The Gulf Coast of Texas features a wealth of activities and attractions, including some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. Due to its seaside nature, many towns along the Gulf Coast are awash in boat charters, giving anglers ample opportunity to book deep sea fishing excursions. Corpus Christi, one of the larger centers in the area, offers a robust choice of attractions, including the Texas State Aquarium. The city is also known as the gateway to the Padre Island National Seashore—a natural area dedicated to the conservation of native aquatic flora and fauna. The city of McAllen is another sizeable center found in the area. Located on the Rio Grande, McAllen is known for its abundance of citrus groves and for being just 10 mi (16 km) north of the Mexican border. Other popular destinations in this region include Brownsville, Harlingen and Kingsville, each offering a fine selection of outdoor activities, trendy restaurants and charming accommodations.