Inside This Guide
7 Welcome to Paradise 8 How to Get to South Padre 11 Visitor Information 17 South Padre Island Map 18 Our History 24 Attractions and Recreation 31 2018 Event Calendar 32 2018 Event Highlights 37 So Much To Do! 41 Weddings In Paradise 43 Our Winter Texan Friends 44 Nature - Island Style 50 Our Neighbors 55 South Padre Island Economic Facts 56 Education 59 Quality Healthcare 60 Mexico Travel Tips 62 Rental Agencies & Accommodations 71 Eats and Treats
WANNA WANNA INN
Production Director Dianna L. Harvill Photography Dianna L. Harvill Cristina Meade Layout & Design Clarissa Creel Bryant Ad Design Toucan Graphics Stan Hulse & Adrian Hulse toucangraphics.net Printing Shweiki Media Co. San Antonio, Texas shweiki.com
Published by South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce 610 Padre Blvd. South Padre Island, Texas 78597 956-761-4412 • FAX 956-761-2739 info@spichamber.com spichamber.com
LAGUNA MADRE ART GALLERY
facebook.com/spichamber ©2018 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.
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Valley International Airport Harlingen
Your Gateway to South Padre Island!
Start your vacation worry-free by flying to Valley International Aiport, the premier airport of the Rio Grande Valley. Take advantage of the only door-to-door non-stop SPI transportation service and enjoy the best beach in Texas.
Non-Stop Flights to Austin, Minneapolis/St. Paul and your choice of airports to Houston.
flythevalley.com
WELCOMEto Paradise 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, skydiving, 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! _
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HOWto GETto South Padre
~ BY
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 in, 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. If arriving by boat, the intercoastal channel provides access to all boats, from the smallest to the largest. _
Mathis
37
Alice 281
181
Corpus Christi Kingsville
359
exico
M Gulf of
TEXAS
77
Harlingen 83
100
Brownsville Matamoros
8 spichamber.com
Texas
South Padre Island Port Isabel
South Padre Island
AIR
Brownsville South Padre International Airport Flybrownsville.com (30 minutes) American 800-433-7300 aa.com United Airlines 800-864-8331 United.com Miller International AirportMcAllen(1-1/2 hours) McAllenairport.com Aeromar 844-237-6629 aeromar.com.mx Allegiant 800-432-3810 allegiantair.com American Airlines 800-433-7300 aa.com United Airlines 800-864-8331 United.com Valley International Airport - Harlingen Flythevalley.com (50 minutes) Delta Airlines 800-221-1212 delta.com
~ BY
Southwest 800-435-9792 southwest.com Sun Country 800-752-1218 suncountry.com United Airlines 800-864-8331 United.com From the Airport to the Island: Go...With Jo! Tours & Travels (service to/from all airports) 800-962-8497 Gowithjo.com South Padre Shuttle Service (service to/from Valley International Airport) 877-774-0050 Southpadreshuttle.com Metro Connect (service to/from Brownsville SPI International Airport) 855-220-8827 Rgvmetroconnect.com
WATER
Call the Port Isabel/San Benito Navigation District, (956) 943-7826, for regulations and additional information.
~ BY
LAND
U.S. Highways 77, 281 or 83 - Take Interstate 37 South from San Antonio to U.S. Hwy. 77 south, then east on Texas Hwy. 100 approximately 28 miles. 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.
The Wave
Visitor Information South Padre Island is a 34-mile long subtropical Island located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, 25 miles north of the Mexican border. The Island is a half-mile 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.
South Padre Shuttle
TRANSPORTATION Save yourself a little extra money for fun on the Island. Whether you are flying into Brownsville or Harlingen there is convenient transportation to the Island. From Brownsville you can board the Metro Connect Bus (855.220.8827) outside baggage pick-up. At the present time, Metro Connect Bus connects with Island Metro (956.761.8178) in Port Isabel, and both of these buses are free to the public. On the Island you will be dropped off anywhere along Padre Blvd or Gulf Blvd, closest to your lodging choice. If you are flying into Harlingen, make reservations with South Padre Shuttle by calling 877.774.0050. The South Padre Shuttle will drop you off anywhere on the Island.
Metro Connect
While on the Island enjoy the services of Island Metro. Leave your car at home or just parked upon arrival. Island Metro can pick you up or 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 must use bus stops. Island Metro runs 7 days a week 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Island Metro and Metro Connect buses are also available if you would like to take a trip up the Valley to shop, eat or visit. Take Island Metro to Port Isabel and transfer to the Metro Connect Bus. This service will take you to the Brownsville bus station, Valley Transit in Harlingen, the Mercedes Outlets, or the McAllen bus station for a very small fee.
NEW Park and Ride Facility The next time you travel to the Island, the first thing you will see is the Island’s new Park and Ride Facility. The transportation hub is projected to be operational by Fall of 2018. The U.S. Department of Transportation awarded $3.5 million to the City of South Padre Island for the project. The two story facility will offer “intermodal” connections between automobile and bus, providing a better transfer location for visitors. It will also provide riders the safety of a secured building with lighting and a security officer. People will be able to park their cars in one of 125 new parking spaces - FREE of charge; get out to take pictures, park their car while on the Island and utilize the Island Metro buses, or catch a bus for a day trip in the upper valley. Upon completion of the new transportation hub, all bus transfers from Brownsville and Harlingen will take place at the new facility, and will offer passengers unloading/loading under bus canopies; protecting riders, drivers and buses from harsh elements. For a downloadable copy of the Island Metro schedule go to www.myspi.org or Metro Connect at www.rgvmetroconnect.com, or call the SPI Chamber at 956.761.4412. sopadre.com
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South Padre Island SOUTH PADRE ISLAND Economic Facts EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS
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 afternoon to manage county affairs. For more information go to www.co.cameron. tx.us.
Call 911 first for all emergencies.
South Padre Island EMS South Padre Island Police Dept. South Padre Island Fire Dept. U.S. Coast Guard Station - SPI Cameron County Parks Police
956-761-5454 956-761-5454 956-761-3040 956-761-2668 956-761-5283
TAXES
STARTING A BUSINESS ON SOUTH PADRE ISLAND AIR AND WATER TEMPERATURE COMPARISONS For the most current and up-to-date
revenue WATER TEMP figures, labor JAN data FEB and MARpopulation APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC go to www.southpadreislandedc. South trends Padre Island 58 60 64 70 77 com.TX To learn more Galveston, 54 about 55 required 61 permits 71 78 and town ordinances regarding the start-up Freeport, TX 53 56 62 71 77 of a new business or the purchase of Pensacola, FL 56 58 63 71 78 an existing business, go to www.myspi.
79 83 82 84
79 86 84 85
80 86 85 86
83 83 82 82
78 75 75 74
71 67 66 65
64 59 59 58
org or contact the City Planner at
AIR TEMP 956.761.3221.
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC
South Padre Island Galveston, TX Freeport, TX Pensacola, FL
67 62 63 61
70 64 65 64
75 70 72 70
79 75 77 76
84 81 83 83
88 87 88 89
89 89 90 91
89 89 90 90
87 87 87 87
83 80 80 79
76 71 72 70
69 64 65 63
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 the Point Isabel ISD Tax Office. 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 14.5% Hotel/Motel Tax (6% to State of Texas; of which 1% is returned to the City for beach renourishment, and 8.5% to the Convention and Visitors Bureau). For information on property taxes, contact the Cameron County Appraisal District at 956.399.9322 or visit their website at www.cameroncad.org
UTILITIES
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND BEACH PATROL The goal of the South Padre Island Beach Patrol is to monitor beach activities and provide rescue services as needed on the City’s beaches. The long narrow beaches of South Padre Island do not lend themselves to traditional stationary lifeguard stands; therefore a “mobile patrol” is used to cover all of the City’s beach area. They not only respond to calls for assistance and caution people on the beach about potentially hazards actions, they also provide minor first aid for jelly fish stings, scrapes, and cuts, etc. The Beach Patrol members also act as ambassadors for the City by providing information to our visitors on such far ranging topics as “what kind of fish is that”, to “where is a good place to watch the sunset”. The Beach Patrol is an essential part of making our visitors trip to the beach a happy and safe experience.
