Protecting sixty-six miles of wild coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, the narrow barrier island is home to one of the last intact coastal prairie habitats in the United States. Along the hypersaline Laguna Madre, unique tidal mud flats teem with life. Native Americans, Spanish explorers and cattle ranchers have walked along its shores. Padre Island National Seashore is waiting to be rediscovered.
Malaquite Beach
Yellow flowers bloom in the dunes along Malaquite Beach.
Shells on South Beach
Depending on the conditions, shells can be found along the gulf beaches.
Deer in the grasslands
Deer can often be seen foraging in the grasslands.
Kemps hatchlings
Attending a sea turtle hatchling release is a popular activity in the mid-summer.
Crested Caracara
The crested caracara, also known as the Mexican eagle, can be found year-round in the park.
Novillo Line Camp
The historic Novillo Line Camp provides a window into the island's past ranching history.
Brown Pelican
Brown pelicans can often be seen along the Gulf of Mexico.
