Welcome to Paradise How to Get to South Padre Visitor Information South Padre Island Map Our History SpaceX Attractions & Recreation 2025 Event Highlights Things To Do! Arts Community Weddings In Paradise Our Winter Texan Friends Nature - Island Style Quality Healthcare South Padre Island Economic Facts Our Neighbors Education Rental Agencies & Accommodations Eats and Treats
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©2025 South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce • All Rights Reserved • Printed in the U.S.A. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information herein. However, the authors and South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce are not responsible for any errors or omissions which might have occurred. This guide may not be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without the express written permission of the publisher.
Published by South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce 4113 Padre Blvd. South Padre Island, Texas 78597 956-761-4412 • FAX 956-761-2739 info@spichamber.com spichamber.com @spichamber
Production Director Dianna L. Harvill Photography Dianna L. Harvill William Kierce, PRCA Photographer Visit South Padre Island SpaceX
ISLA PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Layout & Design Clarissa Creel Bryant Ad Design Toucan Graphics Stan Hulse & Adrian Hulse toucangraphics.net Printing Shweiki Media Co. San Antonio, Texas shweiki.com
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South Padre Island, a town with style - a folksy, warm, inviting style that welcomes people from all walks of life is located on the tropical tip of Texas, and is the premiere resort in Texas.
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This 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 is what draws thousands of visitors to the area each year, and has brought many back to live. The natural beauty of its beaches, its vibrant business climate and the friendly people that call the Island home matches South Padre’s rich history. The white, sandy beaches of South Padre are known throughout the United States (ranked as one of America’s top 10 beaches), with the emerald water of the Gulf of Mexico serving as the perfect backdrop for spectacular sunsets. From sunrise to sunset, the Island is the perfect playground for sailing, fishing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, diving, snorkeling, dolphin watching, horseback riding, shopping and golf, just to mention a few. As the day winds down with spectacular sunsets over the bay, the evenings come alive with dining, dancing and music. Large selections of fine restaurants are available for your choosing, and many will even cook your catch. While its many amenities make South Padre the premiere vacation spot in the state, the location of the Island also makes it one of the premiere spots in the state to observe wildlife in its natural state, and to find that allusive bird to add to your list. One of the best spots in the United States to see all of the regularly occurring rails, South Padre has over 350 recorded species to date, and the list continues to grow, as do the bird watchers. With year round moderate temperatures, South Padre Island is the ideal spot for everyone. Whether you are looking for a second home, searching for the ideal place to retire, a family looking for a week long get away, a winter visitor looking for a warm spot during the long cold winter months, or a college student looking for the best spot to relax during Spring Break, South Padre Island is your ultimate choice! Welcome to the Tropical Tip of Texas! a
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By Air
From the Airport to the Island: SPI-Shuttle (service to/from airports) 956-621-8647 spi-shuttle.com South Padre Surf Shuttle (service to/from airports) 956-443-1406 spisurfshuttle.com Valley Metro (service to/from Brownsville SPI International Airport) 800-574-8322 956-969-4641 valleymetro.org
Mathis
37
Alice 281
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Corpus Christi Kingsville
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TEXAS
Texas
xico
McAllen International Airport McAllenairport.com (1-1/2 hours) Aeromar 844-237-6629 aeromar.us Allegiant 800-432-3810 allegiant.com American Airlines 800-433-7300 aa.com United Airlines 800-523-3273 United.com
Valley International Airport - Harlingen Flythevalley.com (50 minutes) American Airlines 800-433-7300 aa.com Delta Airlines 800-221-1212 delta.com Southwest 800-435-9792 southwest.com Sun Country 800-752-1218 suncountry.com United Airlines 800-523-3273 United.com
Me Gulf of
Brownsville South Padre International Airport Flybrownsville.com (30 minutes) Aerus 52-812-682-3501 Flyaerus.com American Airlines 800-433-7300 aa.com United Airlines 800-523-3273 United.com
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Harlingen 83
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Brownsville
South Padre Island Port Isabel
South Padre Island
Matamoros
TRAVELING TO SOUTH PADRE ISLAND OR MATAMOROS?
By Water Call the Port Isabel/San Benito Navigation District, (956) 943-7826, for regulations and additional information.
By Land State Highway 550, and U.S. Highways 77, 281, or 83. Take Interstate 37 South from San Antonio to U.S. Hwy. 77 South. From Austin .......................................................340 miles From Dallas .......................................................531 miles From Houston ...................................................367 miles From Lubbock ...................................................703 miles From San Antonio .............................................285 miles From El Paso ......................................................815 miles From Mexico City ..............................................666 miles From Monterrey................................................225 miles From Tampico ...................................................336 miles Mexico border is 25 miles from South Padre Island. 8 spichamber.com
Arrive faster and safer to your destination with a Fuego Tag.
CCRMA Coming Soon
Accepted on all toll roads in the states of Texas, Kansas & Oklahoma
Soon to be interoperable at the Cameron County International Bridges and Cameron County Coastal Parks.
Visit www.fuegotag.org to create a Fuego Account.
How to Get to South Padre Imagine a beautiful tropical Island with miles and miles of unspoiled beaches.
STARNIES HOT DOGS & MORE
It lies in the sun beside the sparkling Gulf of Mexico. It is a place where sparkling beaches, warm water, friendly hospitality and relaxing activities come together. It’s not your imagination, it’s the ideal paradise to live or vacation, it’s South Padre Island. Getting to South Padre Island is easy. Whether you fly, drive or arrive by boat, the Island is easily accessible. If traveling by air, there are three major airports that provide a variety of commercial carriers and one local airport for those flying themselves to the Island. Ground transportation is available from all four airports including car rentals, shuttle buses and taxi service. If traveling by car, the scenic route to the Island is made easy by well maintained four-lane highways, including State Highway 550 (SH 550), a toll route around the northern and eastern edges of Brownsville, Texas, which partly replaces and expands FM 511. SH 550 connects I-69E and US 77/US 83 southeastward giving residents and visitors the advantage of an easier, faster, and safer route to points of interest such as Port Isabel and South Padre Island. All vehicles can use SH 550 because no stops are required to pay toll bills— all tolls installed are electronic. If arriving by boat, the intercoastal channel provides access to all boats, from the smallest to the largest. a
RGV ABSTRACT
SPI SURF SHUTTLE sopadre.com
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Visitor Information South Padre Island is a 34-mile long sub-tropical Island located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, 25 miles north of the Mexican border. The Island is a halfmile wide at its widest point and only the Island’s southernmost five miles are developed. More than 5,000 residents call South Padre Island home, with approximately five million overnight visitors each year. The Island is on the same latitude as Fort Lauderdale.
Valley Metro
FREE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Need transportation? While on the island, enjoy the services of the Island’s FREE Island Metro shuttle bus. Leave your car at home or use the Park & Ride. Island Metro can pick you up and drop you off anywhere along the route on the Island, and there are routes that can take you back across the bridge to Port Isabel, where you will use the bus stop closest to your destination. Island Metro runs 7 days a week, 7:00 am to 9:00 pm, servicing South Padre Island, Port Isabel, and Laguna Heights. For a downloadable copy of the Island Metro schedule, go to www.myspi.org. For more information, call 956.761.8178, follow on Facebook @Island Metro, or download the RIDESYSTEMS APP by scanning the QR code, which will provide the live location of buses, arrival predictions, and other important bus route information. Island Metro is located at 321 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, TX
Island Metro
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FLY HARLINGEN AND SAVE OVER 34% ON TICKETS WHEN COMPARED TO
OTHER RGV AIRPORTS Dept. of Transportation (DOT) YEQ2’2023
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS Call 911 first for all emergencies.
South Padre Island EMS 956-761-5454 South Padre Island Police Dept. 956-761-5454 South Padre Island Fire Dept. 956-761-3040 U.S. Coast Guard Station - SPI 956-761-2668 Cameron County Parks Police 956-761-5283 SOUTH PADRE ISLAND OCEAN RESCUE
AIR AND WATER TEMPERATURE COMPARISONS WATER TEMP
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC
South Padre Island 58 60 64 70 77 79 79 80 83 78 71 64 The goal of the South Padre Island Ocean Rescue is to monitor beach activities and provide rescue services as needed on Galveston, TX 54 55 61 71 78 83 86 86 83 75 67 59 the City’s beaches. The long narrow beaches of South Padre Freeport, TX 53 56 62 71 77 82 84 85 82 75 66 59 Island do not lend themselves to traditional stationary lifePensacola, FL 56 58 63 71 78 84 85 86 82 74 65 58 guard towers; therefore a “mobile patrol” is used to cover all of the City’s beach area. However, there are lifeguard towers AIR TEMP JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC at the area hot spots such as Clayton’s Beach Bar, Wanna South Padre Island 67 70 75 79 84 88 89 89 87 83 76 69 Wanna, Boomerang Billy’s and the hotel area on the south Galveston, TX 62 64 70 75 81 87 89 89 87 80 71 64 end of the Island. They not only respond to calls for assistFreeport, TX 63 65 72 77 83 88 90 90 87 80 72 65 ance and caution people on the beach about potentially hazardous actions, they also provide minor first aid for jellyfish Pensacola, FL 61 64 70 76 83 89 91 90 87 79 70 63 stings, scrapes, cuts, etc. The Ocean Rescue members also act as ambassadors for the City by providing information to our visitors on such far ranging topics such as “what kind of fish it that” to “where is a good place to watch the sunset”. Please feel free to flag them down for any questions you may have. The primary goal of the team is “PREVENTION”. The Ocean Rescue is an essential part of making our visitors trip to the beach a happy and safe experience.
SPI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Located in the heart of South Padre Island at 4113 Padre Blvd., the Chamber provides information to tourist, local residents and those looking to relocate to our beautiful Island about services and supplies provided by their business members. The new location will provide a much larger lobby filled with flyers, maps, brochures, and much more to provide you with everything you need for the perfect vacation. For more information go to www.spichamber.com, email info@spichamber.com, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn @spichamber, call them at 956-761-4412 or stop by their offices – staff members love to talk about things to do and places to go in Paradise (aka South Padre Island). Lobby hours are Monday – Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. See you soon in Paradise!
SPI VISITORS CENTER Located in the lobby of the Island Metro Bldg., at 321 Padre Blvd., the SPI Visitors Center has a selection of flyers, coupons and brochures. Visitor Center staff are always available to answer questions and provide any other assistance visitors and residents might need. Open Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm. Closed holidays. Hours of operation are subject to change due to seasonality. For more information call 956-761-6433.
BEACH AND PARKING ACCESSIBILTY People from all over the world come to enjoy the beautiful beaches on South Padre Island, and making them accessible is a top priority for the City. To promote accessibility the City has 28 beach access points along the less than 3 mile stretch of Gulf Blvd. Of the 28 beach access points, 22 are developed, and currently provide 423 parking spaces, of which 28 are accessible. In addition to these parking spaces, there are an additional 310 public parking spaces along Gulf Boulevard, and 7 accessible parking spaces. 15 of the side streets off of Gulf Blvd. provide an additional 421 public parking spaces. The City also provides Mobichairs to visitors, FREE of charge, on a first come first serve basis. Mobichairs are amphibious wheelchairs that are beach and surf accessible. They not only allow
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someone with special needs to get out and enjoy the beach, but also allow them to access the water. 9 of the 28 beach accesses have mobi-mats and 12 have walkovers for easier accessibility. To reserve a Mobichair contact the South Padre Island’s Fire Department at 956-761-3040. The City of South Padre Island also has accessible transportation. All Island Metro buses meet ADA requirements and are equipped with wheelchair lifts. Island Metro also offers the Paratransit service which allows passengers to be picked up and transported to any of our beach accesses. The passenger requesting the Paratransit service must complete an application, which includes a section for your physician to complete. Completed applications must be returned to City of South Padre Island, Transportation Department, 321 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, TX 78597. Upon receipt, the application will be reviewed by transportation department staff. To receive a copy of the application, or directions on how to download call the transportation department at 956.761.8178.
BEACH RULES
Mobichairs
Beach days are precious, and too often they are few and far between. It is important to be aware of local beach rules and simple etiquette that will ensure everyone, you and those around you, enjoy their well-deserved beach vacation. • Please do not trash our beautiful beaches. Trash cans are provided for your convenience. In the event receptacles are full, please take trash with you for disposal. • Glass is not allowed on the beach. • While the use of small charcoal grills is allowed on the beach, open camp fires built into the sand are not. When cleaning your area at the end of the day, please take your coals with you. Do not bury your hot coals, as someone could come along and step on them and be burned; and please do not dump them into trash receptacles. • Be considerate of people around you in regards to language and music volume.
BEACH SAFETY The beaches of South Padre Island are here for your enjoyment. To help you get the most out of your beach vacation, the Island has implemented a flag system that gives you much needed information regarding surf conditions. Watch for these flags and heed their warnings: Red Flag - Heavy surf and dangerous currents. Yellow Flag - Calm to moderate water. Does not assume safe water. Blue Flag - Presence of venomous marine life (Jellyfish and Man-O-War). The absence of a flag does not guarantee safe water. In the event of an emergency dial 911.
RIP CURRENT SAFETY TIPS • • • • •
Never swim alone. Learn how to swim in the surf. It’s not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Be cautious at all times. If in doubt, don’t go out. Obey all instructions and orders from the Beach Patrol. Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist along the sides of these structures. • Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface. • Pay close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing. If caught in a rip current: • Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly. • Never fight against the current. • Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of. • Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle away from the current and towards shore. • If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore. • If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help. If you see someone in trouble, don’t become a victim too: • Get help from a member of the Beach Patrol. • Call 9-1-1 if a member of the Beach Patrol is not immediately available. • Do not attempt to rescue the person in trouble. • Throw the rip current victim something that floats such as a lifejacket, a cooler or an inflatable ball. • Yell instructions on how to escape. • Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current. 14
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BEACH ACCESS AMENITIES There are 28 beach accesses located in the city limits of South Padre Island. 22 of these beach accesses are developed STREET # OF SPACES and provide 423 regular public parking 22 Sunny Isle spaces, and 14 of the beach accesses 38 Polaris provide 28 accessible parking spaces. 44 Jupiter Please refer to the map on this page for parking access data. There are several 48 Venus accesses that provide other amenities 34 Verna Jean to make our visitors visit to the beach 26 Lantana enjoyable. Please see chart below for a 16 Atol complete list of beach access amenities. 41 Sunset In addition to the beach accesses, 16 Morning Side there are another 310 parking spaces 16 Esperanza along Gulf Blvd. with 7 of them being 22 Hibiscus accessible. There are also 15 side streets 11 Oleander off of Gulf Blvd. that provide 421 public 34 Huisache parking spaces. See list of streets and 36 Mesquite available parking spaces to the right. a 17
Hass
GULF BLVD. BEACH ACCESS Mobi-Mat 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Harbor Ocean Gulf Beach Circle Sea Island Seaside Circle Surf Circle Whitecap Circle Bluewater Circle Riviera Circle Treasure Island Daydream Moonlight Bougainvillea Poinsettia Butterfly Garden Neptune Starlight Aquarius Aurora Gay Dawn Good Hope Fantasy Sapphire Sunset White Sands
OTHER
1 2
Pearl La Copa Accessible
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• • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • •
Bike Rack
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Bench
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Walkover
Stairs
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•
•
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•
Paved Walkway
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Wooden Path
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Rinse Station
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Restrooms Picnic Table
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• • •
•
• • • • •
•
SEA TURTLE INC.
Bayview
County Beach Access #5
SPI BIRDING & NATURE CENTER
White Sands
Sunset Sapphire
County Beach Access #4
Gulf Blvd
Wharf
County Beach Access #3
Laguna Dr
Andy Bowie Bay Access County Park P100 SPI CONVENTION CENTRE
Bayview
SEA TURTLE INC.