SPI VISITORS CENTER The SPI Visitors Center is currently located at 610 Padre Blvd., and will move into the new Island Park and Ride Facility in the Fall of 2018. The Visitors Center has a large selection of flyers, coupons, brochures, digital maps, public computers, and much more. Staff is always available to answer questions and provide any other assistance visitors and residents might need. 956.761.6433
Water and sewer needs for South Padre Island residents and businesses are managed by Laguna Madre Water District (956.943.2626), waste disposal is provided by Allied Waste Services (800.423.7316) and cable service is provided by Time Warner Cable (800.222.5355). Electrical service can be obtained from several suppliers (www.powerto choose.org), and land line telecommunication service is also available through multiple companies (www.connectmyphone.com). South Padre Island is serviced by numerous internet provider companies. Check with your current carrier regarding availability and options. q
SPI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Currently located in the SPI Visitors Center at 610 Padre Blvd., the SPI Chamber of Commerce will be moving to the new Island Park and Ride facility during the Fall of 2018. The Chamber provides information to tourist and those looking to relocate, about services and supplies provided by their business members. Upon moving to the Island Park and Ride facility, the Chamber will have the space needed to display and distribute flyers from business members to tourist coming through the facility. For more information, or to have information mailed to you go to www.spichamber.com, email info@spichamber.com, or call 956.761.4412.
P.I. ISD sopadre.com
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BEACH RULES 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 welldeserved 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. _ sopadre.com
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SPI BIRDING & NATURE CENTER Villas Haciendas
Havana Tropical
Sunset
Sapphire
o ett Fantasy 9-R lm ade Pa Par Coronado
BEACH ACCESS AMENITIES
Gulf Blvd
Bayview
Villas Haciendas
Sunset
a nd Gulf ofLyM
Havana Tropical
King’s Court
Sapphire
o ett Fantasy 2-R lm ade Pa Par Coronado
Morningside
Cora Lee Good Hope 2 Carolyn Georgia Ruth Gay Dawn 2 Verna Jean is Polar Aurora 17 Aries Capricorn Aquarius 2 Constellation Mars Starlight Jupiter Venus Neptune Saturn Esperanza Poinsettia Hibiscus Gardenia Bougain Oleander a tan Lan Moonli Huisache ite squ Me Daydre Retama l Ato P100 Treasu Bahama e Campech Rivie Acapulco sh gfi Kin Blue Dolphin r pe ap Sn d Re W Swordfish Whiting Su Amberjack Pike Se Ling Marlin S Tarpon St no pa Pom Sheepshead Corral Palm Marisol N Tarpon Sunny Isles S Tarpon Hass
Gulf Blvd
exico
Laguna Cir S
White Sands
Fountain Beach Dr
SEA TURTLE INC.
Padre Blvd
Laguna Dr
Laguna Madre
Gulf Blvd
Matamoros
Port Isabel
Walkover: Surf - ADA Bougainvillea - ADA Neptune Aquarius – ADA Gay Dawn – ADA Good Hope – ADA Ocean - ADA Seaside - ADA Moonlight - ADA
Beach Access #2
SPI BIRDING & NATURE CENTER
N
100
Brownsville
P100
SPI CONVENTION CENTRE
Cir
Isla Blanca County Park
Harlingen
Beach Access #3
Bay Access
una
SCHLITTERBAHN
83
Andy Bowie County Park
Padre Blvd
P100
South Padre Island
Shore
Lag
Gulf Blvd
SPI Chamber of Commerce and SPI Welcome Center
Breakers
Laguna Dr
Queen Isabella Causeway
Main er Wat Marina
Padre Blvd
Number of parking spaces available at each beach access are noted above as: H – Handicap Accessible Parking R – Regular Parking
Many of the beach accesses (see map this page for access locations) located along the City’s beaches are equipped with amenities to make our visitors visit to the beach more enjoyable. Refer to map to determine parking spaces available at beach accesses. The following is a list of amenities at each access. ADA following any access name indicates it is handicap accessible (ADA Compliant).
Wharf
a Yucc
H 8-R Cora Lee Good Hope 2Carolyn H 9-R Georgia Ruth Gay Dawn 2Verna Jean Polaris Aurora 17-R Aries 8-R Capricorn Aquarius 2-H Constellation 11-R Mars Starlight 1-H Jupiter 12-R Venus Neptune 1-H Saturn -R Esperanza Poinsettia 10 Hibiscus 1-H 10-R Gardenia Bougainvillea Oleander R Lantana Moonlight 5Huisache Mesquite Daydream Retama 1-H 7-R Atol P100 Treasure Island Bahama Campeche Riviera Acapulco H 20-R sh gfi Kin Blue Water 2Dolphin Red Snapper White Cap Swordfish -R g tin hi W Surf 1-H 22 Amberjack Pike Seaside 14-R Ling lin R ar M Sea Island 9Tarpon St -R Beach Cir 21 Pompano Sheepshead 19-R Corral Gulf Cir 1-H Palm Marisol Ocean Dr N Tarpon -R Sunny Isles S Tarpon Harbor 11 Hass
77
South Padre Island Map
da Lyn
Morningside
Beach Access #4
Circe
N
Circe
Cir
a Yucc
una Lag
King’s Court
Laguna Cir S
White Sands 7-R
Fountain Beach Dr
SEA TURTLE INC.
Bayview
Beach Access #5
Mobi-Mat: Harbor Gulf Circle White Cap Blue Water Treasure Island Daydream Sapphire Poinsettia Sea Island White Sands Restroom/Drinking Water/ Rinse Station : Gulf Circle - ADA Treasure Island – ADA Drinking Water/Rinse Station: Aquarius – ADA Gay Dawn – ADA Good Hope – ADA Ocean - ADA Seaside - ADA Moonlight - ADA Rinse Station: Aquarius - ADA Gay Dawn - ADA Good Hope - ADA
Padre Blvd
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. 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 sopadre.com
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SOUTH PADRE RESORT RENTALS
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, 20 spichamber.com
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 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 x Island was born. In 2009, the proposed Home Rule Charter was approved by the voters and South Padre Island officially became a City. _ Article contributed by Steve Hathcock www.southpadretv.tv, steve@southpadretv.tv
5
Your
ISLAND OASIS
is waiting.
Hold your family closer on your very own island. South Padre Island has 34 miles of beautiful white sand and clear emerald water. Along with 5,000 places to stay and countless ways for your family to have fun in the sun. Dive into it at sopadre.com.
Make it yours.
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.
City Parks
Andy Bowie Park Located on the northern end of South Padre Island, this park provides beachfront picnic pavilions, concessions, children’s playground, shower facilities, 18 full hook-up RV spaces, and a ranger station. Group rental facilities are also available with prior arrangement for beach parties. 761-3704
Edwin K. Atwood Park
Located 1.4 miles north of Andy Bowie Park on Park Road
24 spichamber.com
100, Edwin K. Atwood Park underwent major renovations in 2017. The park now 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.
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
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, and beautiful views of the Gulf. John L.Tompkins Park The longtime dream of former City Councilman Sam Listi for a citywide Community Park became a reality in 2015. The John L. Tompkins Park is the core of the citywide system of parks and
open space, and the diverse park facilities include playgrounds for tots and kids, a cultural exhibit area, basketball court, skate park, soccer field, exercise benches, walking trails, seating, public restrooms, and parking. Access is available from both Padre Boulevard and the beach creating a systemic connection between inland and onshore. The park is located in the 6200 block of Padre Blvd., immediately south of Ramada South Padre, and is the perfect place for both residents and visitors to take advantage of a healthy outdoor lifestyle. 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. 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. The park consists of a small pavilion, two shade structures with tables, and an infant playground. There are no public restrooms. 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.
