By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON
Special to the PRESS
Isla Blanca Park, a centerpiece of Cameron County’s coastal parks, is nominated for USA TODAY’s Best Texas Beach for 2025, setting the stage for a second consecutive victory. Celebrated for its pristine shores and vibrant oceanfront, where families picnic, sunbathe, build sand castles, surf, and kiteboard, the park buzzes with coastal energy. This recognition underscores the county’s commitment to world-class recreational spaces, with Cameron County Parks Director Joe Vega leading transformative improvements at Isla Blanca, Andy Bowie, and rural parks across the region.
“Isla Blanca Park’s recognition as USA TODAY’s #1 Best Beach in Texas last year and its nomination again this year reflects our commitment to providing a beautiful beach with accessibility for our visitors to enjoy,” Vega said.
The county is amplifying this honor by enhancing public access, promoting amenities, and upgrading facilities, including plans for expanded recreational activities, improved infrastructure, strengthened dune systems, and increased accessibility.
Isla Blanca has received over $20 million in recent investments. “In the last several years, Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino, Jr. and the Commissioners Court have invested over $20 million in improvements at Isla Blanca Park, including upgraded beachfront pavilions, restrooms, beachfront boardwalks, parking, streets, concession areas, and the new event center and amphitheater,” Vega said.
Future plans include utility renovations for over 600 RV sites, expanded dry camping, and enhanced
infrastructure. Food vendors, secured through competitive bidding, enrich the visitor experience. “The county works with vendors for food, rentals, and events,” Vega said. “Concessions are awarded via competitive bidding to ensure variety and quality services for park visitors.”
Lori Voth, a seasonal visitor from Canada, praises Isla Blanca’s allure. “Coming down to South Padre Island is a real treat in the wintertime … the sun, the beach, and all of it is just fabulous,” Voth said. “That’s what keeps me coming back, as well as meeting new people every year, and the friendships that develop.” She briefly noted the need for updated picnic tables in some campsite areas, but her enthusiasm for the park’s offerings shines through.
The ranking’s significance is profound. “This honor reflects the dedication of Judge Eddie Trevino, Jr. and
Commissioners Court, Cameron County Parks & Recreation, and the community to maintaining a pristine coastal environment and improving the quality of life for residents and visitors,” Vega said. “This is also a reflection on the Cameron County Parks Team’s hard work and dedication in maintaining our beach and park amenities for visitors to enjoy.”
Andy Bowie Park is undergoing major improvements. “New picnic pavilions are being built, with ADA-
compliant beach access walkway, upgraded restrooms and concessions, resurfaced parking, and improved RV camping,” Vega said. County Beach Access No. 3 will gain new restrooms, pavilions, rinse stations, BBQ areas, and permeable parking.
These upgrades benefit year-round visitors with improved access and recreational options, while seasonal visitors enjoy enhanced amenities. “Year-round visitors will benefit from enhanced access and recreational options, encouraging off-season tourism,” Vega said. “Seasonal visitors will enjoy improved amenities and better services, increasing satisfaction and the likelihood of repeat visits.”
Dave Jackson, a visitor since 1991, highlights the region’s enduring appeal. “The beautiful area brings me back year after year,” Jackson said, affirming the magnetic draw of Cameron County’s coastal parks.
E.K. Atwood Park continues to progress following 2017 improvements. “Current features include five pavilions, rinse stations, ADA walkovers, restrooms, and eco-friendly parking,” Vega said, with additional upgrades in development.
Conservation remains central. “The county partners with the Texas General Land Office, Army Corps of
Engineers, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and its Natural Resource Director to align development with conservation,” Vega said, citing dune restoration and beach nourishment at Isla Blanca and Andy Bowie.
Rural parks thrive under the county’s Parks Master Plan. “Cameron County developed a Parks Master Plan to guide equitable development,” Vega said. Olmito Nature Park offers trails, fishing piers, and inclusive playscapes; Bejarano-McFarland Memorial Park features a butterfly garden; and Santa Maria Community Park includes a splash pad and solar-lit trails. Adolph Thomae Jr. County Park benefits from 3,000 linear feet of living shoreline restoration. “The county actively builds and manages parks in underserved rural areas,” Vega said, securing funding from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
Community feedback shapes these initiatives. “Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, especially during the Parks Master Plan process,” Vega said. “Through public engagement in the Parks Master Plan process, the county ensures developments align with local needs.”
The county’s five-year vision prioritizes sustainability. “The vision includes maintaining a balance between
recreation and conservation,” Vega said. “With over six miles of managed coastline, the county aims to secure partnerships and funding to improve infrastructure, enhance access, and protect natural habitats, ensuring long-term sustainability and public enjoyment.”
As Isla Blanca vies for another USA TODAY title, Cameron County’s parks exemplify excellence in accessibility and environmental stewardship. “We’re not just building parks,” Vega said. “We’re creating spaces where memories are made, where people connect with nature and each other. That’s what makes Cameron County special.”