White Sands 8-R
Villas Haciendas
King’s Court
N
Sapphire
o Fantasy 9-R ett e lm rad Coronado Pa Pa Morningside A 9-R Cora Lee Good Hope 2Carolyn A 6-R Georgia Ruth Gay Dawn 2Verna Jean Polaris Aurora 19-R Aries 8-R Capricorn Aquarius 2-A Constellation 11-R Mars Starlight 1-A Jupiter Venus Neptune 13-R n 3-R Saturn Butterfly Garde -R Esperanza Poinsettia 10 Hibiscus 2-A 9-R Gardenia Bougainvillea Oleander A 4-R Lantana Moonlight 1Huisache Mesquite Daydream Retama 1-A 7-R Atol P100 Treasure Island Bahama Campeche Riviera Acapulco -R Kingfish Blue Water 25 Dolphin 20-R r pe Red Snap White Cap 1-A Swordfish -R Whiting Surf 3-A 19 Amberjack 12-R A Pike 1Seaside Ling R Marlin Sea Island 9Tarpon St 17-R A 2Beach Cir Pompano Sheepshead 19-R Corral Gulf Cir 2-A Palm 2-A 26-R Marisol Ocean Dr N Tarpon es Isl -R y 13 Sunn S Tarpon Harbor Hass
exico
Laguna Cir S
Gulf of M
Sunset
Tropical a a an Lynd Hav
Cir
a Yucc
una
Lag
Gulf Blvd
Mexico
Gulf Blvd
Padre Blvd
Gulf of Me
Padre Blvd
Number of parking spaces available at each beach access are noted above as: A – Accessible Parking R – Regular Parking
County Beach Access #2
SPI BIRDING & NATURE CENTER
Gulf of
Matamoros
Breakers
Main er Wat Marina
Padre Blvd
Shore
Fountain Beach Dr
Circe
Laguna Ci Cir S
o Fantasy 9-R ett e lm rad Coronado Pa Pa Morningside A 9-R Cora Lee Good Hope 2Carolyn A 6-R Georgia Ruth Gay Dawn 2Verna Jean Polaris Aurora 19-R Aries 8-R Capricorn Aquarius 2-A Constellation 11-R Mars Starlight 1-A Jupiter Venus Neptune 13-R n 3-R Saturn Butterfly Garde -R 10 Esperanza ia ett ins Po Hibiscus 2-A 9-R Gardenia Bougainvillea Oleander A 4-R Lantana Moonlight 1Mathis che isa Hu 37 181 Mesquite SPI Daydream Retama Chamber of 1-A 7-R Alice l Ato Commerce P100 Treasure Island Corpus Christi Bahama 281 Campeche Riviera Kingsville Acapulco -R Kingfish Blue Water 25 Dolphin 20-R 359 Red Snapper White Cap 1-A Swordfish TEXAS -R Whiting Surf 3-A 19 Amberjack 12-R Pike Seaside 1-A Ling n R Marli Sea Island 9Tarpon St 17-R A 2no 77 Beach Cir Pompa South Sheepshead 19-R Corral Padre Gulf Cir 2-A Palm Harlingen Island 26-R -A 2 Marisol Ocean Dr 83 N Tarpon es Isl -R y 100 13 nn on Su S Tarp Harbor Port Isabel Brownsville Hass
Circe
Sunset
Tropical a a an Lynd Hav
N Cir
a Yucc
una Lag
King’s Court
Fountain Beach Dr
Villas Haciendas
P100
R
120Pearl 6-A
BEACH PARK AT ISLA BLANCA
Isla Blanca County Park
Madre
Island Metro Bldg SPI Visitors Center
xico
-R LaCopa 27
Laguna Dr
Laguna
Queen Isabella Causeway
Gulf Blvd
Padre Blvd
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There is little written history of those early days on Padre Island with most of our information coming from explorers or reports of people who were shipwrecked on the Island. In 1519, Spanish explorer Alonso Alvarez de Pineda was on a mapping mission for the King of Spain when he discovered the Brazos Santiago Pass. He described treacherous sandbars and a shoreline littered with spars and rigging from ships that had wrecked many years before. Pineda also made contact with numerous groups of Indians (Coahuiltecans) living near the mouth of the Rio Grande. These same Indians gained notoriety when in 1554 three ships, part of a treasure fleet outbound for Spain, wrecked along the shores of Padre Island. Over three hundred people survived only to be hunted down and killed by local Indians while trying to walk southward for safety. Only two survived to tell the story. Lamenting the loss of human life, the pragmatic Spaniards sent ships and men who managed to salvage over 40% of the treasure that the three ships carried. The rest lay buried beneath the sands of Padre Island. It was the rediscovery and excavation of one of these ships by local treasure hunters in 1967 that led to the institution of the Texas State Antiquity Laws which covers all publicly owned property in the State of Texas. This jurisdiction also extends ten and 3⁄4 miles into the Gulf of Mexico. In 1749, Jose Escandon led an expedition of 600 men to explore the Rio Grande Valley. He reported a few scattered huts
and the occasional shell midden as the only tangible evidence of man’s presence on the coast. Farther inland, he came upon many different tribes of Indians. Escandon’s report led to the successful colonization of the Lower Rio Grande Valley in 1751. Twenty years later, a military patrol found an abandoned village of mud huts near the southern tip of the Island. Also found, just across Brazos Pass, were skeletal remains of a twenty gun British warship long ago abandoned. Except for the yearly migration of local Indians, the Island itself would remain largely uninhabited. Seventy years later, Captain Ben McCulloch, led a company of Texas Rangers down the Padre’s Island (as it was now called) from Corpus Christi at the onset of the Mexican War. “The island is uninhabited save by one old man,” McCulloch reported, “who follows the business of a wrecker, and lives not far from Point Isabel, in a wild-looking place, which he calls, after himself, Tilley’s Camp. Uncle Tilley lives there, and employs himself in gathering the wrecks of cargoes with which the beach is strewn, seeming perfectly happy in his loneliness, the undisputed lord of this desert isle.” Tilley became famous throughout the nation as, the “Hermit of Padre Island.” Shortly after he died his
obituary was published in hundreds of eastern newspapers. Fifteen years later the sands of Padre Island once again felt the tread of marching men, except this time it was not the soldiers of one country bent on wresting the land from another. Instead, it was the tread of fellow countrymen determined to maintain a union. Though most of the battles of that war were fought in far-away places, the depot at Brazos Santiago was home to the Northern Soldiers who sallied forth one rainy May night in 1865 in an effort to capture some Rebel positions westward towards Brownsville. Though boys in blue had superior numbers, the Confederates under the command of Rip Ford, carried the day and the last battle of the Civil War was won by the Southerners. Several hundred Union troopers were captured with 120 wounded and one killed outright. Unfortunately for the victorious rebels, the war had actually ended five weeks prior. The Battle of Palmetto Ranch, as it became known, was the last official battle of the Civil War. To visit the battle site drive west from Port Isabel on State Highway 48. Turn south on FM 511 at the Port of Brownsville and drive south until the road intersects with State Highway 4. Turn east and the marker can be found a few miles down the road towards Boca Chica Beach. sopadre.com 19
Padre Nicholas Balli, for whom the Island gets its name, was the first European to bring families to the Island. Twenty-six miles north of the Island’s southern tip, he and his nephew Juan, founded El Rancho Santa Cruz de Buena Vista (later known as the Lost City), where he kept cattle, horses and mules. The actual ranch and outbuildings were little more than thatched huts known as jacals. Because of its natural fences of water, the Island was a perfect spot for raising livestock. In 1811, Padre Balli stated in his will that he owned 1,000 head of cattle. He also built the first church on the Island for the conversion of the Karankawa Indians and for the benefit of the settlers. Ironically, Balli never lived on the Island that bears his name today. He left the day to day operations of the ranch to his nephew Juan, who also held title to a sizable amount of the Island, while he (the Padre) spent most of his time on the mainland ministering to the spiritual and material needs of his people. Padre Balli died on April 16, 1829, and was buried
near Matamoros. A statue of Padre Balli stands sentinel at the eastern foot of the Queen Isabella Memorial Causeway. Juan operated the ranch until the storm of 1844 after which he moved to the mainland. The ranch was abandoned, but only a few short years would pass before its new occupants arrived on the scene. John Singer’s lost treasure has been the subject of numerous stories; the stuff from which legends are born. During the final days of the Mexican War, John and Johanna Singer along with several sons, had been beating down the coast in their schooner, the Alice Sadell, when a severe storm drove their craft aground near the center of the Island. It was there the family discovered the remains of Santa Cruz, the old ranch owned by Padre Balli. The Singer’s bought the land from Juan Balli in 1851 paying $2,500 for a like amount of acres that included the headquarters of the old ranch. Wild cattle, left over from the Padre’s ranch, were easy to catch and by the time Lincoln was elected, the Singer’s herd numbered over
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1500, but, this wasn’t the only source of income for the newcomers. It was rumored that John and his boys, who were by now avid beachcombers, had accumulated somewhere in the neighborhood of $60,000 worth of jewels, Spanish coins and gold bullion. When the Civil War broke out, John decided to move his family to Flour Bluff near Corpus Christi. But before leaving, figuring that his money would be safer buried on the Island, John and the boys filled several stone jars and buried them at a site where they believed they would easily be found in the future. After the War, the Singer’s returned for their treasure only to find that another great storm, much like the one that had wrecked them twenty years earlier had totally inundated the Island, destroying the ranch headquarters and washing away all the markers John had planted. Though he and his sons were noted beachcombers, the treasure would remain lost. By 1912, the southern part of Padre, now known as “Tarpon Beach,” was home to
a hotel and a cluster of fishing camps. Visitors arrived by ferry boat and were offloaded near where Children’s Beach is located today in Isla Blanca Park. From there it was a long walk across a wooden boardwalk that led to the shores of Padre Island. One had to be at the landing to catch the return ferry at dusk or risk having to spend the night on the Island. Completion of the first causeway in 1954 finally opened Padre Island to development. In the ensuing years a second causeway replaced the first in 1974. The residents of the Island voted for incorporation in April 1973. Of the 158 votes cast, 128 were in favor of incorporation while 28 were against. Thus the Town of South Padre Island was born. In 2009, the proposed Home Rule Charter was approved by the voters and South Padre Island officially became a City. a Article contributed by Steve Hathcock www.southpadretv.tv, steve@southpadretv.tv
ISLA TOURS
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LONGBOARD/ MEATBALL
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Boca Chica
There has never been a more exciting time in space exploration and never more opportunities to have a front row seat to see rocket history being made. Space enthusiasts flock to Houston and visit the Johnson Space Center. Others travel to Florida to explore the Kennedy Space Center, and now people can travel to South Padre Island to view launches as SpaceX continues to test Starship. Located on the same latitude as Naples and Fort Lauderdale, South Padre Island is quickly becoming the Texas Space Coast. Starship is a fully reusable transportation system designed to carry crew and cargo into Earth orbit, to the moon and Mars. All eyes were on South Texas when history was made on April 20, 2023 at 8:33 am (local time). The world’s most powerful rocket, standing 394-feet tall with 33 methane-fueled engines, launched from the Starbase Facility, and while it did not reach space, it was still an amazing event to witness. On November 18, 2023 the second Starship flight test was conducted. Starship successfully lifted off under the power of 33 Raptor engines and made it through stage separation. The booster was scheduled to land in the Gulf of Mexico, but exploded during the boostback burn. Starships second stage proceeded for 8 minutes, reaching an altitude of 93 miles (space is reached at 62 miles), but close to the second stage burn Starship vented excess liquid oxygen, which resulted in a fire and loss of the vehicle. While Starship did not perform as planned, the mission was a success for SpaceX with what was learned, and a success for South Padre Island. On March 14, 2024, the world’s largest and most powerful rocket reached orbital velocity in its historic third launch. Where better to dip your toes in the Gulf of Mexico, walk on the beach, AND watch history being made right from your beach chair! Thanks to the SpaceX Boca Chica launch site being located just across the bay from South Padre Island, the Island has seen an increase in visitors who are space tourists, and are coming to stay for a week during projected launch windows to witness the launches in person. Space junkies can be seen lining the southern part of South Padre Island and the jetties from Isla Blanca Park on scheduled launch days. South Padre Island is the perfect place to be for the launches. Not only do you have a front seat to watch the launches, there are plenty of things to see and do if the launch is delayed for a day or two. Not visiting during a launch? Even viewing SpaceX assemble, and test fire of the rockets is fascinating, or take a drive down Hwy. 4, when space activity is not planned, to see the rocket up close. You will be the envy of all your friends when you post that selfie with the rocket behind you. All of this can be done as people enjoy Texas’ only tropical island. South Padre Island has the same vibe that is not too far from the feeling visitors get when they are in the Florida Keys. If you want to catch a glimpse of the future of space travel just head on down to the Texas Space Coast on South Padre Island. What better place to combine your love for all things space with well-deserved Island time. For more information visit www.spacex.com. a
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Attractions & Recreation
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Andy Bowie Park
Located beachside on Park Rd. 100 at the north end of the Island across from the South Padre Island Convention Centre. Day use facilities include 18 full hook-up RV spaces, beachfront picnic pavilions, concessions, shower facilities and a ranger station. The park is also home to Hilton Garden Inn Beach Resort which provides an array of amenities and can accommodate large and small conferences. For more information call 956.761.3704.
Beach Park at Isla Blanca Waterpark
Splash into more than a dozen water attractions, including slides, tube chutes, uphill water coasters, the Sand Castle water fun house and the Boogie Bahn2 surfing ride. A river links the tube chutes and water coasters with the park’s beaches, so guests float between rides on water. Open weekends beginning mid-May; open daily late May through late August, and open weekends only late August through mid-September. For more information call 956.772.SURF or go to www.beachparktx.com
Blue Star Memorial
The Blue Star Memorial Highway Markers and By-Way Markers are dedicated to all the courageous men and women of the United States Armed Forces who so bravely have fought and gave their lives so that we may all be free. The City of South Padre Island is honored to have one of the By-Way markers located in front of the city hall building located at 4601 Padre Blvd.
Cameron County Amphitheater & Event Center
Located in the Dolphin Cove area inside Isla Blanca Park, the
Amphitheater is surrounded with tropical landscaping overseeing the Brazos Santiago Ship Channel with a spectacular view of the Laguna Madre and the Gulf of Mexico. This open-air facility is approximately 41,095 square feet with a seating capacity for 4,285 spectators. It includes 825 stone shade seating and 3,460 lawn seating. This innovated outdoor venue hosts events such as concerts, performing arts, school events, festivals and other outdoor events. The Amphitheater is also a great location to view the SpaceX launches. If you are looking for space for a small conference, meeting, wedding, etc. look no further. Two ocean view rooms are available with a seating capacity up to 300. State-of-the-art audio is available, and a kitchen that any caterer will be happy to work in. For more information call 956.356.6277 or visit their website at www.cameroncounty venues.com
City Parks
Butterfly Park, located at 4316 Gulf Blvd., is part of the National Wildlife Federation’s Mayors’ Monarch Pledge initiative. Mayor Barry Patel signed the pledge on October 22, 2016, declaring the City’s support for Monarch initiatives. The park features a covered picnic bench area, butterfly statue, many varieties of native Rio Grande Valley plants, beautiful views of the Gulf and has access to the beach. John L. Tompkins Park The John L. Tompkins Park is the core of the citywide system of parks and open space, and the diverse park facilities include a skate park, basketball court, bocce ball court, soccer field, walking track with 6 exercise stations, 2
playgrounds, 2 shaded picnic areas and restrooms. Access is available from both Padre Blvd. and the beach creating a systemic connection between inland and onshore. The park is located at 6100 Padre Blvd. Lis Memorial Park was made possible by a generous donation by Dr. Joseph C. and Jeanne K. Lis. This neighborhood green space consists of a bench that overlooks a wetland area and provides a nice place to take a break during the day. Pickleball Courts The very popular courts are located at 610 Padre Blvd., behind the future South Padre Island Historical Museum. The area consists of four courts (3 for play and 1 for challenge), shaded picnic tables, and is ADA-accessible. More amenities to come in 2025! Queen Isabella Memorial Park is located in the median near the crossover at the foot of the Queen Isabella Causeway. Located on this site is a monument to the victims of the 2001 Causeway Collapse, and a bronze statue of Padre Balli, the Island’s namesake. Turtle Park is dedicated to Ila Loetscher, also known as the “Turtle Lady”. She was a pioneer in Sea Turtle research and preservation as well as the founder of the Sea Turtle Rescue Center also located on South Padre Island. Turtle Park is located along E. Morningside Street and consists of a small pavilion, picnic tables, and an infant playground. Water Tower Park is located on the corner of Laguna Boulevard and W. Huisache Street at the base of the Water Tower. The park consists of a half basketball court, several modern children’s play structures, and shade structures with tables. Public restrooms are also available. sopadre.com 27
Diving South Padre Island
South Padre Island offers several diving locations including the vertical reefs of oil platforms, numerous wrecks along the Devil’s Elbow, the Liberty Ship Reef System, Texas Underwater Park and the Texas Clipper. For more information about diving South Padre Island go to www. divesouthpadre.com
Edwin K. Atwood Park
Located 1.4 miles north of Andy Bowie Park on Park Road 100, Edwin K. Atwood Park has an elevated plaza with five pavilions, new restrooms, a community rinse station, two new beach dune walkovers for pedestrians to access the beach, an environmentally friendly permeable pavement parking lot, a parking area for four food truck concessions, and a beach novelties and umbrella concession. There is also a vehicular beach access road which opens up twenty miles of beach driving for the more adventurous. Call 956.761.3704 for more information.