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
Dolphin Research and Sea Life Nature Center
The Dolphin Research and Sea Life Nature Center, located at the base of the causeway in Port Isabel, is a great place for children and adults to learn more about dolphins and the many other species of marine life the beautiful Laguna Madre Bay and Gulf of Mexico have to offer. For more information call 956.943.6626
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, Palm Street Pier Restaurant & Bar, Parrot Eyes Restaurant & Watersports, and at the end of Polaris Street. For more information on fishing go to www.spi chamber.com or call 956.761.4412
Geocaching
With the numerous stories that have circulated over the years of the long lost treasure of the Singer family (Singer Sewing Machines), and the many people that have searched for treasure; South Padre Island is the perfect destination for your next geocaching adventure. Our Island knows how to treasure hunt!
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Geocaching is an outdoor recreational activity, in which participants use a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver or mobile device and other navigational techniques to hide and seek containers, called "geocaches" or "caches", anywhere in the world. On May 3, 2000, Dave Ulmer hid a bucket of trinkets in the woods outside Portland, Oregon and announced its location in a posting made to a USENET newsgroup. This announcement was remarkable for laying out the essence of the hobby that is still in place today. It's all there; the container, the trinkets, the log book, and the rule of take something, leave something, and sign the logbook. Dave Ulmer invented geocaching in one fell swoop in that newsgroup posting. Within a day, the original stash had been found. Within days, more stashes had been hidden in California, Kansas, and Illinois. Within a month, a stash had been hidden as far away as Australia. The hobby was fast on its way to being a worldwide phenomenon. As of the writing of this article there are over 2.4 million geocaches worldwide and over 6 million people that refer to themselves as geocachers. On your next trip to South Padre Island check out over 30
caches, and when you have found them all take a walk on the beach and do a little exploring. You never know, you might be the one that finds the Singer hidden treasure.
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 956.943.5678 or go to www.spi golf.com
Historical Museum of South Padre Island
Welcome to the Historical Museum of South Padre Island. The Museum is dedicated to preserving and displaying the history of South Padre Island. A history that must be documented because at first glance, there does not seem to be anything here other than a sandbar; but in reality, there is a tremendous amount of interesting and enlightening history. A vivid, varied and unique history, starting with prehistoric creatures, Indians, shipwrecks, ranching, casinos, smug-
glers, bombings and enemy submarines to today’s high-rises, beach bars and tourists. The exhibits now on display show the period from 1900 through the 1930’s. This is the beginning of what will become a Museum of our History - South Padre Island. The Museum is on display at the South Padre Island Visitors Center located at 610 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. The Museum welcomes historical materials, stories and donations. For more information please contact Dennis Franke at 956.761.0044 or Steve Hathcock at 956.238.9500.
Isla Blanca Park
Located on the southern tip of the Island, this park is the crown jewel of the Cameron County Park System. The park provides over one mile of beach that offers recreational facilities such as picnic and playground areas, fishing jetties, boat ramp, University of Texas Pan American Coastal Studies Laboratory and Chapel By The Sea, a non-denominational church. The park has over 600 R.V. spaces and is in close proximity to a full-service marina that offers daily fishing charters, dolphin watch trips, snorkeling, parasailing, boat sales and repairs, boat fuel and storage, and of course the world famous Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark. 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 onehalf 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, ATV’s 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 or skydiving. Our birds are friendly and enjoy the company. Swimming with the fish on a half-day or full-day snorkel trip is another experience that should be had by all. Another favorite water adventure and big treat for the nature enthusiast is the 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.
Point Isabel Lighthouse Complex 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. 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
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 sopadre.com
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Schlitterbahn Beach 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. There’s also the Shrimp Haus, a year-round, full-service restaurant. Open weekends beginning late April; open daily mid-May through late August, and open weekends only late August through mid-September. For more information call 956772-SURF or go to www.schlitter bahn.com 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
Sandcastle Trail
Stop by the SPI Visitors Center at 610 Padre Blvd. to pick-up a map of the locations, and while you are there be sure to take a look at the largest sandcastle on the trail located out front on the street. This sandcastle was constructed during the fall of 2013 by local master, Andy Hancock. Do not forget your camera because you will want your picture with this one to share with friends and family. 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 do not touch.
Sea Turtle, Inc.
Turtles have feelings too. Did you know that picking a turtle up by its shell without supporting the tummy is like being lifted by our finger, toe nails or hair? Founded by Illa Loetscher, affectionately known as the “Turtle Lady”, this enviro-friendly organization is dedicated to caring for and educating the public about endangered sea turtles. A 20 year dream of Executive Director Jeff George and Dr. Patrick Burchfield, a major expansion became a reality in February 2017 when ground was broken on a new facility that will not only enhance South Padre Island, but potentially make Sea Turtle, Inc.
the premier sea turtle facility in the United States. Located at 6617 Padre Blvd., the current facility is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. For more information call 956.761.4511 or go to seaturtleinc.com. If you see a sea turtle, call the TURTLE HOTLINE at 956.380.9677.
South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center The South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is located on the north end just south of the South Padre Island Convention Centre at 6801 Padre Boulevard. The 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 an auditorium, a gift shop, a public meeting room, a five (5) story observation tower and over 3,500 linear feet of boardwalks with numerous observation decks that allow visitors to watch and photograph a host of birds, fish, turtles, butterflies, dragonflies and lizards, as well as our resident alligator— Allowishes. For more information about the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, see page 45, call 956-761-6801 or www.spi birding.com
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. There are currently 28 sandcastles located all over the Island. sopadre.com
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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 multimillion 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-OKPADRE or email info@sopadre.com
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 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., and is also open for group tours, by appointment only, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. For more information, or to schedule a tour, call 956.761.2644, email 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. _
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January
SPI Polar Bear Dip SPI Penguin Plunge Longest Causeway Run & Wellness Walk W.O.W.E. Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo Market Days Rio Grande Valley Quilt Show
February
Chili Cook-Off Winter Texan Adopt-A-Beach Clean-up Isle Ditter Dog Surfrider Adopt-A-Beach Clean-up Laguna Madre Art League Show & Sale Market Days
M
• Farmer’s Market is held each Sunday, year round, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at The Shores. • We are your fireworks destination! Refer to Event Highlights on page 32 for a complete listing
2018 Event Calendar
For a complete list of events, including seasonal events and concerts, call 800-SO-PADRE, go to sopadre.com, call the SPI Chamber of Commerce at 956-761-4412 or go to spichamber.com
March
M&M Off Road Spring Break Jam Spring Break SPI - Texas Week UME Concerts
April
Sand Crab Beach Bike Ride and Beach Run SPI Splash Texas Adopt-A-Beach Clean-up TGSA Surfing Championship
M May J June July J August A SSeptember O October N November December
Pedal to Padre Jailbreak SPI Fiesta Padre Turtle Days SPI Beach Volleyball Tournament Memorial Day Fireworks Over the Bay Island of Praise Concert Summer Longest Causeway Run & Fitness Walk 4th of July Fireworks Over the Bay Texas International Fishing Tournament (TIFT) Ladies Kingfish Tournament (LKT) Isla Del Sol Fest SPI Beach Volleyball Tournament Labor Day Fireworks Over the Bay Texas Adopt-A-Beach Clean-up Ruffrider Regatta SPI Dive Week Wahoo Classic Fishing Tournament SPI Splash Sandcastle Days World Championship Shrimp Cook-off South Padre Marathon Monarch Festival Island Holiday Street Parade Island Holiday Boat Parade in December
Fireworks
SisBoomBah! We are your fireworks destination every Friday and Saturday night beginning April 1st and going through the last week-end in October. From Memorial Day through Labor Day week-end, 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 Friday and Saturday 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 on the Saturday night before Memorial Day, on July 4th, and on the Saturday before Labor Day. These shows are located on the Laguna Madre between Marlin and Amberjack streets in the vicinity of Louie’s Backyard in the Entertainment District.
