get to know the beaches in and around south padre island with Visitspi.com
The U.S. & Mexico Border
Take a left at the sand from Highway 4 and drive a little over 2 miles and you’ll reach the U.S. & Mexico border at the mouth of the Rio Grande River, take a right and drive for 5 miles and you’ll reach the jetties.
The Mouth of the Rio Grande River
Boca Chica Beach begins at the mouth of the Rio Grande River, which serves as the border between the United States and Mexico, and extends all the way north to the jetties along the Brazos Santiago Pass (ship channel). This spot is located approximately 2 miles south of Highway 4 and is generally visited by fishermen hoping to catch fish that hang out and feed at the mouth of the river.
Mexico can easily be seen from this location and is literally a stone’s throw away from the U.S. side. It is best to have a 4WD vehicle and closely monitor the tides if you plan on driving this way.
Boca Chica Beach & SpaceX…
SpaceX’s presence on Boca Chica Beach is unmistakable and literally can’t be missed from any spot along Boca Chica Beach. You will find yourself driving on Highway 4 and see the SpaceX building facilities to your left and rocket launch towers to your right before actually arriving to the beach.
It can be a bit surreal to be on such an isolated beach and see Starship rockets right behind you. SpaceX’s presence has also put Boca Chica Beach on the global map and the area is experiencing much more visitors from far away places such as Europe, Asia, and South America.
The End of the Road on HWY 4…
Highway 4, also known as Boca Chica Blvd., begins in Brownsville, Texas, and literally ends right on the sands of Boca Chica Beach! This area is popular amongst locals during the summer and weekends throughout the year.
SpaceX’s presence has also put Boca Chica Beach on the global map, and this location is visited from people from all over the world who wish to catch a glimpse of the Starship rocket, which happens to be the largest rocket in human history.
The Jetties at Boca Chica Beach…
Take a left from Highway 4 and you will find your self driving north towards the jetties at Boca Chica Beach, which are approximately 5 miles north of Highway 4. This is a popular spot for families and fishermen throughout the year, and surfers when the swell direction is out of the north. It is highly recommended that you have a 4WD vehicle and closely monitor the tides if you plan on visiting here.
South Padre Island, Texas and the ship channel are clearly visible from this location, and overnight camping and bonfires are allowed.
Barracuda Cove Beach…
Barracuda Cove Beach at Boca Chica is a hidden gem with its pristine, turquoise waters and soft, white sands. Nestled away from the usual tourist trails, it offers a serene escape with excellent opportunities for snorkeling and swimming. The beach’s gentle waves and vibrant marine life make it a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure alike. Surrounded by lush greenery and with a laid-back vibe, Barracuda Cove provides a tranquil retreat where visitors can enjoy both natural beauty and quiet solitude.
Driving a vehicle with 4×4 is highly recommended if reaching by land, otherwise, you can anchor your boat or waverunner and enjoy this hidden gem in plain sight!
Image Gallery – Boca Chica Beach
