From a rich history to beautiful promenades, there are tons to do in San Antonio.
But if you’re looking to cool down during your trip to this south-central Texan city, don’t worry.
You can always go on weekend beach trips from San Antonio to popular ocean and lake beaches nearby.
So plan your day trip to the best beaches near San Antonio, TX.
1. Surfside Beach
1304 Monument Drive
Surfside Beach, TX 77541
(979) 233-1531
Surfside Beach is a city in Brazoria County.
It is near Galveston and Lake Jackson.
This beach is 231 miles away from San Antonio and is roughly a 3 hour and 47-minute drive via the I-10.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Have fun exploring this coastal village when you go to visit.
It has soft, sand beaches with consistent rolling waves that are perfect for surfing.
And if you don’t have your gear with you?
Never fear.
This village has local shops that rent and sell beach gear.
Expert Tip
Surfside beach doesn’t just have nice beaches.
It also boasts of deep coastal waters and coastal reefs that make fishing here a wonderful experience.
Get a bountiful catch of bull redfish, tuna, and even shark.
Recommended Hotel Near Surfside Beach: Moody Gardens Hotel Spa and Convention Center
2. Mustang Island State Park
9394 State Highway 361
Corpus Christi, TX 78418
(361) 749-5246
Visit Mustang Island State Park in Corpus Christi, just 165 miles away (or a 2 hour and 25-minute drive) from San Antonio.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Being near the middle of Texas, the top beaches in San Antonio are mostly beautiful lakes and riverfront.
If you’re looking for oceanside vibes, Mustang Island is right at the Gulf of Mexico which goes back to the Atlantic.
It’s near enough to San Antonio for a fun daycation.
With 5 miles of beautiful coastline, you can choose to play on the beach the entire day.
Surf, swim and build all the sandcastles you want.
Expert Tip
Finish with the sandy shores?
Follow the park’s paddling trail.
It has three segments that follow the island’s shoreline.
Enjoy personal encounters with coastal birds or try a hand at shallow-water fishing.
Recommended Hotel Near Mustang Island State Park: Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Corpus Christi/Padre Isle
3. Matagorda Bay
6420 FM2031
Matagorda, TX 77457
(409) 797-5000
Visit Matagorda Bay, which is only 3 hours and 20 minutes away from San Antonio if you drive via TX-111.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Matagorda Bay has miles and miles of pristine beaches, which you can liken to a paradise.
Here, you can search for hidden treasures like seashells, sand dollars, and even old Spanish coins.
You can even camp in tents if you want to stay on the beach for long.
Expert Tip
If you’re going to the beach as a big group (be it with friends or family), opt for a beach house rental.
You’ll all be comfortable while still within walking distance of the coastline.
Recommended Hotel Near Matagorda Bay: Baymont by Wyndham Victoria
Related: Best Things to Do in San Antonio
4. Galveston Island
Galveston Island, near Houston and Pearland, is only 252 miles (or a 4-hour drive) away from San Antonio.
It offers one of the best beach vacations from San Antonio for families and friends.
Why We Recommend This Beach
With over 32 miles of soft sands and waterfronts perfect for swimming, it’s no wonder that Galveston was once considered the ‘Playground of the South.’
Just head on over to East Beach, Stewart Beach, and El Jardin Del Mar, to name a few spots.
Expert Tip
When in Galveston, don’t forget to visit the historic Pleasure Pier on Seawall Boulevard.
Besides thrilling rides and delicious food choices, there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing the pier’s silhouette during a sunset.
Recommended Hotel Near Galveston Island: The San Luis Resort Spa & Conference Center
Also See:
Beaches Closest to Dallas
Beaches Near Austin
5. Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi, TX
(800) 766-2322
Corpus Christi is a coastal city in South Texas.
It is 143 miles away (or a 2-hour drive) from San Antonio.
When you’re looking for quick beach getaways from San Antonio, a trip to Corpus Christi is a fantastic option.
Why We Recommend This Beach
One of Corpus Christi’s main attractions is the 1.5-mile waterfront, North Beach.
Here, you can enjoy swimming in the calm waters.
As it’s part of the Corpus Christi Bay, waves are gentle enough for little kids.
But don’t just stop with swimming and lounging in the sand.