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
South Padre Penguin Plunge What are you doing New Year’s Day? Join the South Padre Penguins at Boomerang Billy’s beach bar to drink, share fishy stories and walk funny. The South Padre Penguins plunge into the New Year laughing, listening to music by Leslie Blasing, and maybe even taking a “plunge” into the Gulf of Mexico every New Year’s Day at 2:00 pm. Start the New Year off right and join the penguins to visit with both new and old friends, check out some super great raffle items, pick-up your one-of-a-kind event t-shirt, and generally speaking – start the new year as you mean to spend the rest of the year – having fun on South Padre Island!
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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
Sand Crab Beach Bike Ride and Beach Run The Sand Crab 5K and 10K Bike Ride done entirely on sand is a great way to get a little exercise on a beautiful South Padre Island Beach in the morning. Riding on sand is quite challenging if you have never done it, so remember - the fatter the tire, the better. The 5K run is very rider friendly with a 1hr cut off. The 10K riders must be at the 3.1 mile turnaround within 1/2 hour. The bike ride is a great way to see the run course if you participate in both events. The Sand Crab 5K and 10K Run is also run entirely on sand. Afterwards, have a couple of beers (with proper ID) while listening to great music with other runners on the deck at Clayton’s Beach Bar and Grill. The 5K run is very walker friendly with a 2hr cut off, and the 10K is walkable but will share the 2 hr cut off. The course will be lit with glow sticks and Flashing lights. Runners are required to run with a flashlight or head lamp in order to see foot placement. Both races start at La Quinta Inn & Suites Beach Resort, located at 7000 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, TX, on the beach. For more information and registration go to www.RunInTexas. com/spibike for the Bike Ride and www.RunInTexas.com/spi crab for the Crab Run.
South Padre Marathon The South Padre Marathon has something for everyone. The Full Marathon is a scenic, flat course (only one hill in the entire 26.2 miles!) with sights and sounds that can only be found in South Padre, the perfect race for getting your qualifying time or setting a new personal record. If a Full Marathon is not your style, the Half-Marathon is also a scenic, flat course (only one hill in the entire 13.1 miles!), and is perfect for the first timer, the long timer, and the “I’m only gonna do this once” timer! Whether your goal is to check off a bucket list item, set a new personal best time, or simply enjoy a run in an Island paradise, this event has it all! If you want to share the excitement, recruit two of your running bud-
78th Annual Texas International Fishing Tournament
dies to create a team for the 3Person Half-Marathon Relay. Each person will complete 4-6 miles on the Half Marathon course. Just to add a little something more the South Padre Marathon will have more than 20 Selfie Zones along the course, making it the Official Marathon of the Selfie! Lets face it, running really is all about you! Your training, your commitment, your sacrifice and your achievement! This marathon makes it easy for you to commemorate your experience with fantastic stops along the course where you can catch a quick breather, and take a great Selfie! Some of the Selfie Zones will be local landmarks while others will be created just for the run, however, all of them will be memorable! For more information and registration go to www.runspi.com
Sand Castle Days
For over 25 years, Sand Castle 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 on the beach in front of Clayton’s Resort, Sand Castle 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
The largest saltwater fishing tournament is Texas is scheduled for August 2-4, 2018, and provides an atmosphere of friendly fishing competition and wholesome family fun. Over 1,100 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 _
For a complete list of area events please go to sopadre.com
Ladies Kingfish Tournament
The 37th Annual Ladies Kingfish Tournament is scheduled for August 10-12, 2018. This ladies only tournament is divided into two divisions, bay and offshore. Qualifying fish include redfish, trout and flounder for bay, and kingfish, blackfin tuna, dolphin and bonito for offshore. Trophies are awarded to the top four places in each category, as well as Grand Champion in each division. For more information about the tournament call the SPI Chamber at 956.761.4412 or go to www.spichamber.com
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Weddings in Paradise
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 18 years old. One valid form of identification such as drivers license, certified copy of birth certificate, U.S. Passport or military ID card is required and your Social Security number. No blood test is required. The license is good for 30 days. There is a 72-hour waiting period between obtaining the license and holding the wedding. Cost of a license for both resident and non-residents is $82.00 cash (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.
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 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.
3 Persons authorized to perform weddings in Texas include licensed or ordained Christian ministers, priests, Jewish rabbis, officers authorized by religious organizations, justices of the supreme court, judges of the court of criminal appeals, justices of the courts of appeals, judges of the district, county, and probate courts, judges of the county courts at law, judges of the courts of domestic relations, judges of the juvenile courts, retired justices or judges, justices of the peace, retired justices of the peace, and judges or magistrates of a federal court of Texas. Contact the South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce at (956) 761-4412 for additional information.
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) 7613044. 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. _ sopadre.com
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Our WinterTexan Friends
“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 Rotary Fish Fry, Kelly Miller Circus, Longest Causeway Walk and Run, Market Days Arts and Craft Shows, art shows, El Paseo Arts Foundation Plays, 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! _
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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 and Nature Center, 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! 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, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, and the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is one of nine centers whose mission is to educate the public about nature conservation; especially bird conservation. The 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 sopadre.com
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Captain Bryan Ray Fishing Adventures Specializing in offshore fishing charters on South Padre Island since 1974. Many offshore and bay fishing options available. I can coordinate your next fishing trip.
Call TODAY for your ultimate fishing experience. (We like to call them memories)
956.433.6469 Text for fastest response
www.FishingAdventuresSPI.com Facebook.com/FishingAdventuresSPI
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 seek ing 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. The South Padre Island Migratory Bird Sanctuary located on West Sheepshead Street, is a project of the Valley Land Fund, and is open to the public. In 1999, six residential lots were purchased for the feeding and resting of neotropicals. In addition to offering habitat protection for migrants, these lots are also a showplace to educate Island residents and visitors in techniques for making their privately owned land “bird friendly”. The Migratory Bird Sanctuary was THE place to be in February 2009 when an “once-in-a-lifetime experience” flew into town. A Black-headed Siskin was spotted and photographed which was the first sighting of the bird in the United States. The Blackheaded Siskin, a type of Finch, is found in Mexico and northern Central America. They are typically found from southern Tamaulipas and southern Sonora to central Mexico to northern Nicaragua. Many birding spots and nesting sites located on and around the Laguna Madre bay simply can not be seen by land. To bird watch from the water, check with the numerous dolphin watch companies on the 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,
South Padre Island Birding Facts
loons, g u l l s , grebes, and the elusive Peregrine Falcon. Always exciting is the occasional sighting of frigatebirds, 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. A short 40-minute drive from South Padre Island is the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge. Located east of Rio Hondo and bordering the Laguna Madre bay, this 45,000-acre federal preserve is one of the jewels of the refuge system and has 418 birds documented which is more than any other national refuge. The most recent addition to the checklist is a male and female Blue Bunting. It is also home to endangered species such as the ocelot and jaguarundi. Other animals found at the refuge are javelinas, deer, Texas tortoises, indigo snakes, bobcats, coyotes and mountain lions. Admittedly, mountain lions are rare, but have been spotted none the less. Visitors can connect with nature through a variety of activities including fishing, hunting, wildlife observation and photography, bicycling, hiking and interpretive tours and programs. A Visitor Center with exhibits, restrooms, and a nature store is available. For more information, including hours of operation and tour schedules, please visit the website www.fws.gov/refuge/ laguna_atascosa or call the visitor center 956-748-3607 ext 111. From South Padre Island, take 100 west to Laguna Vista. Take a right on FM510 and follow signs to the visitor center. For more birding opportunities in the area, please contact the South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce at (956) 761-4412 or the South Padre Island Visitor Center at 1-800-SOPADRE for a complete list of area birding attractions. _
• Home of the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center — a World Birding Center site • 280 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 418 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
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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, which is a 31acre zoological preserve build on an old Rio Grande River channel. The zoo features more than 1,600 animals representing over 460 species, 47 of which are endangered. For more information call 956.546.7187. While visiting the zoo do not miss the opportunity to visit the other 11 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 Pavilion, Camille Playhouse, Brownsville Museum of Fine Art, 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.MitteCultural District.org, or stop by the Visitors Center located in the district on the corner of 6th and Ringgold. Not to be missed while visiting is the Rio Grande Valley Wing of the Confederate Air Force located at the Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport. The annual air show, held in March each year, is a recreation of WWII air power with demonstrations of aircraft capable of mach speeds and much more. For more information call 956.541.8585. 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 Browns ville 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. sopadre.com
