5 Best Scenic Drives in South Texas

South Texas offers stunning coastal views, serene countryside routes, and historic towns—all perfect for enjoying the performance and comfort of your Mercedes.

If you’re a Mercedes-Benz owner in Corpus Christi, Texas, and want to take your luxury car out for a scenic weekend drive, you’re in luck. South Texas offers stunning coastal views, serene countryside routes, and historic towns—all perfect for enjoying the performance and comfort of your Mercedes. Here are some of the best scenic places and roads you can explore for a perfect day trip or weekend getaway:

1. Padre Island National Seashore

A drive to Padre Island National Seashore offers beautiful ocean views, fresh air, and a tranquil escape. Located just 30 minutes from Corpus Christi, this route along TX-358 E is a great option to enjoy open stretches of road. You can cruise along the Island Road (Park Road 22), which leads to pristine beaches and wildlife-rich areas. For a longer adventure, drive all the way to Malaquite Beach, where you can stop for a beach walk or picnic.

• Why it’s great for Mercedes drivers: Smooth, open roads where your Mercedes can glide effortlessly, combined with stunning coastal views.
• Tip: Use your Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC® all-wheel drive if you plan to explore some of the more off-the-beaten-path beach access areas.

2. Mustang Island

Another beautiful coastal destination is Mustang Island, which is accessible via the TX-361 N from Corpus Christi. The ferry ride at Port Aransas (if you choose to cross) is a charming addition to your drive, and you can experience the beauty of the coastline while stopping at various points for beach access.

• Why it’s great for Mercedes drivers: Enjoy the versatility of your vehicle on winding coastal roads and make the most of your panoramic roof to take in the Gulf views.
• Tip: The ferry ride from Port Aransas is a fun bonus and lets you take a short break while enjoying the ocean breeze.

3. Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

If you want to head a bit inland and escape the beach for a while, a scenic drive to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic choice. Located about an hour and a half from Corpus Christi, this route on TX-35 N is perfect for wildlife lovers. Along the way, you’ll pass by charming towns like Rockport and Fulton, which are worth a stop for food or a walk along the waterfront.

• Why it’s great for Mercedes drivers: You’ll experience smooth highway driving with serene nature trails at your destination.
• Tip: Once you reach the wildlife refuge, explore the refuge’s scenic auto loop to enjoy birdwatching and nature while staying comfortable in your Mercedes-Benz. The refuge is located on the central flyway, a major bird migration route, and is a haven for birdwatchers.

4. Corpus Christi Bayfront and Ocean Drive

If you prefer a shorter, in-town scenic drive, cruise along Ocean Drive in Corpus Christi. This road takes you along the beautiful waterfront, offering views of Corpus Christi Bay, the USS Lexington, and the stunning Texas State Aquarium. For an afternoon drive, stop by Cole Park or McGee Beach for a picnic or stroll.

• Why it’s great for Mercedes drivers: Ocean Drive is smooth and lined with palm trees, making it the perfect urban scenic route. It’s also a great place to enjoy the finer details of your luxury vehicle’s interior and ride quality.
• Tip: Take advantage of your Mercedes-Benz’s advanced driver assistance features to easily navigate the streets while you soak in the bayfront views.

5. Hill Country via San Antonio and Bandera

For a weekend getaway, consider heading out to the Texas Hill Country. Take I-37 N toward San Antonio and then venture to Bandera or Fredericksburg for a taste of small-town charm, rolling hills, and scenic ranchlands. The Hill Country is famous for its winding roads and stunning vistas, perfect for a leisurely drive in your Mercedes.

• Why it’s great for Mercedes drivers: The curving roads in the Hill Country allow you to experience the handling and precision of your Mercedes-Benz, especially if you’re driving an AMG model.
• Tip: Plan an overnight stay at one of the region’s many bed-and-breakfast inns to truly enjoy the countryside experience. Stopping to eat barbeque in Fredericksburg is a must, too!

Prepare Your Mercedes-Benz for Scenic Drives

Before embarking on any of these scenic routes, make sure your Mercedes-Benz is road trip-ready. At Ed Hicks Imports, we offer comprehensive Mercedes-Benz service to help ensure your car performs flawlessly during your adventure. Our certified technicians will keep your car in top shape from oil changes to tire inspections.

Schedule a Service Appointment: Visit Ed Hicks Imports in Corpus Christi to make sure your vehicle is ready for the open road. Whether you’re preparing for a quick drive along Ocean Drive or a weekend in the Hill Country, our team is here to help keep your Mercedes-Benz running smoothly.