See the Gulf and the bay before filling your week
On a first visit, it helps to see both sides of the island early. The Gulf beach is on the east; Laguna Madre is on the west. This two-day starting plan uses Andy Bowie Park for beach time and the Laguna Madre Nature Trail for a look at the lagoon's marsh habitat. They are different outings, not two names for the same waterfront.
Before your first beach visit
Find your accommodation's actual entrance and ask where you may park. A place described as near the beach doesn't tell you which public walkover to use, whether it has a restroom or how far you'll carry your things. Compare beach accesses and choose the one that works for your group. Andy Bowie is the suggestion below, not the only right entrance.
Try a boardwalk on the next day
The Laguna Madre Nature Trail gives you a different view from the Gulf sand. Go during permitted access hours and take your time looking at the habitat; a birding stop doesn't require knowing every bird's name. Start with the bird guides if you want help identifying something you saw. The free trail and the paid Birding Center are separate places.
Add the part that interests you
After these two outings, decide whether the rest of your stay needs more beach time, fishing, history, restaurants or another wildlife visit. Add a specific place or booked experience, rather than saving a whole subject as though it were an appointment.
For getting here, airport transfers and moving around, use trip planning. Put your arrival, check-in and departure into My Trip too. Leave passwords, payment-card details and property access codes out of your notes.