Updates on the Island

In compliance with the Cameron County’s most recent order, we wanted to give you the most up to date information on rules and requirements on South Padre Island. We want to provide this in plain and easy to understand language for when you choose to visit the Island.

First, it’s important to note that City beaches remain OPEN. With more than 100 public and private access points, the beach is still readily accessible in the most popular beach areas. We’ve provided a map showing the four miles of beach that is available as well as noting parking areas and restrooms. Cameron County beaches outside the South Padre Island city limits, county beach access points, and county parks are CLOSED.

That said, it’s critical that everyone, visitors and residents alike, take sensible precautions. The only way we can continue to enjoy the wide-open spaces of the Island safely is to follow the policies set in place by the CDC including social distancing, mask requirements, and frequent hand washing. See a breakdown of those guidelines here. Keeping our community and visitors well is our highest priority.

Here are more details about the additional requirements now in place in the County overall:

• Masks are now required. As of July 3, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a statewide order that includes our county requiring masks in any public setting where social distancing is not possible – and establishing fines. You can learn more about his order here. We’ve got you covered; free masks are available at our Visitor Center.

• Restaurants on the Island remain open with limited dine-in service (50% indoor capacity and 100% of outdoor dining). Many are also offering take out and curbside; you can find a complete list here. Bars were closed statewide by the Governor last week, but check the list because some bar/restaurants remain open.

• Some hotels have closed their pools; please check with each property about current pool availability.

• Gatherings are restricted to no more than 10 people.

• No shade structures other than single-pole umbrellas are allowed on the beach. Umbrellas must be spaced a minimum of 15-feet apart. Only two chairs per single pole shade structure will be permitted. Other setups are prohibited within the 15 feet between the equipment. See city regulations here.

• Social distancing is required on the beach; masks are required on the beach if conditions are crowded and distancing is not possible.  This rule is in effect through September 16th.

• Littering is also prohibited and will be enforced. Please dispose of masks and other trash appropriately.

• There is now a curfew in the County. Everyone must be inside their residence or lodging by 11 pm; if you have children under 17, they must be inside by 10 pm.

Your safety is our biggest concern, and by following these requirements we can do our best to keep our family, friends, visitors, and community well. By following these precautions as laid out, everyone can help keep the Island open safely, keep many of our businesses running, and avoid another costly shutdown.