
Gulf Coast
Tropical Getaway: It’s paradise all year long on South Padre Island
By Joe Nick Patoski
On my first visit to South Padre Island in 1967—several years before the Queen Isabella Causeway was constructed, back when the only way onto the island was by drawbridge—dining options were the Palmetto Inn and the Jetty Café. The only amusement for a teenager like me was renting a motorcycle at Andy’s Sand Box to drive on the beach. Back then, I had a hard time believing my father’s prophecy: “Someday, this will be Miami Beach.”
It seems he was right: SPI has grown into a world-class beach resort with the wide strip of fine white sand fronting the Gulf of Mexico as its main draw. Modern additions include a Ferris wheel, bungee jumping, zip lines, horseback and helicopter rides, minigolf, and go-karts. Still, sand and shore are why crowds continue to pack the island from March through August. South Padre, population 2,000, is just as enticing outside of peak season, when the sea and sky—along with old-school amusements like fishing, surfing, and swimming—provide all the entertainment you need.
STAY
Palms Resort
Opened in 1972 as a motor court, Palms Resort is a short walk from the beach and boasts a vintage feel with cozy updated rooms. The popular on-site café and bar, Café on the Beach, serves everything from pancakes to lobster accompanied by views of the Gulf. Rooms start at $99/night during the offseason.
The Aquarius
Condos are available for rent inside the second-oldest high-rise on the island. It dates to 1975, according to the black-and-white photograph in the lobby. The layout featuring two bedrooms, a kitchen, and a small balcony with ocean view is airy and comfortable. Rates at under $300/night for two nights.
Texas State Parks
GALVESTON ISLAND STATE PARK
An excellent example of Texas Gulf ecology, this park offers a perfect blend of beachside relaxation and outdoor adventure. Swim, fish, or kayak in the warm Gulf waters, and explore miles of scenic trails for hiking and biking on the bay side. The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with many migratory species passing through and over 300 bird species recorded so far. At night, enjoy the Gulf Coast breeze while camping or stay in one of the cozy beach lodges on the bay side. Whether you’re sunbathing on the sandy shores or exploring coastal wetlands, this park promises a refreshing escape.
“I love Galveston Island State Park. Where else can you go on the Island, with 2,000 acres of undisturbed land and immerse yourself in nature, four different ecosystems you can enjoy year-round—the beach, prairie, marsh, and wetlands. I also would like to add the staff there is incredible!” —Lynn Smith, volunteer since 2004
MORE GULF COAST STATE PARKS
Brazos Bend State Park
Goose Island State Park
Lake Corpus Christi State Park
Mustang Island State Park
Resaca De La Palma State Park
Sheldon Lake State Park & Environmental Learning Center
For more information, directions, and amenities, get your free mobile guide to all 80-plus state parks: texasstateparks.org
EAT & DRINK
Los Pecadores Coffee
Choose from a selection of coffee beans and tea from around the world, or try a coffee flight or espresso martini. There’s also avocado toast, pie, a full bar, and fly-fishing supplies from local businesses.
VivaI
The bright, spacious dining room opens to the Laguna Madre and is complemented by an elevated menu. Mahi-mahi ceviche, yellowfin tuna tartare, and street tacos are popular. Reservations are recommended.
Clayton’s
The bright, spacious dining room faces the Gulf of Mexico and is complemented by a standard beach bar menu. Mahi-mahi ceviche, shrimp cocktail, and fish tacos are popular. Make a reservation to save time and lock in a seat.
SEE
Isla Blanca County Park
A sandy beach, walking trails, a prime surfing spot, deep-sea fishing charters, and a viewing area for the nearby SpaceX
launchpad site can be found at this park on the southern end of the island. Dolphin watching from Dolphin Cove in the late afternoon is sublime.
Fishing Charters
September is a good time for tarpon fishing before the prize game fish migrates toward Veracruz for the winter. Captain Brian Barrera, of South Texas Saltwater Experience, led clients to more than 100 catches of tarpon last year.
South Padre Island Birding Center
This is the island’s premier spot for viewing nature, with 3,300 feet of boardwalk that extends into the wetlands of the Laguna Madre, five bird blinds, and a five-story observation tower with sweeping views of the bay and the island. The gators, including one called Big Padre, are also a big draw.
Sea Turtle Inc.
This conservation facility provides rehabilitation to the endangered Kemp’s ridley and other species of sea turtle. View recovering and nonreleasable resident sea turtles on a self-guided tour, or sit in on one of the educational “Turtle Talks” throughout the day.
EVENTS
Fun in the Sun
A host of events still draw crowds after the spring and summer rush. The Texas International Fishing Tournament, the state’s largest saltwater fishing competition, takes place July 30-Aug. 3. The Tacos & Tequila festival, held at the convention center in mid-September, features taquerias from across the RGV competing for top honors. The South Padre Island Triathlon runs (and cycles and swims) Sept. 28. A few days later, the 36th Annual Sandcastle Days, founded by the sandcastle builders Amazin’ Walter McDonald and Lucinda “Sandy Feet” Wierenga, draws thousands of sand art admirers to Clayton’s Beach Bar in October. H
RV INFO
KOA Holiday Campground sits adjacent to Isla Blanca County Park and the Laguna Madre. The campground has 214 sites, a 25-meter pool, a dog park, cabins, tent camping, and a boat ramp. koa.com
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