Padre Island Natl Seashore/Malaquite

Jeffery Smith

Nice But!…. Instead of driving to the end of the National Sea Shore, just go to Padre and drive to the North end. It takes you to the dunes and gives you the same thing without the fee. Padre as a whole is a good destination for families. Unfortunately for me, it was a repeat of the Atlantic City type of vibe. Very commercialized and Not high on my list. Did it, box checked, won’t do it again.

Cathy Ode

We loved our two weeks at Malaquite Beach Campground. Peaceful and quiet apart from crashing waves during the winter storm we experienced (and others’ generators at times). First come, first served; plenty of space in January. Be forewarned: only cold water in the showers, but flush toilets and warm water in the sinks of the clean bathrooms. Dump station was temporarily closed for repairs when we were there but should re-open soon; water is available now and there’s a dump station down the road. Very limited phone signal. Great bird-watching and seashell-collecting. Helpful and friendly campground host. Wish we could’ve stayed forever, will definitely be back.

Elaina Davis

This is one of my favorite places on Earth. Cell service is extremely limited, so unplug and enjoy the wild. The beach is beautiful and clean. Bags are provided to pick up any trash that might wash up if you arrive early. You can sit for hours just watching the waves. If you have a 4x4 you can drive down past the rest of the beach goers and find bigger shells and have more privacy. I have never seen this beach get overly crowded. Everyone typically gives each other plenty of space because it's a huge beach with room for everyone. It's dog friendly and has some walking trails. The one at the front is paved and easy. Tons of birds to be seen throughout the park. Bird island is obviously a great spot to view seabirds. It makes a great bike ride as well.

Ali Alibhai

Beautiful NPS site. Had fun driving on the sand leading up to the national seashore itself. Great visitor center complete nice clean bathrooms and bathhouses. Very cool upper viewing platform at the top of the visitor that affords great views. The sand was super soft and easy to walk on, very little sea debris, lots of wildlife viewing. It was a fun day!

G K (He Who Drives)

Beautiful but windy. So windy I can’t as getting sand out of my suv for the next 6 months! But quite otherwise..less and less people the further you go.