It’s a long way to South Padre Island, the most southernmost Gulf barrier island in the country with its southern tip almost kissing Mexico. What visitors find at the end of Texas is a fun destination with something for everyone. For families, a summer vacation here means chasing dolphins and riding off-road with Sand Monsters. Culinary experiences honor nearby Mexican influences, plus there’s art, birding and the last Texas lighthouse open to the public, to name only a few attractions.
Stay
Like most islands, there are numerous accommodations to choose from, including hotels, resorts and rentals. Margaritaville lies at the island’s south end and features Jimmy Buffett-style guest rooms, the Landshark Bar & Grill with inside seating and a patio overlooking the Gulf and a massive lagoon-style pool with swim-up bar, cabanas and a separate kids pool so adults can have fun. Best of all, there’s a free shuttle that takes visitors around the island and it’s only a short walk from Margaritaville to the shuttle stop at the Visitor’s Center.
Back to Nature
The South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary celebrated its 15th anniversary in 2024, treating visitors to 23 acres of wetlands with boardwalks that extend to the bay. Visitors will spot gators in their sanctuary, including one enormous daddy that’s a delight to watch when fed, and around 300 resident and wintering bird species. Because it’s located on a salt and fresh-water system, the center attracts a wide variety of wildlife.
The nonprofit Sea Turtle Inc. doubles in its mission, educating visitors about the region’s reptiles and rescuing injured and weather-beaten turtles. There are several massive residency turtles to view as well, including “Cowgirl” who washed up four times for neurological reasons and Poppy with his “bubble butt” that children love. Visitors may even adopt a turtle and follow them on the center’s website.
Catch a Sunset
Yes, you can sip a cool drink at water’s edge and watch the sun set over the bay to the west of the island. For a unique experience, Island Adventure Park place visitors on horseback and guide them down the Gulf beaches until the sun turns the sky vibrant shades of auburn and gold. The rides are just short of two hours and scour pristine sand dunes and the water’s edge.
View Some Art
Tourism folks want to make South Padre Island an arts destination and have established art trails to provide visitor fun and point out places to purchase local and regional artwork. Around the island are several sea turtle statues and visitors are encouraged to take pix and post on social media with a prize for the effort waiting at the Visitor Center. Murals decorate buildings throughout South Padre and galleries, including the Art Business Incubator, promote and support artists. Every first Friday the galleries open late to promote new exhibits.
Get on the Water
Breakaway Cruises provides a relaxing chance to enjoy sun and sea on the wide bay that extends between South Padre Island and Port Isabel. They net marine wildlife to show passengers what lies beneath, but it’s the dolphins who really thrill. At any time, a large pod will appear and surf the bow’s wave.
Dine
Start the day with breakfast at Café on the Beach, located behind the Palms retro boutique hotel. The Gulfside cafe serves up benedicts, breakfast tacos and pancakes along with craft coffees and cocktails. Yummies Bistro is a local favorite serving up Tex-Mex specialties and decadent coffee drinks. More Mexican influence may be found at Nautico Island Grill, an ideal spot for lunch with its vibrant ambiance and fresh seafood. Don’t miss a stop at Sugar Kingdom with its giant whale out front. It looks like a souvenir shop but it’s filled with every kind of candy, chocolate and ice cream you can imagine.
