Is Padre Island National Seashore safe?
There is no lifeguard at Padre Island National Seashore- swimming is at your own risk! Use caution when swimming and never swim alone. Strong currents flowing parallel to the beach, tides flowing to and from the beach and sudden drop-offs in the surf can be dangerous for swimmers and waders alike.
How big is Padre Island National Seashore?
130,434 acres
Padre Island National Seashore, encompassing 130,434 acres, is the longest remaining undeveloped stretch of barrier island in the world, and offers a wide variety of flora, fauna, and recreation.

What region is Padre Island National Seashore located in?
Padre Island National Seashore (PINS) is a national seashore located on Padre Island off the coast of South Texas….
Padre Island National Seashore | |
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Coordinates | 26°59′04″N 97°22′50″WCoordinates: 26°59′04″N 97°22′50″W |
Area | 130,434 acres (527.85 km2) |
Established | September 28, 1962 |
Visitors | 650,000 (in 2015) |
How far can you drive down Padre Island National Seashore?
Depending on current beach conditions, two-wheel drive vehicles may safely drive down on the first five miles of South Beach. After that, four-wheel drive is necessary as there are frequent pockets of soft sand. Even with a four-wheel drive vehicle, you cannot reach South Padre Island from here.
What is Padre Island known for?
With 34 miles of beautiful white sand and clear emerald water, South Padre Island is one of the world’s most exquisite barrier islands – and the only tropical Island in Texas. Calm weather and water and more than 300 days of sunshine make South Padre Island a great place to live and visit all year.

Why is the Padre Island National Seashore popular?
It is a safe nesting ground for the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle and a haven for over 380 bird species. It also has a rich history, including the Spanish shipwrecks of 1554.
Are there sharks at South Padre Island?
“We are thankful that the injuries are not worse,” South Padre Island fire chief Jim Pigg said. “Shark bites are rare on South Padre Island.” There have been 44 confirmed unprovoked shark attacks in Texas since 1911, according to the International Shark Attack File.
Does South Padre Island have clear water?