SpaceX

Make a quick visit to SpaceX and have a BLAST!

SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk, has made a significant impact on South Padre Island and Cameron County, Texas, through its Boca Chica launch facility. The site has become a hub for cutting-edge rocket development and testing, attracting attention from around the world. This influx of visitors and enthusiasts has boosted local tourism, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and businesses. Additionally, SpaceX’s operations have spurred job creation and economic growth in the region, positioning South Padre Island as a key player in the emerging space industry. The synergy between space exploration and tourism has transformed the area into a vibrant destination for both thrill-seekers and space aficionados.

VisitSPI.com has listed the best places to watch the Starship rocket launches in and around South Padre Island. Our comprehensive list of includes detailed information, photos, and videos to give you up-to-date information to help you decide where to go when you get here! Have questions? Text 956-772-4206.

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VisitSPI.com is committed to providing our visitors with useful information that is complimented with our photos and videos, while giving thanks to our wonderful supporters.

“A rising tide lifts all boats” Jack Kemp

SpaceX / Starbase Photo Gallery

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Where Are The Best Places to Watch Starship Rocket Launches?

Isla Blanca Park Is One Of The Best Place To Watch Starship Launches From South Padre Island

Isla Blanca Park – 4.93 Miles / 7.88 Km Away

Watching the Starship rocket launches from the Isla Blanca Park jetties on South Padre Island is an awe-inspiring and high-energy experience! Positioned just across the the ship channel from Boca Chica Beach, this county park offers unparalleled views of the rocket soaring into the sky. With a small entry fee of $12.00 cash per vehicle, visitors gain access to park amenities like restrooms, picnic areas, and pavilions, making it a comfortable spot to enjoy the event. The proximity to the launch site ensures a front-row seat to the action, while the beach setting provides a scenic backdrop for this unforgettable spectacle.

Key Information:

  • $12.00 cash entry fee per family vehicle
  • Lines start to form around 8-9 P.M. on the night prior to launch
  • Some choose to park outside the park and walk in at no charge
  • Bring chairs, food, and drinks
  • Most people who walk into the park arrive 2-4 hours prior to set up chairs
  • Ear protection is highly recommended!

VisitSPI.com Comment:

This is by far the most popular spot to watch the rocket launches for locals and tourists alike.  Anticipate large crowds with plenty of vehicular traffic.  Make sure you arrive early!!!!  People start forming lines by 9-10 P.M. the night before for early morning launches, in hopes of getting the best parking spots along the jetties.  Traffic on the causeway getting to South Padre Island also backs up to Port Isabel. Do anticipate bumper to bumper traffic when leaving Isla Blanca Park after the launch. Many just wait 1-2 hours before getting into the line to leave the park.

Getting There:

Isla Blanca is located on the southern-most part of South Padre Island. Simply take the first right on Padre Blvd., as soon as you get off the causeway, and drive all the way straight until you see the gates. You will see the Sea Ranch Restaurant and Marina to you right and the Beach Water Park to your left.

Gates generally open at 1-2 A.M. on launch dates.  You will have an excellent view of the north (left) side of the rocket launch pad from here.  Expect heavy crowds and amazing energy all around you.  Plan on getting there before the gates open for best chances at finding parking.  This will generally require some dedication if you are serious about scouting the best location for taking amazing photos!

What To Bring:

Bring your chairs, umbrellas, and refreshments.  You will meet plenty of rocket enthusiasts here and have a great time while you wait for the launch.  Restrooms, water fountains, showers, and various other amenities are available here.  There is a public boat ramp, but that may be closed on launch dates.  Those that are staying off SPI need to get on the causeway early to avoid bumper-to-bumper traffic on the bridge during the early morning of the scheduled launch date.

Optimal Conditions:

Light N winds, with cool, dry air, and partly cloudy skies to soften the light.  The day or two after a cold front hits the region is usually very nice and clear.  Clouds can soften the harsh direct sunlight and adds texture to your images around the rocket. A marine layer may be present causing hazy conditions and less visibility of the rocket from Isla Blanca.

Challenges:

It can be difficult to find a good spot with so many people around you.  There is always the risk of someone walking right in front of you during the actual launch. Taking a step ladder and tall tripod helps be above peoples’ heads!  The region is also prone to windy and/or hazy days; sometimes fog and/or a marine layer.  Heat distortion coming from the rising heat off the ground is seen during the hot, summer months, causes distortion and ground levels that is really seen when using a zoom lens.  Shooting from an elevated location can help reduce the heat distortion through your viewfinder.  The rocket will be to the south of you, so you may be shooting straight into the sun’s rays as you look due south to south east.

