NPS photo
We hope the tips below will help you to better plan your trip and to know a little bit more about what you should expect when you arrive.
Regulations
The Superintendent's Compendium contains all of the regulations to the park, which are written for your safety and for the benefit of the natural and cultural resources that the National Park Service protects.
Below are some regulations and tips that address frequently asked questions:
Firearms
As of February 22, 2010, a new federal law allows people who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws, to legally possess firearms in this park. It is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable state, local, and federal firearms laws before entering this park.
Boating
Jet skis, air boats and kite surfing are prohibited.
For the safety of all visitors, boaters launching from Bird Island Basin must avoid the NO BOATS buoy line, which is located west of the boat ramp near the windsurfing area.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages may be consumed at the park; however, open containers are not allowed in moving vehicles. Be safe. If you drink, don’t drive. Visitors found to be driving under the influence are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Metal Detectors
Possession or use of metal detectors is prohibited in the park, in order to preserve cutural resources that are protected by the National Park Service. If you come upon a cultural artifact, please note the location of the object and notify a park ranger.
Pets
Pets must be on a leash and under physical restraint at all times. Pets are not permitted at the visitor center area, including the designated swim beach.
RV Wastes
Gray and black water must be disposed of only at the dump station at the Malaquite Beach campground. This facility is open to any visitor to the park.
Nudity
Nudity is not permitted anywhere in the park.
Fireworks
Fireworks are prohibited.
Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials periodically wash ashore, ranging from large barrels containing unknown substances to medical waste products. If you come upon hazardous materials, please note the location of the object and alert a park ranger.
Driving
Beaches are Texas public highways. Only street legal and licensed vehicles may be driven in the park. All Terrain Vehicles (ATV’s), UTV's, Go Carts, Golf Carts, and Dune Buggys are prohibited.
Pedestrians have the right-of-way at all times and do not always watch for approaching vehicles. For more tips on driving down island, click on the link to the right.
Driving in dunes, grasslands or mudflats is prohibited. Drive with caution and strictly observe posted speed limits.
This You Tube video provides great information on beach driving as well as great information on surf fishing and general park information.
You cannot drive to South Padre Island or the Rio Grande Valley along the beach. The only way to reach these destinations is to return to Corpus Christi and follow state Highway 358 (South Padre Drive) to state Highway 44. Take Highway 44 to Robstown. Then take U.S. Highway 77 south to the Rio Grande Valley.
