Where is Padre Island National Seashore,Corpus Christi, Texas?

Written by | Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:28 PM ET

Padre Island National Seashore is located in Texas, USA. It lies between Corpus Christi and South Padre Island and is situated along the Gulf of Mexico coast. It is famous for its long sandy beaches, sea turtle nesting, and protected coastal wildlife.

Padre Island National Seashore Location Map,Corpus Christi, Texas

Top Attractions Inside Padre Island National Seashore

  • Malaquite Beach – Accessible beach with picnic areas, swimming, and sandy shores.
  • Birding & Wildlife Observation – Spot migratory birds, sea turtles, and coastal wildlife.
  • Laguna Madre – Shallow lagoon ideal for kayaking, fishing, and observing marine life.
  • North Padre Island Trails – Hiking and nature trails through dunes and coastal habitats.
  • Sea Turtle Nesting Sites – Protected areas showcasing endangered sea turtle conservation.
  • Camping Areas – Designated campgrounds and backcountry sites for overnight stays.
  • Visitor Center & Educational Exhibits – Learn about the seashore’s ecology, wildlife, and conservation efforts.

Padre Island National Seashore Facts

Official NamePadre Island National Seashore
LocationCorpus Christi, Nueces County / Kleberg County, Texas, USA — Gulf of Mexico coastline / Padre Island barrier island
Latitude & Longitude27.1600° N, 97.2500° W
Total AreaApproximately 130,434 acres (≈528 km²) — includes beaches, dunes, wetlands, and Laguna Madre
Established / OpenedSeptember 28, 1962
Managed ByUnited States National Park Service (NPS)
RegionGulf Coast / South Texas / Padre Island barrier island
AddressPadre Island National Seashore, 20301 Park Road 22, Corpus Christi, TX 78418, USA
Zip Code78418
Area Code361
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZoneCentral Time (CT) – UTC−6 Standard / UTC−5 Daylight Saving
Theme / ConceptCoastal conservation, barrier island ecosystem, sea turtle protection, bird migration, recreational beaches, camping, nature observation
Main Sections / AreasMalaquite Visitor Center, North Beach, South Beach, Laguna Madre, dunes and wetlands, turtle nesting zones, camping areas
Famous AttractionsSea turtle nesting and hatchling viewing, Malaquite Visitor Center, birdwatching, beachcombing, windsurfing, camping, kayaking, fishing
Annual VisitorsApprox. 500,000–600,000 visitors
Entry Fee TypePaid Admission – Vehicle Entrance Fee or Annual Pass
Ticket Price RangeVehicle daily pass: ~$10–$15; annual pass: ~$40; special tours extra
Ticket OptionsDay-use vehicle permits, guided wildlife tours, camping reservations, kayaking/fishing permits, educational programs
Best Time to VisitMarch–October for sea turtle viewing, beach recreation, and bird migration; winter for quiet visits and mild weather
Nearby AirportCorpus Christi International Airport (CRP) – ~30 miles (48 km)
TransportationCar access via Park Road 22, local shuttles and guided tours, walking and hiking trails, bicycle access, kayaking and boating
Official Websitehttps://www.nps.gov/pais/index.htm

Distances from Padre Island National Seashore to Nearby Landmarks

  • South Padre Island – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Port Isabel Lighthouse – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Sea Turtle, Inc. – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Isla Blanca Park – 8 km (5 mi)
  • Schlitterbahn Waterpark – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Texas State Aquarium – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Queen Isabella Causeway – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Bird Island Basin – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Laguna Madre Nature Trail – 8 km (5 mi)
  • Gulf of Mexico Beach Access – 0 km (0 mi)
  • South Padre Island Convention Center – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Padre Balli Park – 8 km (5 mi)
  • South Padre Island Marina – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • South Padre Island Golf Club – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Sandcastle Rentals – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • South Padre Island Beachfront Hotels – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • South Padre Island Ferry – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Laguna Madre Bay – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Gulf Waters – 0 km (0 mi)