North Beach has tons more to offer.
Expert Tip
History buffs are sure to love visiting the USS Lexington.
This World War II aircraft carrier located in North Beach now houses a museum inside.
Recommended Hotel Near Corpus Christi: Omni Corpus Christi Hotel
Related: Best Water Parks in San Antonio, Texas
6. South Padre Island
Shore Drive
South Padre Island, TX 78597
(956) 761-6433
South Padre Island is a coastal town in Cameron County.
Located at Texas’s coastal tip, it is 297 miles (or a 4 and a half-hour drive) from San Antonio.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Lovers of water sports and thrill-seekers, in general, will love the many things you can do on South Padre Island.
You can go kiteboarding, windsurfing, and even jet skiing.
Or you can choose to relax on its white sand.
Expert Tip
South Padre Island is home to diverse wildlife.
Go fishing for huge catches, spot some playful dolphins in the waters, or meet sea creatures during a dive.
Recommended Hotel Near South Padre Island: Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island
Related: Things to Do Near San Antonio
7. North Padre Island
20420 Park Road 22
Corpus Christi, TX 78418
(361) 949-8068
North Padre Island is nearer Corpus Christi than its south part.
It is a mere 172 miles away (or a 2 hour and 40-minute drive) from San Antonio via I-37.
Why We Recommend This Beach
North Padre Island has long stretches of oceanfront and gulf waters that will invite you enticingly on your visit.
It is less commercialized than South Padre Island so you’ll really feel the perfect tropical atmosphere while you’re here.
Expert Tip
Besides having some of the prettiest beaches on this side of the coast, North Padre Island is the best place for swimming, bonfires, and beach walks at night.
You can even collect shells or ride one horseback while you’re here.
Recommended Hotel Near North Padre Island: Best Western Padre Island
Also See:
Best Beaches in Galveston
Best Beaches Near Houston, TX
8. Port Aransas
Port Aransas Beach Road
Port Aransas, TX 78373
Port Aransas sits on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico and is near Rockport and Corpus Christi.
It is 178 miles away (or a 2 hour and 40-minute drive) from San Antonio.
Why We Recommend This Beach
With over 18 miles miles of expansive sandy beaches looking towards the cool waters of the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll enjoy spending the day in Port Aransas.
It’s considered by some as the best beach for swimming near San Antonio.
It’s warm and clear waters make it super inviting to take a dip in.
Just make sure to wear beach shoes even when swimming.
Besides that, you can surf, sail, boogie board, and even jet ski on the waters.
You can even go exploring on a stand-up paddleboard or kayak.
Since there are good waves in this coastline, be vigilant as riptides may occur at times.
Expert Tip
Why limit yourself to the waters when you can also take to the skies?
You can go parasailing, kiteboarding, and windsurfing when you’re in Port Aransas.
Recommended Hotel Near Port Aransas: Plantation Suites and Conference Center
9. San Jose Island
San Jose Island, TX
(800) 452-6278
San Jose Island is a barrier island near Port Aransas.
It is on the Gulf Coast of Texas and is about a 3-hour drive away from San Antonio.
Why We Recommend This Beach
San Jose Island is a beach near San Antonio that history lovers will enjoy visiting.
Besides beautiful views and calm waters, you can learn a lot about Texan history when on the island.
From being where the first American flag was waved in Texas to seeing the rise and fall of the Civil War, San Jose Island’s past is a marvel to behold.
Expert Tip
There are not many places you could hunt for treasure.
It is said that San Jose Island might hold treasures dating back to the 1500s.
Spanish ships that sank near this island had their goods like ornaments and gold washed ashore.
You never know, you might just be the lucky person to find more of them.
Recommended Hotel Near San Jose Island: Hampton Inn & Suites Rockport-Fulton
Related: Free Things to Do inSan Antonio
10. Jamaica Beach
16523 Jamaica Beach Road
Jamaica Beach, TX 77554
(409) 737-1142
Jamaica Beach is a city on Galveston Island and is 257 miles away (or a 4-hour drive) from San Antonio via I-10.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Just a stone’s throw away from Galveston, Jamaica Beach is definitely it’s more peaceful counterpart.
