The Local’s List 2024 readers’ choice poll winners for Health & Beauty include categories such as day spa, fitness gym/studio, hair stylist, massage therapist and much more.
Barber
Isaac Martinez, Platinum Kutz Barbershop
Locals have crowned Isaac Martinez, better known as Issac Da Barber, as the best in the business. Operating out of Platinum Kutz Barbershop, Martinez knows how to get your hair in good shape. Plus, he has a pretty hilarious social media presence, as he creates content centered around the classic tropes and relatable experiences of being a barber. 5366 McArdle Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Second place: Kriselda Garza, Faded Vision Barber Shop
Third place: Devin Villarreal-Platinum Kutz
Barber Shop
Platinum Kutz Barbershop
There are few things in life as satisfying as a fresh haircut. The talented staff at Platinum Kutz will ensure that you love the final result when they swivel the chair around for you to catch a glimpse in the mirror after giving you a fresh haircut. With services available to all ages, you can trust you’re in good hands at Platinum Kutz. 5366 McArdle Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Second place: Faded Vision Barbershop
Third place: Next LvL Barbershop
Chiropractor
Scott G. Walker, D.C.
Founder and owner of Family Wellness Chiropractic Center, Scott G. Walker has been practicing in Corpus Christi since 1999. Watching his own family benefit from chiropractic care inspired him to create a business focused on tending to the entire family. Walker aims to articulate thoroughly the science behind his practice’s philosophy and method with patients, and will tailor adjustments to your specific needs. 7426 S Staples St #210, Corpus Christi, TX 78413
Second place: Dr. Kristin Knowlton- Empower Wellness
Third place: Dr. Mikkel Bahamondes
Cosmetic Surgeon
Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele, Corpus Christi Plastic Surgery and MedSpa
A board-certified plastic surgeon practicing in Corpus Christi for the last 10 years, Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele provides top-quality cosmetic and plastic surgery care. His expertise is in breast and body rejuvenation and sculpting and facial rejuvenation. Dr. Vijay delivers excellent results with meticulous surgical techniques and modern pain control modalities. 5642 Esplanade Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78414
Second place: Dr. Cassidy Hinojosa
Third place: Dr. Keith Rose- Rose Cosmetic Surgery Center
Day Spa
Woodhouse Day Spa – Corpus Christi
You don’t have to travel outside the Coastal Bend to experience a luxurious getaway. Spending the day at Woodhouse Day Spa – Corpus Christi will do the trick and leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Allow yourself to be pampered the way you deserve and book a few of its many services, including facials and advanced facials, massages, various body treatments, pedicures and manicures and more. 6000 S Staples St #410, Corpus Christi, TX 78413
Second place: The G Spa
Third place: Skincare Butik
Dentist
Kennedy Dental Care
With five locations in the Coastal Bend and a team of knowledgeable and friendly staff, it’s no wonder Kennedy Dental Care has been an institution in the area for 50 years. Led by Corpus Christi native Dr. Paul Kennedy III, it is a leading provider of pediatric dental care in South Texas focused on creating a fun, affordable and creative “dental home” for families. 3435 S Alameda St A, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Second place: Dawod Dental Center
Third place: Sarah Pitarra- DDS
Dermatologist
Dr. Wayne Fagan, South Texas Dermatology
A premier provider of clinical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology services for patients of all ages in the Coastal Bend, South Texas Dermatology’s team is welcoming, experienced and backed by a “patient-first” philosophy. Dr. Wayne Fagan specializes in Mohs Micrographic Surgery, the gold standard for non-melanoma skin cancer, in which he has performed over 29,000 cases in the Corpus Christi area. 4141 S Staples St #300, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Second place: Mary Cole-Perez- MD – CHRISTUS Health
Third place: Dr. Nathanial Davis – South Texas Dermatology
Eyebrow Specialist
Tina Lain – Gold Dust Cosmetic Collective
Tina Lain, the founder of Gold Dust Cosmetic Collective, is a highly sought-after professional in the field of cosmetic and restorative tattoo artistry. While her services go beyond the brows, her eyebrow services are taking home this trophy. With nanoblading, powdered brows and combination brow services, there are plenty of options for clients to achieve their dream brows by Lain. 1009 Airline Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78412
Second place: Inked by Elle
Third place: Aesthetic Lash Lounge-Clarissa Gonzales
Eyelash Specialist
Clarissa Gonzales, Aesthetic Lash Lounge
Helping Corpus Christi residents step up their lash game, Clarissa Gonzales of Aesthetic Lash Lounge is one of the best in the business. Her lash services range from natural eye hybrid sets to full-volume sets. Gonzales prides herself not only in helping clients feel happy and confident with their final lash results, but in educating others on the importance of maintaining the health of your natural lashes along the way. 4949 Everhart Rd suite 110, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Second place: Rico Cano- New Wave Studios
