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This popular seaside resort
area on the Gulf Coast at the southern tip of Texas, includes the island and
the neighboring mainland town of Port Isabel.
Its 34 mile long stretch of
white sand is bordered to the east by the Gulf of Mexico and to the west by the
Laguna Madre Bay. The conveniences and attractions of a modern resort, coupled
with miles of pristine island terrain are what draws thousands of visitors to
the area each year and has brought many back to live.
South Padre Island is a dream come true for those that love to play in the water
or soar through the sky. There are several places on the Island to rent
equipment. Jet skis, wave runners, kayaks, and Hobie cats can be rented for as
little as one-half hour or for longer periods of time. Windsurfing and
kiteboarding are also popular water sports on the Island. There is a wide array
of choices for touring the Island by land or by water. A horseback ride on the
beach at sunset is one of several ways to end a perfect day in the tropics.
South Padre Island is the spot to try those water sports that you have imagined
yourself trying as you sat at home dreaming of a vacation in the sun.
Kiteboarding is fast becoming
the hottest new water sport, and South Padre Island offers year round,
world-class kiteboarding conditions. The Laguna Madre's waist deep water and
consistent winds give everyone from beginners to expert riders near perfect
flat-water conditions in which to hone their skills. Advanced kiteboarders will
enjoy riding the Laguna Madre and the waves of the Gulf of Mexico.
Other local activities
include boating, swimming, fishing, surfing, sailboarding, beachcombing on long
white beaches, birding, camping, in-line skating, parasailing, and bungee
jumping.
Among the places to see in
Port Isabel is the lighthouse, that was built in 1853 and is now a State
Historic Site. You can climb to the top for a bird's-eye view of the coast.
Boats from Port Isabel's fleet can be seen docked all around the harbor area,
and you can watch them head out every morning.
The natural surroundings of
South Padre Island and the Rio Grande Valley give birders and wildlife
enthusiasts the opportunity to study and observe a wide variety of species. On
South Padre Island, nature lovers will appreciate and enjoy the last 34 miles of
ecologically significant, unspoiled beaches and sand dunes along the Gulf of
Mexico. Due primarily to its location, South Padre Island is a feeding ground
for various migrating birds. The fall months, namely October and November, bring
birds headed south for the winter.
The white, sandy beaches of
South Padre are well known throughout the United States. In fact, the beaches of
South Padre Island are ranked among America’s top 10 beaches, with the emerald
water of the Gulf of Mexico serving as the perfect backdrop for spectacular
sunsets.
The island is perfect for sailing, fishing, windsurfing, dolphin watching,
horseback riding, shopping, and golf. The evenings come alive with dining,
dancing and music. Large selections of fine restaurants are available, and many
will cook your catch! South Padre Island is the perfect place for a for a
change of pace in a vacation paradise.
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