Your Guide to South Padre Island—One of Texas's Best Kept Secrets
All the best places to stay, play, and everything in-between.
Summer is slowly creeping in, which means it’s time for a vacation! If you want to head off the beaten path, cruise down Queen Isabella Causeway where the green palm trees meet the blue sky, welcoming you to South Padre Island. The small beach town (population just over 2,000) is Texas's very own tropical island.
About 30 minutes from the Mexican border, SPI offers more than 30 miles of sand, surf and plenty of sunshine. Before arriving to the island, travelers go through its neighboring town, Port Isabel. There, you can visit the last open lighthouse in the state of Texas. Climb to the top and take in breathtaking views of South Padre. The island is unique in many ways, one being that you’re surrounded by different bodies of water while you’re there. Dip your toes in the Gulf of Mexico on one side and splash around Laguna Madre Bay on the opposite.
SPI is home to plenty of locals who take pride in their tropical town. You’ll find the area’s best restaurants where you can cook your own catch, find some award-winning fish tacos, and sip on a refreshing drink while you watch the sun set over the water. Sound charming yet? If so, I'm sharing all of my favorite hidden gems and must visit spots on the island.
Anna Mahan is the Associate Commerce Editor for Country Living. She finds and shares a variety of the best lifestyle products, from fashion and beauty to cast iron skillets.
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