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Bolivar Flats

About Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary

Help us oppose the Sanderling housing development adjacent to Bolivar Flats! 

Bolivar Flats

International Recognition

Bolivar Flats is a Globally Important Bird Area, the highest designation, and an International site in the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network (WHSRN).

It's For the Birds

People are encouraged to walk along the beach and enjoy watching the birds and other wildlife that is protected here. Observe wildlife from a distance at which they feel comfortable. Walking in vegetated dunes and marshes is discouraged. These areas contain hidden nests and venomous snakes. The vehicular barrier was erected to protect nesting and roosting birds, most of which live on the ground. In addition, vehicles compact the sand, killing the plants and animals that live there and making it more difficult for birds to find food and cover. Regulations also prohibit fires in the sanctuary.

Map and Directions

From Houston take I-45 South to Galveston. In town I-45 turns into Broadway. Follow Broadway to Seawall Boulevard. Turn left on Seawall. Turn left on Ferry Road to the terminal. You will exit the ferry on Hwy. 87. Follow this for 3.7 miles to Rettilon Road. Turn right and drive to the beach. Turn right on the beach and drive on the beach to the vehicular barricade where you may park.

From Fifth Street in High Island, turn left onto Hwy. 124. Go to the stop sign. Turn right on to Hwy. 87. Rettilon Road is about 25 miles. Turn left on Rettilon and drive to the beach. Turn right on the beach and drive on the beach to the vehicular barricade where you may park.

Parking Permits

Parking stickers are REQUIRED for all vehicles to park on Bolivar beaches. They can be purchased locally for $10.

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