Pier 99

Breathe in the salty breeze, in their invitingly tropical atmosphere as palms waft over a large deck at this waterfront eatery that‘s an institution on Corpus Christi Beach. There is a dining room, but sitting outside, watching the water sparkle is so much fun. You can’t beat their front row view of the USS Lexington. Their menu is filled with a wide variety of fresh seafood options, salads, and sandwiches. Try one of their amazing piled-high seafood platters, your choice, fried or grilled. Pier 99 offers live entertainment on the waterfront patio on Friday and Saturday nights from 6-10pm; and on weekends from 1-5pm. Enjoy their full bar and try one of their great happy hour margaritas. The patio is pet friendly so fido can join in the fun. Located on Corpus Christi Beach near the Texas State Aquarium and next to the USS Lexington, just over the Harbor Bridge open daily 11am.

2822 N. Shoreline • 361-887-0764

On Corpus Christi Beach

$9-$15

Executive Surf Club

Drop into this popular spot and  enjoy a casual meal from lunch through late evening. Make sure you wander out to their huge patio, because there’s usually  entertainment on the open-air stage. Unwind with a cold drink and their signature quesadillas. Other best bets include their speciality burgers and shrimp PoBoys. The Executive Surf club is for everyone. They have a Kid’s Club Menu for the family as well as 30 different beers on the tap that can quench the thirst of any nightlifer. Full bar including Corpus Christi’s largest selection of beer on tap with 30 varieties to try. Winner of Best of the Best: Live Music, Happy Hour and Bar & Grill. Open daily; food 11am-11pm.

309 Water Street • 361-884-7873

WaterStreet Market

Under $9

Texas State Aquarium

Come. Sea. Discover the amazing world of the Texas State Aquarium. Take an aquatic journey to the depths of the Gulf of Mexico. Experience dive shows, animal feedings, and “hands on” programs. Thousands of animals (over 250 species) are ready to entertain and inspire you. Get up close and personal with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in Dolphin Bay. Look to the skies as hawks, owls and falcons soar through the Hawn Wild Flight Theater. Visit the Islands of Steel, where sharks and sea turtles live among schools of snapper, tarpon, redfish, and grouper. Enter the mysterious Amazon as you encounter poison-dart frogs, fresh-water stingrays and boa constrictors. Watch sea turtles glide in the waters of Tortuga Cay and see North American river otters play in Otter Creek. Spend time in the Living Shores, where you can really get your hands wet!  With so much to see and do, what are you waiting for? Open daily. 800-477-GULF, www.texasstateaquarium.org

The Aquarium, featuring Dolphin Bay, is the number one visitor attraction in the Coastal Bend. Thousands of animals, over 250 species, most common to the Gulf, are displayed in entertaining and educational exhibits. Dive shows, touch pools, food court, playground and gift shops. Admission is $15.50: $13.95 for seniors and active military: $10.50 for ages 3-12, 2 and under free. Parking: $4.00  Open daily 9am-6pm. 361-881-1200

The Dunes Condominiums – Port Aransas

On the Beach in Port Aransas

888-221-1389

All the action, fun, serenity and beauty of the Gulf Coast, in high rise luxury. Every suite has a huge private balcony with an unforgettable view of the Gulf of Mexico. 1, 2 & 3 bedroom, fully furnished suites with daily maid service provide the comforts of home, without the cleanup. Treat yourself to a true vacation! Enjoy not only the beautiful beach but also the heated pool and hot tub, a workout in their modern fitness center or a match of tennis  on their courts. The Dunes Condominiums has  meeting  facilities for your up to 130 people. Spacious apartments sleep up to eight. Charter fishing boats in the Port Aransas Marina are waiting to take you off shore or back into the bays. You can even go night fishing off Horace Caldwell Pier, adjacent to the Dunes. Located next to downtown with many great restaurants and shopping choices.

1000 Lantana, Port Aransas.

www.thedunescondos.com