Gulf Coast Travel Guide

Explore the natural wonders of Gulf Coast, Texas with our comprehensive travel guide featuring cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, accommodations and more.


Introduction to Gulf Coast

Located on the southeastern coast of Texas, Gulf Coast boasts miles of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife. With year-round warm weather and a variety of activities, Gulf Coast is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, things to do, and accommodations to stay in during your trip to Gulf Coast.

List of Places to Visit in Gulf Coast

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Gulf Coast is home to a rich history and culture, with several museums and historical sites worth visiting. A few highlights include:

  • The USS Lexington Museum on the Bay: A retired aircraft carrier that now serves as a museum, featuring exhibits on the ship’s history, as well as hands-on displays and flight simulators.
  • The Texas State Aquarium: A renowned aquarium featuring exhibits on local marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles, as well as interactive touch tanks.
  • The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History: A museum featuring exhibits on local history and science, including a replica of a historic shipwreck.

Natural Attractions of Gulf Coast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Gulf Coast is renowned for its beautiful natural landscape and outdoor adventures. A few top attractions include:

  • Padre Island National Seashore: The longest undeveloped barrier island in the world, boasting miles of pristine beaches, crystal-blue waters, and local wildlife such as sea turtles, dolphins, and shorebirds.
  • Mustang Island State Park: A nature preserve featuring miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing piers, and camping sites.
  • The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge: A protected area home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 400 bird species, alligators, and the endangered whooping crane.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gulf Coast

Gulf Coast offers a variety of trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts. A few must-see routes include:

  • The Padre Island National Seashore Trail: A 60-mile route along the island’s beaches and dunes, featuring scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico.
  • The Port Aransas Nature Preserve Trail: A 4.7-mile trail through marshlands, with sightings of various birds and other wildlife common.
  • The Galveston Island State Park Trail: A 7-mile trail through sand dunes and coastal prairies, with panoramic ocean views at the end.

Best Things to Do in Gulf Coast: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to keep you busy during your stay in Gulf Coast, including:

  • Fishing charters: With miles of coastline and abundant marine life, Gulf Coast is a prime location for fishing enthusiasts.
  • Dolphin and whale watching tours: Several local tour operators offer guided tours to observe wildlife such as dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in their natural habitat.
  • Jet Ski rentals: Rent a jet ski for a thrilling adventure on the Gulf of Mexico.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gulf Coast

Day 1: Visit the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay and the Texas State Aquarium.

Day 2: Explore the natural wonders of Padre Island National Seashore.

Day 3: Hike and bike along the trails of Mustang Island State Park.

Day 4: Go on a fishing charter and try your hand at catching redfish, flounder, and trout.

Day 5: Take a dolphin and whale watching tour.

Day 6: Rent a jet ski for a fun-filled adventure on the Gulf of Mexico.

Day 7: Wrap up your trip with a relaxing day at the beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Gulf Coast

Must-Try Dishes

Gulf Coast is home to a thriving culinary scene, with a variety of seafood specialties and local favorites. A few must-try dishes include:

  • Gulf shrimp: Gulf shrimp is renowned for its sweet flavor and tender texture, and is often served grilled or fried.
  • Redfish: A popular local fish, often served grilled or blackened with a side of rice and vegetables.
  • Key lime pie: A sweet-and-tart dessert made with local key limes and a graham cracker crust.

Local Beverages

Gulf Coast is known for its craft beer scene, with several local breweries worth visiting. A few recommendations include:

  • Lazy Beach Brewing: A local brewery featuring a rotating selection of craft beers, as well as food trucks and live music.
  • Lorelei Brewing Company: A family-owned brewery featuring a wide variety of beers, as well as an outdoor beer garden and food trucks.
  • B&J’s Pizza – Brew Pub: A local bar and restaurant featuring a selection of craft beers on tap, as well as pizza and other pub food.

Where to Stay in Gulf Coast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gulf Coast offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs, including:

  • The Emerald Beach Hotel: Located in Corpus Christi, this elegant hotel boasts ocean views, a restaurant, and a rooftop pool.
  • The Roosevelt Boutique Hotel: A historic hotel in Port Aransas, featuring comfortable rooms and a rooftop bar.
  • The Lighthouse Inn at Aransas Bay: A charming bed and breakfast with stunning bay views, located near Rockport.

What to Buy in Gulf Coast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Gulf Coast is known for its local shops and markets, offering unique souvenirs and local products. A few recommendations include:

  • The Shops at La Palmera: A shopping mall in Corpus Christi featuring a variety of stores and eateries, as well as a cinema.
  • The Fulton Street Farmer’s Market in Rockport: A local market featuring fresh produce, local crafts, and unique gifts.
  • The Beach House Boutique: A local shop in Port Aransas featuring beach-inspired clothing and souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Gulf Coast

Gulf Coast has a rich history and cultural heritage, with influences from Spanish, Native American, and Mexican traditions. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, including:

  • Dress appropriately for the weather, including hats, sunscreen, and light clothing.
  • Observe local regulations and laws, including respecting protected wildlife areas and fishing limits.
  • Embrace the laid-back pace of Gulf Coast life and take time to enjoy the natural beauty and local culture.

Best Time to Visit Gulf Coast

Gulf Coast boasts warm weather year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall, when temperatures are milder and crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter brings occasional cold fronts and chilly weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gulf Coast

Do:

  • Take time to explore the natural beauty of Gulf Coast, including its beaches and wildlife preserves.
  • Sample the local seafood specialties and craft beer scene.
  • Respect local customs and cultural heritage.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb the local wildlife and ecosystem.
  • Fish or hunt without proper licenses and permits.
  • Disrespect the laid-back pace of local life and rush through your itinerary.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gulf Coast

Gulf Coast is a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should take standard safety precautions, including:

  • Locking valuables in a safe or secure location.
  • Avoiding unfamiliar areas at night.
  • Being aware of weather conditions and potential hazards, including rip currents and thunderstorms.

Health in Gulf Coast

Gulf Coast has several hospitals and medical facilities, as well as pharmacies and urgent care centers. Visitors should bring any necessary medication and travel insurance.

Getting to Gulf Coast: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gulf Coast

  • Corpus Christi International Airport
  • Valley International Airport
  • Houston Hobby Airport

Bus Stations Near Gulf Coast

  • Greyhound Station in Corpus Christi
  • Greyhound Station in Edna

Other Options

  • Renting a car: Gulf Coast is best explored by car, with several rental car companies located in major cities.
  • Taking a taxi or ride-share service: Several taxi and ride-share companies operate in Gulf Coast, with Uber and Lyft being the most popular options.

How to Get Around in Gulf Coast

Gulf Coast is best explored by car, but visitors can also use local taxi or ride-share services to get around major cities. Some attractions, such as Padre Island National Seashore, are best accessed by foot or bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Gulf Coast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • San Antonio: A historic city located just a few hours from Gulf Coast, featuring famous attractions such as the Alamo and River Walk.
  • Houston: Located just a few hours from Gulf Coast, Houston offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums and theaters.
  • Big Bend National Park: A remote national park located in West Texas, offering breathtaking desert landscapes and outdoor adventures.

Conclusion

Gulf Coast offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore local museums and historical sites, or sample the local culinary scene, Gulf Coast has something to offer everyone.



    Bayous
    North Barrier Coast
    Padre Island
    Rio Grande Valley
    South Barrier Coast