South Padre
Island's fine white sand and calm, clear waters make it a vacation hot spot.
Crystalline blue waters and white sand beaches a la the Caribbean is not the first image Texas brings to mind, but the Lone Star state is not just longhorns and tumbleweed. Texas has more than 300 miles of coastline, stretching the Gulf of Mexico from Louisiana to the Mexican border. Think rolling sand dunes, estuaries, historic lighthouses, sea turtle rehab and spring break insanity. Some of the state's best beaches are within miles of the international line.
South Padre Island
South Padre is the crown jewel of Texas beaches. Wide, white stretches of sand along the island's southern tip between the Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre are packed with places to stay and plenty to do. South Padre's full-service tourist offerings include horseback riding on the beach, para-sailing, water-skiing, kite-boarding, luxury spas and plenty of nightlife, while lodging ranges from beach-side camping to high-end high rises. Spring breakers overtake the island for the annual March festivities.
Padre Island National Seashore
Padre Island National Seashore is the world's largest stretch of undeveloped barrier island beach. Dune buggies and four-wheel ATVs are the only way to access most of the North Padre Island's 70 miles of beach and dunes. Primitive camping is free with park permits throughout the preserve. The Visitor Center and developed campgrounds at Malaquite Beach are the preserve headquarters. Stop by Malaquite for required park permits, park information and trail maps.
Malaquite Visitor Center
PO Box 181300
Corpus Christi, TX 78480-1300
(361) 949-8068
Andie Bowie County Park
Andie Bowie Park is the quieter part of South Padre Island, at the island's northern end, past town limits. Walk the Laguna Madre Trail, a favorite birdwatching spot. Rent space and facilities for private beach parties. Beach access road in the northern part of the park opens to 20 miles of "drive on the beach" waterfront.
Andie Bowie County Park
7300 Padre Blvd.
South Padre Island, TX 78597-7712
(956) 761-3704
Tags: Padre Island, South Padre, South Padre Island, Andie Bowie, Andie Bowie County
