All too often, this southern island is mistaken for her sister, Padre Island. Originally, the two were one single island. In 1964 South Padre Island became a separate entity with the completion of the Port Mansfield Gulf Channel. Today South Padre is the capital of tourism in this tropical tip of Texas.
South Padre stretches for 34 miles, hugging the Texas coastline as a protective barrier against Gulf storms. At its widest point, the island is only a half mile across, providing every one of the 5,000 hotel rooms with an unbeatable view.
For some visitors, the chance to enjoy miles of pristine beach is reason enough to journey to South Padre. Miles of toasted sand invite travelers to enjoy horseback riding, sailboarding, surfing, sandcastle building, or just wave hopping in the surf.
But there are plenty of activities to keep travelers busy in and out of the water. Fishing is one of the most popular activities, both in bay and Gulf waters. Sailboarding and surfing keep even the most restless traveler occupied at a site called “the Flats” on the north side of town.
South Padre Island is also a gateway to two other popular South Texas activities. Birding is a top draw in this area and just a short drive from the island, Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see for birders. This refuge has recorded more species than any other wildlife refuge in the nation. South of the island, shopping in Matamoros, Mexico is a popular day trip for many travelers, just 25 minutes from the island.
Attractions:
Laguna Madre Nature Trail
Ecotourism is becoming increasingly popular on South Padre Island. Behind the Convention Center on the north end of town, the boardwalk Laguna Madre Nature Trail covers four acres of wetland habitat that’s rich with birdlife.
Open daily free of charge, the site is a good place to catch a look at herons, egrets, and other coastal birds.
And you can’t miss the Convention Center: just look for the Center’s “Whaling Wall,” a colorful mural depicting orcas by internationally-known artist Wyland.
Sea Turtle, Inc.
This was the home of the late “Turtle Lady,” Ila Loetscher. She focused the attention of the world on Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles through her conservation efforts. Today volunteers run shows.
Location: 6617 Padre Boulevard
University of Texas Pan American Coastal Studies Laboratory. Just south of town, the University of Texas Coastal Studies Laboratory offers another chance to learn more about Gulf marine life. Here research focuses on coastal ecosystems, including a study of the sea turtles and dolphins that live in the area. You can stop by the lab Sunday through Friday for a look at aquariums filled with marine life. Located at Isla Blanca Park at the south end of the island.
When to Go
South Padre Island is a year-around destination. Winter days are generally too cool for swimming but nice for beach walks, horseback riding and birding. Know that South Padre Island is a major destination for spring breakers in March; whether this is a plus or minus is up to you.
Getting There
There’s no airport on South Padre Island. Air service to South Padre Island is available through Harlingen’s Valley International Airport, a 45-minute drive from the island, and the Brownsville-South Padre Island International Airport, a 30-minute drive.
Map
For More Information: South Padre Island Convention and Visitors Bureau