Fishing
South Padre Island is home to approximately 600 species of fish and boosts over 60 different charter companies and personal guides to take you on the fishing trip of your life. Best of all, the Island provides year round fishing opportunities from the Gulf of Mexico to the Laguna Madre Bay and of course the ever favorite surf fishing. If you bring your own boat, four bayside public boat ramps are available at Jim’s Pier, Lobo Del Mar Cafe, Parrot Eyes Restaurant & Watersports, and at the end of Polaris Street. For more information on fishing go to www.spichamber.com or call 956.761.4412
Golf
The South Padre Island Golf Club is located a short 20-minute drive from the Island at Laguna Vista. The club offers an 18-hole 72-par championship course and provides a beautiful lateral view of the Island, and is decidedly different with rolling green hills and “wildlife corridors” of native brush. For more information call 956.943.4653 or go to www.spi golf.com
Isla Blanca Park
Located on the southernmost tip of South Padre Island, Isla Blanca Park is the crown jewel of
the Parks system. Over one mile of pristine beach along the Gulf of Mexico that offers an abundance of beachfront recreational facilities, including an event center, an amphitheater, pavilions with concession areas, beachfront boardwalks, beachfront parking, walking trails and dune walkovers. Visitors can also enjoy fishing on the south jetty, restaurants, retail shops, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley marine exhibits, and the Beach Park at Isla Blanca. There is a full-service marina with a public boat ramp, daily fishing charters, dolphin watch cruises and watersport activities (snorkeling, diving, jet skis, parasailing, etc.). With close to 600 R.V. sites, Isla Blanca is not only one of the biggest parks in Texas, it is also the best. If you do not have an RV you can still enjoy an overnight stay at the park in one of eight cabanas. Each cabana sleeps 4 and has air conditioning, a shower and bunk beds. For more information call 956.761.5494.
Land, Sky and Water Adventures
South Padre Island is where dreams come true for those that love land, sky and water adventures. There are several places on the Island to rent just about anything you can think of that will let you propel through the water, swim with the fish or soar with the birds. Waverunners, stand up paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and banana boats, just to name a few, can be rented for as little as one-half hour to whatever your heart desires. Kiteboarding and windsurfing are also popular water sports and the shallow water of the Laguna Madre and the brisk winds provide the perfect playground for these activities. There is also a wide array of opportunities to tour the Island by land and water. From amphibious vehicles to catamarans and horseback riding — we have it all! Pick your favorites and make a day of it! There is nothing more breathtaking than the view of the Island from the sky, so for the more adventuresome don’t forget to try your hand at parasailing, ziplining, or tour the island by helicopter. Our birds are friendly and enjoy the company. Swimming with the fish on a half-day or full-day snorkel trip is another experience
Point Isabel Lighthouse Complex
that should be had by all. Another favorite water adventure and big treat for the nature enthusiast is our dolphin. South Padre Island has its very own families of Bottlenose dolphins that live in the rich waters of the Laguna Madre bay and can be seen near shore playing and frolicking in the waves. Our dolphins are wild and free, can be seen year round, and live their entire lives here raising their babies and feeding on the rich food sources the surrounding waters of the Island have to offer. Please remember it is against the law to swim with, feed or touch wild dolphins. There are numerous dolphin watch boats that provide tours of our waters and our beautiful dolphin.
The Point Isabel Lighthouse Complex, located at 421 Queen Isabella Blvd., is home to the Point Isabel Lighthouse and the Keeper’s Cottage. The lighthouse is the only one on the Texas coast open to the public. In December 2022 a 3rd Order Fresnel Lens, after 117 years, once again adorns the lighthouse beacon. The Texas Historical Commission sanctioned a reproduction lens to be created and fitted into the Lantern Room at the top of the Lighthouse. The result offers visitors to the Lighthouse grounds a glimpse into the glorious past of the Lighthouse, and the more adventurous who stroll to the top will have a truly immersive experience only the Light House Keeper would have seen. The replica of the Keeper’s Cottage at the base of the lighthouse serves as a visitors center. The complex is open daily from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. For more information call 956.943.2262 sopadre.com 29
BLACKBEARDS’
Sunset Dinner Cruise Southern Wave SOUTHERN WAVE
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Port Isabel Historical Museum / Treasures of the Gulf Museum
The Port Isabel Historical Museum is housed in the historic Champion Building which was built in 1899. The museum is a state-of-the-art facility housing hands on exhibits, audio presentations and videos that commemorate the history of the area. The museum has two exhibit levels, a theater and gift shop. On the south end of the building is the famous “fish mural” painted in 1906 by a local fisherman. The Treasures of the Gulf Museum tells the story of the three ill-fated Spanish ships that wrecked off the northern end of the Island in 1554. Hands on displays allow visitors to try on period clothing and map out a treasure site. There is also a children’s section with a small scale ship and a Children’s Discovery Lab. Both museums are located at 317 E. Railroad and are open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. For more information and current admission prices call 956.943.7602
RGV Reef
RGV Reef is a result of a vision to build a great place to fish 13 miles northeast of the South Padre Island Jetties. The goal of this amazing project is to put more fish back in the Gulf of Mexico than is taken out, primarily Red Snapper, by alleviating a juvenile snapper survival bottleneck caused by a lack of habitat. Mortality is high on the flat bottom of the Gulf. The idea came out of scientific research at the experimental level. RGV Reef will be the first reef to provide that habitat on a large scale. All deployments are positioned and spaced in ways and numbers that can be used for scientific research. Most of the local research has been spearheaded by Dr. Richard Kline with The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, the project’s primary science advisor. What is being done is on the cutting edge of marine science, and The Harte Institute of Corpus Christi and University of Texas Galveston also have research projects in the reef. What has resulted is basically a net-less aquaculture driven by
creating a cradle to adult fish habitat for reef fish, primarily Red Snapper. It also turns out when you get it right for all the life stages of Red Snapper, you have a reef for all fish. Worms, shrimp, and turtles, too. At 1,650 acres, it’s the largest, and most complex, artificial reef off the Texas Coast. The large size is to accommodate the very first industrial scale reef fish nursery in the Gulf of Mexico. The people behind this amazing project, Friends of RGV Reef, are long time recreational, commercial and charter fishermen, scuba divers, marine biologists leavened with contractors, businessmen and ranchers, all working together, striving to create a self sustaining artificial reef with the steppingstones of habitat to actually increase the fish population. For more information about this project go to www.rgvreef.org
Sandcastle Trail
There is a reason we are the Sandcastle Capital of the Universe. Where else can you visit and see sandcastles year round? Not only can you see completed sand sculptures, but you might also catch one of the local masters working on their latest project on the Sandcastle Trail. Because our sand sculptures are made of sand and water, they are vulnerable to the time, weather and people. Our local masters, and their assistants, work year round to maintain our sand treasures. A longtime dream of South Padre Island Sandcastle Master Sandy Feet, work began on the individual sculptures that makeup the Sandcastle Trail in the summer of 2013 after a financial commitment in matching funds was received from the City of South Padre Island. Everyone loves to see a beautiful sandcastle created by a talented artist. There are currently 25 sandcastles located all over the Island just waiting for you to stop by to see, and of course take photos. In addition to the castles on the trail, be sure to stop by the Sandcastle Village located under the tent at the base of the ferris wheel in the Entertainment District. The village changes with the seasons and the holidays. The Holiday Village is amazing at Christmas. Stop by the SPI Chamber Information Center at 4113 Padre Blvd. or the Visitors Center at 321 Padre Blvd. to pick-
up a copy of The Art Trails map of the locations. Please remember that while our sandcastles love to be viewed, and have their picture taken, they are vulnerable to human hands. Please look as long as you like and flash those cameras, but please do not touch.
Sea Turtle Inc.
Dive into the world of marine conservation at Sea Turtle Inc. Immerse yourself in scientific discovery and visit rescued sea turtle patients in the world’s largest indoor sea turtle hospital which opened in 2024! Nestled in the heart of South Padre Island, with over 47 years in operation, Sea Turtle Inc. has an incredibly rich history and plenty of tales to tell. See what it’s like to save thousands of sea turtles from environmental emergencies, and explore our full time sea turtle residents to connect with their unique stories. Dive deeper into the fascinating world of marine life through our visitor experience, which includes interactive exhibits, engaging presentations, peek
inside a sea turtle surgical suite, and watch the world's only fully dedicated sea turtle CT machine and a fully functioning hospital — there's something for every curious mind and nature enthusiast. Located at 6617 Padre Blvd., we are open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm with extended summer time hours of 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. Give us a call at 956.761.4511 or go to www. seaturtleinc.org to plan your ultimate sea turtle experience! If you see injured or nesting sea turtles, please call 956-2434361 immediately.
Sea Turtle Art Trail
Sea Turtles are “hatching” all over the Island! Seven very talented local artists used their creative vision to transform fiberglass sea turtle forms, wearing nothing but a rough factory priming, into an amazing work of vibrant art that you do not want to miss seeing. And guess what? Our turtles LOVE to have their picture made with our visitors, so snap away and be sure to post and tag
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your location. You will be the envy of all your friends. Stop by the SPI Chamber of Commerce Information Center at 4113 Padre Blvd. or the Visitors Center at 321 Padre Blvd. to pick-up a copy of The Art Trails map of all the locations.
South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary
Located 3.5 miles north of the causeway at 6801 Padre Blvd., the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary facility includes a 10,000 square foot Nature Center with an exhibit hall that takes visitors on an educational voyage from the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, through the dunes on our beautiful beaches and into the Laguna Madre Bay. The Center also features over 3,300 feet of boardwalk, 50 acres of wetlands, a 5-story observation tower, 5 bird blinds, a gator pond, Sulcata Tortoise exhibit, gift shop and butterfly garden. While you are there you definitely want to take time to meet Big Padre, the resident 12’7” alligator, and don’t forget to feed the gators in the Gator Pond. For more information about the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary, see page 52, call 956761-6801 or www.spibirding.com
South Padre Island Convention Centre
The South Padre Island Convention Centre, with its breathtaking view of the Laguna Madre Bay, offers 45,000 square feet of meeting space that can be utilized in a variety of configurations. The Convention Centre has recently undergone a multi-million dollar renovation, which has strengthened the
buildings structure, improved its functionality, and increased its aesthetic value. Primary facilities include an unobstructed 22,500 square feet of Exhibit Hall space with a clear ceiling height of 36 feet for large meetings and sporting events; a 2,633 square feet conference auditorium; with 8 breakout rooms for concurrent sessions and 9,000 total square feet of breakout space. The South Padre Island Convention Centre is a premier destination venue to book your next meeting, convention, concert, special event, athletic competition or much more! Call 800-OK-PADRE or email info@ sopadre.com
coastal@utrgv.edu or go to their website at www.utrgv.edu/csl
Whaling Wall #53
Another stunningly beautiful site to see at the Convention Centre is the famous “Whaling Wall #53” by acclaimed environmental artist Wyland. Wyland wanted to show homage to whales and other creatures of the sea by devoting his talent to painting 100 walls across the world. His “Whaling Walls” serve as a perfect way to capture the grandeur of his subjects since drawing giant whales on small
canvases became extremely limiting. The walls of the South Padre Island Convention Centre provided the 53rd life size canvas for the Wyland project; the first of its kind in Texas, and along the entire Gulf Coast. Spanning 153 feet in length, covering 3 walls and 23 feet in height, it took over 111 gallons of paint, 100 volunteers, and nearly four days to complete. To view this magnificent wall 24 hours a day stop by the SPI Convention Centre at 7355 Padre Blvd. a
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Coastal Studies Lab
The Coastal Studies Lab located at Isla Blanca Park, on South Padre Island, was established in 1973, and is dedicated to providing educational opportunities, enhancing research, engaging in public service, and providing community outreach related to coastal and marine concerns in the Gulf of Mexico with special emphasis on the South Texas region. The lab exhibits marine life such as crustaceans and marine vertebrates, and plant life. Throughout the year, educational classes are held for both residents and visitors. Classes during the winter months are held for our Winter Texans, and classes during the summer include a very popular kid’s camp. The lab is open to the public for self-guided tours Monday through Friday 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., and is also open for group tours, by appointment only, Monday through Friday. For more information, or to schedule a tour, call 956.761.2644, email
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Explore a diverse smorgasbord of events and festivals while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of South Padre Island.
Fireworks
SisBoomBah! We are your fireworks destination beginning April 1st and going through the last weekend in October. From Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend, fireworks are shot from a barge located on the Laguna Madre between Marlin and Amberjack streets in the vicinity of Louie’s Backyard in the Entertainment District on Tuesday and Friday nights at 9:15 p.m. From April 1st through October, you can watch fireworks on the beach in the vicinity of Clayton’s Bar & Grill on Friday and Saturday nights at 9:15 p.m. In addition to these nights, there are three special shows sponsored by the City of South Padre Island Memorial Day Weekend, on July 4th, and on the Saturday before Labor Day Weekend. These shows are located on the Laguna Madre between Marlin and Amberjack streets in the vicinity of Louie’s Backyard in the Entertainment District.
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Be sure to check upon arrival for the latest fireworks schedule. Days and times may have changed since this printing, and you never know when another location might be added! Call the SPI Chamber at 956-761-4412 for the most current schedule.
New Years Day Polar Dip Bring in the New Year with an ‘anti-freeze dip’ in the beautiful Gulf of Mexico by joining over 1,000 visitors at the Annual South Padre Island Polar Bear Dip. Each New Year’s Day a hearty crowd of young and old renew their spirit by celebrating with a short sprint into water with an average temperature of 66 degrees. Unlike many other Polar Bear celebrations this time of year, South Padre Island is blessed with a temperate climate and refreshingly cold (never freezing) water. Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. and the Dip starts promptly at Noon at Clayton’s Bar & Grill. Admission is FREE and t-shirts
are available for purchase on site, while they last! For more information about the Polar Bear Dip go to Facebook.com/southpadrepolarbears
SPI Triathlons
South Padre Island is the home of two awesome triathlons hosted by Power Watt Coaching, LLC. The SPI Sprint Triathlon is held in the Spring and The SPI Sprint & Olympic Triathlon is held in the Fall. Both events start with a terrific open water swim and then head into the transition area. Participants then head north for the bike course up the South Padre Island strip. After the scenic bike course, athletics will head south on the strip for a one loop run course that includes Gulf Blvd. and Laguna Blvd. and ends back at the transition area. Olympic participants in the Fall event will do two bike loops and two run loops! Both events provide a fun
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Pack your flip flops and escape to South Padre Island’s newest beachfront resort.
