in Corpus Christi!
SCAN THE QR CODE for everything you need to know about Corpus Christi beaches including information on permits, rules, restrooms, and more. Plan ahead and dive into your coastal adventure!
CONTRIBUTORS
PIERS
Red Dot Pier
Philip Dimitt Municipal Fishing Pier
Cos Way Pier
Thank you to all the contributors who made this water sports and rentals field guide possible. Your collaboration has transformed this project into a valuable resource for all who share a passion for life on the water.
Cole Park Pier
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Kathryn Hyatt
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Danielle Galindo
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Kylie Marchitello
Hannah Ryan
COPYWRITER
Jacqueline Gonzalez
CONTENT STRATEGIST
Baylee Arnold
PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS
@fmcctx_color Chad Ansel Hameen Reynolds
@laurielyngimagery @ccfuntimerentals Pexels
@bf_rentals @jasonheritage Jason Page
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KAYAKING
Paddle calm bays and spot coastal wildlife.
BOATING
Cruise open waters under sunny skies.
PADDLEBOARDING
Glide the bay and soak up the views.
SURFING
Ride the waves on scenic Gulf beaches.
WATER SPORTS MAP
Find your way to the water with this coastal guide.
JET SKIING
Zip across the water for fast, fun thrills.
KITEBOARDING
Catch the wind and feel the rush.
WINDSURFING & WINGING
Ride steady winds in shallow waters.
SAFETY & SUSTAINABILITY
Discover how to enjoy the water safely.
UNIQUE WATER EXPERIENCES
See the bay from a new perspective.
KAYAKING
Paddle through Corpus Christi’s serene and picturesque bays in a kayak and spot vibrant wildlife and scenic water trails. The warm, shallow waters, steady breezes, and abundant sunshine make it an ideal spot for kayaking year-round. Plus, the area’s diverse ecosystems—from salt marshes to open bays—provide unique opportunities to encounter local wildlife like pelicans, herons, and even dolphins.
TOURS | Discover the joy of kayaking with expertly guided classes designed for all skill levels at Nature Trails Kayaking. From quick, beginner-friendly intro tours on calm waters to immersive eco-tours along the pristine Texas Paddling Trails, every outing includes professional instruction and wildlife insights. Join Coastal Bend Kayaking where paddlers of all skill levels can learn and explore safely while discovering fascinating marine life and area habitats. For a one-of-a-kind night paddle, GlowRow® offers guided tours in clear kayaks illuminated by vibrant underwater LED lights, perfect for spotting wildlife, landmarks, and learning local lore under the stars. These lessons and tours are ideal for individuals, families, and even corporate team-building events, ensuring a fun and educational day (or night) on the water for everyone.
EQUIPMENT & RENTALS | Choose from a wide selection of rentals at Wind & Wave Watersports, including fishing kayaks, recreational models, and paddleboards, perfect for exploring the Gulf Coast Capital. With daily and weekly rental options and free test demos, they make it easy to gear up for a fun and safe paddling adventure. Roy’s Bait & Tackle offers a variety of kayaks for rent, whether you’re fishing, exercising, or just enjoying a day on the water.
LOCATIONS | Paddle your way through peaceful waters and scenic ecosystems along the Gulf Coast. The Mustang Island Paddling Trail offers a beautiful blend of open flats and wildlife viewing, perfect for a relaxed afternoon on the water. Closer to town, the Oso Bay Paddling Trail winds through quiet estuaries where birdwatching and calm currents create a laid-back ride. For a more tucked-away experience, explore the Padre Island ski canals, ideal for beginners looking to cruise through calm, protected waters. At Bird Island Basin, warm shallows and steady wind make it a top spot to launch, learn, and take in the coastal views.
BOATING
Chart your adventure in Corpus Christi, where boating is a favorite pastime. With miles of open water, great weather all year long, and plenty of docking options, Corpus Christi is a boater’s paradise.