Suppose you want to be near attractions like Pleasure Pier and Moody Gardens yet want to enjoy less crowded beaches.
In that case, Jamaica Beach is the perfect compromise.
Expert Tip
Jamaica Beach is a well-known fishing ground.
From novices to experts, fishing fans will enjoy spending the time here trying to get the best catch of the day.
Recommended Hotel Near Jamaica Beach: Holiday Inn Club Vacations Galveston Seaside Resort
11. Rockport
210 Seabreeze Drive
Rockport, TX 78382
(361) 729-6661
Rockport is near Port Aransas, San Jose Island, and Copano Bay.
It is 161 miles away (or a 2 hour and a half drive) from San Antonio via I-37.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Considered the safest beach for kids near San Antonio, families with small children will love swimming in the gentle waters of Rockport Beach.
You won’t need to worry about waves crashing too roughly when visiting.
Because the waters here are often calm, it’s a toddler-friendly spot that’s perfect for your baby’s first time swimming.
Of course, as water is unpredictable, always keep a careful eye on your kids while playing.
Expert Tip
Kids will never get bored while on Rockport Beach.
Besides swimming on the beach, they can also play to their heart’s desire on the playground.
You can also have fun and play a round of volleyball while you’re here.
Recommended Hotel Near Rockport: La Quinta by Wyndham Rockport – Fulton
Related: Fun Things to Do in San Antonio with Kids
12. Padre Island
Padre Island is composed of the North Padre (near Corpus Christi) and South Padre (near Brownsville).
It is the largest Texan barrier island and the world’s longest barrier island.
Why We Recommend This Beach
At 113 miles, there’s a ton that you can do in Padre Island because of its numerous beaches.
You have limitless choices on where you can go fishing, boating, swimming, and even shopping.
If you’re looking for a more hip and fun resort vibe, head to the southern part of Padre Island.
For a more natural and quiet experience, North Padre is the place to go.
Expert Tip
While you’re here, head on over to Padre Island National Seashore.
It separates the Gulf of Mexico from Laguna Madre.
It has lots of undeveloped beaches where you can watch wildlife in their natural habitat.
Recommended Hotel Near Padre Island: Hampton Inn and Suites Port Aransas
13. Boca Chica State Park
Boca Chica Boulevard
Brownsville, TX 78521
The Boca Chica State Park in Brownsville is near South Padre Island.
It is 296 miles away (or a 4 hour and a half drive) from San Antonio.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Enjoy 1,000 acres of wide beaches and sand dunes when you visit this state park.
You can go swimming and surfing in the waters or stay on a picnic on the beach.
When conditions are good, there isn’t any other activity that can distract you from the pure and simple joy of just playing in the waters.
It’ll feel like it’s just you and the ocean when you swim around the beach.
You can also go fishing or bird watching.
Or you can go shell hunting.
There are times when the beach is littered with thousands of shells for you to choose from.
Expert Tip
While you’re in the area, you can also visit the Port Isabel Lighthouse.
It has 75 steps and will offer you a fantastic view of the waters from up top.
Recommended Hotel Near Boca Chica State Park: Sea Vista
14. Sea Rim State Park
19335 State Hwy 87,
Sabine Pass, TX 77655
(409) 971-2559
The Sea Rim State Park is near Port Arthur and Sabine Lake.
It is 304 miles away (or a 4 hour and 40-minute drive) from San Antonio via I-10.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Tired of sandy beaches and swimming?
The Sea Rim State Park has more activities to offer you as it is where the Gulf meets marshes.
You can go fishing in the surf or marsh or enjoy horseback riding on the 3-mile shorefront of the Gulf Coast.
Expert Tip
Looking to get a bit active?
Paddle along the 1.79-mile marsh trail to experience the park in all its marsh glory.
Not challenging enough?
The park also has a 9.59-mile advanced trail.
Recommended Hotel Near Sea Rim State Park: Hampton Inn & Suites Winnie
15. Guadalupe River State Park
3350 Park Road 31
Spring Branch, TX 78070
(830) 438-2656
The Guadalupe River State Park in Spring Branch is a mere 40 miles away (or less than an hour’s drive) from San Antonio, making it the nearest beach spot on the list.
It’s one of the best beaches near San Antonio, TX, just for its proximity alone.