Paradise is Year Round
qrco.de/beQFhx Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island | 310 Padre Blvd | South Padre Island, Texas 78597 (956) 761-6551 | MargaritavilleBeachResortSouthPadreIsland.com
course at a great venue for the seasoned veteran or the first timer. The transition area is located at Jim’s Pier, 211 Swordfish St., and the spectator location is readily accessible for friends and family — making it easy for them to cheer on their favorite triathletes and loved ones! For more information about either of the triathlon events contact Dr. Karen Watt at 956778-5997 or docwatt@powerwattcoaching.com
SPI Kitefest
A longtime favorite event in our community, SPI Kitefest is returning in 2025 as an indoor event only. The event will be held on two nights, February 3-4, 2025, with two amazing shows. February 3rd will be a “Tribute to the Big Screen” and February 4th will be “Texas Skies & Island Vibes”. Both events will be held at the SPI Convention Center located at 7355 Padre Blvd., beginning at 6:30 pm. Call 956761-1248 for reservations. For more information go to www. spikitefest.com
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Ladies Kingfish Tournament
Cosmetics, Local Activities, Artisan Jewelry, Tools, Health Products, Pet Merchandise vendors and much more. In 2025 join us January 24-26 and February 21-23 at the SPI Convention Center located at 7355 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, TX. Interested in being a vendor in 2025? Go to www.spimarketdays. com and scroll to the bottom for application form and details.
The 44th Annual Ladies Kingfish Tournament is scheduled for August 8-10, 2025. The first all ladies tournament in the State of Texas is divided into two divisions, bay and offshore. Qualifying fish include redfish, trout and flounder for the Bay Division and Blackfin Tuna, Dolphin, Bonito and Kingfish for the Offshore Division. Trophies are awarded to the top three places in each category, and Grand Champion in both divisions. For more information about the tournament call the SPI Chamber at 956.761.4412 or go to www.spichamber.com
SPI Wahoo Classic
Mark your calendar now so you do not miss your chance to participate in the 9th annual South Padre Island Wahoo Classic scheduled for mid-September. Fishing from Jim’s Pier, anglers compete in three categories for cash prizes: Wahoo, Black Fin Tuna, and Dorado/ Mahi Mahi. The Gulf comes alive during September and October, so come join us during the best fishing weather of the year. Although this is a traditional off-shore tournament, “Go Fast,” trailerable, center console boats are invited, and encouraged to participate. The three-day event includes a mandatory Captain’s
South Padre Island Market Days
For 28 years, locals and visitors, have looked forward to South Padre Island Market Days. Held in January and February each year; Market Days provides a shopping experience for everyone, and is one of the most popular events held during Winter Texan season. Enjoy listening to live music while at Art, Gourmet food, Custom Creations, Fashion and Beauty, Home and Garden Decor,
meeting on Friday, a full day of fishing on Saturday, and the awards ceremony Sunday. Not
only do you get a great weekend of fishing, but you will have also contributed to the donation
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Sandcastle Days
LIAM’S STEAKHOUSE
For over 30 years, Sandcastle Days has been an annual event that showcases the unique art form of sand sculpture with the help of amateurs and professionals. Currently being held in early October, on the beach in front of Clayton’s Resort, Sandcastle Days provides three fun-filled days of excitement in the sand. In addition to watching the masters create their masterpieces; attendees have the honor of casting their vote for the People’s Choice Award. Numerous demonstrations and opportunities for lessons from the master’s are also available. Other events during the day include music on the beach, kite exhibitions, vendors, artists and local non-profits providing education on our local environment and how to keep it healthy. For more information about this event, including dates
and location go to www.sandcastledays.com
Texas International Fishing Tournament
The largest saltwater fishing tournament in Texas is celebrating their 85th Anniversary, and is scheduled for July 30 – August 3, 2025. The Texas International Fishing Tournament (TIFT) provides an atmosphere of friendly fishing competition and wholesome family fun. Over 1,000 anglers from all other the United States join together to bring in fish that range from redfish, trout and flounder in the bay division to every species imaginable in the offshore division. Family fun is a must at TIFT and Kids Play Day kicks off the event each year. For more information on Texas’ oldest and most established fishing tournament call 956.943.8438, email info@tift.org or go to www. tift.org a
For a complete list of area events please go to sopadre.com
HOLIDAY VILLAGE
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Cultural & Educational
When It Rains
Antique Shops Birding Coastal Studies Lab Dive the Texas Clipper Eco-Tours Laguna Madre Nature Trail Port Isabel Museums Port Isabel Lighthouse Queen Isabella Memorial Park Sandcastle Trail Sandcastle Village Sea Turtle Inc. Sea Turtle Art Trail SPI Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary
7-D and 9VR Adventures Catch “The Island Metro” Shuttle Coastal Studies Lab Dining Fitness Center Internet Café Karaoke Nightlife Entertainment Port Isabel Museums Port Isabel Lighthouse Sea Turtle Inc. Shopping Spa SPI Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary
With Kids 7-D and 9VR Adventures Amphibious Tours Beach Park at Isla Blanca Waterpark (seasonal) Beach Volleyball Bicycle Ride Birding Boogie Boarding Butterfly Gardens Butterfly Park Catch “The Island Metro” Shuttle Children’s Petting Barn Coastal Studies Lab Cristo de Los Pescadores Dolphin Watch Eco-Tours Fireworks Over the Bay (seasonal) Fireworks Over the Beach (seasonal) Fishing Go Carts / 4-Wheelers Gravity Park (seasonal) Horseback Riding Kayaking Kite Flying
Laguna Madre Nature Trail Miniature Golf Padre Balli Statue Parasailing Pony Rides Port Isabel Museums Port Isabel Lighthouse Square Sandcastle Building Lessons Sandcastle Trail Sandcastle Village Sea Turtle, Inc. Sea Turtle Art Trail Snorkeling Lessons SPI Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary Stand Up Paddleboarding Star Gazing Surfing Swimming Tompkins Park Turtle Park Valley Land Fund Birding Lots Water Tower Park Waverunners Windsurfing Zip Lining
Under The Sun Banana Boat Rides Beach Buggy Rentals Beach Park at Isla Blanca Waterpark (seasonal) Beach Sports Bicycle Rentals Boogie Boarding Butterfly Park Children’s Petting Barn Dive the Texas Clipper Dolphin Watch Cruises Fishing (bay, offshore, at the jetties, on the pier, surf and fly) Go Carts / 4-Wheelers Golf Golf Cart Rentals Gravity Park (seasonal) Helicopter Tour of Island Horseback Riding Kiteboarding Kayaking Laguna Madre Nature Trail Lis Memorial Park Miniature Golf Parasailing Pony Rides Queen Isabella Memorial Park Sandcastle Trail Sandcastle Village Sea Turtle Art Trail SPI Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary Snorkeling Stand Up Paddleboarding Sunbathing Sunset Cruise Surfing Tompkins Park Turtle Park Valley Land Fund Birding Lots Wake-Up Early and see a Gulf Sunrise Water Tower Park Waverunners Windsurfing Zip Lining
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COASTAL LIFESTYLES
SENOR DONKEY
The Perfect Blend of Wine and Community
SPI WINE BAR
Weekly events & specials! Cozy & welcoming atmosphere! Delicious food to pair perfectly with wine! Wines from local Texas gems to international favorites! Perfect for birthdays, bachelorettes, date or ladies night! Follow us on Facebook for updates on new arrivals, events, and more!
Contact us
www.spiwinebar.com
956-230-6899 4000 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, TX
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Arts Community When people think of South Padre Island, the first thing that probably comes to mind is the beach. It’s true our beach is the best in Texas, but the Island has much more to offer than just sun, sand, and surf. You may be surprised to know that South Padre Island and Port Isabel (our neighbors just over the Queen Isabella Memorial Causeway) have become a thriving art mecca. From numerous talented artists using different mediums and bringing their own flavor to each piece they create, to fabulous actors and actresses performing in plays, to amazing musicians playing any type of music genre you can image … you will be amazed. If that is not enough we also have sandcastle art all over the Island and sea turtle art. So why not take a class with one of our local artists while you’re here, take in a play, enjoy an evening of live music or explore the Island while looking at the sandcastles and sea turtles? You will quickly learn there is more than sand and surf to entertain you while visiting our beautiful Island.
Art Business Incubator South Padre Island (ABISPI)
Need an activity AWAY from the sun? Take an art class hosted by one of the artist residents! Be sure to check their website at www.abispi.com for a list of classes and workshops. 2500 Padre Blvd., Suite 1 – South Padre Island | 956-433-8097
ArtSea Gallery & Goods
Located at Lighthouse Square in Port Isabel ArtSea specializes in local art, including handmade jewelry, pottery, soap, candles, prints, paintings and locally roasted coffee. 423 E. Maxan St. – Port Isabel | 956-943-3200
Art Space
Art Space offers Open Clay or Open Paint classes. Check their website at www.spiartspace.com for their class schedule. Art is also for sale, and all pieces are by local artists. 1817 Padre Blvd., Suite 1 – South Padre Island | 956-7612112
Creative Native Gallery at Cactus Flower
Located inside Cactus Flower
Gifts & Interiors, Creative Native Gallery features the works of local and Texas artists. Enjoy the works of these amazing artists, including various art mediums, jewelry, copper, pottery, and more. 3009 Padre Blvd. – South Padre Island | 956-761-7771
El Paseo Arts Foundation
El Paseo Arts supports the Lower Laguna Madre area by bringing art, concerts, performances and plays to the Island. Check-out their current season at www.elpaseoarts.org
Isla Artista
Gallery owner, Kathy Schwarz, is known for colorful nature-inspired art. Her new gallery features both original and reproduced art, along with decorative items and specialty cards. 104 E. Pike, Suite A – South Padre Island | 956-335-9967
Laguna Madre Art Gallery
Located in the historic Lighthouse Square in Port Isabel, the gallery features jewelry, paintings, pottery, photography, sculptures, and much more; all by local artists. 405 E. Maxan St. – Port Isabel | 956-943-1407
Meridian & Muse Fine Gallery
At the heart of Meridian and Muse stands Ryan Henry, not just the founder but as the creative pulse of the gallery. His story, passion, vision, and profound connection to the natural world lead to plein-air masterpieces. An adept plein-air artist, Ryan's canvas stretches beyond the confines of his studio, spilling into the vast landscapes of South Padre Island and the historic streets of Brownsville. 103 E. Amberjack St., Suite C – South Padre Island | 956-590-7012
Paper Caper Co.
Looking for something truly unique to take home with you? Eva, the owner and artist, behind Paper Caper takes papercutting to a level you will never believe. Check-out her website at papercaperco.com and then stop by her gallery to see her amazing work first hand. 2500 Padre Blvd. – South Padre Island | 956-6399322
Plumb Studio & Gallery
Freelance artist Carol Plumb works exclusively with oil paints, which are optimal for longevity
and give a museum-like quality. Whether you are looking for a large statement piece or something small to remember your vacation, Plumb Studio & Gallery has what you are looking for. Check her website at carolplumb. art for more information. 125 E. Amberjack, Suite B – South Padre Island | 956-346-3793
Quinn Gallery
Quinn Gallery is a studio gallery featuring the art of owner Malia Quinn and other local artists. The gallery also offers classes for drawing and painting. Check her website at maliaquinn.com for a class schedule. 2500 Padre Blvd., Suite 5 – South Padre Island | 956-377-0179
Sandcastle Trail
South Padre Island is home to a collection of castles called the Sandcastle Trail. Around 30 sand sculptures are located throughout the Island, sculpted by professional sand artists. Stop by the SPI Visitors Center at 321 Padre Blvd. and pick-up a map of the trail locations.
Sea Turtle Art Trail
The Sea Turtle Art Trail is a collection of sea turtle sculptures painted by amazing local artists and located at various places around the Island. Stop by the SPI Visitors Center at 321 Padre Blvd. and pick-up a map of the trail locations.
The Art Lounge
The Art Lounge is a vibrant and contemporary art gallery. Check out their website at www.theart loungespi.com for workshops and special events. 33256 State Park Rd. 100, Suite 100 – South Padre Island | 956-433-5307 a
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Weddings In Paradise
Let the magic of your love sweep you away on a journey of a lifetime. Whether you’re getting married, planning a honeymoon or renewing your vows, South Padre Island is the perfect destination. From the Gulf of Mexico to the Laguna Madre Bay, the locations and options are only limited by your imagination… South Padre Island quite simply is the destination of choice for your wedding. Surround yourselves in an atmosphere of tropical tranquility and breathtaking beauty as you pledge your eternal love. What is your idea of the romance this special occasion deserves? How high are your expectations for this special day, which should be nothing less than glorious? Spectacular sand dunes covered in native vine and flowers and a spectacular coastline along the Gulf of Mexico are perfect for romantic, barefoot weddings on a beautiful beach. If your dream wedding involves a sunset, several settings along the bay provide the perfect setting when the sun simmers into the vast and beautiful Laguna Madre Bay at the end of a beautiful day. For the more adventuresome person, rent anything from a fishing boat to a large catamaran and say those special vows while cruising on the beautiful Laguna Madre Bay. And how appropriate will it be when the moment arrives, and the most important words you will speak in your life – your wedding vows – will be carried from your lips to your loved one on a gentle warm breeze. Need help planning your special day? The Island has several wonderful wedding planners that can assist you with everything from location to flowers, cakes, equipment rentals and even someone to perform the wedding. For more information go to www.spichamber.com or contact the South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce at info@spichamber. com or 956.761.4412 Best of all, the requirements for getting married on South Padre Island are relatively simple and uncomplicated. Both religious and civil ceremonies can be performed at virtually any location on the Island.
HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
1 Residents and non-residents of Texas can obtain a marriage license from any County Clerk’s office in the State. Both parties must be present and at least 16 years of age. Applicants under the age of 18 must have a certified copy of their birth certificate (long form) issued in the last 10 years as well as court-emancipated. One valid form of identification such as State issued driver’s license, military ID, passport, visa, or state issued ID. A certified copy of a birth certificate may be used along with one other form of ID. No blood test is required. The license is good for 90 days. There is a 72-hour waiting period between obtaining the license and holding the wedding. However, there is a 30-day waiting period following the judgment of a divorce being granted. The current cost in Cameron County is $82 for Texas residents and $182 for out-of-state residents. (subject to change – checks and credit cards are not accepted). 2 The closest Cameron County office
is located at 501 Hwy. 100, Port Isabel, Texas, 956.943.8101. Hours: 8:00 am – 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm Monday – Friday.
3 To act as an officiant at a wedding
within Texas borders, you must be an active or retired judge, a licensed or ordained priest, minister or rabbi, an officer ordained by a religious organization, or a justice of the peace.
4 All beach weddings held within the
city limits of South Padre Island are required to have a permit. Anyone can pickup the permit, but it must be done in person. The permit informs all interested parties of the wedding details, helps ensure your wedding does not restrict the use of the beach to others, and provides you with state and local beach rules and laws. For ceremonies held on beaches within the City of South Padre Island, contact Public Works Department, 4601 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, Texas, (956) 7616456. For ceremonies held on Cameron County beaches, contact Cameron County Parks System at (956) 761-5494. For ceremonies onboard a vessel, check with the captain to determine the rules and regulations he is governed by. a
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BLUE OCEAN REALTY / BOVR
Vibrant Downtown Museums & History Over 40 Restaurants Boutique Shopping Bay & Gulf Fishing Attractions Free Parking Visitor Center Accommodations Events & Festivals Eco & Pirate Tours
CITY OF PORT ISABEL
Home of the Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site 50 spichamber.com
When it’s sleet and snow season, join us in South Padre Island where the average winter temperature is a beautiful 65 degrees. “Winter Texans” as we like to call them in Texas, flock to all parts of the Lower Rio Grande Valley, and many decide to stay on South Padre Island because of the warm, subtropical climate. As you can imagine, these Winter Visitors also have a significant impact on the area and the economy. Because of this impact, South Padre Island works hard to make their stay pleasurable in hopes they will return for years to come. Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the Laguna Madre Bay, South Padre Island is home to the most beautiful beaches in Texas, and some of the best offshore and bay fishing along the Gulf Coast. Birding watching, dolphin cruises, horseback riding on the beach, swimming in the ocean, spending an afternoon on the beach in your favorite chair reading a book, watching the magnificent Laguna Madre sunsets, or just taking a night time stroll on the beach are just a few of the things that make South Padre Island the place to be when snow covers the ground at home. If you like to volunteer; South Padre Island has a number of possibilities including the Birding and Nature Center, Sea Turtle, Inc. and numerous others. There is never a shortage of something to do while on the Island. The months of January and February are filled with great
events. The Longest Causeway Walk and Run, Market Days Arts and Craft Shows, art shows, El Paseo Arts Foundation plays, art lessons, Chili Cook-off, Kite Fest, and numerous concerts are just a few of the events our Winter friends can enjoy. You are sure to work up an appetite from all of the fun you are having, and will find there is no shortage of awesome places to eat (check out the restaurant list in the back of this guide) or places to join friends for a drink. Did you go fishing and bring home a good catch? Most restaurants on the Island will “cook your catch” for you. Give it a try – invite your friends along, and talk about how your dinner “slept in the bay, or the gulf, last night”. As your day draws to a close and it is time to get some rest, there is no need to look far for lodging. South Padre Island has an abundance of hotel rooms and condos, as well as over 800 RV sites (check out the lodging charts located in the back of this guide for a complete list). Many hotels and condos offer special rates for Winter Texans, and remember if you are staying over 30 days you do not pay hotel/ motel tax; just one more reason to spend your winter months on the Island. For more information call 956.761.6433, 800.SO.PADRE or go to www.sopadre.com, and whatever you do, do not forget what Winter Texans do while they are on South Padre Island — They have FUN! a
CALYPSO
Just as most species of birds migrate south for the winter to escape the bitter cold temperatures of the north, so do our Winter Texans.