BOAT TOURS | Set sail on an unforgettable adventure on Corpus Christi waters. Drift into golden hour with a luxury sunset cruise around Padre Island aboard Baywatch Tours, where calm waters and scenic views steal the show. Cruise the coast with Why Knot Catamaran Adventures on a 2-, 4-, or 6-hour sail, each offering ocean views, dolphin sightings, and Bluetooth speaker access for the perfect soundtrack to your time on the water. For easy, on-demand boating, Freedom Boat Club lets members access a fleet of vessels from the marina, no ownership or maintenance required.
For a downtown adventure, climb aboard the Japonica, a breezy 50-foot open-air boat offering sweeping views of the bay and skyline, or cruise in comfort on the Texas Tease, a festive, 90-minute, air-conditioned ride offered Friday through Sunday, complete with drinks available for purchase.
LOCATIONS | Set sail on the calm waters of Corpus Christi Bay, a great location for boating, and enjoy the beautiful downtown bayfront, scenic seawall, and marina.
Beyond the bay, explore the Laguna Madre, a vast, shallow lagoon known for its smooth waters and stunning coastal views. Cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, a protected route offering easy navigation through the region’s waterways. For a more leisurely ride, the ski canals on North Padre Island provide a peaceful setting lined with waterfront homes and scenic channels.
PADDLEBOARDING
Glide across the bay with stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and fitness. Whether you’re cruising serene waters or testing your balance with SUP yoga, this fun and accessible activity is great for all skill levels. It’s a must-try experience for anyone looking to explore Corpus Christi’s coastal beauty from a whole new perspective!
CLASSES | Find your flow with Water Dog Yoga, SUP & Barre, where paddleboarding meets fitness and relaxation. Beginnerfriendly classes cover balance, stroke techniques, and water safety, while SUP yoga, pilates, and fitness sessions challenge all skill levels. Join a group class for a fun, social experience or enjoy a solo session for a personal retreat.
Water Dog Yoga, SUP & Barre also hosts community paddles, guiding you based on wind and weather conditions while offering tips to help you paddle more efficiently using your core, back, and shoulders. With expert instructors, these floating workouts blend strength, flexibility, and serenity on the bay.
EQUIPMENT & RENTALS | A go-to spot for wind and water sport enthusiasts, Wind & Wave Watersports offers a selection of quality SUPs for purchase. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, their knowledgeable team can help you find the perfect board to explore the waters of Corpus Christi.
LOCATIONS | For calm, scenic paddling with easy beach access and wide-open views, head to McGee Beach downtown or North Beach. Packery Channel Nature Park offers peaceful waters near the jetties and canals, perfect for a relaxed paddle and spotting coastal wildlife. Popular launch spots include Gypsy Park Boat Ramp, Caravel Street, Whitecap Street, and Packery Channel Park.
SURFING
Catch the perfect wave in Corpus Christi on stunning beaches offering consistent waves and a vibrant surfing community. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer eager to ride your first wave, the city’s warm gulf waters and laid-back atmosphere make it an ideal destination for a surfing adventure.
CLASSES | Dive into your surfing journey with lessons that cater to all ages and skill levels, making it easy to start surfing safely and confidently. Check out Texas Surf Camps, a top choice for group and private lessons where experienced instructors teach water safety, wave-riding techniques, and paddling skills.
For a more family-focused experience, Padre Island Surf Camp offers private lessons, full-day courses, and 5-day camps. Before hitting the waves, all campers will go through Padre Island Surf Camp’s Core Class where they will learn basic surfing safety and more.
EQUIPMENT & RENTALS | Ready to ride the waves? Stop by Wind & Wave Watersports where you’ll find everything you need to hit the surf in style. Choose from a variety of surfboards, bodyboards, and wetsuits, plus all the essentials to make your beach day epic. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned surfer, they’ve got you covered for your next adventure.
LOCATIONS | Grab your board and hit the waves at North Packery Channel Beach (J.P. Luby Surf Park), Corpus Christi’s top surf spot. Known for its consistent beach breaks and laidback vibe, you can expect small, rideable waves in summer and bigger, more powerful swells during cold fronts and tropical systems. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned surfer, this beach delivers prime Gulf Coast waves year-round.
