Many people come to the National Seashore to escape the pressures of urban life and to experience the beauty of nature in isolation. The only way to do this is to travel down-island into the park's most remote areas, which are usually only accessible with a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Before you explore the island in search of its wonderful mysteries and the awesome solitude it provides, please read the helpful tips that are written below.

Malaquite Beach is the stretch of the National Seashore that is closed to driving. If you continue to the end of the paved road (Park Road 22), you will be driving on the beach in no time!

Remember that Texas beaches are public highways and all traffic laws apply, including seat belt regulations. All vehicles traveling on Padre Island National Seashore must be street legal and licensed. Please note that, with rare exception, Texas will not license all-terrain-vehicles (ATVs) for use on highways (The National Seashore has one of the few exceptions, because it uses ATVs to patrol for nesting sea turtles.).

The driving conditions at the beach are constantly changing due to the currents, winds, and tides.  Please call the Malaquite Visitor Center at 361.949.8068 or 361.949.8175 to listen to the current driving and weather conditions.

Changing conditions and marine debris washed ashore by the currents can sometimes make for hazardous driving. Click on the following link to learn some simple driving tips and regulations in order to best prepare for your trip down island.