Tours and Track Side-By-Side Youth and Adult Vehicles
SAND MONSTERS
sand-monsters.com 956-410-1133 Groups, Events, Team Building, Private Parties, Fun!
*Youth Cars - 10 yrs. and up can drive drive with a parent
23290 State Park Rd 100 South Padre Island, TX 3 Miles North of the Convention Center sopadre.com 51
The natural surroundings of South Padre Island and the Rio Grande Valley give birders and wildlife enthusiasts the opportunity to sneak a peek at a wide variety of unique species.
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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 changing winds bring them in for a landing on their favorite rest stop on the Gulf Coast. The spring months, notably March, April, and May, bring our feathered visitors to our Island on their way home. The wetlands that line the bay side of the island create an ideal habitat for numerous plants, animals and waterfowl. In fact, more than 300 species of birds, including a wide range of shorebirds and migratory birds make South Padre Island their home during part or most of the year. The South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary, provides access to the Laguna Madre bay for birders and other outdoor enthusiasts. From the boardwalks that extend across the wetlands, onlookers can see egrets, herons, oystercatchers, terns, and our own White-Morph Redish Egret wading in the shallow water of the Laguna Madre. The Black and Yellow Rail have also been sighted, along with the Yellow-billed Loon and the Brown Booby. The boardwalks also take nature lovers over wetlands and freshwater ponds, providing them with an excellent opportunity to view a variety of rails, soras, kingfishers, moorhens, and numerous other species. The decks over the bay at the Birding Center are a wonderful place to be at sunrise and sunset. The observation tower is a popular place because visitors can see the Gulf of Mexico, the Laguna Madre Bay, the salt and freshwater wetlands that surround the Center, and the skyline of the City of South Padre Island.
South Padre Island’s location and geology make for a unique ecology — a perfect location for nature enthusiasts since we have such a rich variety of plants, insects, and land and sea animals; some of which are threatened or endangered. We can offer great birding opportunities year round, but since South Padre Island is located along the coast where the Central and Mississippi Flyways converge, we offer exceptional birding opportunities during the spring and fall migration periods, especially during “fallout” conditions. To birders a “fallout” is a large number of birds that land in any given area because of adverse weather conditions for their migration. When those conditions take place, visitors can see all sorts of beautiful songbirds everywhere! Birders from all over Texas converged on the Island in October 2018. An immature White-crowned Pigeon, more than likely brought in by a storm during hurricane season, was found at the Nature Center on October 2nd and remained until October 14th. The Whitecrowned Pigeon, a tropical species, is a resident of the Caribbean and was hundreds of miles from its normal range. This was the 3rd Texas record, but the 1st time seen by more than one observer. During the 29th Annual Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival in
November 2022 festival guides and participants on a tour of the Island found a first record for Texas when a Smoothbilled Ani, never before seen in Texas, was spotted at the SPI Birding Center on the second day of the festival. The Smooth-Billed Ani is a species found in the
Caribbean, South America and parts of Florida. As a wing of the World Birding Center, which was established in 1999 through cooperative partnerships between Rio Grande Valley Communities, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife, the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary is one of nine centers whose mission is to educate the public about nature conservation; especially bird conservation. The Nature Center provides local and visiting families the opportunity to learn about our beaches, dunes, the Gulf of Mexico and the Laguna Madre; how important nature is to the development of our children and our existence; and how to protect and preserve nature in our own backyards and neighborhoods. The dedicated “Warbler Rest Area” adjacent to the boardwalk location closest to the South Padre Island Convention Centre, serves as an attraction for all winged friends, especially its namesake. Warblers consider the South Padre Island area their personal rest area on their trip to and from Central and South America. The native trees planted in the area were chosen for their insect habitat from which the birds can feed. The Fiddlewood bushes were chosen for their delectable berries, which are favorites among the Warbler and most birds. During spring and fall migrations, birders are delighted by the kaleidoscope of colors seen at the rest stop as the warblers are joined by tanagers, orioles, buntings, and many other varieties of birds seeking refuge.
It is also a haven for all types of butterflies. Most visitors to the Island become “accidental birders” before they even set foot in the sand. As you cross the Queen Isabella Causeway keep your eyes open for the Brown Pelican, and at the base of the causeway look to your left and right at the black mangrove flats for all types of shorebirds. Not only can you see more egrets, terns, and oystercatchers here, but you might also spot a few Roseate Spoonbills, plovers, and all types of herons. In May 2019 the Nature Center added Alligator Sanctuary to their name. Because the wetlands around the Center provide the perfect safe haven for the alligators; the Center is now one of only two alligator sanctuaries in Texas approved by Texas Parks and Wildlife. The new Center opened with over 75 rescued juvenile American Alligators from around the great State of Texas. “Big Padre”, a 12’ 6”long - 700 pound alligator is also making the sanctuary his home, along with his wife “Laguna”. Visitors to the Center have the opportunity to learn about the incredible American Alligator through daily “Gator Talks”. Following the “Gator Talks” you can wade with the gators in the gator pond, hold a juvenile gator, learn about and hold a non-venomous snake, and don’t forget to feed the Sulcata Tortoise before you leave. The South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary is truly A Wildlife Adventure! For more information go to www.spibirding.com or call 956-761-6801. The South Padre Island Migratory Bird Sanctuary is located on West Sheepshead Street and borders Laguna Blvd.
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SPI BIRDING CENTER
FURCRON REALTORS
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South Padre Island Birding Facts • Home of the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center, and Alligator Sanctuary — a World Birding Center site • Over 380 species recorded on South Padre Island based on the published World Birding Center checklist • The first sighting in the U.S. of a Black-Headed Siskin was on SPI in February 2009 • The only World Birding Center site where a visitor can possibly see a Magnificent Frigate or a Masked Booby • Spring and Fall migration brings large numbers of birds to South Padre Island • Home of the South Padre Island Migratory Bird Sanctuary • South Padre Island is home to the Brown Pelican and a wide range of shorebirds • Home of the best World Birding Center site for shore bird photography • 40-minute drive to Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge (LANWR) • LANWR has 417 documented birds, which is more than any other national refuge • South Padre Island is visited by birding enthusiasts from England, Spain, the Netherlands, and Puerto Rio, as well as people from all over the United States
The sanctuary is a project of the Valley Land Fund and is open to the public 365 days a year. The Valley Land Fund purchased the six residential lots in 1999 for the feeding and resting of neotropicals. In addition to offering habitat protection for migrants, these lots have become a showplace to educate Island residents and visitors in techniques for making their privately owned land “bird friendly” by using native plants and water to attract wild-
life. The sanctuary has drawn some notable first time sightings over the years. In February 2008 a Black-headed Siskin was spotted and photographed. This was the first sighting in the United States, and during the 2018 spring migration a juvenile Great Black Hawk was spotted on April 24th. This was also the first sighting in the United States. In August, of the same year, the hawk was later rediscovered in Maine where it caused a nationwide sensa-
tion in the birding community. Definitely worth a Google Search! The Laguna Madre Bay and its surrounding area provides many birding and nesting sites that cannot be seen by land. To bird watch from the water, check with the numerous dolphin watch companies on South Padre Island. Birding by boat or by land is especially rewarding during the winter. The Island’s mild temperatures make it a sanctuary for White Pelicans, all kinds of ducks, avocets, loons, gulls, grebes, and the elusive Peregrine Falcon. Always exciting is the occasional sighting of the Frigatebird, boobies, and other pelagic birds. Whether you tour South Padre Island by car, boat, or on foot, your birding experience will be a special one. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge is a short 40-minute drive from South Padre Island. Located northwest of Laguna Vista and bordering the Laguna Madre Bay, Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge encompasses more than 120,000 acres, a portion of which are open to the public for wildlife related activities like wildlife watching, hunting, fishing, photography and environmental education. The refuge is part of the National Wildlife Refuge System, a national network of lands and waters set aside for the benefit of wildlife and you. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge was established to provide habitat for wintering
waterfowl and other migratory birds, principally the Redhead ducks. More species of birds have been recorded at Laguna Atascosa (417) than at any other national wildlife refuge in the nation. Laguna Atascosa is host or home to an incredible diversity of migrating birds that funnel through the tip of Texas in an effort to avoid flying too far east, over the Gulf Coast, or too far west, over the desert. In addition, many southern species of wildlife reach their northernmost range along the Rio Grande. Located on the southern end of the Central Flyway, the refuge is a major stopover point on the lower Texas coast for waterfowl going to and from Mexico. In November alone, when peak use occurs, more than 250,000 ducks depend on the refuge with thousands more adjacent on the Laguna Madre. It is estimated that 80% of the North American population of Redhead ducks winter in this area. The refuge is also a favorite among butterfly and dragonfly enthusiasts who enjoy catching a glimpse of a blue metalmark, a species that, in the United States, is only found in South Texas. In addition to the incredible bird diversity, there are 45 resident mammal species that can be found on the refuge, including white-tailed deer, coyote, bobcat, collared peccary (javelina), and eastern cottontail rabbits. Here but not seen quite as easily are grey fox, long-tailed weasel, Mexican free tail bats and the endangered ocelot. Ocelots are a small, wild cat that once roamed in the United States from South Texas up into Arkansas and Louisiana and today is found only in deep South Texas. The refuge is home to one of the two remaining breeding populations of ocelots, a management priority for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Refuge trails are open 365 days a year from dawn to dusk. Visitors Center is open Monday – Friday, 8am – 4pm, and closed all Federal holidays. For more information call the Visitors Center at 956.244.2019 or www.fws.gov/ refuge/laguna-atascosa a sopadre.com 55
Family Wellness Clinic at South Padre Island
Walk-ins Welcome! Most Insurances Accepted Same Day Appointments Available.
PREVENTIVE CARE
Our clinic is a haven for comprehensive care, designed to meet the unique needs of every member of your family. From preventative screenings and annual physicals, to managing chronic conditions and providing specialized care, our team of experienced healthcare professionals are here to support you through every stage of life.
(956) 365-1515 3401 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, TX Monday - Friday: 9:00 am - 6:00pm
• Annual Physical Exams • Medicare Wellness Exams
• Women’s Health Exams • Periodic Health Exams • Preventive Screenings
ADOLESCENT and ADULT CARE • Immunizations / • Minor Injuries Vaccinations • Musculoskeletal Injuries • Diabetes Management • Routine Checkups • Flu Seasonal Vaccine • Specialist Referrals • High Blood Pressure • Sport Physicals • Chronic Care Management
IN-OFFICE LAB TESTING • Group A Strep • Influenza • Mononucleosis
• SARS Antigen Screening • UA • A1C
OCCUPATIONAL CARE SERVICES • DOT Physicals
• Pre-Employment Physicals
Affiliated with:
Harlingen Medical Center
MEDICAL CLINICS
DENTAL CLINICS
Boys & Girls Pediatric Clinic 1710 Hwy 100, Port Isabel 956.943.2600
Dr. Aaron Unterbrink, DDS 4912 Padre Blvd. South Padre Island 956.761.1012
New Horizon Health Center 723 Santa Isabel Blvd., Laguna Vista 956.621.3642 Pediatric and Adult Clinic 1200 Hwy. 100 #5, Port Isabel 956.433.5022
Port Isabel Dental Associates 215 Queen Isabella Blvd. Port Isabel 956.943.4166
DHR Health Hospital 4750 North Expressway, Brownsville 956.362.1100 Harlingen Medical Center 5501 S. Exp. 77, Harlingen 956.365.1000
Angelitos Primary Home Care, Inc. 215 E. Queen Isabella Blvd. Port Isabel 956.943.3000
EMERGENCY CARE
CHIROPRACTIC CLINICS
ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTERS
Laguna Madre Chiropractic 402 S. Garcia, Port Isabel 956.943.9943
Origins Recovery Centers 4405 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island 956.299.4712
Tropical Health Care 413 E. Railroad, Port Isabel 956.202.0111
HOSPITALS
PHYSICAL THERAPY
Valley Baptist Medical Center 1040 W. Jefferson St., Brownsville 956.698.5400
Isla Physical Therapy 1200 Hwy. 100, Suite 3, Port Isabel 956.943.1028
Valley Regional Medical Center 100 Alton Gloor Blvd., Brownsville 956.350.7000
Surge Mobile Physical Therapy 413 E. Railroad Ave. Suite A, Port Isabel 956.443.3844
Family Wellness Clinic at SPI 3401 Padre Blvd. – South Padre Island 956.365.1515
HOME CARE
Valley Baptist Medical Center 2101 Pease St., Harlingen 956.389.1100
Port Isabel Health Clinic 202 Second St., Port Isabel 956.943.1774
Luna Medical Clinic 112 W. Queen Isabella Blvd., Suite C, Port Isabel 956.524.0555
ApexNetwork Physical Therapy 112 W Queen Isabella Blvd., Suite A, Port Isabel 956.410.1005
Exceptional Emergency Center 449 E. Alton Gloor Blvd. Brownsville 956.435.7860 Exceptional Emergency Center 6902 W Expressway 83 Harlingen 956.567.0371
CAPTAIN MURPHY’S
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STARTING A BUSINESS ON SOUTH PADRE ISLAND For the most current and up-to-date revenue figures, labor data and population trends go to www.southpadreislandedc.com. To learn more about required permits and city ordinances regarding the start-up of a new business or the purchase of an existing business, go to www.myspi.org or contact the City of South Padre Island Development office at 956.761.8113.
South Padre Island Economic Facts GOVERNMENT
South Padre Island is a council-manager form of government, which consists of the Mayor and five City Councilmen, all elected. They in turn hire a City Manager. The City Council meets the first and third Wednesday of each month. For more information go to www.myspi.org. Cameron County operates with five elected Commissioners, who meet every Tuesday to manage county affairs. For more information go to www.co.cameron.tx.us.