The View From & Photo Gallery of Isla Blanca Park:

A short video on the IFT-5 Starship Rocket Launch as seen from the jetties at Isla Blanca Park on South Padre Island, Texas

Long Island Village – Port Isabel

Long Island Village – 5.29 Miles / 8.51Km Away

Experience the Thrill of Starship Rocket Launches from Long Island Village

Long Island Village offers one of the best vantage points to witness the awe-inspiring Starship rocket launches near South Padre Island. Located just across the Intracoastal Waterway from Port Isabel, this scenic waterfront community is connected by a swing bridge and provides unobstructed views of SpaceX’s cutting-edge Starship rocket launches. Visitors can marvel at the spectacle of human innovation as the rockets soar into the sky, lighting up the Texas coastline, from the comfort of their cottage balconies.

Access to Long Island Village is gated and ONLY available to homeowners, residents, and short-term vacation rental guests. Simply take a right on S. Garcia St. before reaching the Queen Isabella Causeway to Port Isabel, then head toward the gated entrance to Long Island Village. While this is a private community, guests can gain access through short-term vacation rentals or by visiting friends or family who reside there. Be sure to plan ahead, as launches often attract crowds eager to catch a glimpse of history in the making.

Keywords: Long Island Village, Starship rocket launches, South Padre Island, SpaceX viewing spots, rocket launch experience, Port Isabel attractions, Texas coastline tourism

Key Information:

  • Must be a homeowner, resident, or a guest renting a vacation rental
  • There is a swing bridge that connects LIV to mainland
  • There is a golf course, pool, and other amenities
  • Various vacation rentals along the edge facing SpaceX
  • Windows will vibrate at this distance

VisitSPI.com Comment:

This is a great location if you are lucky enough to access it.  Heat distortion can be an issue for those using a zoom lens and wishing to capture photos of the tower.  Filters may be needed to reduce haze/distortion.  There are many cottages with 2 and 3 levels along E. Scallop that have excellent views!

Getting There:

Private / Limited Public Access.  Long Island Village is a private community located in Port Isabel that is connected by a swing bridge.  This is a popular location for media companies to use for their live-streaming channels.  Access to this location is allowed by either being a guest of a homeowner that owns in LIV or renting a short-term vacation home.   

What To Bring:

Bring your chairs, umbrellas, and refreshments.  You will meet plenty of rocket enthusiasts here and have a great time while you wait for the launch.  Restrooms, water fountains, showers, and various other amenities are available here.  There is a private boat ramp for homeowners.  

Optimal Conditions:

Light N winds, cool, dry, and partly cloudy to sunny skies.  The day or two after a cold front hits is usually very nice.  The dry, cool air clears out the moisture that can create a marine layer/hazy conditions at the coast.  Excellent location during the afternoon hours when the sun light is illuminating from behind the rocket/launch tower.

Challenges:

Finding a short-term vacation rental should be done ahead of time. There are various property management companies that rent small cottages.

The View From & Photo Gallery of Long Island Village:

Tarpon Haven Rd. – Boca Chica

Tarpon Haven Rd. – 3.90 Miles / 6.24Km Away

Experience the Thrill of Starship Rocket Launches from Tarpon Haven Rd. off Boca Chica/Hwy 4.

For an up-close and unforgettable view of SpaceX’s Starship rocket launches, head to Tarpon Haven Road off Boca Chica / Highway 4. This public road offers unparalleled proximity to the launch site and is the closest you can get to the Starship launch on U.S. soil. Watching from here provides unobstructed views of the rockets as they ignite and ascend into the sky. Tarpon Haven Rd. one of the closest public spots to experience the power and spectacle of space exploration and allows you to enjoy the excitement of witnessing history in the making while surrounded by the natural beauty of Boca Chica.

To secure your spot along the public road, plan to arrive well before the launch. Highway 4, the primary route to this area, is often closed several hours before liftoff for safety reasons. Early arrival and possible camping out, ensures you don’t miss out on this awe-inspiring event. Bring your camera, binoculars, and plenty of water to make the most of your visit.