Why We Recommend This Beach
The Guadalupe River is a well-known swimming hole in this part of Texas.
Visitors love swimming, tubing, and canoeing down this river.
But there’s more to do here than just frolicking near the river frontage.
Expert Tip
Make the most of your trip when you visit this state park.
Bring your mountain bikes and explore the trails.
You can also do that by foot or through horseback riding.
For more time with nature, you can even set up a camp.
Recommended Hotel Near Guadalupe River State Park: JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa
Map of Beaches Near San Antonio, TX
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List of image sources
15 Best Beaches Near to San Antonio, Texas for 2022
- Surfside Beach
- Mustang Island State Park
- Matagorda Bay
- Galveston Island
- Corpus Christi
- South Padre Island
- North Padre Island
- Port Aransas
- San Jose Island
- Jamaica Beach
- Rockport
- Padre Island
- Boca Chica State Park
- Sea Rim State Park
- Guadalupe River State Park
FAQs
Which Texas beach has the clearest water? ›
Where is the clearest water in Texas? The beach with the clearest water in Texas is Boca Chica beach on South Padre Island.
What is the number one beach in Texas? ›Corpus Christi. Padre Island boasts that it has the longest stretch of undeveloped island anywhere in the world. The seashore is 70 miles long, nearly all of which is bordered by a thin strip of firmly packed white sand. Grasslands and marshes back a thin border of dunes that parallel the beach.
What is the closest ocean beach to San Antonio Texas? ›The coastal tow of Corpus Christi is located just over a 2-hour drive from San Antonio. As one of the fun beaches near San Antonio, Corpus Christi's North Beach is located within walking distance to many of the attractions in Corpus and North Beach is a popular hangout!
What beaches in Texas have sea glass? ›Sea glass has been found on other Texas gulf coast beaches; for example, Galveston's Bolivar Peninsula. Also reports have mentioned West Beach and Port Arthur as well as Corpus Christi, Crystal Beach or South Padre Island.
Does Texas have white sand beach? ›On the Gulf Coast of Texas, you'll find some of the prettiest white sand beaches and warm crystal-clear waters. Long, thin barrier islands, like Galveston Island and Padre Island, beckon beach-goers to throw down a beach blanket and splash in the mild waters, even build a sandcastle or two.
What beach in Texas has blue water? ›South Padre Island
If you're a beachgoing Texan, then this one may seem like a no brainer. After all, South Padre Island is famous for its crystal clear turquoise waters and soft white sand beaches.
South Padre Island
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking for bright blue beaches, South Padre has some of the bluest waters on the Texas coast and you can't go wrong with visiting any beach on the island.
Galveston Seawall Beach (53rd Street)
Galveston is notorious for its beaches being not very clean. It's far from pleasant to see trash and empty cans lying on the sand. Moreover, the water near some Seawall beaches is also polluted.
1: Manele Bay, Hawaii
For most of the year Hulopoe Bay is the best place for kayaking, swimming and snorkeling on the island. In fact, snorkeling and diving spots here are considered some of the finest in Hawaii, making a swim in the 70-degree water all the more tempting.
Galveston Island, Texas
Some people might be surprised to see a Texas city on a list of top shelling destinations, but the west end of Galveston Island is a great place to look for sea treasures. One of the best places to look for shells in the area is Sea Shell Beach Pocket Park.
Which is better Port Aransas or South Padre? ›
The beaches in South Padres Island are better than those in Port Aransas in terms of sand quality and water clarity. In fact, South Padres beaches are known to be some of the best in the whole of Texas! You'll find much clearer and bluer oceans in South Padre Island compared with Port Aransas.
What is the nicest beach near San Antonio? ›- Surfside Beach.
- Mustang Island State Park.
- Matagorda Bay.
- Galveston Island.
- Corpus Christi.
- South Padre Island.
- North Padre Island.
- Port Aransas.
The list of beaches in Texas would be incomplete without South Padre Island, a popular tourist destination in the state. It is widely famed for its gorgeous beach area and for being one of the best sites to see different wildlife, such as dolphins and big sea turtles.