TAXES
The State of Texas has no State income tax and allows for local tax incentives and exemptions from State sales tax. Local taxing discounts include a $15,000 homestead exemption, and a 20% exemption on both the Laguna Madre Water District and City of South Padre Island taxes. Cameron County offers a $12,000 exemption to taxpayers over the age of 65. Ad valorem taxes are assessed and collected by Cameron County. The City of South Padre Island has a 8.25% sales tax (1⁄2 % to Economic Development, 11⁄2 % to City of SPI and 61⁄4 % to State of Texas), and a 17% Hotel/Motel Tax (6% to State of Texas, of which 1% is returned to the City for beach renourishment, 8.5% to the Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2% for City Venue projects, and 0.5% to Cameron County for County Venue projects). For information on property taxes, contact the Cameron County Appraisal District at 956.399.9322 or visit their website at www.cameroncad.org
UTILITIES
Water and sewer needs for South Padre Island residents and businesses are managed by Laguna Madre Water District (956.943.2626), and waste disposal is provided by Republic Services (800.423.7316). Electrical service can be obtained from several suppliers (www.powertochoose.org), and land line telecommunication service is also available through multiple companies (www.connectmyphone.com). South Padre Island is serviced by numerous internet and cable provider companies. Check with your current carrier regarding availability and options. a
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v MITTE CULTURAL DISTRICT MAP mitteculturaldistrict.org @MITTECULTURALDISTRICT
Where cult
t i s vi
ture and entertainment are life
Our neighboring communities have plenty of sights and events to fit your every mood. Brownsville
Brownsville is the southern most City on the mainland United States. Located 23 miles from South Padre Island and directly across from Matamoros, Mexico, Brownsville dates from colonial days of Imperial Spain, covering periods of exploration, wars, revolutions, and colorful, though infamous banditry. To learn more about the fascinating history of Brownsville visit the Historic Brownsville Museum located at 641 E. Madison St. or call 956.548.1313. Brownsville’s history has developed a proud heritage of two cultures, which is celebrated every year at the end of February with Charro Days. Charro Days features carnivals, parades, dances and cultural events. Sombrero Festival throws a party for Brownsville the last weekend in February each year and features well-known Hispanic Artists, local music, unique food booths, and popular events such as the Jalapeño Eating Contest, Waiters Race, Grito Contest, Charro Days Classic Marathon, Tortilla Frisbee Toss, Hat-Stack Relay, and a Charro Bean Cook-off. Brownsville also provides numerous birding opportunities and is home to the one of the top 10 zoos in the United States, Gladys Porter Zoo, a 31-acre zoological preserve built on an old Rio Grande River channel in central Brownsville, features more than 1,600 animals representing over 460 species; 47 of which are endangered. For more information call 956.546.7187 or go to www.gpz.org While visiting the zoo do not miss the opportunity to visit the other 15 cultural entities that make up the fabulous Mitte Cultural District - Dean Porter Park, Children’s Museum of Brownsville, Costumes of the Americas Museum, Ringgold Civic
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Pavilion, Camille Playhouse, Brownsville Museum of Fine Art, Southern Pacific Linear Park, Historic Brownsville Museum, Old City Cemetery, Old City Cemetery Center, and Washington Park. All are within walking distance of each other, and provide insight into the culture and great diversity Brownsville has to offer. For more information go to www.MitteCulturalDistrict.org, or stop by the Visitors Center located in the district on the corner of 6th and Ringgold. For more information about Brownsville call the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce at 956.542.4341 or go to www. brownsville chamber.com, or call the Brownsville CVB at 800.626.2639 or go to www. brownsville.org
Harlingen
Located just 40 miles from South Padre Island, Harlingen is a great place for a break from the sun during your vacation. Rich in history, there are numerous buildings on Jackson, Van Buren, Harrison, and “Silk Stocking” homes along East Taylor that stand as a testament to the city’s prosperity in the 1920’s and 30’s. The Harlingen Arts and Heritage Museum is where South Texas history comes alive. The museum is located two blocks from the Valley International Airport. For more information call 956.216.4901 or go to www. myharlingen.us/page/hahm. home You will not find a “Main” Street in Harlingen, but Jackson Street has been the focus of community life for over 100 years. Stroll through antique malls, home furnishing and collectible stores, jewelry, arts and oneof-a-kind gifts; just to name a few. Free parking and an ample number of restaurants and coffee shops make this a great afternoon adventure. Downtown
also boasts several larger-thanlife-size murals depicting aspects of the community’s history. For more information and a map of the murals contact the Harlingen CVB at 956.423.5440 or 800.531.7346. The Marine Military Academy is home to the original working model of the famous bronze statue at Arlington National Cemetery, the Iwo Jima Memorial. A museum features Marine Corps memorabilia, a 30-minute film describing the The Battle of Iwo Jima, and a veteran’s Hall of Fame. The monument and museum are located next to Valley International Airport. For more information call 956.412.2207 or go to www. mma-tx.org/museum.htm As is most of the Rio Grande Valley, Harlingen is a paradise for birders, and home of two World Birding sites; Ramsey Nature Park on Loop 499 and Harlingen Thicket Bird Sanctuary, a 40-acre tract of native brush in the center of town. Make plans to attend the annual Rio Grand Valley Birding Festival in November, and rub elbows with and learn from top bird guides and birders from around the world. For more information about Harlingen, birding, and their many attractions contact the Harlingen CVB at 311 E. Tyler. They are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.. Call 956.622.5053, 800.531.7345 or go to www.visitharlingentexas. com
Laguna Vista At the southern tip of Texas, just 20 minutes inland from South Padre Island, lies the pleasantly unique town of Laguna Vista. Location and climate pave the way to a more laid-back atmosphere, with accommodations to meet a variety of lifestyles for residents and visitors alike. Dubbed the “Gateway to the Bay,” it is gently nestled
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along the Laguna Madre Bay, allowing gentle breezes to give the town an average yearly temperature of about 72 degrees. This temperate climate is not only appealing to valley locals, but is also a main attraction for many northerners, or “snowbirds,” looking to find relief from their harsher winter conditions. It is this mild weather that promotes a host of outdoor activities for all ages. The bay front location affords water enthusiasts of all kinds convenient launch sites, with the natural breezes making it one of the top US places for kite boarding and windsurfing during certain times of the year. However, all excitement is not limited to the bay. The town is also host to the South Padre Island Golf Community, a gated residential community, which includes a public 18-hole championship course and driving range. Encouraging fitness and town beautification, Laguna Vista’s Roloff Park provides a playground, exercise stations, covered basketball court, pavilion and more. Additional
sites include a Sports Complex, Veteran’s Memorial Park and nature trails which provide greater opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, observe the native wildlife, and promote quality of life for the individual and family. Whether staying active in sports or in the many planned community events is your forte, or if simply basking in the tropical surroundings is more your style, Laguna Vista has it all in a friendly, secure neighborhood. Come, explore the possibilities! By H. Therése Eaton
Los Fresnos
Located just 23 miles west of South Padre Island on Texas State Highway 100 and 10 minutes east of Interstate Expressway 69E, the City of Los Fresnos is the fastest growing small city along the Lower Texas Coast and attracts travelers and visitors to its beautiful country-living, friendliness, and nature rich country-side. Los Fresnos features great Texas cuisine offering a tasty variety ranging from tamales and tacos to BBQ to seafood in Coastal Texican restaurants and drive-thru eat-
eries. Los Fresnos guarantees to captivate you with its 4 miles of city limits lined with plazas, restaurants, Los Fresnos Inn, RV parks and businesses to meet all your travel needs. Family attractions include renowned events such as the Los Fresnos Rodeo and Cameron County Fair & Livestock Show, South Texas Conjunto Festival, Commemorative Air Force Airshow & Museum, and Bobz World, open year-round. Los Fresnos is a magnet for nature lovers, birders and butterfly enthusiasts. The City, being the “Gateway to Ocelot Country,” is centrally located between Laguna Atascosa Nature Wildlife Refuge, Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Park, Resaca de Los Cuates Waterway, and South Padre Island. These sites represent thousands of acres of protected land, water sources, and road protective barriers for fish and wildlife migratory mammals, birds, and butterflies so that they can flourish and continue to enrich our Texas Coast. The center point of this magnet is the 23-acre Los Fresnos Nature Park which offers a children’s
nature play area, walking trails, birding and butterfly blinds, and gardens located on the Resaca de Los Cuates Waterway. The Nature Park also includes Hike and Bike Trails that are an innercity initiative designed to connect with the Palo Alto Battlefield and the City of Brownsville. Los Fresnos offers many birding sites which include multiple Resaca sites along highways and byways, Laguna Atascosa Wildlife Refuge, Los Fresnos Nature Park and Casa Los Ebanos. For more informtion about Los Fresnos, come by our “1-stop service center” located in the Los Fresnos City Hall, 520 East Ocean Boulevard, Los Fresnos, Texas 78566. For tours and event information contact the Los Fresnos Chamber of Commerce at 956.233.4488, office@losfresnoschamber.com, or visit the Chamber’s website at www.losfresnoschamber.com. For business and economic opportunities contact the Los Fresnos Community Development Corporation at 956233-6182 or visit our website at www.cdclf.us.
GLADYS PORTER ZOO
BROWNSVI LLE, TEXAS
STAY IN BROWNSVILLE. BOOK YOUR HOTEL AT GPZ.ORG
500 RINGGOLD ST. BROWNSVILLE, TX • (956) 546-7187
Bontebok sopadre.com 65
BROWNSVILLE CVB
(NOTE TO PRINTER: Delete page # if this ad bleeds) 66 spichamber.com
Port Isabel
Historic Port Isabel, the “Point of the Laguna Madre Bay”; land of history, legend and lore was originally inhabited by the Coahilitecan Indians prior to European settlements. This quaint fishing village’s strategic location, once having a 25-foot bluff in the area where the Point Isabel Lighthouse now stands, was a natural lookout for viewing both the Laguna Madre Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. This natural formation was instrumental in the settlement and development of this area. Today, Port Isabel is a thriving community with many unique shops, restaurants, historic hotels, museums, and event center that make up this historic and colorful area. Spend a day discovering Port Isabel, and take advantage of the many places that are within walking distance of each other. If your vacation plans bring you to the Laguna Madre area during the winter months, check out the World Championship Shrimp Cook-Off in November
and the Longest Causeway Run held in April. The Shrimp CookOff features dozens of amateur and professional chef teams competing for the title of “World Champion”. Thousands of spectators’ line up to taste competing recipes of delicious Texas gulf shrimp. The Longest Causeway Run is a 6.2 miles race that starts in Port Isabel and takes participants across the Queen Isabella Causeway and ends on South Padre Island. There is also a 3 mile wellness walk which provides a casual stroll across the Causeway. Not here during the Winter months? Not to worry. Enjoy the Summer Longest Causewy Run and Walk held in September. This event is patterned after the January event except this one starts on the Island and ends in Port Isabel. For more information about Port Isabel go to www.portisabelchamber.com call 956.943.2262, 800.527.6102 or email director@portisabel.org We hope you enjoy your visit to Port Isabel. a
TROY GILES REALTY
PIRATE’S LANDING
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Enlightening and Engaging Point Isabel Independent School District
Point Isabel ISD serves approximately 2600 students from the communities of South Padre Island, Port Isabel, Laguna Heights, Laguna Vista and Boca Chica on two elementary campuses, a junior high and a high school. Home of the “Mighty Tarpons,” the district’s mission is to prepare skilled, lifelong learners to responsibly contribute to our global society. Port Isabel High School is ranked in the top 10% in the state and was named one of America’s Best High Schools by U.S. News and World Report for two consecutive years. The district has been designated a District of Innovation by the Texas Education Agency and is one of five demonstration sites for Raise Your Hand Texas Blended Learning grant program. The innovative five year business plan for implementation of Blended Learning will transform the education experience for students by providing a personalized approach to better meet each student’s individual academic goals. Point Isabel ISD students excel in academics and extra-curricular activities. The fighting Tarpon athletic teams consistently succeed in district, regional and state competitions. The award winning Silver Tarpon Band garners accolades from around the state in UIL marching and concert band contests. Derry and Garriga Elementary Schools provide a variety of activities including academic UIL competition for student participation. Further information about the school district can be found at www.pi-isd. net. If you want to learn more about the events in PIISD follow 68 spichamber.com
us on Facebook at Point Isabel ISD Tarpons and on Twitter Point Isabel ISD@tarponnews
Laguna Madre Christian Academy
The Laguna Madre Christian Academy is a private school located in Laguna Vista. The Academy teaches the A Beka Curriculum with a small class ratio to K-2 through 12th grade. Each and every child is given a Christian based educational curriculum. The program builds self-confidence within students due to the success of our phonetic reading course. Other studies offered include Bible Lessons, Mathematics, Science, Art, Social Studies, Penmanship, English Language Arts, Music, Physical Education and Field Trips. Laguna Madre Christian Academy exists to help parents equip their children to become Christian men and women of character who excel academically, morally, and spiritually in every area of life and society. For more information contact the academy at 956.943.4446, info@lmcatexas.com or www. lmcatexas.com.
Texas Southmost College
Originally established in 1926, Texas Southmost College (TSC) continues today to offer affordable and accessible quality education to everyone! It’s a great place to get a degree, earn credits and transfer them toward a four-year degree. It’s also a great place to enhance career skills, prepare for a career change and learn something new. TSC, a public community college, offers a wide-range of pathways and programs of study leading to a certificate or asso-
ciate degree. As a learning-centered institution, TSC is fully committed to student success and innovation. TSC provides a digitally-enhanced teaching and learning environment for students, including e-textbooks, personalized digital learning tools, and on-demand online tutoring services. A comprehensive curriculum consisting of general academic courses transferable to a baccalaureate degree program, career and technical training, and non-credit continuing education provide affordable and high-quality educational opportunities for all—from high school students to adults of all ages. Courses specializing in college preparatory and developmental education are available to assist students in developing necessary skills to ensure their academic success. Workforce training, adult literacy and non-credit continuing education meet individualized needs and support the evolving training needs of industry and economic development initiatives. Visit www.tsc.edu for additional information or call 956.295.3600.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is the first public university in Texas in the 21st century. Its focus is on student success, educational opportunities, medical education, and research on issues affecting the South Texas region. UTRGV opened Aug. 31, 2015 to a student population of about 29,000. It is a “distributed institution” with two main campuses – Brownsville and Edinburg – and additional sites in McAllen, South Padre Island and Rio Grande City, and offers a
broad array of powerful learning opportunities. With close proximity to the Gulf Coast, students studying the natural and environmental sciences benefit from an expansive living laboratory through the Coastal Studies program. The SpaceX private launch site planned in Brownsville and its partnership with the university will bring opportunities for students to explore the aerospace field up close and personal. Additionally, campus locations along the border with Mexico provide unparalleled venues to study international business and cultural border issues. The UTRGV School of Medicine opened in July 2016 with 50 students, and offers cutting-edge facilities and resources, including a 15,000-square-foot Smart Hospital and technology complex in Harlingen, a Medical Academic Building in Edinburg, and the South Texas Diabetes and Obesity Institute, which includes two genome sequencing machines, in Brownsville. Following in the path of its legacy universities, The University of Texas Brownsville and The University of Texas Pan American in Edinburg, UTRGV is pledged to be a “Gateway to the Americas,” a bilingual, bicultural and biliterate institution designed to prepare and empower students in all disciplines to become leaders and create positive change in their communities, the state, the country, the world — even into outer space. For more information, or if you are interested in applying for admission to UTRGV, call 888882-4026 or visit www.utrgv. edu. a
2216 Padre Blvd., Suite B South Padre Island, Texas 78597
JOSEPHINE’S RESTAURANT
www.spisos.com 956-772-9700 Fax 956-772-9211
printing - SHIPPING - MAILBOX RENTALS Your One Stop Business Center
S.O.S.
· shipping · packing/moving supplies · package receiving · copying · custom packing · printing/binding · 24/7 mailbox rentals · brochures/flyers · custom design . COMPUTER REPAIR · posters/banners · custom canvas prints · virus Removal · notary · network support · office supplies · printer setup · shredding
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS
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TELEPHONE NUMBERS ARE IN THE 956 AREA CODE UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. The alpha letter listed with each Rental Agency serves as the keycode for the agency. When reviewing the Condominium charts in the following pages, the keycode can be found in the far right hand column titled Agent. The agents listed handle one or more condo units at that property.
SPI RENTALS
Property A Isla Management
2308 Gulf Blvd. 336-6121 islarealtor@gmail.com islarentalsspi.com See ad page 5
Padre Island Trips B South 2600 Padre Blvd., Suite O 242-0904 1-800-664-5265 info@southpadretrips.com southpadreislandtrips.com
761-5512 reservations@pirentals.com pirentals.com
Lifestyles K Coastal 5312 Padre Blvd., Suite C P.O. Box 3726 761-8900 Fax: 761-2284 info@vacationpadre.com vacationpadre.com See ad page 46
on Padre D Rent P.O. Box 3586
Getaways L Padre 2500 Padre Blvd., #4
Rentals E SPI 3901 Padre Blvd.
uth Padre Resort Rentals N So 1000 Padre Blvd.
433-5650 Fax: 651-331-5987 info@rentonpadre.com rentonpadre.com
F G
DADDY’S SEAFOOD MARKET
Island Rentals J Padre 3100 Padre Blvd.
