A week off of school teases for summer, but how do you make the most of seven days of freedom on a limited budget?

Want to soak up some rays?
If you’re looking for a day trip full of adventure, think about heading to the beach. If Galveston just doesn’t fit your standards, Corpus Christi is only a few hours down the road. There are plenty of things to do in Corpus, aside from their beautiful beaches. Along the coast, dozens of small surf shops display tiny trinkets, shells by the dozen, and other souvenirs.

The dining options in this coastal town are phenomenal. From good ‘ole Tex-Mex to hamburgers, to classic seafood, Corpus Christi knows how to serve it up right. If you’re craving local seafood, try some of these favorite Corpus establishments:

Snoopy’s Pier
A popular local favorite. Family-friendly environment, specializing in fried seafood.

Catfish Charlie’s
Another family-friendly seafood joint, specializing in lunch and dinner meals.

Landry’s Seafood House
Average price for a meal is $20. Great for a formal dinner or a romantic evening out.

Blackbeard’s on the Beach
A Corpus Christi legendary eatery, famous for its ghostly appearances and phenomenal seafood.

For more restaurant ideas and suggestions, visit Trip Advisor’s Restaurant Guide for Corpus Christi.

Want to stay in town?
If spending Spring Break on the beaches in Corpus Christi doesn’t appeal to you, there are plenty of local things to do. Houstononthecheap.com suggests the Space Center Houston, Studio Movie Grill, free activities on Discovery Green, Brazos Bend State Park, and the Fine Art’s Museum, among others. For more information, activities and ideas, check out the listings on Free and Cheap Family Fun in Houston.

Need other low-cost options?
If spending money is not an option, there are ways you can avoid sitting on the couch all day doing absolutely nothing.

– Pack a picnic and eat lunch outside with some of your friends
– Host a movie night where you watch a movie you’ve never seen (or re-visit the classics you grew up with)
– Invite your friends over to cook a dish for them you’ve never eaten before.

Truth be told, there is always something to do in the Houston metroplex, whether you’re spending Spring Break on a budget or not.