About

You've probably heard the expression, "with a heart the size of Texas." This attribute sums up Texas-based entrepreneur Edwin King Atwood to a tee. An avid beachgoer, Edwin gifted a substantial portion of his wealth to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

His generous contributions, remarkable vision, and lifelong passion for coastline conservation are all part of the legacy that is Edwin King Atwood Park.

Established in the 1970s and located at the northern end of South Padre Island, the park spans 1500 acres with 3.5 miles of unspoiled beachfront.

Edwin King Atwood Park is a brilliant example of successful dune restoration efforts, aiming to protect and preserve the delicate coastal ecosystem.

The park is generously speckled with dunes and sea oats, offering a unique blend of history and captivating natural beauty. Visitors can escape the bustling city life and glimpse the untouched beauty of the Texas coastline.

With its endless sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and unobstructed view of the Gulf of Mexico, it is easy to understand why Edwin King Atwood Park is considered a must-visit destination on South Padre Island.

When you visit, your admission price supports ongoing conservation efforts to preserve this fantastic natural setting for future generations.

Edwin King Atwood Park allures nature lovers, history buffs, and those needing a relaxing getaway. It's the perfect destination for your South Padre Island vacation!

Edwin King Atwood Park: Fun Facts & Cool Features

Edwin King Atwood Park is known for its serene beaches and wildlife.

One standout feature of this park is the E.K. Atwood Pavilion, an elevated structure offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. It's the perfect spot to watch the sun rise or set, painting the sky with pastel colors.

Another unique aspect is the diverse bird population. The park is a hotspot for birdwatchers since it attracts over 300 different species of birds throughout the year. During migration season, visitors can spot rare birds resting at the park as they journey globally.

Edwin King Atwood Park also contrasts the Gulf's beaches and the Laguna Madre's bay setting. While the Gulf side is excellent for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing, the bay side is perfect for windsurfing and flats fishing.

Getting There

Continue straight onto Queen Isabella Causeway.
Continue onto Padre Blvd.
Turn left toward Beach Access 5.
Continue onto Beach Access 5.
Edwin King Atwood Park will be on your right.

Local Tips

The park is most crowded on weekends, so plan your visit on a weekday for a quieter experience.
Don't forget your sunscreen and bug spray - the park is in an open area with limited shade.
A local eatery nearby offers some of the best seafood in town.
The park is a popular bird-watching spot, so bring your binoculars if you're interested.
Keep an eye out for ranger-led programs. They're informative and often free to join.

Staging environment