Visitors can also reserve a spot at the Rocket Ranch and Raptor Roost outposts. View reservations on their respective websites below:

https://www.raptor-roost.com

https://www.rocketranchbocachica.com/launches

Keywords: Tarpon Haven Road, Starship rocket launches, Boca Chica viewing spots, SpaceX launch site, Highway 4 closures, rocket launch experience, South Texas tourism

Key Information:

  • Free public road/access. Park along empty lots. No public restrooms.
  • Pay for access with Rocket Ranch and Raptor Roost. Private restrooms.
  • Best to bring food/drinks while you wait.
  • SpaceX employees will begin to fill in shortly before launch.
  • Bring ear protection!

VisitSPI.com Comment:

This is a great location, especially for late afternoon launches as the sun will illuminate the rocket perfectly. You will need to arrive here before the highway closes for general public access. This could be at midnight for early morning launches or 8:00 A.M. for afternoon launches. Plan accordingly.  Watch the venting as they fill the rocket with propellent which generally begins 2 hours prior to launch. Heat distortion can be an issue during the summer months for those using a zoom lens from the ground level.  Filters may be needed to reduce haze/distortion. You will encounter many SpaceX employees and visitors from all over the world here. Great energy! Look out for the ArcTechPHOTO van and say hi!

Getting There:

Public & Private Access.  You will need to arrive before the highway closes. This could be at midnight for early morning launches or 8:00 A.M. for afternoon launches. Rocket Ranch offers a shuttle from the X Parking Lot along hightway 4 for those who arrive after the highway closes. You may need to let the officers know that you have a reservation to receive access from Boca Chica/Hwy 4.  

What To Bring:

Bring your chairs, umbrellas, and refreshments.  You will meet plenty of rocket enthusiasts and SpaceX employees here. Plan to relax and have a great time while you wait for the launch.  Restrooms and private parking are only available to those who book with Rocket Ranch and Raptor Roost.  

Optimal Conditions:

Late afternoon launches are BEST! Light N winds, cool, dry, and partly cloudy to sunny skies.  The day or two after a cold front hits is usually very nice.  The dry, cool air clears out the moisture that can create a marine layer/hazy conditions at the coast. Excellent location during the afternoon hours when the sun light is illuminating from behind the rocket/launch tower.

Challenges:

You must arrive early to get a parking spot if you plan to arrive with your own vehicle and park along the road along the empty lots. No public restrooms. Plan accordingly.

The View From & Photo Gallery of Tarpon Haven Rd:

Mouth of the Rio Grande River – Playa Bagdad – Matamoros, Mexico

Playa Bagdad, Mexico – 2.90 – 3.08 Miles / 4.64 – 4.93 Km Away

Experience the ultimate thrill of Starship Rocket launches from the closest and best angle to watch Starship rocket launches from Mouth of the Rio Grande River at Playa Bagdad, Matamoros, Mexico.

Playa Bagdad in Matamoros, Mexico, offers a unique and arguably, the closest and best angle to view, photograph, or film the SpaceX Starship rocket launches. Situated just across the Rio Grande River (U.S./Mexico border) from South Texas, this serene beach is the closest any civilian can get to watch the Starship rocket launches anywhere. This unobstructed view of the rocket launches over the Gulf of Mexico, has made it a favorite spot for spectators and space enthusiasts from all over the world.

To reach Playa Bagdad, travel to Matamoros, Tamaulipas, via one of the international bridges connecting Texas and Mexico. We recommend crossing at the Veteran’s International Bridge, however, this bridge opens at 6 A.M. (it takes approximately 45 minutes to reach the mouth of the river from here). Once in Matamoros, follow signs or GPS directions toward the beach, located approximately 30 miles east of the city center. We have included a comprehensive video that starts at the Veteran’s Bridge and ends up at the mouth of the Rio Grande River courtesy of ArcTechPHOTO. The area is accessible by car, but a 4WD or 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended.

Be sure to arrive early, as launches often draw crowds. Bring your essentials, including food, water, and comfortable seating, to enjoy the show. We also highly recommend you pay close attention to the tides, bring a 5-gallon bucket, small shovel, tow strap, and air compressor, if you have that available. While visiting, take in Playa Bagdad’s charming seaside atmosphere and authentic local culture.

