The coastal tip of Texas, South Padre Island is most definitely for beach lovers. The surf, the sand, the constant activity and energy…most never want to leave Texas’s ‘only tropical island.’ Called Texas’s Best Beach, South Padre offers everything you can imagine. Couple that with scenic horseback riding opportunities, a one-of-a-kind sea turtle rescue experience as well as plenty of boat tours and you have the vacation of a lifetime. The island is also known as something of a sandcastle mecca. With plenty of on-beach lessons not to mention their annual “Sandcastle Days,” visitors from all over come to check out the action in the sand. In the evening, the area’s nightlife beckons. Restaurants and live music venues line the coast.
Given the location, fishing is obviously huge in South Padre Island. With several acclaimed fishing tournaments, the area has seen prize winning swordfish, blue marlin and tarpon. Fish from off shore right in the gulf or experience a chartered deep-sea fishing excursion.
Catering to its many yearly visitors, residents and Winter Texans, the spa scene is rife with the latest massage techniques and facial experiences. They really understand relaxation in this resort Texas town.
It’s all about the surf here. Whether you’re more adventurous or a beginner, South Padre Island offers an activity for everyone from novice to pro. Go parasailing and enjoy the view from above. Jet skis are readily available as is everything you need to flyboard.
South Padre gets a lot tourists throughout the year. Winter is a relative slow season, as the weather is too cool for jumping into the ocean.
Spring is a very busy time, especially for spring break. The spring break crowd gets very rowdy, so consider planning around the college students.
Summer is busy and hot. Summer is also the hurricane season. There are a lot of reasons to plan a trip a little later in the year to skip the crowds and see better weather.
Fall may be the best time of year to visit. Temps are in the mid-80s and October is host to Sand Castle Days.