Mustang Island Paddling Trail
Miles of pristine Texas coastline offering drive-on beach access, camping, birding, and paddling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Mustang Island Paddling Trail
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Miles of pristine Texas coastline offering drive-on beach access, camping, birding, and paddling.
"A beautiful and peaceful beach that's clean and soft sand as far as the eye can see."
🚗 Drive-On Beach Access
Vehicles can access many beach areas, making it easy to unload gear. Check mile markers for park boundaries.
🦀 Crab Hunting Fun
Kids and adults alike love searching for hermit and beach crabs along the shore.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Miles of Open Beach
State Park Beaches
Enjoy vast, soft sand and gentle waves perfect for relaxing, swimming, and beachcombing.
Wildlife Spotting
Shoreline and Dunes
Look for hermit crabs, pelicans, and various shorebirds. Keep an eye out for sea turtles and stingrays!
Paddling Trail
Lagoon Side
Explore the calm waters of the Mustang Island Paddling Trail, a haven for birdwatching.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beach Access & Driving
Camping & Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive-On Beach Access
Vehicles can access many beach areas, making it easy to unload gear. Check mile markers for park boundaries.
🦀 Crab Hunting Fun
Kids and adults alike love searching for hermit and beach crabs along the shore. +1
🌊 Watch for Jellyfish
Pretty blue jellyfish can wash ashore; admire them from a distance and avoid touching.
🐚 Shell Seeking
Post-storm conditions often bring a bounty of unique shells to the shoreline.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive-On Beach Access
Vehicles can access many beach areas, making it easy to unload gear. Check mile markers for park boundaries.
🦀 Crab Hunting Fun
Kids and adults alike love searching for hermit and beach crabs along the shore. +1
🌊 Watch for Jellyfish
Pretty blue jellyfish can wash ashore; admire them from a distance and avoid touching.
🐚 Shell Seeking
Post-storm conditions often bring a bounty of unique shells to the shoreline.
🌬️ Brace for Wind
Expect strong coastal breezes, especially if camping. Secure your belongings.
🐦 Birding Paradise
The paddling trail and surrounding areas are excellent for spotting diverse bird species.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Mustang Island State Park for its beautiful, clean, and uncrowded beaches, with many appreciating the convenience of driving directly onto the sand. The peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for wildlife spotting are frequently highlighted. However, some campers find the intense humidity and strong winds challenging, particularly for tent camping.
"This is a great place to sit on the beach and enjoy the waves! You can drive your vehicle on the beach, so no having to carry all your beach gear a long ways. We have been here multiple times & we always love it. Don’t touch the pretty blue jellyfish that have washed up on shore!There are portable potty restrooms nearby (at the parking area for those who don't want to drive on the beach). There are also nice regular restrooms and outdoor showers to rinse off sand near the camping area, and restrooms at the park store."
Karen Landis
"We probably would not stay at this campground again because it was so humid. You could not see the beach from the campground, but you could walk around the dune about a quarter mile to actually get to the beach. The bathroom facilities were very nice with many shower stalls too. We had 50 amp service with good water pressure and there was a dump site near the exit to the RV campground. There were lots of tents around the RVs, which made it not as nice and there were zero trees. The wind was very strong 100% of the time I was afraid I would have to stake down my truck (just kidding). I can’t believe anyone would camp in a tent here because it’s so hot and so humid you couldn’t possibly have a good night sleep. If you were looking for a place to relax this probably isn’t it. It is very windy and very hot and humid. The people in tents must’ve been miserable. Had we known we didn’t have to buy a $12 annual pass to park on the beach at Aranza’s beaches, not at the state park. You could go on any beach with this annual pass, some people had their RVs on those beaches."
Steve Thomson
"This was an awesome place to spend the night at the beach without crowds. It was very serene and peaceful. The ocean water was warm and calm. The sand was pleasant to walk on the shore and inside the water. This beach is very clean and well taken care of it the park personnel."
Jesús Restrepo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mustang Island State Park is located south of Port Aransas, Texas. You can drive directly onto the beach in many areas, making it convenient to access. The park is accessible via State Highway 361. +1
Yes, there is parking available at the park's main entrance and near the camping areas. For those who prefer not to drive on the beach, portable restrooms are available near the parking areas.
