Visual Traveler: Padre Island, Texas

Gulf Coast waters were as smooth as glass when I arrived for dinner at Doc's Seafood & Steaks on Padre Island more than a decade ago. The entire back wall of this expansive, bustling casual restaurant opened to deck seating and gorgeous views. 

Assigned to write a AAA story about Padre Island National Seashore, I drove eight hours to Dallas from my Overland Park, Kansas home, where I spent the night with friends. On the following day, I traveled 6 1/2 hours before finally reaching Padre Island.

By the time I saw the shoreline I was soooo ready to ditch my car for a brief barefoot walk in the surf, plus a margarita and fish tacos beside the water. I slept very soundly that night too, in my Corpus Christi hotel.

The next day I spent several hours at the Seashore where a beautiful wooden deck flanked the Malaquite Visitor Center. Nearby, gentle waves and a fine, sandy beach invited leisurely strolls. A flock of gulls created a large 'V' in the sky and smaller birds tiptoed across damp sand. ​Dinner at Doc's capped off the day, although I don't remember my specific meal.

But I do remember checking the weather forecast frequently and deciding I should leave the area by early the following morning - despite initially reserving my hotel room for three nights. My Dallas friends would graciously host me one night earlier than we originally anticipated. And, after one last early morning walk on the beach I hit the road. Massive rain storms kicked in along my route, later that day.