After you pass Malaquite Beach, there are no roads or anything else resembling civilization for over 50 miles of continuous, unbroken barrier island. The light grey to white sand beaches are backed by substantial sand dunes. Because the prevailing longshore currents converge at Padre Island, the beach is often strewn with seashells and flotsam, making it a great place for beachcombing. The only problem is that the prevailing currents and wind make Padre a collection area for all sorts of debris that is thrown into the Gulf of Mexico. Off-road vehicles provide a reasonable means to explore the seemingly endless beach, but the purest at heart take issue with their presence on the otherwise wilderness landscape.
Padre Island is the Best Wilderness Beach in the Gulf accessible to the public.
Near the Mexican border and the mouth of the Rio Grande Valley is South Padre Island, which has sprouted many high rise condominiums in the last few decades. This is a favorite area for the snowbirds in the winter and college students during spring break. Here you will find the clearest, bluish water on the Texas coast. All rights reserved.