Laguna Madre, Coastal lagoon in Tamaulipas, Mexico
Laguna Madre is a vast coastal lagoon stretching along Mexico's eastern shore, separated from the Gulf of Mexico by barrier islands and sandy strips. The shallow waters, typically less than one meter deep, create distinct ecosystems that support diverse plant and animal life.
The wetland earned international recognition in 2004 when designated as a Ramsar site under the global convention protecting wetlands of international importance. This status reflects its critical role in conserving migratory waterbirds and their habitats.
Local fishing communities have practiced traditional harvesting methods here for generations, passing down knowledge about seasonal patterns and sustainable use of the lagoon's resources.
Visitors find the best opportunities for kayaking and bird watching in the shallow protected waters year-round. The cooler months from February through April offer peak conditions as migratory species arrive and settle in the area.
Extensive seagrass beds of Halodule wrightii blanket the lagoon floor, forming the foundation of its rich food web. These submerged plant beds remain largely hidden from casual view, yet they are essential for feeding over 140 bird species that live in or pass through the area.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
