Welcome to Padre Island National Seashore, the longest remaining undeveloped stretch of barrier island in the world. Our mission is to save and preserve this great park for purposes of public recreation, benefit, and inspiration. The Padre Island National Seashore team pledges to give a 100% effort in carrying out this mission and we hope that you have an outstanding experience as you explore and enjoy this national treasure.

While you are here, take some time to observe the surrounding areas. Whether you are enjoying the beach, launching your boat or windsurfing at Bird Island Basin, walking or bird watching, there is always something to see. Simply driving along Park Road 22 brings many rewards. Fall brings sandhill cranes, which can usually be seen slowly walking through the grasslands. During winter, hawks may be seen perched on telephone poles, fence posts, or in treetops watching for prey. White-tailed hawk is one of the most commonly spotted as is the peregrine falcon, northern harrier, caracara and osprey.    

This is a new and exciting time for the seashore. First, we have once again achieved a record year for endangered Kemp’s ridley turtle nests found in the park. Secondly, a proposal to help restore the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle at Padre Island National Seashore was one of the nearly $370 million of proposals certified as eligible by the National Park Service for centennial challenge matching funds. This program, if approved by congress and signed into law by the president, will combine appropriated funds with matching donations from our generous partners.  Additionally, The Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network (WHSRN) Hemispheric Council designated the National Seashore as a member of the existing bi-national Laguna Madre Site of International Importance to shorebirds. The National Seashore is the first National Park Service unit to join WHSRN. The decision was based on the tremendous number of shorebirds using the site and its ecological significance for the integrity of the Laguna Madre system. Lastly, we have recently welcomed a new Facility Manager and Chief Ranger to our National Park Service family. 

Please remember, the National Park Service, visitors and neighbors are all stewards of this special place and we ask that you help protect and care for Padre Island National Seashore so that it may be enjoyed for generations to come. Whether you are touring the country or are from the local community, we hope that you enjoy your visit and plan to return. Be safe and we look forward to seeing you again.