Why this matters
Station numbers that sound similar may represent an active gauge, a prediction location or a historic installation. The South Padre Island Coast Guard Station is 8779748; other nearby products describe different points.
What to compare
Use NOAA's station page to confirm whether you are viewing predictions, observed water level or water temperature. Check the map and product availability before copying a value.
What changes
Stations can be retired, replaced or temporarily unavailable. A search result may surface an old South Padre station page without making it the best source for today's decision.
Make the next decision
The Island Conditions strip links to station 8779748 for tides and water temperature. For Port Isabel or another location, deliberately select that location rather than re-labeling the island value.
Current source
Use NOAA station 8779748 for the current operational detail. Check its date, location and scope before allowing a price, time, rule, forecast or availability statement to control the trip.