Does Glass Beach still have sea glass? ›Yes, there is still glass at Glass Beach. You will see people collecting it (and know why there isn't as much as there once was). Glass Beach is at the end of Elm Street in Fort Bragg. There are no signs designating it as Glass Beach.
What is the difference between sea glass and beach glass? ›Although beach glass and sea glass are often used interchangeably, they can refer to two separate things, as well. While sea glass is always created and found near oceans, beach glass can be used to refer to glass that is found on freshwater shores, around lakes or rivers.
What is the safest beach in Texas? ›Rockport Beach is the safest beach in Texas and one of the top toddler-friendly beaches in the state as it does not have big waves nor strong undertows.
Where is the warmest beach in Texas? ›South Padre Island is almost as far south as the Texas coastline extends; with a single exception, the coast beyond is either marsh or taken up by largely vacant post-industrial docks and factories. South Padre Island is subtropical, boasting temperatures that seldom drop below 65 degrees in the winter.
Do Texas beaches have alligators? ›Yes, while it is not an everyday occurrence alligators do enjoy a day at the beach as well.
Is Corpus Christi or South Padre Island better? ›Some tips: South Padre Island IS the best of the two. It has better beaches, better accomodations, better restuarants and, in my opinion, friendlier people. However, I love both towns! Corpus is closer to the major cities and more things to do, but SPI....it's just in the smack middle of nowhere.
Which beach is better Port Aransas or Rockport? ›I would choose Port Aransas over Rockport because it is on the Gulf of Mexico and the beaches stretch for miles and miles. Port Aransas is also an easy drive to upper Padre Island and the Padre Island National Seashore as well as the south side of Corpus Christi with all it's dining options.
Which beach is better Galveston or South Padre? ›
Both cities have high beach attendance, especially around Spring Break, but which beach is better? That all depends on what you like! Both beach cities offer up their own charm, from Galveston's mega beachside attraction options to South Padre Islands clean, perfect sandy shores.
Is the water at South Padre Island clear? ›With 34 miles of beautiful white sand and clear emerald water, South Padre Island is one of the world's most exquisite barrier islands – and the only tropical Island in Texas.
Is Galveston or Corpus Christi better? ›My Preference. Of course I prefer Galveston over Corpus. For one, its closer and two, there seems to be more family friendly things to do over all. But if you are looking to relax on the beach, you really can't go wrong either way.
What is the whitest beach in Texas? ›An Underrated Beach In Texas, Mustang Island Has The Whitest, Most Pristine Sand In The State. Texas beaches, especially in the Galveston area, are known for having muddy, brown sand with water to match – not to mention the disgusting seaweed riddling the shoreline.
What is the dirtiest city in Texas? ›Gulf waters are tested annually and South Padre Island regularly rates among the safest, cleanest water. The water is clearer, warmer, and calmer than other beaches on the Gulf of Mexico. Labeled among “the cleanest water in the country.” All of South Padre Island's city beaches are easily accessible on foot.
What is the number 2 beach in America? ›Tripadvisor has ranked Siesta Beach No. 2 in its list of best beaches for 2022, and No. 14 in the world. The popular Sarasota County beach is always in national and world rankings, mainly because of the soft, white sand and beautiful water.
What beach gets the most tourists? ›5.8 million annual visitors
With its serene stretch of golden sand, Hawaii's Waikiki Beach is a popular destination for millions of tourists.
The best shelling is found on the beaches of Sanibel Island & Captiva. The islands rank tops in the world for shelling because of geography. Sanibel Island is shaped in a curve along the coastline among a string of other more orderly, straight-and-narrow islands.
What beach is the top spot for finding seashells? ›Shell-lovers from all over the world make pilgrimages to tiny Sanibel Island on Florida 's Gulf Coast, considered the best shelling spot in North America.
Where are the best seashells in South Padre Island? ›
From Padre Island National Seashore, you'll drive exactly 25 miles south until you reach Little Shell Beach. Keep going for just a few more miles until you see the sign for Big Shell. More shells than you could ever imagine are scattered across the sand.
What is the best month to visit South Padre Island? ›The best time to visit South Padre Island is from September to February. Unless you are planning to join in on the spring break fun – rowdy partying at all hours of the day – you'll find this tiny town rather unbearable in March.
