NATURE

From untainted landscapes and lands to unfettered wildlife, Palacios offers so much more beyond the waterfront.

TAKE IN THE PRISTINE NATURAL BEAUTY AND WILDLIFE

Palacios is one of the most unique places to visit. It not only has the peace and calm of a relaxing seaside town but a preserved and pristine nature abounds around it. In fact, the Matagorda Bay area is renowned as one of the top birding hotspots in North America. And it has a bounty of marshland preserves and wildlife parks throughout the region. It’s a true nature wonderland!

DO SOME BIRDWATCHING

Did you know that Matagorda County has led the nation in the number of bird species counted in the annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count for 20 of the last 24 years! Come stay with us and take a birding expedition at any time of the year. You can book field tours by land, boat, or kayak. If you can make it, come during the spring when Palacios hosts the annual Matagorda Bay Bird Festival. There will be a bevy of tours, birding experts holding seminars, and you can join in the amazing Parade of Birds!

VISIT THE MAD ISLAND MARSH PRESERVE

Most of the Matagorda Bay coastline is undeveloped, and a string of protected wetlands stretches along the Gulf Coast, from the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge south of Houston to the San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge, the Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge, and the Nature Conservancy of Texas’ Mad Island Marsh Preserve, closest to Palacios. Wilderness lands continue to the south, with Matagorda Island Wildlife Management Area and the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, winter home of the endangered whooping cranes. Not only do these pristine areas host huge numbers of birds, but they are also home to a vast array of other wildlife. Fish and dolphins swim in the bays, while alligators, armadillo and more live farther upstream. For lovers of wilderness and wild animals, Palacios is truly a paradise, located at the heart of a region teeming with a beautiful diversity of life.

VISIT THE SAN BERNARD NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

A visit to the San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge is a great day trip to really get a taste of the natural Texas coastal landscape and wildlife. There are several trails and even an auto route to take it all in. The refuge is open for waterfowl hunting, which includes ducks, geese and coots. And Anglers can enjoy fishing on San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge all year. Birdwatchers can try to catch a glimpse of over 400 species.

HAVE QUESTIONS?

We’re here to help! Please feel free to contact us directly with your questions or to book with us.