What a tremendous facility this is. If, like us, you're in to nature and birds in particular, this is heaven. The small fee ($4 for seniors) is worth every penny. The exhibits and look out tower are very well done, and the staff (volunteers?) are extremely helpful and friendly. Of course, the boardwalks are the biggest attraction for birders, with all kinds of herons, egrets, and other waterfowl gathering there. We had some of the closest views of Spoonbill, Tri colored Heron, and Blue winged Teal we've ever had. We're on the island for a month, so we bought passes, as we'll be coming back often.

There are alot of site seeing places to go. They might be scattered but well worth stopping at. AND don't forget to see the BIG TREE at the Goose Island Oak, aka The Big Tree in the Rockport/ Fulton area.

During our RV trip to south Texas we went to the Padre Island Birding Center. We took our RV and stayed at the KOA that was very nice. The weather was cold and windy, but the amount of birds we were able to see was wonderful. They have boardwalks that go out over the wet lands and see the birds up close and personal. We cared for, clean, the volunteers very knowledgeable. If you go to South Padre, check it out for sure. In warmer weather we could have seen their resident alligator also.

If you love birds, you'll love this place. If you don't know anything about birds, go anyway because you'll love them by the time you leave. Take the guided walk on weekend mornings at 9:30 to help you see all the wonders that are there. Tiny birds that are resting after flying from South America remind us all why we need to preserve these barrier islands. Terns that are returning from the Arctic remind us how amazing these birds lives are. Early mornings are the best for bird activity, although the crocodiles were around all day.