Last updated: May 22, 2024
Article
Top Ten Tips for Visiting Padre Island National Seashore
Plan Like a Park Ranger!
Coming out to the park? Here are some tips to make your trip to the wild, western coastline of the Gulf of Mexico an unforgettable experience!
1. Have a plan…. And a backup plan
Because backups get you back out! Beach conditions are constantly changing here at the national seashore. Before you head this way, check the weather and tides. If driving on the beach, plan on bringing everything you need to be self-sufficient like food, water, and self-rescue gear. By following some simple safety guidelines, you can have a fun visit without having to resort to plan b!
2. Ask a Ranger
Have a question? Need a map? Just ask a ranger! Helpful rangers are on-site at Malaquite Visitor Center to inform you about beach conditions, identify that bird you saw, share a park story, and more. The Visitor Center is open from 9 am to 5 pm every day. Have a question after hours? See #3!
3. There’s an app for that!
Bad internet reception? Want information about the park but don’t actually want to talk to a person? Use the NPS App! With the app you can download content, maps, and get information in areas of the park with poor cell service… which, let’s be real, is basically most of the park. Download the app before coming to the park or use the free WiFi at the Malaquite Visitor Center and never be without the information you need!
4. Leave only footprints
Because of the way ocean currents flow in the Gulf of Mexico, the national seashore gets a lot of marine debris washing in. Please don’t add to the litter by being a messy beachgoer! Follow the Leave No Trace principles to respect the environment and other park visitors. Want to do something about all the trash? Free trash bags are available at Malaquite Visitor Center and entrances to North and South Beaches.
5. Hydrate!
It gets hot here! Staying hydrated is extremely important when being active outside in the summer. Something as simple as not drinking enough water can put the brakes on a fun day at the beach. We have several water filling stations at the Malaquite Visitor Center so bring a reusable bottle and fill up! We promise there will still be enough water for the fish!
6. This one’s for the dogs
We love pets and want them to share your adventures in the park. You can keep your pet safe by observing a few simple rules. Following our pet regulations will ensure all two-legged and four-legged park visitors have a grrrr-eat time while here.
7. In it for the long haul… tips for traveling down island
Traveling down island to experience the southern end of the park might be on your bucket list. If so, make sure you’re prepared for the trip! Check the tides, weather, and rules and recommendations for down island travel so your trip of a lifetime won’t become your biggest regret.
8. Got snacks? We do!
There isn’t a restaurant or sandwich shop in the park so be prepared! The park store sells small snacks, water, ice, and other sundry items. If you need anything more than that, you’ll need to bring it with you or go back into town. Also, the park is a perfect place to picnic but keep wildlife wild and don’t feed the animals!
9. Explore the park, after dark!
Have a fun day at the beach and stay for the evening encore. After the sun goes down, you can enjoy stargazing or a night hike on the beach. Learn more about how to keep yourself safe on a nocturnal excursion through the park.
10. Location, location, location
When traveling here, you may encounter some directional issues. Often, we get visitors asking if they can drive through the park to South Padre Island. As the pelican flies, South Padre looks close on the map but in reality, it is almost 4 hours away. Additionally, GPS systems and digital map services don’t always guide you all the way into the park. Check out a map and get directions (including GPS information!) to make sure you arrive at your intended destination!