Boating, Paddling, and Windsurfing

An advanced windsurfer on the Laguna Madre.

NPS Photo. Audrey Hill

Boating

Boating in the park is a popular activity, especially among anglers. Most boaters utilize the Bird Island Basin Boat Ramp to launch their boat into the Laguna Madre for a day on the water. The Laguna Madre is a very shallow body of water, averaging around 4.5 feet (1.4 m) deep, and special consideration needs to be taken for navigation. The maintained shipping channel of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway has an average depth of 12 feet (3.7 m) and acts as the western boundary of the national seashore. Large boat and barge traffic is common in maintained shipping channel.

Boaters in approved small, soft hulled vessels occasionally launch into the Gulf of Mexico directly from South Beach south of the 5-mile marker. Special care must be used when launching approved vessels into the gulf due to the ocean waves.
 

Paddling

Kayaking and canoeing offer unique opportunities to explore the park in the salt water of the Laguna Madre and the Gulf of Mexico. The Laguna Madre boasts shallow waters and protected areas that are perfect for both the beginner paddler and the seasoned explorers. The easiest launch site for paddlers wishing to explore the Laguna Madre is the Bird Island Basin Day-use Area. At Bird Island Basin, Worldwinds Windsurfing also offers kayak and standup paddle board rentals.

Sea kayaking in the Gulf of Mexico is also permitted but is not recommended for beginners. Strong currents, wind, and large waves can increase the risks for inexperienced paddlers. Launching from the beach into the Gulf of Mexico can be done anywhere except the stretch of beach directly in front of the Malaquite Visitor Center.
 

Windsurfing

Windsurfing is a popular activity in the park. The steady wind, warm water, and shallow depths make the Bird Island Basin Day-use Area a premier windsurfing destination in the United States. The location is also a great place for beginners to learn the sport. The park hosts Worldwinds Windsurfing, an authorized concessionaire who provides gear rentals and lessons at Bird Island Basin.

In accordance with the Superintendents Compendium Section 1.5, kite surfing/boarding is prohibited.

Details

Activity

Paddling

Pets Allowed

Yes

Pets must be on a leash at all times.

Activity Fee

Yes

Parking at the Bird Island Basin Boat Ramp requires an additional fee.

Location

Bird Island Basin

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility Information

Accessible parking spaces and restrooms are available at Bird Island Basin Day-use Area and Boat Ramp.