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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.harlingenmuseum .com 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 one-of-akind 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-than-life-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 52 spichamber.com
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 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 of Sports Complex, Veteran’s Memorial and nature trails 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 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 from South Padre Island, Los Fresnos is proud of their past history and today’s friendly and neighborly community spirit, and both of these are guaranteed to captivate you. The area which is now home to present day Los Fresnos played a significant role in both the USMexican War and the American Civil War. The plain of Palo Alto (tall timber) just five miles south
of town was the site of the opening battle of the war between the U.S. and Mexico in 1846. Years later, Palmito Ranch located just southeast of town was the site of the last battle of the Civil War, after most Confederate armies had already surrendered in 1865. The Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Site, operated by the National Park Service, along with several state and national historic markers, commemorate the locations of these historic sites today. With this area having served primarily as ranch land for centuries, it is said as early as 1770 a small ranch called Los Fresnos (ash tree) occupied a site near where Los Fresnos exists today. After the U.S.-Mexican War, the four tiny communities of Los Cuates, Charco Hondo, Tres Norias, and Agua Negra were merged to form much of the town of Los Fresnos as it stands today. The promise of railroad development in the early 1900s brought trainloads of land speculators into South Texas. In 1907 Lon C. Hill, Jr. bought 14,232 acres and parceled them into lots. This eventually evolved into the layout of the original town site of “modern” Los Fresnos which was finally developed in 1915. Settlers, mostly farmers, were lured into the area from midwestern states, and this new influx of people led to a diversification of land use in what had been almost exclusively ranch land. A post office was granted in 1919, although it closed its doors a mere three years later. With the arrival of the railroad in 1927 the post office was reopened in 1929 when the community had nearly 400 residents. From 1939 to 1944 the population remained at 475, growing to 1,113 in a post war boom. Throughout this time Los Fresnos was primarily a farming community, gradually increasing in population to 1,500 by the mid 1960s. The population steadily increased over the following decades to the present day 6,000 within the actual city limits, and to over 16,000 encompassing all the adjacent communities. With new real estate developments utilizing much of the surrounding farm land, the crop of the future
for this area is housing. Given this history, and Los Fresnos’ proximity to the United States border with Mexico, it should not be a surprise to learn that Los Fresnos is a magnificent mixture of people and cultures. Today, Los Fresnos’ population is roughly 84% Hispanic, 14% white non-Hispanic, and 2% of a variety of other backgrounds that add their unique influence to the community. Los Fresnos – part cow town, part farm community, very Texan, always a vibrant All-American city! Today, Los Fresnos is the fastest growing small city in Cameron County (Source: 2015 U.S. Census). People and new business are attracted to Los Fresnos not only for its friendly and neighborly community spirit, but also for their high standard of education, easy access to jobs, career training opportunities, and business opportunities in the city, and surrounding areas. Affordable cost of living and the availability of quality of life assets such as parks, resacas, and nature trails are the final pieces to making Los Fresnos a wonderful place to live and do business. Whether you live in Los Fresnos or are visiting the Island, mark your calendar for the numerous wonderful events held each year. There is a local saying in Los Fresnos, “when you stop at an intersection in town be sure to look both ways because a parade might be coming!” Yes, Los Fresnos loves a good parade, and hosting great events you will not want to miss, such as Elvis Festival (January), Los Fresnos PRCA Rodeo and Parade (February), Independence Day Picnic and Parade (July), Homecoming Parade (September), Halloween Festival (October), and the Christmas in the Park Celebration and Parade (December)., Whatever your reason is for visiting or driving through town, “Little Graceland” is a must see for everyone. Created by Simon Vega (deceased 2017), “Little Graceland” is a tribute to Elvis Presley, the “King of Rock-n- Roll” and to the friendship that these two men shared while stationed together with the U.S. Army in Germany. Personal photos and
CITY OF LOS FRESNOS •
RE/MAX 1ST CHOICE
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GLADYS PORTER ZOO
memorabilia of Elvis fill the second floor of Mr. Vega’s actual home, a true labor of love for both the man and his music. For the more adventurous, “Bobz World,” just east of Los Fresnos on Hwy. 100 as you are headed to South Padre, can offer an adrenaline rushing, heart pounding experience like no other attraction in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Filled with the latest robotic technology, Bobz World provides its guests with a voyage through time and space featuring alien beings, dinosaurs, marine animals, and mummies from the ancient world. For more information about Los Fresnos contact the Los Fresnos Area Chamber of Commerce at 203 N. Arroyo Blvd., call them at 956.233.4488, email office@los fresnoschamber.com or visit their website at www.losfresnoscham ber.com
Port Isabel
Historic Port Isabel, the “Point of the Laguna Madre Bay”; land of history, legend and lore was 54 spichamber.com
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 a new 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. We hope you enjoy your visit to Port Isabel. 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 January. The Shrimp Cook-Off features dozens of ama-
teur 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. _
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 afternoon 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), waste disposal is provided by Republic Services (800.423.7316) and cable service is provided by Time Warner Cable (800.222.5355). Electrical service can be obtained from several suppliers (www.powerto choose.org), and land line telecommunication service is also available through multiple companies (www.connectmyphone.com). South Padre Island is serviced by numerous internet provider companies. Check with your current carrier regarding availability and options. _
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Education
ENLIGHTENING ENGAGING
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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, life-long learners to responsibly contribute to our global society. Port Isabel High School is ranked in the top 10% in the state and was recently named one of America’s Best High Schools by U.S. News and World Report for the second consecutive year. 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 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-3 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, Computer Lab, Penmanship, English Language Arts, Music, Physical Education and Field Trips. Laguna Madre Christian Academy students have consistently scored higher than public school students testing on national standardized achievement tests. The Stanford Achievement Test is annually administered to all students. 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, office@lmcatexas.org or www.lmcatexas.org.
Texas Southmost College
Texas Southmost College (TSC) offers an 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. 56 spichamber.com
TSC, a public community college, offers a wide-range of pathways and programs of study leading to a certificate or associate degree. As a learning-centered institution, TSC is fully committed to student success and innovation. TSC provides a digitallyenhanced 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. Originally established in 1926, TSC serves Cameron and Willacy Counties. 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 at Brownsville and The University of Texas-Pan American in Edinburg – UTRGV is pledged to be a “Gateway to the Americas,” a bilingual, bicultural and bi-literate 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 888-882-4026 or visit www.utrgv. edu. _
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Quality Healtcare
CHIROPRACTIC CLINICS
AIR TRANSPORT
Boys & Girls Pediatric Clinic 1710 Hwy 100, Port Isabel 956.943.2600
Duve Wellness Center 201 W. Queen Isabella, Port Isabel 956.943.2300
PI Medical Clinic 1200 Hwy. 100 #5, Port Isabel 956.943.6675
Laguna Madre Chiropractic 402 S. Garcia, Port Isabel 956.943.9943
Air Evac Lifeteam Located in McAllen, TX (Local emergency personnel will contact direct for transport)
Port Isabel Health Clinic 202 Second St., Port Isabel 956.943.1774
HOSPITALS
MEDICAL CLINICS
SPI Clinic 3808 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island 956.761.3996 DENTAL CLINICS The Dentist – Emma L. Gavito, DDS 4912 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island 956.761.1012 Port Isabel Dental Associates 215 Queen Isabella Blvd., Port Isabel 956.943.4166
Harlingen Medical Center 5501 S. Exp. 77, Harlingen 956.365.1000 Valley Baptist Medical Center 1040 W. Jefferson St., Brownsville 956.698.5400 Valley Baptist Medical Center 2101 Pease St., Harlingen 956.389.1100 Valley Regional Medical Center 100 Alton Gloor Blvd., Brownsville 956.350.7000
ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTERS Origins Recovery Centers of Texas 4405 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island 956.772.1558 Outcomes Recovery Center 6508 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island 956.621.0962 / 844.245.5501 FREE STANDING EMERGENCY CARE Neighbors Emergency Center 2073 E. Ruben Torres Sr. Blvd., Brownsville 956.546.1524 Neighbors Emergency Center 1725 N. Ed Carey Dr., Harlingen 956.412.5900
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Stay Informed. Sign up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive the latest travel updates and information! When you sign up, you will automatically receive the most current information we compile about the country where you will be traveling or living. You will also receive updates, including Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts (where appropriate). You only need to sign up once, and then you can add and delete trips from your account based on your current travel plans! Enrolling in STEP provides the State Department the ability to assist you better in the case of an emergency, such as if you lose your passport or it is stolen while you are abroad. They also assist U.S. citizens in other emergencies, such as in natural disasters. The travel and contact information you enter into STEP will make it easier for consular officers in U.S. embassies and consulates around the world to contact you and your loved ones during an emergency—including situations where your family or friends in the U.S. are having problems trying to contact you with important news.
