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South Padre Island, TX

Imagine soft sand squishing between your toes, the roar of the waves cascading across a picturesque beach, the sun warming your glistening skin to a bronzed finish. No, this isn't some far away Pacific island, this is a tropical paradise that can be found right here in the U.S. at South Padre Island. Situated near the southern-most tip of Texas, right on the Gulf of Mexico, South Padre Island is perhaps best known by college co-eds, who flock there every year for Spring Break to languish in the warm ocean and clear their minds. However, South Padre Island isn't a wild, 24-hour frat party. It's the ideal family vacation destination during any time of the year.

With well-appointed family accommodations and traditional surf-style hospitality, South Padre Island is a vacationer's delight. Although it's only 30 miles long, there is a lot to do on this sun-drenched island! Never one to be stagnant, South Padre Island, Texas has a full calendar of events so no matter when you plan on stopping down for your vacation, there's always something remarkable and entertaining going on.

Things to Do on South Padre Island

All year long, family-friendly events take place along the South Padre Island beaches. For instance, in April, the annual Queen Isabella Market Day takes place as well as Beach-N-Biker Fest and the Texas State Surfing Championships. The month of May has the memorable Turtle Days and volleyball tournaments, among other exciting events. Every month of the year brings with it different annual events and festivals to the sandy shores of South Padre Island, so don't worry if you can't make these events, there are plenty of others!

South Padre Island is also home to 40 shipwrecks and 12 oil rigs, each one a history lesson of a time long past. Divers delight in taking to the depths to investigate these lost maritime marvels. In fact, South Padre Island has an entire week dedicated to the underwater sport in September, which is called Dive Week! This year, the Texas Clipper is being added to the Ships-to-Reefs Program, where ships are used to create artificial reefs for the abundant underwater life to call home.

Even the holidays are presented in style on South Padre Island. In December, stay at one of the many South Padre Island hotels and bring your camera for the Christmas Lighted Boat Parade. There won't be any snow, but all will enjoy the Christmas feeling!

Even though South Padre Island is a sun-covered paradise most of the time, there may be a day or two of your vacation where it may rain. Luckily, there are plenty of things you can still enjoy when you can't hit the beach. Drop the kids off at an afternoon movie while you head on over to the Bamboo Day Spa for a bit of relaxation. Once you're rejuvenated, take in some shopping at the many colorful markets on the island. Then, have a delicious dinner at any one of the marvelous eateries. At Amberjack's Bayside Bar & Grill, the burgers are made to order, the steaks are juicy and hot and the prices are right on spot.

Planning a South Padre Island Excursion

Thanks to the year-round heavenly climate, you can catch a South Padre Island flight anytime. Likewise, the South Padre Island hotels are also always ready for your visit. The lifestyle is laid back on SPI, so there's no rush. Just look online for the best prices on your flight and accommodations and get set for a relaxing, fun-filled family vacation that won't drain your bank account.

User Reviews

Traveler Beware 
submitted by lwelling, February 9, 2009
Husband and I traveled to SPI February 2009 o
n business/pleasure trip. Encouraged by local ... more
Traveler Beware 
submitted by lwelling, February 9, 2009
Husband and I traveled to SPI February 2009 o
n business/pleasure trip. Encouraged by local ... more

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