J.P. LUBY SURF PARK
ZAHN RD
EXPERIENCES & RENTALS
Nature Trails Kayaking
Coastal Bend Kayaking
Baywatch Tours
Texas Tease
Why Knot Catamaran Adventures
Water Dog Yoga, SUP & Barre
Worldwinds Windsurfing
361 Kite
Kiteboarding NPI
Texas Surf Camps
Padre Island Surf Camp
Padre Island Jet Ski
Fun Time Rentals
Japonica
USS Lexington
Wind & Wave Watersports
Roy’s Bait & Tackle
Rentals
MARINAS & LAUNCH POINTS
Corpus Christi Marina
Bluff’s Landing
Bluffs Landing Marina
Marker 37
Marker 37 Marina
Lawrence St. T-Head
Gypsy Park Boat Ramp
Caravel Street Ramp
Whitecap Street Ramp
Packery Channel Boat Ramp
BEACHES
McGee Beach
University Beach
North Beach
North Packery Beach (J.P. Luby)
Padre Island National Seashore
BODIES OF WATER
Packery Channel
Bird Island Basin
Intracoastal Waterway
Corpus Christi Bay
JET SKIING
Fuel your adrenaline rush with a jet skiing adventure along Corpus Christi’s coastline. Perfect for thrill-seekers, jet skiing combines highspeed fun with the chance to explore scenic waterways. Feel the wind in your hair as you zip across the waves, or slow down to take in the beautiful views.
INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
PADRE ISLAND
TOURS | Hop on a jet ski and explore the water with a fully guided, customizable tour from Padre Island Jet Ski! Each adventure begins at Marker 37 Marina and is tailored to your comfort level and interests, offering a fun and flexible way to experience the coastal waters.
Want to go farther? Some tours even venture out to Padre Island National Seashore for a truly scenic ride.
LOCATIONS | Grab your jet ski and explore the best spots Corpus Christi has to offer. Adrenaline junkies can head to the open waters of Corpus Christi Bay, ideal for high-speed rides and sharp turns, while beginners can enjoy a leisurely ride in the calm waters of North Beach.
The Intracoastal Waterway is a popular spot for jet skiing, with smooth, protected waters and scenic routes through coastal marshes. On Padre Island, you can cruise through 16 miles of ski canals lined with waterfront homes, perfect for laid-back rides or picking up speed. Just across the Laguna Madre from the canal neighborhoods lies the Ski Basin, a completely untouched, shallow area that’s ideal for playing around in calm, open water.
EQUIPMENT & RENTALS | With prime access to the water, Fun Time Rentals on the Lawrence St. T-Head and BF
Rentals on McGee Beach are great spots to grab a jet ski and experience the thrill of riding the waves along Corpus Christi’s stunning coastline. For more action, Captain Jack’s Ski Rental downtown offers affordable jet ski rentals and a full-service tiki bar where you can unwind after your exciting jet skiing adventure.
KITEBOARDING
Harness the wind and experience the thrill of kiteboarding, a highenergy fusion of surfing and sailing. With steady winds, wide-open waters, and warm temperatures year-round, Corpus Christi is a top-tier destination for riders of all levels. Whether you’re mastering water starts, carving upwind, or launching into big air jumps, kiteboarding delivers pure adrenaline on the water.
CLASSES | Learn to ride the wind! Whether you’re a beginner getting your first taste of kiteboarding or an experienced rider refining your skills, expert instruction makes all the difference. 361 Kite offers lessons with radio helmet communication for real-time coaching, ensuring a smooth and effective learning experience.
Kiteboarding North Padre Island takes a personalized approach, tailoring each lesson to fit your skill level and goals. Their experienced instructors guide you step-by-step, helping you build confidence and progress at your own pace, whether you’re just starting or chasing higher airs and sharper turns.
LOCATIONS | Corpus Christi offers great kiteboarding spots, including University Beach, which has a sandy launch and protected waters, working best in northern winds. Wildcat Park in Portland is a top choice with strong winds, a sandy bottom, and a local kiteboarding community. North Beach features deep water and fun rollers near the USS Lexington, while McGee Beach provides a downtown launch with jetties to navigate. Whether you prefer waves or flatwater, there’s a spot for every rider.