Absolutely! You can drive your vehicle on most of the beach at Mustang Island State Park, which is a huge plus for carrying beach gear.
Mile markers start at 1 in Port Aransas and increase. Mustang Island State Park is generally encompassed by mile markers 102 to 189.
Mustang Island State Park is just a few miles south of Port Aransas and a short drive from Corpus Christi, Texas, making it an accessible coastal destination. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an entrance fee or an annual Texas State Parks pass is required to enter Mustang Island State Park. Some local beaches may have different parking pass requirements.
The park is generally open year-round, but it's always a good idea to check the official Texas Parks and Wildlife website for the most current hours and any potential closures.
Entrance fees vary, but typically an adult day pass is required. An annual Texas State Parks pass can be a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple parks.
Yes, campsites are available for reservation, especially for RVs. Tent camping sites are also available, though be prepared for the coastal weather conditions.
Metal detecting is not allowed within Mustang Island State Park or Padre Island National Seashore. It is permitted on city beaches in the area.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, birdwatching, kayaking on the paddling trail, and camping. It's a great spot for a peaceful beach day. +2
Yes, it's a fantastic family destination! Kids love searching for shells and crabs, and the shallow, calm waters are great for swimming and body surfing. +1
Expect to see various shorebirds, pelicans, hermit crabs, beach crabs, and potentially sea turtles and flying fish.
Yes, there are regular restrooms and outdoor showers for rinsing off sand, particularly near the camping area and park store. Portable restrooms are also available.
Mustang Island State Park is often less crowded than other popular beaches, offering a more serene and peaceful experience, especially on weekdays or during the off-season.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a full-service restaurant within the park, there is a park store. You'll find more dining options in nearby Port Aransas and Corpus Christi.
Yes, there are covered picnic tables available on a first-come basis, and a larger covered area that can be reserved for gatherings.
It's recommended to bring your own food, snacks, and plenty of water, especially if you plan to spend the entire day or camp.
📸 📸 Photography
The expansive beaches, sunrises and sunsets over the Gulf, and the diverse wildlife offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Drone footage can capture the park's beauty. +2
Absolutely! The wide-open coastline provides stunning backdrops for sunset photography. +1
Drone usage is generally permitted, but always check current park regulations and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are restrooms and outdoor showers available for rinsing off sandy feet. While camping is an option, be mindful of the strong winds and humidity. Consider a day trip to enjoy the beach activities without the overnight weather challenges.
🎣 Anglers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Remember to check local fishing regulations and consider bringing appropriate gear for both paddling and fishing. The diverse ecosystem provides a rich environment for spotting various marine life and bird species.
📸 Photographers
Capture the vibrant colors of the Gulf, the textures of the sand, and the dynamic movements of the seabirds. The park's natural beauty is a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Mustang Island Paddling Trail
Navigating the trail is relatively straightforward, but it's always wise to check tide charts and weather conditions before setting out. The trail is designed for both beginners and experienced paddlers, offering a peaceful escape and a chance to observe the delicate balance of the coastal environment. Many visitors report seeing a variety of marine creatures and a rich array of birdlife, making it a highlight for nature enthusiasts.
Remember to bring essentials like water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. The paddling trail is a fantastic opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Texas coast, offering a different perspective than the traditional beach experience.
Camping at Mustang Island State Park
While the campsites are close to the beach, direct beach access from the campground might require a short walk over dunes. Some reviewers noted that tent camping can be particularly challenging due to the heat and humidity, making comfortable sleep difficult. The landscape is largely open with few trees, meaning shade is limited.
Despite the weather challenges, camping here offers the unique advantage of being right on the coast, allowing for early morning beach strolls and late-night stargazing. The park personnel are noted for keeping the facilities clean and well-maintained, including the restrooms and shower stalls.
Beach Driving and Access
It's important to be aware of the mile markers that delineate different sections of the beach and the park boundaries. While driving on the beach is a major perk, it's crucial to drive responsibly and be mindful of other beachgoers and wildlife. Some areas might be better suited for those who prefer not to drive on the sand, with nearby parking and portable restrooms available.
For those who prefer not to drive on the beach, there are designated parking areas. The park also offers amenities like restrooms and outdoor showers, making it easy to rinse off sand after a day of fun.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit