South Padre Island is gearing up for a major upgrade at one of their largest beach access locations, thanks to a $4.4 million contribution from SpaceX and Elon Musk.
The donation will help transform the currently modest beach access entry #3 into a fully equipped, family-friendly destination, with construction expected to finish in 2026, according to the city.
Located just outside the city limits at 28495 State Park Road, the site currently features a small, uneven parking lot and a simple dune walkover leading to the sand.
Once construction begins, visitors can expect a big transformation, including a larger and leveled parking lot with 159 spaces, updated dune walkover bridges, two outdoor pavilions, 12 picnic tables, four public restrooms with showers, barbecue pits, rinse stations, new landscaping, and an “environmentally conscious” lighting system.
Even the entrance toll booth will receive a facelift.
The initial price tag on the beach access revamp projection was listed as $4.5 million, according to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
Cameron County leaders officially celebrated the start of the project during a groundbreaking ceremony on August 11.
“This new improvement project at Cameron County Beach Access No. 3 represents a major investment in the overall experience of our County Coastal Parks on South Padre Island for both families and visitors,” said Parks Director Joe Vega. “It means greater access to safe, clean, and well-maintained public spaces where people can gather, relax, and create lasting memories.”
SpaceX’s donation comes along with nearly $817,000 in supporting grants from the Texas General Land Office, which helped fund the design, engineering, and construction phases. These upgrades are part of a bigger $24 million initiative to enhance Cameron County’s coastal parks.
City Commissioner Sofia Benavides said the revamp will bring “lasting benefits for children and families for many years to come,” while also thanking SpaceX for their contribution.
With construction underway, Beach Access #3 hopes to become one of South Padre Island’s most inviting and accessible beach destinations.