Padre Island

Known for its miles of unspoiled beach and a favorite with serious birders, surfers, and campers, this 110-mile-long barrier island protects much of the Texas coast from hurricanes and tropical storms. Generally, the northern stretch of island paralleling the area from Corpus Christi to Port Mansfield is called Padre Island; from that point to the tip of Texas, the land mass is named South Padre Island. Visitors find several parks here from which to choose, each with its own special charm.

One of the most popular beaches is the Padre Balli Park, is named for the priest who managed a ranch on the island in the early 19th century. It offers a 1,200-foot fishing pier.

Return to Corpus Christi Index