Keywords: Playa Bagdad, Matamoros rocket launches, SpaceX viewing locations, Starship launches Mexico, Boca Chica rocket launches, SpaceX Gulf Coast, Matamoros beach tourism

Key Information:

  • Free public road/access. No public restrooms at the mouth of the river.
  • Pay for access to Playa Bagdad. $25.00 MXN Pesos or $2.00 USD.
  • Best to bring food/drinks while you wait.
  • Pay close attention to tides and arrive early.
  • Take passport/proper ID to enter Mexico & return to U.S.
  • Bring ear protection!

VisitSPI.com Comment:

PLAYA BAGDAD, MATAMOROS, MEXICO IS THE BEST LOCATION AND CLOSEST ANY CIVILIAN NOT AFFILIATED WITH SPACEX CAN WATCH THE ROCKET LAUNCH and by far my favorite spot to photograph the Starship launches!  We were some of the first to view the Starship launches in Playa Bagdad, before the crowds, and can say for certain, the view doesn’t get better than this. Get ready for some adventure and mariscos (seafood) during your quick 2-nation vacation and enjoy this tranquil Mexican beach town.  Playa Bagdad (Boca del Rio) is located on the Mexican side (south side) of the Rio Grande River (U.S./Mexico border) and extends south past Highway 2. 

UPDATE: As of IFT5, the Mexican government has restricted access to the mouth of the Rio Grande River for added security measures. Visitors are required to park 1-2 KM south of the Rio Grande River. The angle and view is still AMAZING!

Getting There:

Public Access. Is best to cross the border at the Veteran’s International Bridge.  Please note that they open at 6:00 A.M.  It takes approximately 40-45 minutes to reach the mouth of the river after crossing the bridge into Mexico.  (It is recommend to cross using the Gateway International Bridge if crossing the border prior to 6:00 A.M.)  You will proceed to the feeder road once you cross the bridge and get past the Mexican Customs and Immigration/Military officers.  Take a left turn on Lauro Villar (second traffic light after departing the port of entry) at go all the way until you reach Playa Bagdad.  You will encounter some traffic in the morning hours due to the Mexican manufacturing facilities (maquiladoras) along the way.  It is all free and clear once you pass that for the next 20 minutes or so.  you will pass through what appears to be toll booths upon reaching Playa Bagdad.  Take a left at the statue right after.  Follow the arrows on the road.  You will then drive straight until you reach the beach and then take another left (driving north) all the way to the river.  It is approximately a 15-20 drive that is beautiful, especially at dawn.  Although the sand is pretty compact here and a 4×4 isn’t always required, it isn’t a bad idea to have one and/or come prepared with a bucket, shovel, tow strap, and air compressor when driving on any beach.   I have included a short 5-minute video below detailing how to reach the Boca del Rio in Playa Bagdad.

What To Bring:

Bring your chairs, umbrellas, and food/refreshments.  We highly suggest to carry toilet paper, soap and water, a 5 gallon bucket, small shovel, tow strap, and air compressor. You will meet plenty of rocket enthusiasts from Mexico and other parts of the world here. Plan to relax and have a great time while you wait for the launch.  Although the sand is usually compact, it is also common to see people get stuck in the sand while driving in or out of Playa Bagdad.

PRO TIP: lowering the air pressure in your tires can be useful to prevent from getting stuck as it creates more surface area. It is also a method used to retrieve the vehicle after getting stuck in the sand. This is why we recommend taking a small air compressor.

Optimal Conditions:

Light N winds, cool, dry air, and partly cloudy to sunny skies.  The day or two after a cold front hits is usually very nice.  The dry, cool air clears out the moisture that can create a marine layer/hazy conditions at the coast. Clouds can help diffuse the harsh sunlight. Excellent location during the afternoon hours when the sun light is illuminating from behind the rocket/launch tower.

Challenges:

You must arrive early to get a decent parking spot. Lots of crowds and pay close attention to the tides. People with little to no experience driving on sand is generally found during rocket launches. No public restrooms. Plan accordingly.

The View From & Photo Gallery of Playa Bagdad, Matamoros, Mexico:

This page is brought to you by our wonderful supporters!

VisitSPI.com is committed to providing our visitors with useful information that is complimented with our photos and videos, while giving thanks to our wonderful supporters.

“A rising tide lifts all boats” Jack Kemp

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Watch this step-by-step video on how to reach Playa Bagdad, Mexico from Brownsville, Texas via the Veteran’s International Bridge.
This is a video of the SN28 water deluge test prior to the launch that is scheduled for March 14, 2024.  
IFT-3 – SN28B10 launch with some thick haze.