U.S. Consulate General - Matamoros Calle Primera #2002 Colonia Jardín Matamoros, Tamaulipas, México 87330 Phones: From Mexico: (868)-208-2000 From the U.S.: 52 11 (868) 208-2000 E-mail: MatamorosUSCitizens@state.gov or MatamorosACS@state.gov
Consulate of Mexico Brownsville, TX 301 Mexico Blvd, Suite F-2 Brownsville, TX 78520 Phone: 956-542-4431 or 956-542-2051 conbrownsville@sre.gob.mx
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Mexico Travel Tips U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY - CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION
There is an $800 exemption for gifts and personal articles, but all articles acquired in Mexico must be declared. Cuban cigars are prohibited. Check with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) about importing any medications prior to crossing into Mexico. CBP has a zero-tolerance policy on illegal drugs. Any type, in any amount may result in serious fines, seizure of vehicle, federal record and/or imprisonment. It is also illegal to carry firearms or ammo into Mexico. Switchblade knives, sea turtle boots or any other articles of endangered species (i.e. spotted cats, coral, crocodile, elephant, etc) are prohibited.
WHAT TYPES OF DOCUMENTS ARE ACCEPTED FOR ENTRY INTO THE UNITED STATES?
U.S. citizens can present a valid U.S. Passport; Passport Card; Enhanced Driver’s License; Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST); U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders; U.S. Merchant Mariner document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business; or Form I-872 American Indian Card, or (when available) Enhanced Tribal Card. U.S. and Canadian citizen children under the age of 16 (or under 19, if traveling with a school, religious group, or other youth group) need only present a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship. The birth certificate can be original, photocopy, or certified copy. The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) does not affect U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents, who are still required to present their permanent resident card (Form I-551) or other valid evidence of permanent residence status. Canadian citizens can present a valid passport, Enhanced Driver’s License, or Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST). Bermudian citizens are required to present a valid passport. Mexican citizens, including children, are required to present a passport with visa, or a Border Crossing Card. Travelers without WHTI-compliant documents will be delayed at the border as U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers work to verify identity and citizenship.
IMPORTATION OF ALCOHOL
A person traveling into Texas from another state or country can bring a maximum of 1 gallon of distilled spirits, 3 gallons of wine; and 24 twelve-ounce containers of beer every 30 days. You must be 21 years of age to possess alcoholic beverages, if you are not 21, the alcohol will automatically be confiscated. If you show false or altered personal identification, the ID will be confiscated, and you will be prosecuted. There are no substitutions between the types of alcoholic beverages. The importation of alcoholic beverages must be for personal use, and the person making the importation must accompany the alcoholic beverages. Minors (persons under 21 years of age) or intoxicated persons may not bring alcoholic beverages into Texas. All alcoholic beverage containers imported into Texas are subject to the state liquor tax and a $3.00 administrative fee. This fee is included in the posted tax rates. Payment of the fees and taxes are documented by a tax stamp placed on the bottle. Please note that failure to pay the tax and obtain the appropriate stamp will subject violators to a fine ranging from $100 to $1,000 and/or a jail term of up to one year.
IMPORTATION OF CIGARETTES
TABC Ports of Entry personnel are also responsible for ensuring that the laws relating to cigarettes are observed. Persons 18 years of age or older may import one carton of both Mexican and duty-free cigarettes. A tax of $1.50 is due on each pack of cigarettes imported into the state, and a stamp is placed on each cigarette pack to indicate payment of the tax.
BRINGING FOOD INTO THE U.S.
Many agriculture products are prohibited entry into the United States from certain countries because they may carry plant pests and foreign animal diseases. All agriculture items must be declared and are subject to inspection by a Customs and Border Protection Agriculture Specialist at ports of entry to ensure they are free of plant pests and foreign animal diseases. Prohibited or restricted items may include meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, seeds, soil and products made from animal or plant materials. For generally allowed food items please visit USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Declared agriculture items, in non-commercial quantities, that are found to be prohibited or restricted by the CBP Agriculture Specialists can be abandoned at the port of entry should the traveler wish to continue into the U.S. However, undeclared prohibited agriculture items will be confiscated, and can result in the issuance of a civil penalty to the traveler for failure to declare the prohibited item. All agricultural items that are abandoned or confiscated at ports of entry are destroyed in accordance with USDA approved destruction methods to prevent spread of pests and diseases. Agricultural pests and diseases are a threat to U.S. crop production and to the livestock industry. Some animal diseases can be highly contagious and could cause severe economic damage to livestock and result in losses in production, which could lead to increased costs for meat and dairy products. Plant pests and disease, as well as invasive plant material can cause crop loss and also damage lawns, ornamental plants, and trees. Plant pest infestations can result in increased costs to consumers due to pest eradication efforts as well as lower crop yields. High risk plant pest and animal disease outbreaks within the U.S. could also adversely affect the economy as a result of reduced trade of U.S. origin goods to countries around the world. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Homeland Security are partners in the effort to protect American agriculture against the introduction of pests and diseases at our nation's ports of entry. USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service determines what agricultural products are admissible into the U.S. and what products pose a risk and should be prohibited or restricted entry. U.S. Customs and Border Protection enforce these agricultural rules and regulations at ports of entry. For more information regarding traveling to and from Mexico go to: http://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/cbp-reqs-mexico _
SPI EDC
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Rental Agencies 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.
FRANKE REALTORS RENTAL
26.com B Latitude 3213 Padre Blvd.
761-9926 Fax: 761-9928 info@latitude26.com ronnie@latitude.com latitude26.com
Beach House C Affordable Rentals
D
5712 Padre Blvd. 761-8750 padrebeachhouses@gmail.com beachside@prodigy.net padrebeachhouses.com padrebeachhome.com Rent on Padre P.O. Box 3586 433-5650 Fax: 651-331-5987 info@rentonpadre.com rentonpadre.com
Rentals E SPI 104 W. Bahama, Suite B 572-6656 info@spirentals.com spirentals.com
Realty F Franke 8605 Padre Blvd 761-2606
Fax: 761-2650 1-800-447-4753 info@frankerealty.com frankerealty.com
G
H
COMFORT SUITES
Furcron Property Management 4800 Padre Blvd. 761-6961 Fax 761-6966 1-800-892-6278 info@furcron.com furcron.com Chacon Realty, LLC & Rentals 5800 Padre Blvd, Ste 205 761-5633, 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
Island Rentals J Padre 3100 Padre Blvd. 574-5800, Fax: 832-201-7315 1-877-827-0712(US-CAN) reservations@pirentals.com pirentals.com
62 spichamber.com
Lifestyles K Coastal 5312 Padre Blvd., Suite C P.O. Box 3726 761-8900 Fax: 761-2284 Toll: 1-877-STAY-SPI info@vacationpadre.com vacationpadre.com
Getaways L Padre 700 Padre Blvd., Suite D-1
761-8888 wally.jones@padregetaways.com eleana.jones@padregetaways.com padregetaways.com
24 M Service 2100 Padre Blvd, Ste #4 P.O. Box 2640 761-1487 Fax: 761-9360 1-800-828-4287 condo@service24.com service24.com
Padre Resort Rentals N South 1000 Padre Blvd. 761-6818 Fax: 761-1537 1-800-944-6818 sprr@gosouthpadreisland.com larry@gosouthpadreisland.com gosouthpadreisland.com
Inc. P Vacasa, 100 E. Swordfish, Suite D 761-6104 Fax: 761-5913 503-345-9399 reservations@vacasa.com dianew@vacasa.com vacasa.com
Padre Beach S South Houses & Condos
3800 Padre Blvd. P.O. Box 3759 761-6554 Fax: 761-7829 padrefun@sopadrerentals.com sopadrerentals.com
Isla Rentals T Bonita 200 W. Huisache
792-3550 778-4838 inquiry@bonitaislarentals.com southpadreislandcondorentals.net
* 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.