572-6656 info@spirentals.com spirentals.com See ad page 70 Franke Rentals 8605 Padre Blvd. 761-2606 Fax: 761-2650 1-800-447-4753 info@frankerentals.com frankerealty.com Furcron Property Management 4800 Padre Blvd. 761-6961 Fax 761-6966 1-800-892-6278 info@furcronrealtors.com furcron.com furcronrealtors.com See ad page 54
761-8888 wally.jones@padregetaways.com eleana.jones@padregetaways.com padregetaways.com
761-6818 sprr@gosouthpadreisland.com gosouthpadreisland.com
Inc. P Vacasa, 5200 Padre Blvd., #103
855-861-5757 daniel.croaston@vacasa.com vacasa.com
Isla Rentals & Real Estate T Bonita 200 W. Huisache 792-3550, 778-4838 Fax: 772-1798 inquiry@bonitaislarentals.com bonitaislarentals.com
Ocean Vacation Rentals U Blue 3401 Padre Blvd., #C 410-8862 info@bovr-spi.com bovr-spi.com See ad page 50
Realty, LLC H Chacon & Rentals
2111 Padre Blvd., Suite 4 761-5633, Fax: 761-2989 1-866-230-5633 chaconrealtyllc@aol.com chaconrealty.com
Services I Island 1700 Padre Blvd.
P.O. Box 2392 761-2649, Fax: 761-4251 1-800-426-6530 1-800-527-0294 mypadre1@aol.com mypadre.com
* Some rental agencies will not accept credit cards. * Minimum number of days may vary during holidays and special events. * Some rental agencies handle beach houses. **Peak Season: Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
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Telephone numbers are in the 956 Area Code unless otherwise noted.
Locations of lodging are indicated by these colors
GULF SIDE/BEACH ACCESS
30
Dbl,King,Ste
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
Comfort Suites Beachside 912 Padre Blvd 772-9020, www.choicehotels.com/texas/south-padre-island/ comfort-suites-hotels/tx467 • abel@enjoyspi.com
74
Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
Courtyard by Marriott 6700 Padre Blvd., 956-772-1816 courtyardsouthpadre.com • enjoyspi@gmail.com alina@enjoyspi.com and estradaj7369@gmail.com
205
Dbl/King
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
Sgl/Dbl/ King/Suites
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
Dbl,King, Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
Sgl/Dbl
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
See ad inside Front Cover
Sgl,Dbl, Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
See ad Back Cover
Sgl/Dbl, Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
See ad page 36
Eff,Sgl,Dbl, Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
1
Sgl
N
N
V,MC,DIS
1
1-2-3 Apts.
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
Dbl
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
1
Sgl,Dbl, Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
Dbl,King
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
63
Sgl/Dbl, Deluxe
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
60
Dbl
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
El Delfin Lodge 5401 Padre Blvd., P.O. Box 3696, 956-772-7007 Fax: 772-7083 •eldelfinlodge@gmail.com•eldelfinlodge.com
47
Dbl,King Jacuzzi Ste
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
Flamingo Inn 3408 Padre Blvd 761-3377, Fax: 761-3343, 1-888-761-3375 www.flamingo-spi.com • info@flamingo-spi.com
29
Dbl,Ste
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
Sgl/Dbl,Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
See ad page 69
56
Dbl, King
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
0
See ad page 15
52
Sgl/Dbl
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
South Beach Inn120 E. Jupiter, 761-2471, Fax 761-2474 12 southbeachinn@gmail.com • www.southbeachtexas.com South Padre Island Inn 4109 Padre Blvd, 761-5531, southpadreislandinn@gmail.com 49 www.southpadrislandinn.com South Padre Island Lodge 3913 Padre Blvd, 761-7831, Fax: 761-2033, www.southpadreislandlodge.com 58 southpadreislandlodge@gmail.com
Eff,Dbl
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
Sgl/Dbl,Ste
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
Sgl/Dbl Kitchenette
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
87
Suites
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
0
66
Sgl/Dbl, Ste,Eff
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
1
19
2-Bed Ste
Y
Y
V, MC, AE, DIS
1
49
Sgl/Dbl, Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
45
Sgl/Dbl
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
61
Sgl/Dbl,Ste
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
Hilton Garden Inn Beach Resort 7010 Padre Blvd., 761-8700, 877-782-9444 156 www.hiltonsouthpadre.com • Hershal.patel@hilton.com enjoyspi@gmail.com • Amanda.martinez@hilton.com Holiday Inn Resort 100 Padre Blvd., 426-9066, 221 info@holidayinnpadre.com • www.beachresortspi.com Isla Grand Beach Resort 500 Padre Blvd, 761-6511, Fax: 761-5397, 1-800-292-7704, 128 www.islagrand.com • info@islagrand.com La Copa Inn Beachfront Hotel 350 Padre Blvd., 761-6000 Fax:761-6013, 1-866-4-LACOPA (452-2672),lacoparesort.com 146 southpadre@lacopainn.com, enjoyspi@gmail.com, manager@lacoparesort.com Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island 310 Padre Blvd, 761-6551, Fax: 761-6552, 1-800-222-4010 253 margaritavilleresorts.com/margaritaville-beach-resort-south-padre-island daniel.haughan@margaritavilleresortsouthpadre.com Padre South Hotel 1500 Gulf Blvd, P.O. Box 2338 761-4951, Fax: 761-4954, 1-844-GoPadre 63 www.padresouth.com • reservations@padresouth.com Palms Resort 3616 Gulf Blvd. 761-1316, Fax: 761-1310 29 www.palmsresortcafe.com • stay@palmsresortcafe.com Peninsula Island Resort & Spa 340 Padre Blvd. 761-2514, Fax: 761-6095, 1-800-761-2514, 71 reservations@peninsulaislandresort.com www.peninsulaislandresort.com Ramada South Padre 6200 Padre Blvd, 761-4744, Fax: 761-3144, 1-866-601-6200, 146 ramadaspi.com • ramadaspi@yahoo.com Sand Rose Beach Resort 7000 Padre Blvd, 772-7000, www.sandroseresort.com • sandrosemanager@rubyredtx.com 147 enjoyspi@gmail.com Wanna Wanna Inn 5100 Gulf Blvd • 1-866-761-7677 761-7677 • www.wannawanna.com • inn@wannawanna.com 15 Best Western Beachside Inn 4500 Padre Blvd, 761-4919 Fax: 761-3924 www.beachsideinntexas.com reservations@beachsideinntexas.com 1-800-780-7234 Comfort Inn 3813 Padre Blvd, 761-8500, Fax 761-8882
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites 6502 Padre Blvd., P.O. Box 2891, 761-8844, Fax 761-8845, 1-888-772-3222 104 hie@holidayinnspi.com • www.hiexpress.com Lighthouse Inn 1701 Padre Blvd., P.O. Box 3696, 299-4154, lighthouseinndp1701@gmail.com, www.lighthouseinnspi.com Ocean Inn 4013 Padre Blvd, 231-5711, www.oceaninnspi.com • oceaninnspi@hotmail.com
Suites at Sunchase 1004 Padre Blvd., 761-7711 sunchasesuites.com • sunchase@continentalhospitality.com Super 8 SPI 4205 Padre Blvd, 761-6300, Fax: 761-6083, 1-800-800-8000, www.super8padre.com • super8spi@yahoo.com Upper Deck Hotel & Bar (21 and up property) 120 E. Atol St., 761-5953 upperdeckhotel@gmail.com • www.upperdeckhotel.com Blue Bay Inn & Suites 901 Padre, 761-4350, Fax: 761-4808, www.southpadreinn.com bluebayinnreservations@gmail.com Casa Bella Hotel & Suites 5601 Padre Blvd., 761-7700, Fax: 761-2780, 1-877- 224-7700, www.casabellaspi.com • spicasabella@yahoo.com WindWater Hotel 5701 Padre Blvd, 761-4913, Fax: 761-2719, windwaterspi@gmail.com • www.windwaterspi.com The Lighthouse Boutique Hotel 401 E. Maxan St., 336-1794, reservations@lighthouseboutiquehotel.com, www.lighthouseboutiquehotel.com
Beach Rentals
Boat Ramp
Cable TV
Elevator
Exercise Room
Fishing
Heated Pool
Amenities
Coco Beach Hotel 2612 Gulf Blvd, 761-2831, Fax: 761-1292,cocobeachspi.com•info@cocobeachspi.com
Min. Stay (days)
Accept Spring Breakers
PORT ISABEL
Mtg. Rooms
BAY SIDE
Bedrooms
INNER ISLAND
# of Units
Credit Cards
Hotels & Motels
Conf.Center See ad Back Cover See ad Back Cover See ad page 37
See ad page 20 Pets Allowed with Fee See ad page 3
See ad Back Cover See ad page 5
See ad page 15
Wheelchair Indoor Indoor Laundry Nightclub Pets Snack Swimming Tennis Accessible Wi-Fi Pool Heated Pool Facilities Allowed Pickleball Restaurant Bar Pool /Bar
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Discover what makes our tropical destination the Best Beach in Texas. @visitsouthpadreisland
Locations of lodging are indicated by these colors
Condominiums 1,2,3
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
Bahia Mar Condos
32
2,3
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
BEF IGJ PTU BJ P
The Beach House I, II, III
64
1,2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS DC
3
EI J FU
The Breakers
12
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
F
30
1,2,3,4, Penthouses
N
N
V,MC,AE
2/4
3700 Gulf Blvd.
32
1,2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
Continental
15
1,2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
E HI GS
35
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
FG JI
2600 Gulf Blvd.
30
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
3
GI FU
Florence I
30
Eff,1,2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
EG IJP
Florence II
60
Eff,1,2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
IJ P
Franke Plaza
69
2,3,4
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
3
F
2
BD EI J KU
6300 Padre Blvd 3400 Gulf Blvd. 708 Padre Blvd
Bridgepoint 334 Padre Blvd., 761-7969, Fax: 761-2844
1-800-221-1402 www.bridgepointresort.com bridgepointcondo@aol.com
Castaways
4908 Gulf Blvd.
Edgewater
2216 Gulf Blvd.
Embassy
5500 Gulf Blvd. 5700 Gulf Blvd. 708 Padre Blvd.
Inverness Resort
Agent
Amenities
Accept Spring Breakers
69
Min. Stay (days)
Mtg. Rooms
2000 Gulf Blvd.
Aquarius
Credit Cards
Bedrooms
GULF SIDE/BEACH ACCESS INNER ISLAND BAY SIDE
# of Units
Telephone numbers are in the 956 Area Code unless otherwise noted. Reservations for condominiums can be made directly with rental agencies if a phone number is not indicated.
See ad page 28
FU
92
1,2, 3
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
600 Padre Blvd.
44
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
Isla Grand Beach Resort 500 Padre Blvd., 761-6511, Fax: 761-5397, 1-800-292-7704(US) www.islagrand.com • info@islagrand.com
65
2
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS.DC,CB
1
5008 Gulf Blvd.
42
1,2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
BE I J PRU
La Playa 2308 Gulf Blvd., 761-1066,
18
1,2,3
N
N
V,MC,DIS
3
AP
310 Padre Blvd, 761-6551, Fax: 761-6552, 1-800-222-4010 margaritavilleresorts.com/margaritaville-beach-resort-south-padre-island 52 daniel.haughan@margaritavilleresortsouthpadre.com
1,2
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
25
2,3
N
N
V,MC,DIS
2
66
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
F E FI J L PU
5600 Gulf Blvd.
Isla Del Sol
La Internacional islarealtor@gmail.com • www.islarentalsspi.com
FI P See ad inside Front Cover
Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island
Marisol Condominiums
1700 Gulf Blvd., 761-1193, Fax: 761-5032 www.marisol-spi.com manager@marisol-spi.com
Ocean View 4700 Gulf Blvd.
Ocean Vista Towers
See ad page 36
84
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
3
Fax: 761-4203, thepadregrand@aol.com
6
2,3
N
N
V,MC
5
Padre South Hotel 1500 Gulf Blvd, P.O. Box 2338 761-4951, Fax: 761-4954, 1-844-GoPadre www.padresouth.com • reservations@padresouth.com
18
2
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
1
40
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE
2
70
Eff,1,2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
237
1,2,3
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
Sangria Condominiums 1400 Gulf Blvd., P.O. Box 2399, 761-2141,Fax: 761-2158 1-866-41-CONDO(412-6636) 30 www.sangriacondominiums.com sangria.condominiums@gmail.com
Eff,1,2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE
3
60
2,3,Penthouse, Bungalow
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
ABE JKPU
80
1,2,3
N
N
V, MC
2
IP
2800 Gulf Blvd., 761-1717
The Padre Grand 2100 Gulf Blvd., 761-7290,
Parkshore
7000 Gulf Blvd.
Royale Beach & Tennis Club
400 Padre Blvd., P.O. Box 2879, 761-1166, Fax: 761-5808 www.royale-spi.com • rbtc@sprynet.com
Saida Towers I,II,III,IV 410 Padre Blvd.
Sapphire Condominiums 310-A Padre Blvd.
Sea Vista Condominiums 110 Padre Blvd. 761-5526, Fax 761-5529, www.seavistacondos.com seavistacondos@aol.com Beach Rentals
Boat Ramp
Cable TV
Elevator
Exercise Room
Fishing
Heated Pool
See ad page 20 I EJ BDE FIJK LPU
Wheelchair Indoor Indoor Laundry Nightclub Pets Snack Swimming Tennis Accessible Wi-Fi Pool Heated Pool Facilities Allowed Pickleball Restaurant Bar Pool /Bar
sopadre.com
73
SUNCHASE BEACHFRONT
(NOTE TO PRINTER: Delete page # if this ad bleeds) 74 spichamber.com
Locations of lodging are indicated by these colors
Condominiums (cont.)
Accept Spring Breakers
1,2,3
N
N
V,MC,DIS
2
Seabreeze I Condominiums 4300 Gulf Blvd. 761-7734, 1-800-221-6448, Fax: 761-2454 www.seabreeze1.net • seabreeze4300@yahoo.com
28
2,3,4
N
N
V,MC,DIS
2
D
Seagull
20
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
EG J LP
Seville
36
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
GF J
Summit
64
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
38
2,3,4
N
N
V,MC
3
Sunchase IV
75
1,2,3
Y
N
V,MC,AE
2
Suntide I
13
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
I
4400 Gulf Blvd.
34
2,3
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
A JP
Suntide III 3000 Gulf Blvd. 761-1307, Fax: 761-1506, 1-800-847-5728 www.suntideiii.com • gm@suntideiii.com
2-3 BR, 2-3 BR 118 Penthouse, 3BR Penthouse Corner
N
Y
V,MC,DIS
3
Tiki Vacation Condominium 6608 Padre Blvd., 761-2694, Fax: 761-7538, 1-800-551-8454 www.thetikispi.com • info@thetikispi.com
65
1,2,3
Y
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
Beachview
42
2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
3
EF GIJ PU
Casa Del Sol
24
2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
IJ
Cora Lee Gulfview
18
2
N
Coronado I,II
12
1,2
N
Y
Dolphin Condominiums
30
N
N
Fiesta Del Sol
45
2
N
Y
Gulfpoint Condos
114
2,3
Gulfview I
30
Eff,1,2
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
BGI LPT
Gulfview II
78
Eff,1,2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
BH I J L
Habitat
25
2,3
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
BD HP
40
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
BT
Las Puertas Condominiums
12
2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
L
Las Verandas Condominiums
22
2
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
JLI TU
Morningside I,II,III,IV
24
1,2
N
Y
V,MC
3
I
Padre Oasis
30
2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
BE IK
Park Lane Resort
20
2
N
Y
30
2
N
N
4100 Gulf Blvd. 3900 Gulf Blvd. 900 Padre Blvd.
Sunchase Beachfront Condos 1010 Padre Blvd.
761-1660, Fax: 761-1401, www.scbfspi.com • info@scbfspi.com 1000 Padre Blvd. 1912 Gulf Blvd.
