Padre Island National Seashore Paddling Articles

Padre Island National Seashore Guide: Paddling

Padre Island National Seashore, just 25 miles south of Corpus Christi, is the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world. The east side, on the Gulf of Mexico, stretches 66.5 miles and is ideal for sea kayaking the big surf. Much of the island is accessible only by four-wheel drive or by boat.
Launch at Bird Island Basin, on the north side of Padre Island, and paddle to the Green Hill sand dunes six miles away. Green Hill is an isolated beach with beautiful dunes and beach protected by shallow water. Be aware of rattlesnakes in the beach grass. The 12-mile paddle may have you camping overnight in the primitive campsites.
The bay front, or Laguna Madre, side of Padre Island is also about 66.5 miles. To kayak Laguna Madre, launch from the Padre Island side of the bridge. The sand is firm and the water clear—you can paddle around shrimp boats, bird nesting areas, and a small marina. Paddle south to explore the King Ranch on the Intra-coastal Waterway, where the calm shallow water is protected from the coastal winds.
For excellent kayak fishing, head over to Yarborough Pass, 18 miles south of the entrance to Padre Island. Accessible only by four-wheel drive, this part of the beach is secluded and offers excellent opportunities to primitive camp without needing a reservation. It’s situated on the central flyway for migrating birds, so lookout for unusual waterfowl and migratory birds.

By Travel Expert: Laurie Roddy