Hotels & Motels
Telephone numbers are in the Locations of lodging are indicated by these colors
Mtg. Rooms
Accept Spring Breakers
Credit Cards
Min. Stay (days)
74
Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
156
Sgl/Dbl/ King/Suites
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
128
Sgl/Dbl
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
146
Sgl,Dbl, Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
147
Sgl,Dbl, Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
63
Eff,Sgl,Dbl, Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
1
30
Sgl,Ste
Y
N
V,MC,DIS
1
200
Sgl/Dbl, Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
66
Eff,Dbl,2,3
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
146
Dbl
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
1
221
Dbl,King
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
30
Dbl,Eff,Ste
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
15
Dbl,King
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
63
Sgl/Dbl, Deluxe
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
29
Dbl,Ste
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
Sgl/Dbl,Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
91
Sgl/Dbl,Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
1
60
Dbl
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
Lighthouse Inn 1701 Padre Blvd., 299-4154, Fax: 287-3715, stay@lighthouseinnspi.com www.lighthouseinnspi.com
54
Dbl, King
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
Motel 6 4013 Padre Blvd, 761-7911, Fax: 761-6339 1-800-4MOTEL6 (466-8356) www.motel6.com
52
Sgl/Dbl
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
South Beach Inn 120 E. Jupiter, 761-2471, Fax 761-2474 southbeachinn@gmail.com • www.southbeachtexas.com
12
Eff,Dbl
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
Sgl/Dbl,Ste
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
Sgl/Dbl
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
Eff/Dbl
Y
Y
V,MC,DIS,AE
1
91
Suites
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
66
Sgl/Dbl, Ste,Eff
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
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
Heated Pool
Wheelchair Laundry Nightclub Pets Snack Swimming Tennis Accessible Wi-Fi /Bar Facilities Allowed Restaurant Bar Pool
Comfort Suites South Padre Island 912 Padre Blvd 772-9020, Fax: 772-9022, 1-877-774-7848 www.comfortsuites.com/hotel.tx467 gm.tx467@choicehotels.com Hilton Garden Inn Beach Resort 7010 Padre Blvd., 761-8700, 877-782-9444 www.hiltonsouthpadre.com • Hershal.patel@hilton.com enjoyspi@gmail.com • duvin.maldonado@hilton.com Isla Grand Beach Resort 500 Padre Blvd, 761-6511, Fax: 761-5397, 1-800-292-7704, www.islagrand.com • info@islagrand.com La Copa Inn & Suites 350 Padre Blvd., 761-6000, Fax: 761-6013, 1-866-4-LACOPA (452-2672) www.lacopainn.com • southpadre@lacopainn.com La Quinta Inn Beachfront Hotel 7000 Padre Blvd, 772-7000, Fax: 772-9311, 1-800-531-5900 lacoparesort.com • contact@lacoparesort.com Padre South Hotel 1500 Gulf Blvd, P.O. Box 2338 761-4951, Fax: 761-4954, 1-844-GoPadre www.padresouth.com • reservations@padresouth.com Palms Resort 3616 Gulf Blvd. 761-1316, Fax: 761-1310, 1-800-466-1316 palmsresort@sbcglobal.net • www.palmsresortcafe.com Pearl South Padre 310 Padre Blvd, 761-6551, Fax: 761-6552, 1-800-222-4010 pearlsouthpadre.com • abdel.zouari@pearlsouthpadre.com Peninsula Island Resort & Spa 340 Padre Blvd. 761-2514, Fax: 761-6095, 1-800-761-2514, reservations@peninsulaislandresort.com www.peninsulaislandresort.com Ramada South Padre 6200 Padre Blvd, 761-4744, Fax: 761-3144, 1-866-601-6200, ramadaspi.com • ramadaspi@yahoo.com Schlitterbahn Beach Resort 100 Padre Blvd., 761-1160, Fax: 761-3960, mbigelow@schlitterbahn.com • www.schlitterbahn.com Surf Motel 2612 Gulf Blvd, 761-2831, Fax: 761-1292, 1-800-723-6519, www.surfmotelpadre.com surfmotel@ies.net Wanna Wanna Inn 5100 Gulf Blvd 761-7677, 1-866-761-7677 Fax: 761-2367, www.wannawanna.com • inn@wannawanna.com Best Western Beachside Inn 4500 Padre Blvd, 761-4919 Fax: 761-3924 www.beachsideinntexas.com reservations@beachsideinntexas.com 855-342-9927 Flamingo Inn 3408 Padre Blvd 761-3377, Fax: 761-3343, 1-888-761-3375 www.flamingo-spi.com • info@flamingo-spi.com
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites 6502 Padre Blvd., P.O. Box 2891, 761-8844, Fax 761-8845, 1-888-772-3222 104 info@southpadreexpress.com • www.southpadreexpress.com The Inn at South Padre 1709 Padre Blvd, 761-5658, Fax 761-5520, theinnatsouthpadre@theinnsouthpadre.com www.theinnsouthpadre.com Island Inn 3813 Padre Blvd, 761-8500, Fax 761-8882 www.southpadreislandinn.com info@southpadreislandinn.com
South Padre Island Inn 4109 Padre Blvd, 761-5531, Fax 761-4097, southpadreislandinn@gmail.com 49 www.southpadreinnhotel.com South Padre Island Lodge 3913 Padre Blvd, 761-7831, 57 Fax: 761-2033, www.southpadreislandlodge.com southpadreislandlodge@gmail.com South Padre Motel 204 W. Gardenia, 761-6701, 17 Fax: 761-6896, www.sopadremotel.com • spimotel@aol.com Suites at Sunchase 1004 Padre Blvd. 761-7711, Fax: 761-4371, 866-926-7711 www.suitesatsunchase.com • gm@suitesatsunchase.com Super 8 SPI 4205 Padre Blvd, 761-6300, Fax: 761-6083 1-800-800-8000, www.super8padre.com info@super8padre.com or josh@super8padre.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 Beach Rentals
Boat Ramp
Cable TV
Elevator
Exercise Room
Fishing
Indoor Pool
956 Area Code unless otherwise noted. BAY SIDE
Amenities
Bedrooms
INNER ISLAND
# of Units
GULF SIDE/BEACH ACCESS
Waterpark
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63
Locations of lodging are indicated by these colors
Condominiums
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
EIG JPT
Bahia Mar Condos
32
2,3
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
JS K
The Beach House I, II, III
64
1,2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS DC
3
AL IJF
The Breakers
12
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
F
30
1,2,3,4, Penthouses
N
N
V,MC,AE
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
35
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
2600 Gulf Blvd.
30
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
3
Florence I
30
Eff,1,2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
Florence II
60
Eff,1,2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
Franke Plaza
69
2,3,4
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
3
F
2
A DE FI J KS U
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
Accept Spring Breakers
1,2,3
Amenities
Mtg. Rooms
69
Min. Stay (days)
Bedrooms
2000 Gulf Blvd.
Aquarius
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
2/4
EHI GJ LS FG JI AG JI AM GJ I IJ GP
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
AI PR
La Playa 2308 Gulf Blvd., 761-6104, Fax: 761-5913, 1-877-544-1066, rentals@southpadrebeach.com www.southpadrebeach.com
18
1,2,3
N
N
V,MC,DIS
3
P
Fax: 761-5032 www.marisol-spi.com manager@marisol-spi.com
25
2,3
N
N
V,MC,DIS
3
Ocean View
66
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
S IL M FJ
5600 Gulf Blvd.
Isla Del Sol
La Internacional
Marisol 1700 Gulf Blvd., 761-1193, 4700 Gulf Blvd.
