Padre Island National Seashore offers 66 miles of wild Gulf Coast beach

The seashore covers three ecosystems: the Gulf beach, coastal grasslands, and the Laguna Madre — a highly salty lagoon on the back side of the island. Visitors can swim, fish, camp, bird-watch, and explore by 4-wheel-drive vehicle on the more remote stretches of beach.

The park is open year-round. The Malaquite Visitor Center serves as the main entry point. The park also runs a sea turtle hatchling program where visitors can observe turtle releases. Check the NPS website for current entrance fees and driving rules before you go.