Third place: Kayla Ochoa – KBeautyBar
Family Medical Practice
Dr. David Sutter – Corpus Christi Family Medicine
Kind, efficient and thorough, Dr. David Sutter aims to not just treat his patients, but help them understand the health journeys they are on. Practicing out of Corpus Christi Family Medicine inside the Corpus Christi Medical Center Doctors Regional, Dr. Sutter’s 20-plus years of professional experience and wonderful bedside manner allow patients to feel heard and taken care of. 601 Texan Trail suite 200, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Second place: Future Focus Family Medicine
Third place: Dr. James Walker- South Texas Adult Medicine Associates
Fitness Class Instructor
Stacie Richline, Water Dog Yoga, SUP & Barre and Club Pilates
Co-owner of Water Dog Yoga, SUP & Barre, Stacie Richline’s love for the outdoors, passion for staying active, years of experience and charismatic nature combine to make her an excellent fitness class instructor. She has taught all over the world, from Japan to Abu Dhabi, but here in her local studio, she currently teaches SUP Yoga, Paddle, Yoga and Pilates classes. 98 Coopers Alley L-Head Slip T-5 27.79, -97.39, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Second place: Alyssa Williamson- Bayside Pilates
Third place: Lauren Wooten- Certified Personal Trainer
Fitness Studio/Gym
Bayside Pilates
Intimate class sizes, passionate instructors and a sense of community combine to make Bayside Pilates one of the most popular fitness studios in the Coastal Bend. Whether you’re a seasoned Pilates fan looking for a new class or have been interested in giving the high-intensity, low-impact workout a try, Bayside has a class for you. If you’re new to the studio, opt for the First Time Starter package that allows you to take four classes across two weeks at a great price. 1324 Airline Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78412
Second place: F45 Corpus Christi
Third place: Padre Island CrossFit
Hair Salon
SoCo Salon
Located in Rockport, SoCo Salon’s team of beauty professionals provides luxury services in a welcoming and relaxing environment. Here you’ll find services such as blonding, balayage, lived-in hair color, hair and lash extensions and cosmetic tattooing. The salon is staffed with a team of incredible women focused on helping Coastal Bend residents feel beautiful inside and out. 3002 Hwy 35 N suite D, Rockport, TX 78382
Second place: Elegancia Salon
Third place: New Wave Studios
Hair Stylist
Kristie Langston – SoCo Salon
Sitting in Kristie Langston’s salon chair is like losing track of time as you chat with one of your best girlfriends about life—except in this case, you’ll also have a stylish new ’do. The SoCo Salon owner is a blonde and lived-in hair color expert and has seven years of professional experience under her belt. 3002 Hwy 35 N suite D, Rockport, TX 78382
Second place: Manuel Ramirez- New Wave Studios
Third place: Kyla Mendiola – Elegancia Salon
Holistic/Alternative Health
Corpus Christi Colonics and Spa
Erika Mendez, owner of Corpus Christi Colonics, is the first and only certified colon hydrotherapist in Corpus Christi. Inspired by her own health journey and the use of colon hydrotherapy, she decided to bring this advanced service to the area. A method of removing waste from the large intestine without the use of drugs, colon hydrotherapy introduces warm, filtered water into the colon to soften and loosen waste, resulting in evacuation through natural peristalsis. The therapy is known to help with bloating, constipation, skin conditions and lifestyle and diet changes. 4455 S Padre Island Dr Suite #1, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Second place: Zenfinty Apothecaria
Third place: Dr. Rose Knippa
Licensed Esthetician
Ciara Page – Beauty Dungeon
As a top-rated esthetician and the owner of Beauty Dungeon, Ciara Page finds joy in helping members of the community embrace and enhance their true beauty. Page’s specialties include a variety of facials, microneedling, brow artistry, waxing and more—though her favorite services are Brazillian waxes, eyebrows and skin treatments. Her day spa creates a comforting and welcoming environment to help you feel relaxed and at home while treating yourself with the care you deserve. 5866 S Staples St Ste. 360, Corpus Christi, TX 78413
Second place: Gabby the Aesthetician
Third place (tie): Sarah Garcia – The G Spa
Third place (tie): Jenna Pilsner- Gold Dust Cosmetic Collective
Makeup Artist
Savannah Hallick – Bloom Beauty Studio
Helping brides-to-be, homecoming queens and eventgoers achieve the glam of their dreams is one of Savannah Hallick’s passions. From soft glam bridal looks to a party look inspired by a theme, her artistry helps clients feel confident when stepping out for a big moment. 4120 S Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Second place: Evangelyn Reyes- Dust My Face
Third place: Sam’s Glam & Co.