EQUIPMENT | With all equipment provided, riders can focus on mastering kite control, balance, and water starts. 361 Kite uses top of the line gear in a wide range of sizes to fit every rider safely and effectively. They also provide radio helmets for constant communication between students and instructors, helping riders progress more quickly and confidently.
Kiteboarding North Padre Island also includes includes all gear and safety equipment with lessons, so there’s no need to worry about rentals. Just show up and ride.
WINDSURFING & WINGING
With steady winds and shallow waters, Corpus Christi is a worldclass windsurfing destination. Whether you’re gliding on a classic sailboard or learning the art of winging, this sport offers freedom, speed, and an adrenaline rush.
ABOUT | Windsurfing blends elements of surfing and sailing, using a board with an attached sail to catch and ride the wind. Winging, also known as wing foiling, involves a handheld inflatable wing and a hydrofoil board, letting riders glide smoothly above the water’s surface.
CLASSES | Learn the fundamentals or refine your technique with expert-led instruction. Windsurfing and winging lessons cover balance, sail control, turning, and advanced maneuvers like water starts and planing. Classes are beginner-friendly, with options for intermediate and expert riders. Worldwinds Windsurfing offers tailored instruction, private lessons, and rental packages to get you on the water faster.
EQUIPMENT & RENTALS | Rent high-quality windsurf boards, sails, wings, and foils at Worldwinds Windsurfing for a safe and unforgettable day on the water. Local outfitters provide the latest equipment and ensure you have the right setup for your skill level and the day’s conditions.
LOCATIONS | World-famous Bird Island Basin boasts perfect windsurfing conditions with shallow, warm waters and steady winds year-round. It is also a great place for beginners to learn the sport. North Packery Channel Beach (J.P. Luby Surf Park) is a great spot for advanced windsurfers looking to ride the gulf waves.
PERMITS | Access to Bird Island Basin requires a small Padre Island National Seashore entry fee.
ENJOY Water Sports SAFELY
SAFETY GUIDELINES
KNOW YOUR LIMITS
Only engage in activities suited to your skill level. If you’re a beginner, consider going with a licensed guide.
BE MINDFUL OF OTHERS
Stay alert and avoid collisions with swimmers, surfers, and boaters.
REDUCE PLASTIC WASTE
Glass containers are not allowed on the beach. Opt for reusable bottles instead.
WEAR PROPER SAFETY GEAR
Life jackets and appropriate safety gear are required for kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing for a safe and enjoyable experience.
KEEP OUR BEACHES CLEAN
Use the provided trash bags to dispose of waste properly.
RESPECT MARINE LIFE
Maintain a safe distance from dolphins, sea turtles, and bird habitats.
CHECK CONDITIONS
Always monitor the weather and wind forecast before heading out. Learn the beach flag system and be aware of rip current dangers.
SCAN THE QR CODE for full guidelines and tips to enjoy Corpus Christi’s stunning beaches and world-class water sports safely. Visit our landing page for a complete list of sustainability tips and safety guidelines and dive deeper into how you can help protect our coast.
UNIQUE WATER EXPERIENCES
The best way to take in Corpus Christi’s coastal beauty is directly from the water. Whether by kayak, boat, or paddleboard, these unique experiences let you see the bay from a whole new perspective.
KAYAKING EXPERIENCES | Explore Corpus Christi by kayak, day or night. Start with a peaceful paddle through bays and wetlands with Nature Trails Kayaking, where guided daytime tours offer the chance to spot coastal birds and learn about local wildlife in a serene natural setting. After dark, switch gears with GlowRow®, a one-of-a-kind nighttime adventure in transparent, LED-lit kayaks that illuminate the water in seven glowing colors, perfect for spotting marine life and soaking in the moonlit city views.
BOAT TOURS | Cruise the coast in style with Corpus Christi’s top boat tours. Enjoy a luxury sunset experience through the scenic waters of Padre Island with Baywatch Tours. For downtown adventures, set sail aboard the Japonica, a 50-foot open-air boat offering panoramic views of Corpus Christi Bay’s skyline. Or hop on the Texas Tease, a lively, 90-minute, air-conditioned cruise available Friday through Sunday, with drinks available for purchase.
