Padre Island National Seashore, encompassing 130,454 acres, is the longest remaining undeveloped stretch of barrier island in the world, and offers a wide variety of flora and fauna as well as recreation.

Call our Hatchling Hotline at (361) 949-7163 for information on attending releases of baby sea turtles.

For questions on Resource Management issues, such as oil and gas production or facilities within the park, plans to modify Bird Island Basin, or scientific studies conducted within the park, please contact our Resource Management Division at (361) 949-8173 extension 223.

Pets are permitted throughout the park, except on the visitor center deck. All pets must be on a leash.

All camping is first-come, first-served. No reservations are accepted. There are no hook-ups; the National Seashore has only dry camping. Space for primitive camping on the Gulf beach is always available. Camping space is usually available at Bird Island Basin, but may be very limited during the height of the windsurfing season. Except for major holiday weekends, camping space is normally available at Malaquite Campround.

Fireworks are not permitted in the National Seashore.

Only all-terrain vehicles owned and operated by the federal government may be used within the National Seashore. Privately-owned ATVs may not be used within the National Seashore.

Please note: our park is on North Padre Island. For information on South Padre Island call 1-800-343-2368 or visit their website at www.sopadre.com.

 Directions 

Plane - The nearest major airport is Corpus Christi International Airport. It is approximately 43 miles away.

Car - The seashore is located southeast of the city of Corpus Christi, Texas. Visitors to Corpus Christi should head East through the city on South Padre Island Drive (Highway 358). After crossing the JFK Causeway and the bridge onto Padre Island, continue about 10 miles south on Park Road 22. The physical address for the Malaquite Visitor Center is 20402 Park Road 22, Corpus Christi, TX 78418.

Please take note: our park is on North Padre Island. South Padre Island is approximately another three hours south via highway 77. For information on South Padre Island call 1-800-343-2368 or visit their website at www.sopadre.com.

Bus - There are no bus routes to the park.

Public Transportation - There is no regularly scheduled public or commercial transportation to the park.