Martial Arts School
Gracie Barra Corpus Christi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy
With a team of highly skilled instructors and a class for all skill levels, the Gracie Barra Corpus Christi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy is perfect for those looking to learn a new skill, get competition-ready or anywhere in between. Programs include Adult Fundamentals, Adult Advance, Kids and Womens-Only. 6102 Ayers St #108, Corpus Christi, TX 78415
Second place: Premier Martial Arts-Corpus Christi
Third place: Life Martial Arts
Massage Therapist
Delilah Wallace Arbelo, Elegancia Salon
Certified in Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, pediatric, prenatal and postnatal, myofascial and trigger point massage, Delilah Wallace Arbelo brings 18 years of massage experience to Elegancia Salon. She is a firm believer that our muscles hold memories that can be released through massage and meditation, and aims to help her clients tend to their bodies in this way. 1607 Jenkins St, Rockport, TX 78382
Second place: Amanda Gomez- LMT
Third place: Cuba Hart – Oceana Luxe Medspa
Medical Spa
Corpus Christi Plastic Surgery and MedSpa – Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele
The Corpus Christi Plastic Surgery and MedSpa, expertly led by Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele, specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries, injectables and non-surgical methods. Dedicated to delivering excellent results with pioneering techniques, the med spa-specific services include CoolScultpting®, laser treatments, microneedling, HydraFacials, dermaplaning, PRP and more to help its clients look and feel their best in every stage of life. 5642 Esplanade Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78414
Second place: The G Spa
Third place: Halcyon Med Spa
Nail Artist
Samantha Ochoa, Savage Nailz
Owner of Savage Nailz, Samantha Ochoa’s nail artistry is top-notch. Forget Pinterest; just scroll through her Instagram filled with unique designs and the latest trends to find inspiration for your next set. Just make sure to book your appointment well in advance, as she stays booked and busy. 1245 Nile Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78412
Second place: Keyla Diaz – Elegancia Salon
Third place: Hoang Alex-Elite Nails
Nail Salon
Savage Nailz
When it comes time for your next manicure, be savage, not average. Now just 25, Samantha Ochoa decided to follow her dreams and open Savage Nailz a year and a half ago. Whether you’re looking to get a manicure inspired by the current nail trends, a relaxing pedicure or something in between, Savage Nails provides the freshest of sets. 1245 Nile Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78412
Second place: Kosmo Salon
Third place: Elegancia Salon
Optometrist
Drs. McIntyre, Garza, Avila and Jurica
Serving south Texas for over 30 years, the team of professionals at Drs. McIntyre, Garza, Avila and Jurica make every effort to ensure quality eye care services to the community. Inside its newly renovated office, patients can count on state-of-the-art technology in a comfortable environment. Plus, the office is open seven days a week to make scheduling appointments even easier for busy families. 5488 S Padre Island Dr Suite 2042, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Second place: Texas State Optical
Third place: Bay Area Vision
Orthodontist
Kennedy Dental Care
A fixture in the Corpus Christi community for over 50 years, families trust Kennedy Dental Care for pediatric and orthodontic dental care. Here patients can achieve the smile they deserve with the highest level of treatment for kids, teens and adults delivered with market-leading solutions, high-quality care and kindness. 3435 S Alameda St A, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Second place: Star Orthodontics
Third place: Jolleytime Orthodontics
Pediatrician (TIE)
Dr. Lu Medina, ABC Pediatrics
Working out of ABC Pediatrics’ Saratoga location, Dr. Lu Medina prioritizes quality of care. With more than 20 years of experience under her belt, Dr. Medina will treat your family as her own and provide exceptional services with attention and care to your child. 5945 Saratoga Blvd Suite C, Corpus Christi, TX 78414
Pediatrician (TIE)
Dr. Jessica Acevedo-Gracia, Sunnyside Pediatrics