Why is South Padre Island so popular? ›That's because South Padre, or SPI, delivers with wide sandy beaches, sparkling blue water and a mixture of fun activities for kids of all ages. But there's more to SPI than beach revelry. Kiteboarding is a favorite pastime and several sports outfitters offer deep-sea fishing trips and dolphin-watching excursions.
Is Port Aransas a pretty beach? ›CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Port Aransas has been named one of the top 25 beaches in the United States according to Trip Advisor's 2022 "Travelers' Choice - Best of the Best." This Coastal Bend town secured the number 20 spot!
Is Surfside Beach better than Galveston? ›Surfside Beach Texas is a good alternative to Galveston Island. You get the same beach and water, but the community is smaller. Instead of driving down 45 to Galveston, take 288 directly south to Surfside.
Is Port Aransas water clear? ›Warm, clear water and soft sand make Port Aransas a great place to enjoy the waves. With an average water temperature of 84.2°F in the summer, the surf of Port A is perfect for swimming, boogie boarding, and wave jumping.
Is Corpus Christi beach clean? ›It is listed as the most unsafe area for swimming due to bacteria in Texas. Cole Park, Emerald Beach, and Corpus Christi Marina were all found potentially unsafe over 50 percent of the time. Other areas in Nueces County with unsafe bacteria levels were Poenisch Park (#5), Park Road 22 (#7) and Port Aransas (#9).
What is the most affordable beach town in Texas? ›Rockport is one of the best beach town values in the U.S. Here's some welcome news for Dallasites in search of a beach house that won't break the bank: A new report from Realtor.com says a popular Texas coastal town is among the most affordable in the country.
Are Texas beaches as nice as Florida? ›Texas beaches are more laid back and chill. While less popular and a lot smaller compared to Florida, Texas beaches are conducive for solitary escapes and reflection. Not everyone who goes to the beach is looking to party after all.
What beach in Texas has a boardwalk? ›Overlooking Galveston Bay, the Kemah Boardwalk features themed restaurants, retail shops, and amusements for the whole family.
Does Texas have warm water beaches? ›
During summer, Texas offers some of the warmest ocean swimming in the United States. The water temperature usually reaches 86 °F (30 °C) at the Galveston Pleasure Pier in July and August.
Which beach in Texas has the whitest sand? ›An Underrated Beach In Texas, Mustang Island Has The Whitest, Most Pristine Sand In The State. Texas beaches, especially in the Galveston area, are known for having muddy, brown sand with water to match – not to mention the disgusting seaweed riddling the shoreline.
Do any beaches in Texas have blue water? ›South Padre Island
If you're a beachgoing Texan, then this one may seem like a no brainer. After all, South Padre Island is famous for its crystal clear turquoise waters and soft white sand beaches.
The San Antonio River Walk is the most visited tourist attraction in all of Texas, in fact, people come from far and wide to sample the best of art, museums, food, shopping, and more, among the dozens of businesses that line the 2.5-mile walkway along the San Antonio River.
Where is the happiest place in Texas? ›A new study from personal finance website WalletHub ranks Plano as the happiest city in Texas and the 22nd happiest city in the U.S. To come up with the ranking, WalletHub looked at more than key indicators of happiness for 182 of the largest U.S. cities.
What is the bluest water beach in Texas? ›South Padre Island
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking for bright blue beaches, South Padre has some of the bluest waters on the Texas coast and you can't go wrong with visiting any beach on the island.
Port Aransas is a good beach destination from San Antonio. Just over 2 hours by car. Galveston is about 4 hours. There are more things to see and do in Galveston but the water and beaches in Port A are nicer.
Is Padre Island better than Corpus Christi? ›Some tips: South Padre Island IS the best of the two. It has better beaches, better accomodations, better restuarants and, in my opinion, friendlier people. However, I love both towns! Corpus is closer to the major cities and more things to do, but SPI....it's just in the smack middle of nowhere.
Why is Corpus Christi so famous? ›Legend has it that in 1519, on the Roman Catholic Feast Day of Corpus Christi, Spanish explorer Alonzo Alvarez de Pineda discovered a lush semi-tropical bay on what is now the southern coast of Texas. The bay, and the City that later sprung up there, took the name of the feast day celebrating the "Body of Christ."