E.K. Atwood Park Is Cameron County's Quieter Beach Access #5

A little north of Andy Bowie, Edwin King Atwood Park is Cameron County's Beach Access #5 on South Padre Island. It is smaller and lower-key than the big island parks, which is part of the appeal.

You get ADA dune walkovers, signs, rinse stations, restrooms, picnic pavilions, vehicle beach access, and seasonal beach patrol. The drive-on access is the main draw for locals who would rather back the truck near the surf than haul gear over the dunes.

Beach driving depends on surf, tides, and safety, so access can open or close with conditions. Atwood has also had upgrades moving through, so amenities may change from one season to the next.