Padre Island National Seashore's Laguna Madre is a rarity: one of perhaps six hypersaline (i.e. saltier than the ocean) lagoons in the world. It is perhaps one of the most overlooked natural wonders in North America. If one stands on its shore and simply gazes at it, the Laguna might not have any obvious physical attributes to distinguish from any other body of water in the world. To be appreciated, the Laguna's unseen side, the life hidden under its surface, must be studied and revealed. The Laguna Madre is also an incredible area in which to recreate- one of the world's best windsurfing sites and ample opportunities for fishing, boating, birding, and more await you. Check out the links below for more information on this majestic and important place!