Explore Our Exhibits

Step into the ancient past where science and imagination bring the giants of a forgotten world to life. This experience takes visitors on a journey through time, showcasing life-sized replicas and fascinating fossils of creatures that once roamed the area. Perfect for curious minds of all ages, this exhibit is a must-see adventure that blends education, wonder, and just the right amount of prehistoric thrill.

Journey back to the age of discovery, when Spanish explorers braved uncharted waters in search of new lands and untold riches. Find out more about the daring voyages that brought explorers to the Gulf Coast — and the perilous storms and shifting sands that claimed many of their ships. Through recovered artifacts, maps, and treasure from the ocean floor, this exhibit tells the captivating story of adventure, exploration, and survival that forever shaped the history of South Padre Island.

In the late 1800s, South Padre Island played a critical role in protecting both sailors and settlers along the Texas coast. Discover the quarantine station’s efforts to prevent the spread of disease from arriving vessels, and explore the early Coast Guard presence that safeguarded the shoreline. These stories reveal a time when life on the island was rugged, isolated, and deeply connected to the rhythms of the sea.

During World War II, the quiet shores of South Padre Island played a vital role in coastal defense. The WWII Beach Patrol Station exhibit tells the story of the brave men and women who served on watch, scanning the Gulf waters for enemy submarines and protecting the Texas coastline. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and first-hand accounts that bring this often-overlooked chapter of island history to life — a powerful reminder of South Padre Island’s place in America’s wartime efforts.