With 23 years of experience, Sunnyside Pediatrics’ Dr. Jessica Acevedo-Gracia always leads with compassion and kindness. To offer care to children in all corners of the Coastal Bend, Sunnyside Pediatrics has a location in both Corpus Christi and Calallen, and a new location in Kingsville is on its way. Business Park, 5817 Patton St #101, Corpus Christi, TX 78414
Second place: Dr. Girish Patel
Third place: Dr. Emily Hartman
Permanent Makeup
Gold Dust Cosmetic Collective
From nanoblading to luxe lip blush, Gold Dust Cosmetic Collective practices the highest standards of eyebrow artistry, tailoring and cosmetic tattooing. Founded by Tina Lain, the premier aesthetic studio aims to provide its clients with a luxury experience tailored to their unique needs to enhance their natural beauty and move through the world with confidence. 1009 Airline Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78412
Second place: Inked by Elle
Third place: BROWS BY GABI
Personal Trainer
Treyner, Trey Lopez
A NASM Certified personal trainer, Trey Lopez’s love for helping others reach their health and fitness goals came from his appreciation after a friend helped Lopez on his own weight loss mission. Whether you’re looking to get into weight training and aren’t quite sure where to start or just need a little accountability, this Treyner will help you along your journey.
Second place: Heather Tunches-Quintana- Camp Gladiator
Third place: Eric Franco – Texas Arena Strength & Fitness
Physical Therapist
Humpal Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine
Since opening in 1989, Humpal Physical Therapy’s mission to provide progressive, high-quality care to its patients led the local business to open a total of six locations throughout the Coastal Bend. Its state-of-the-art therapy centers use the most up-to-date equipment and practices to provide patients with the best quality rehabilitation experience. 5026 Deepwood Cir, Corpus Christi, TX 78415
Second place: Traci McCloskey – New Stride Physical Therapy
Third place: South Texas Pelvic Health – Kathryn DeBerry
Pilates Class/Studio
Bayside Pilates
Bayside Pilates is home to a robust and inclusive community of clients and instructors who share the same enthusiasm for what Pilates has done for them. Owned by Tori Froemke and equipped with reformers, combo chairs, towers and more, the studio is committed to providing a phenomenal, full-body workout suitable for all. These high-intensity, low-impact classes will leave you craving that next session. 1324 Airline Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78412
Second place: HOTWORX CC
Third place: 361 Pilates – Rockport
Tanning Salon
Third Coast Spray Tans & More
When the beach is too far and your event is too soon, Third Coast Spray Tans & More has you covered. Here you’ll find UV tanning and therapy, along with no-orange guarantee spray tan services. The post-tan spray, created by Third Coast’s owner, smells delightful and helps to extend spray tans! This salon offers a variety of packages and VIP services, too. 6601 Everhart Rd Unit D3, Corpus Christi, TX 78413
Second place: The Beauty Bar- Rockport TX
Third place: Glow Spa
Therapist (Licensed Counselor/Psychologist)
Kate Rodriguez- Ph.D., LPC-S
Owner and clinical director of My Healing Center, Dr. Kate Rodriguez started her counseling practice in 2014 as the sole practitioner. With a decade of experience, she is passionate about helping both her clients and aspiring professionals in the field. 433 S Tancahua St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Second place: Jacklyn Rodriguez- LPC- PMH-C
Third place: Brittany Culp LPC Intern- MS – LPC-A
Yoga Studio
Water Dog Yoga, SUP & Barre
Nothing says Corpus Christi like taking yoga and barre classes to the water and the beach. Founded by Stacie and Josh Richline, Water Dog Yoga, SUP & Board’s SUP Yoga class takes participants through a basic flow to vinyasas and more challenging poses on a paddle board in the marina. Classes end with a soothing savasana to destress the body and mind. It also offers a variety of yoga classes on the deck of its one-of-a-kind houseboat studio for those looking to stay on land. 98 Coopers Alley L-Head Slip T-5 27.79, -97.39, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Second place: HOTWORX CC
Third place: SOMOS Yoga
