b'P a d r eI s l a n dChoosing the right beachfor your fun in the sun can be the biggest decision you make for your island vacation in the Coastal Bend. J.P Luby Surf Park, just north of Packery Channel between Zahn Rd. and Newport Pass Rd., is where youll find the party people, college/young adult crowd. On the south side of Packery Channel, along the Michael J. Ellis Seawall and south to the Padre Balli Park and Bob Hall Pier area, families with young kids find the most hospitable beach setting. Farther south on Padre Island you will find the least regulated (and maintained) area of the beach, which extends 12 miles south to the northern edge of the Padre Island National Seashore. If you are taking a large group that prefers greater privacy, this may the beach zone for you, but we advise traveling in trucks/SUVs, preferably with 4-wheel drive, but definitely with higher ground clearance, and taking all the supplies youll need for the day.A day at the beachon Padre and Mustang Islands is a largely unique experience, as our islands offer the most beach access for vehicles. Parking is allowed, permit required in most areas, within 50 feet of the waters edge, and smart beachgoers this summer will arrive early and prepared. A shade canopy is a good idea, as are a bonfire and barbecue pit. Work with the wind, and not against it. Glass containers and driving in the dunes are prohibited and all road rules apply to beach driving, including seatbelt and DWI laws. A vehicle-free, pedestrian beach has recently been established on the southern end of the Padre Island Seawall, near Whitecap Beach.118THE COASTAL BEND GUIDE TheCoastalBend.com'