Suntide II
2400 Gulf Blvd. 123 E. Amberjack 129 E. Cora Lee 5701 Gulf Blvd. 301 Gulf Blvd.
115 E. Amberjack 200 Padre Blvd. 120 Padre Blvd. 130 Padre Blvd. 104 E. Parade
La Isla South Padre Residences 150 Padre Blvd., 518-1254 la.isla.residence1@gmail.com 123 E. Carolyn
6410 Padre Blvd.
129 E. Morningside 111 E. Morningside 108 E. Coronado
Seascape 117 E. Verna Jean, P.O. Box 3688, 761-7168, Fax: 761-8961 www.seascapespi.com goseascape@aol.com Beach Rentals
Boat Ramp
Cable TV
Elevator
Exercise Room
Fishing
Heated Pool
Agent
Amenities
Mtg. Rooms
46
Min. Stay (days)
Bedrooms
Seabreeze Beach Resort 5400 Gulf Blvd. P.O. Box 3169, 761-1541, 1-800-541-9901, www.seabreezebeachresort.com • office@seabreezespi.com
Credit Cards
# of Units
Telephone numbers are in the 956 Area Code unless otherwise noted. Reservations for condominiums can be made directly with rental agencies if a phone number is not indicated.
GULF SIDE/BEACH ACCESS INNER ISLAND BAY SIDE
Security Gate
IF See ad page 74
EJ U AB J L NPU
P
B
See ad page 32
L K V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
A PT
3
LP U V,MC,AE,DIS
BI L PU
3
D,G, H,I,J, P,U,B
T V,MC,DIS
2
Wheelchair Indoor Indoor Laundry Nightclub Pets Snack Swimming Tennis Accessible Wi-Fi Pool Heated Pool Facilities Allowed Pickleball Restaurant Bar Pool /Bar
sopadre.com
75
Edwin K. Atwood Park (956)761-3704
Andy Bowie Park (956)761-3704
Isla Blanca Park | (956)761-5493 | 33174 State Park Rd. 100, South Padre Island www.cameroncountyparks.com
Adolph Thomae, Jr. Park (956)748-2044
Locations of lodging are indicated by these colors
Condominiums (cont.)
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
AD GP U
31
2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
H
24
1,2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
110 E. Verna Jean
27
2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
Vista Del Mar
44
2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
U
Surfside II
5601 Gulf Blvd.
Ventura
119 E. Venus
Villa Del Sol 123 E. Pompano
Agent
Amenities
Accept Spring Breakers
1,2
108 E. Morningside
Min. Stay (days)
Mtg. Rooms
34
Surfside I
Credit Cards
Bedrooms
GULF SIDE/BEACH ACCESS INNER ISLAND BAY SIDE
# of Units
Telephone numbers are in the 956 Area Code unless otherwise noted. Reservations for condominiums can be made directly with rental agencies if a phone number is not indicated.
BI
Galleon Bay Club Condos
13
2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
3
GH DL PT
La Solana
31
2,3,4
N
N
V,MC,AE
2
EHI LPU
Landfall Tower Resort 6403 Padre Blvd
54
Eff,1,2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
BG PU
Las Brisas 227 W. Morningside Dr., P.O. Box 2370 761-5111, Fax: 433-5899 • lasbrisasspi@gmail.com www.lasbrisassouthpadreisland.com
20
1,2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
Las Marinas
32
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
Puesta Del Sol
42
2
N
N
V,MC,AE
7
Sand Castle
49
Eff,1,2,3
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
1
South Padre Marina
49
1,2,3
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
16
2,3
Y
N
DO NOT ACCEPT
30
35
2,3
N
N
N
Y
V,MC,DIS
612 RV 140 Tent 8 Cabanas
Y
Y
V,MC,DIS
6 MO
Port Isabel Marina & RV Park 706 Hwy. 100, Port Isabel, 943-3373, gfgroupinc@gmail.com www.portisabelmarinaandrvpark.com
67 Interior Lots 18 Waterfront Lots
N
Y
V, MC, AE, DIS
1
Port Isabel Park Center 702 Champion Ave., Port Isabel, 943-7340, angela@piparkcenter.com www.portisabelparkcenter.com
300 RV
N
N
V, MC, AE, DIS
1
187 RV
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
4901 Laguna Blvd.
206 W. Red Snapper
5909 Padre Blvd. 201 W. Acapulco / 3113 Laguna Blvd 208 W. Kingfish 6201 Padre Blvd.
Sunset On The Bay 5101 Laguna Blvd. 761-1399, Fax: 761-7888, spisunsetcondos@aol.com Tierra Encantada 220 W. Cora Lee
DE KL TU
IG
FI L
7
Camping Andy Bowie Park (Cameron County) 7300 N. Padre Blvd., 761-3704, Fax: 761-5382, victor.macias@co.cameron.tx.us www.co.cameron.tx.us/parks/index.htm
18
Isla Blanca County Park 1/2 Park Rd 100, 761-5494, Fax: 761-5317, Pedro.garza@co.cameron.tx.us www.co.cameron.tx.us/parks/index.htm
South Padre Island KOA
1 Padre Blvd., 761-5665, 1-800-562-9724 www.southpadrekoa.com • southpadre@koa.com Beach Rentals
Boat Ramp
Cable TV
Elevator
Exercise Room
Fishing
Heated Pool
See ad page 76
See ad page 76
Wheelchair Indoor Indoor Laundry Nightclub Pets Snack Swimming Tennis Accessible Wi-Fi Pool Heated Pool Facilities Allowed Pickleball Restaurant Bar Pool /Bar
sopadre.com
7765
SHWEIKI MEDIA
(NOTE TO PRINTER: Delete page # if this ad bleeds) 78 spichamber.com
Eats & Treats Azul Ocean Grill & Spirits at Holiday Inn Resort
Seafood, Steaks, Salads
100 Padre Blvd.
956-426-9066
Barry’s Tacos and Margaritas at Hilton Garden Inn
Beachside Taco Truck
7010 Padre Blvd.
956-435-7788
Bar Louie Deck Bar & Grill at Courtyard Marriott
Tacos, Burgers, Seafood
6700 Padre Blvd.
956-433-0590
Bar Louie Restaurant & Bar at Courtyard Marriott
Salads, Seafood, Burgers
6700 Padre Blvd.
956-433-0590
Barry’s Bistro on the Beach at Sand Rose Beach Resort
Pasta, Pizza, Burgers
7000 Padre Blvd.
956-377-2019
Berry Divine Acai
Acai Bowls and Acai Smoothies
1808 Padre Blvd., #B
Blackbeards’ Restaurant
Seafood, Burgers, Steaks
103 E. Saturn
956-761-2962
Blue Marlin Supermarket
Deli, Take-out
2912 Padre Blvd.
956-761-4966
Breaking Bread Burrito Express
Burritos, Tacos, Salads
5200 Padre Blvd., #104
956-772-7065
Café Karma
Specialty Coffee, Pastries
5200 Padre Blvd., #101
956-433-5042
Café on the Beach at Palms Resort
Beachfront, Seafood, Steak
3616 Gulf Blvd.
956-761-2703
Calacas Tacos & Beer
Tacos and Beer
410 Padre Blvd.
956-433-5001
Ceviche Ceviche
Customized Ceviche
1004 Padre Blvd.
956-772-1555
Clayton’s Beach Bar & Grill
Seafood, Burgers, Sandwiches
6900 Padre Blvd.
956-761-5900
Charlie’s Pizza
Pizza, Stromboli, Desserts
1004 Padre Blvd., #A2
956-433-5202
Coco Beach Hotel
Beachfront, Burgers, Seafood
3201 Padre Blvd.
956-761-2420
Coconut Jack’s
Bayfront, Seafood, Burgers
2301 Laguna Blvd.
956-761-4218
D’ Pizza Joint
Pizzas, Subs, Burgers
2413 Padre Blvd.
956-761-7995
Daddy’s Seafood & Cajun Kitchen
Seafood, Burgers
1808 Padre Blvd.
956-761-1975
Dairy Queen
Burgers, Ice Cream, Sandwiches
2401 Padre Blvd.
956-761-1072
Denny’s
Seafood, Steaks, Burgers
1110 Padre Blvd.
956-761-1887
Dirty Al’s
Waterfront, Seafood
1 Padre Blvd.
956-761-4901
Dolce Roma
Ice Cream
4200 Padre Blvd., #B
956-761-1198
Dona Carmen’s Restaurant #4
Mexican Food
5800 Padre Blvd., Suite 101
956-617-5636
El Chilango Taqueria
Mexican Food
1912 Padre Blvd.
956-433-5002
F&B SPI Restaurant
Seafood, Steaks, Pasta
3109 Padre Blvd.
956-772-8114
Gabriella’s Italian Grill & Pizzeria
Italian, Pizza
700 Padre Blvd.
956-761-6111
Grapevine Café
Steaks, Burgers, Mexican
100 E. Swordfish
956-761-8463
Hedera Tropical Grill
Seafood, Sandwiches, Salads
4001 Padre Blvd.
956-639-1394
Island Candy
Candy Store
2311 Padre Blvd.
956-433-5549
Island Market
Take-out
5012 Padre Blvd.
956-761-5171
Jake’s Restaurant & Bar
Seafood, Mexican, Burgers
2001 Padre Blvd.
956-761-5012
Johnny Rocket
Hamburgers, Salads
410 Padre Blvd.
Josephine’s Kitchen
Breakfast, Salads, Sandwiches
3409 Padre Blvd.
956-299-4910
Ka Motion
Bayfront, Dinner Cruise
200 Pike St.
956-410-9945
Karla’s Katering
Catering
3311 Padre Blvd., Suite B
956-761-1644
Karma Coffee and Books
Coffee and Pastries
2500 Padre Blvd., #8
956-747-2568
Kelly’s Pub
Authentic Irish
101 E. Morningside
956-433-5380
Kentucky Fried Chicken
Chicken
3201 Padre Blvd.
956-761-2392
KIC’s Ice Cream
Ice Cream
2500 Padre Blvd., Suite 4
956-426-9181
Kohnami Sushi Japanese Restaurant
Teppanyaki Grill, Sushi
410 Padre Blvd.
956-761-2446
La Copa Cabana Bar & Grill
Beachfront, Pizza, Burgers
350 Padre Blvd.
956-761-6000
Laguna BOB
Bayfront, Seafood, Burgers
2401 Laguna Blvd.
956-433-5499
LandShark Bar & Grill at Margaritaville
Beachfront, Seafood, Burgers, Salads
310 Padre Blvd.
956-761-6551
Las Olas at Peninsula
Beachfront, Seafood, Steaks
340 Padre Blvd.
956-761-3767
Liam’s Steakhouse & Oyster Bar
Bayfront, Steaks, Seafood
202 W. Tarpon
956-772-4700
continued on page 81
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SEA RANCH/ LAGUNA BOB/ F&B
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Lifted Daiquiri Galaxy N’ Beer Barn Lobo Del Mar Cafe
Drive thru, Daiquiris, Wine & Beer to go, Snacks, Pastries
3508 Padre Blvd.
956-433-5167
Bayfront, Seafood, Burgers
204 W. Palm
808-640-4891
Longboard Bar & Grill
Bayfront, Seafood, Sandwiches
205 W. Palm
956-772-7022
Los Pescadores Coffee & Outfitters
Coffee, Pastries, Thai Tacos, Full Bar
410 Padre Blvd., #111
956-596-0558
Louie’s Backyard
Bayfront, Seafood, Steaks
2305 Laguna Blvd.
956-761-6406
McDonald’s
Burgers
908 Padre Blvd.
956-761-4999 956-243-0279
Mahi Nic
American, Seafood, French Fries
(Sea Ranch Marina)
Meatball Café
Italian
2412 Padre Blvd.
956-299-4562
Montana’s Bar & Grill
Burgers, Fried Fish, Chicken
2700 Padre Blvd.
956-772-7002
Nautico Island Grill
Seafood, Mexican
1313 Padre Blvd.
956-772-7074
On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina at Hilton Garden Inn
Mexican Food
7010 Padre Blvd.
956-772-1087
Padre Island Brewing Co.
Burgers, Pizza, Ribs
3400 Padre Blvd.
956-761-9585
Parrot Eyes Restaurant
Waterfront, Seafood, Sandwiches
5801 Padre Blvd.
956-772-9040
Peggy’s Cakes and More
Catering
Call for catering options
956-241-7884
Pizza Hut
Pizza, Italian
1905 Padre Blvd.
956-761-1361 956-707-7111
Pizzeria Express by Gabriella’s
Pizza
2600 Padre Blvd., #U
Porky’s Pit
Food Truck, BBQ
33261 State Park Rd. 100
956-772-8143
Quarterdeck Lounge at Isla Grand Beach Resort
Beachfront, Appetizers
500 Padre Blvd.
956-761-6511
Rocotto Grill
Peruvian, Japanese
1500 Gulf Blvd.
956-761-5555
Russo’s New York Pizzeria
Pizza, Salads, Italian
410 Padre Blvd., Ste 101
956-299-4987
Sea Ranch Restaurant & Bar
Waterfront, Seafood, Steaks
3330 State Park Rd. 100
956-761-1314
Seaside Bar & Grill at Holiday Inn Resort
Beachfront, Seafood, Steaks
100 Padre Blvd.
956-426-9066
SeaSide Sammies
Sandwiches
2600 Padre Blvd., #C
956-299-4032
Señor Donkey Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
Mexican, Seafood
4215 Padre Blvd.
956-761-4843 956-772-7245
Southern Wave Sailing Cruises
Bay, Seafood, Dinner Cruise
Wahoo Saloon Dock
SPI Wine Bar
Charcuterie Boards, Tapas
4000 Padre Blvd., #A&B
210-314-9349
Starnies Hot Dogs & More
Hot Dogs, Sandwiches
5312 Padre Blvd., Suite D
956-433-8064
Stripes
Take-out
Various locations
Su Casa Café at Ramada
Mexican, Seafood
6200 Padre Blvd.
956-299-2481
Subway
Sandwiches, Salads
2100 Padre Blvd.
956-761-6700
Sugar Freezz Café
Crepes, Waffles, Beverages
904 Padre Blvd.
956-524-8050
Sugar Kingdom
Candy, Ice Cream, Beverages
1601 Padre Blvd.
956-772-7288
Sugar Planet
Candy Store
1414 Padre Blvd.
Sugar Shack
Candy, Ice Cream, Coffee
910 Padre Blvd.
956-524-8009
Sunrise Bakery
Bakery, Coffee Drinks
2312 Padre Blvd.
956-372-2987 956-299-4026
The Baked Bear
Custom Ice Cream Sandwiches
100 E. Swordfish St.
The Bistro at Courtyard Marriott
Breakfast, Salads, Sandwiches
6700 Padre Blvd.
956-433-0590
Tom & Jerry’s Beach Club Bar & Grill
Burgers, Steaks, Seafood
3212 Padre Blvd.
956-761-8999 956-433-5259
Tropical Smoothie Café
Smoothies, Sandwiches, Salads
410 Padre Blvd.
Ula’s Poke Bowls
Poke Bowls
1004 Padre Blvd., #I-1
956-524-8057
U-Mix Yogurt & Deli
Coffee, Frozen Yogurt, Deli
1004 Padre Blvd.
956-426-9037 956-707-8482
Viva SPI
Bayfront, Seafood, Steak
202 W. Whiting
Wanna Wanna
Beachfront, Seafood, Burgers
5100 Gulf Blvd.
956-761-7600
Whataburger
Burgers
105 W. Retama
956-761-7862
Windjammers at Isa Grand Beach Resort
Beachfront, Seafood, Steaks
500 Padre Blvd.
956-761-6511
Wing Stop
Wings
2400 Padre Blvd.
956-761-1300
World Flavors Coffee House
Coffee, Specialty Drinks, Pastries
5009 Padre Blvd, Suite 4
956-772-8050
Yummies Bistro
Sandwiches, Salads
700 Padre Blvd.
956-761-2526
Bonita Flats Farm & Vineyard
Winery, Pizza, Sandwiches
32071 FM3069 – Los Fresnos
956-479-3845
The Lighthouse Boutique Hotel
Salads, Sandwiches, Pizza, Burgers
401 E. Maxan St. (PI)
956-336-1794
Pirate’s Landing
Bayfront, Seafood, Sandwiches
Lighthouse Square (PI)
956-943-3663
SPI Chamber Member Eats & Treats Off The Island
Quik Stop
Fresh Seafood
501 W. Hwy. 100 (PI)
956-943-1159
Rudy’s “Country Store” Bar-B-Q
BBQ
2780 N. Exp. 77/83 – Brownsville
956-542-2532
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