In case of an emergency, dial the park’s dispatch office at 361.949.8173, Extension 0 or contact a park ranger. If a dispatcher is not available, hang up and dial 911.

If you have a medical emergency during your visit, contact a park ranger immediately or go to the Malaquite Visitor Center.

The closest hospital is Bay Area-Corpus Christi Medical Center, located at the corner of South Padre Drive and Rodd Field Road in Corpus Christi (7101 S. Padre Island Dr./
Corpus Christi, TX 78412). This facility is located 24 miles from the visitor center.

Driving

Beaches are Texas public highways. 

If you are driving, be aware that pedestrians have the right-of-way at all times and do not always watch for approaching vehicles.  If you are a pedestrian on the beach, please watch for oncoming traffic and be aware of where your children are at all times.

Drive with caution and strictly observe posted speed limits.

Firearms

Loaded firearms are strictly prohibited. A concealed handgun license issued under the authority of the State of Texas, or another state, is not valid at the National Seashore.

Unloaded weapons may be possessed only when such weapons are rendered temporarily inoperable, or are packed, cased or stored in a manner that will prevent their ready use.

Boating

Jet skis, air boats and kite surfing are prohibited. 

For the safety of all visitors, boaters launching from Bird Island Basin must avoid the NO BOATS buoy line west of the boat ramp near the windsurfing area.

Alcoholic Beverages

Alcoholic beverages may be consumed at the park; however, open containers are not allowed in moving vehicles. Be safe. If you drink, don’t drive. Visitors found to be driving under the influence are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Swimming

Use caution when swimming and never swim alone.  Strong currents flowing parallel to the beach, tides flowing to and from the beach and sudden drop-offs in the surf can be dangerous for swimmers and waders alike.

If caught in a riptide, do not panic. Swim parallel to the beach until you are free from the flow, then swim to shore. Do not attempt to swim to shore against the flow. You will not make it.

Fireworks

Fireworks are prohibited.

Wildlife

Jellyfish: Jellyfish and jellyfish-like organisms are found on the beach throughout the year.  Some jellyfish can give a painful if contacted, and the sting is usually accompanied by redness and some swelling of the affected skin area. If stung, seek first aid at the Malaquite Visitor Center.

Rattlesnakes: Two species of rattlesnakes live in the dunes, grasslands and mudflats. Visitors should avoid walking in these areas.

Stingrays: Stingrays have a barb that they will use in their defense if they are stepped upon.  In order to avoid this, shuffle your feet while walking in the water.  Seek medical attention immediately if you are struck by a stingray barb.

Hazardous Materials

A variety of hazardous materials periodically wash ashore.  If you come upon hazardous materials, note the location and alert a park ranger.