Sometimes, the best moments of a vacation are the unscheduled ones. These memories can come from something as simple as a stroll along a scenic beach, a city sidewalk or through the woods. Take some time away from your carefully planned itinerary to enjoy all the natural beauty and wildlife Corpus Christi has to offer. Keep reading for five great destinations to get you started.

1. Padre Island National Seashore

Padre Island National Seashore

The Padre Island National Seashore separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Laguna Madre, one of the only hypersaline lagoons in the world. With 70 miles of gorgeous coastline, dunes and prairies teeming with wildlife like Kemp’s ridley sea turtle and over 380 bird species.

2. Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve

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162 acres of nature preserve await you at the Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve. Explore 4 miles of nature trails teeming with flora and fauna you won’t find just anywhere. Learn more about the wildlife in the area and come away with a better understanding of why preservation is integral to areas like the Coastal Bend.

3. Downtown Seawall

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Unique to Corpus Christi, this 1.5 mile waterfront promenade is perfect for  walking, biking or jogging. Make sure to take a quick “Journey Through Our Solar System” at the exhibit along the Downtown Seawall. Watch the shrimp boats returning with their fresh catches, and on Wednesday nights don’t miss the Sailboat Races from the Lawrence Street T-head.

4. Horses on the Beach

Horses on the Beach

Padre Island is the perfect place to enjoy a stroll along the beach. However, you won’t be doing any of the walking! Enjoy all the scenic views of the Gulf on horseback. You can start your day off with an adventurous morning outing or enjoy a romantic sunset ride with that special someone. Whenever you choose to go, horseback riding is an essential part of a true Texas vacation!

5. Hazel Bazemore County Park

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This park sits at the convergence of multiple migratory bird flyways, making for some truly unique views. The 77.6 acre park is has the highest concentration of migrating hawks in the United States! You’ll also find plenty of places for a  picnic, as well as some great swimming and fishing spots! For more information on Texas hawk watching, check here.

Don’t let your vacation pass by without taking some time to actually relax and unwind. These five locations are the perfect destinations for a scenic walk you won’t forget. Visiting Corpus Christi soon? Make sure you check out Visit Corpus Christi to learn more about everything our region has to offer.