Ocean Vista Towers
AI JL
84
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
3
Fax: 761-4203, 1-800-638-4106 15 thepadregrand@aol.com • www.spadre.com/padregrand.htm
2,3
N
N
V,MC
2
18
2
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
1
40
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE
2
52
1,2
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
1
70
Eff,1,2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
U
237
1,2,3
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
ABD EIJK L MS
30
Eff,1,2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE
3
60
2,3,Penthouse, Bungalow
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
KE FM
80
1,2,3
N
N
V, MC
2
LI
2800 Gulf Blvd., 761-1717
The Padre Grand 2100 Gulf Blvd., 761-7290,
Padre South Hotel 1500 Gulf Blvd, P.O. Box 2338 761-4951, Fax: 761-4954, 1-844-GoPadre www.padresouth.com • reservations@padresouth.com Parkshore
7000 Gulf Blvd.
FI
Pearl South Padre
310 Padre Blvd., 761-6551, Fax: 761-6552 1-800-222-4010(US) www.pearlsouthpadre.com abdel.zouari@pearlsouthpadre.com
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.
Sangria Condominiums
1400 Gulf Blvd., P.O. Box 2399, 761-2141,Fax: 761-2158 1-866-41-CONDO(412-6636) www.sangriacondominiums.com
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
Indoor Pool
Wheelchair Laundry Nightclub Pets Snack Swimming Tennis Accessible Wi-Fi /Bar Facilities Allowed Restaurant Bar Pool
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Locations of lodging are indicated by these colors
Condominiums (cont.)
1,2,3
N
N
V,MC,DIS
3
Seabreeze I Condominiums 4300 Gulf Blvd. 761-7734, Fax 761-2454, 1-800-221-6448 www.seabreeze1.net • seabreeze4300@sbcglobal.net
28
2,3,4
N
N
V,MC,DIS
2
DF
Seagull
20
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
GJL
Seville
36
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
GF JK
Summit
64
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
Sunchase Beachfront Condos 1010 Padre Blvd. 761-1660, Fax: 761-1401, 1-800-433-3702 www.sunchasebeachfrontcondos.com info@sunchasebeachfrontcondos.com
38
2,3,4
N
Y
V,MC
3
Sunchase IV
75
1,2,3
Y
N
V,MC,AE
2
Suntide I
1912 Gulf Blvd.
13
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
Suntide II 4400 Gulf Blvd.,
34
2,3
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
79
2,3, Penthouse
N
Y
V,MC,DIS
3
63
1,2,3
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
2
E
Beachview
42
2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
3
F GI JP
Casa Del Sol
24
2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
AI FT
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
V,MC,AE,DIS
3
AI M PS
Gulfview I 120 Padre Blvd., 772-1010, Fax: 761-5910, 1-877-772-1017 gv1_hoa@yahoo.com • www.gulfviewonecondos.com
30
Eff,1,2
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
GI T
Gulfview II
78
Eff,1,2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
HIJ LM ST
Habitat
25
2,3
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
DH LT
20
2,3
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
1
MT
12
2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
L
V,MC,AE,DIS
LI T
4100 Gulf Blvd. 3900 Gulf Blvd. 900 Padre Blvd.
1000 Padre Blvd.
761-4959, Fax: 761-1303 1-800-237-4786, www.suntideii.com sunrise@suntideii.com
Suntide III
3000 Gulf Blvd. 761-1307, Fax: 761-1506, 1-800-847-5728 www.suntideiii.com • sales@suntideiii.com
Tiki Vacation Condominium
6608 Padre Blvd., 761-2694, Fax: 761-7538, 1-800-551-8454 www.thetikispi.com • info@thetikispi.com
2400 Gulf Blvd. 123 E. Amberjack 129 E. Cora Lee 5701 Gulf Blvd. 301 Gulf Blvd.
115 E. Amberjack
130 Padre Blvd. 104 E. Parade
La Isla
150 Padre Blvd., 518-1254 www.laislasouthpadre.com reservations@laislasouthpadre.com
Las Puertas Condominiums 123 E. Carolyn
Agent
Amenities
Accept Spring Breakers
38
Min. Stay (days)
Mtg. Rooms
Seabreeze Beach Resort 5400 Gulf Blvd. P.O. Box 3169, 761-1541, Fax: 761-1551 1-800-541-9901, www.seabreezebeachresort.com office@seabreezespi.com
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.
Security Gate
IF
LN I FJ M
L V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
A T
3
LM
Las Verandas Condominiums
22
2
N
Morningside I,II,III,IV
24
1,2
N
Y
V,MC
3
BI
Padre Oasis
30
2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
AF GI
Park Lane Resort 108 E. Coronado,
P.O. Box 2257 761-7924, Fax: 761-2994, 1-800-874-8594
20
2
N
Y
Seascape 117 E. Verna Jean, P.O. Box 3688, 761-7168, Fax: 761-8961 www.seascapespi.com goseascape@aol.com
30
2
N
N
6410 Padre Blvd.
129 E. Morningside 111 E. Morningside
Beach Rentals
Boat Ramp
Cable TV
Elevator
Exercise Room
Fishing
Heated Pool
AB FT V,MC,DIS
Indoor Pool
2
Wheelchair Laundry Nightclub Pets Snack Swimming Tennis Accessible Wi-Fi Facilities Allowed Restaurant Bar Pool /Bar
sopadre.com
67
Locations of lodging are indicated by these colors
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. Accept Spring Breakers
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
31
2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
24
1,2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
MP
110 E. Verna Jean
27
2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC
2
AI MS
Vista Del Mar
44
2
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
ST
Surfside II
5601 Gulf Blvd.
Ventura
119 E. Venus
Villa Del Sol 123 E. Pompano
Agent
Amenities
Mtg. Rooms
1,2
108 E. Morningside
Min. Stay (days)
Bedrooms
34
Surfside I
Credit Cards
# of Units
Condominiums (cont.)
GULF SIDE/BEACH ACCESS INNER ISLAND BAY SIDE
D GL PT BF HG PS
Galleon Bay Club Condos
13
2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS,DC,CB
3
AGH DJL MST
La Solana
31
2,3,4
N
N
V,MC,AE
2
AB HG L
Landfall Tower Resort
54
Eff,1,2
N
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
AB FG
25
1,2,3,4
N
N
V,MC,AE,DIS
2
Las Marinas
14
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
209 RV, 3 Condos, 8 Waterfront Lodges, 11 Standard Lodges
Y
Y
V,MC,AE,DIS
4901 Laguna Blvd., 761-7808, Fax: 761-4757, gbc@icsmanagement.net
206 W. Red Snapper 6403 Padre Blvd
Las Brisas
227 W. Morningside, P.O. Box 2370 761-5111, Fax: 433-5899, 1-866-861-5111 www.spadre.com/lasbrisas.htm
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 JK LT
EI PG T
AF I LS
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 KOA 1 Padre Blvd 761-5665 Fax: 761-8851, 1-800-562-9724 www.southpadrekoa.com • southpadre@koa.net Beach Rentals
Boat Ramp
Cable TV
Elevator
Exercise Room
Fishing
Heated Pool
Indoor Pool
6 MO
Wheelchair Laundry Nightclub Pets Snack Swimming Tennis Accessible Wi-Fi Facilities Allowed Restaurant Bar Pool /Bar
SANGRIA CONDOS sopadre.com
69
LIFE IS BETTER IN COLOR MAGAZINES | CATALOGS |POSTCARDS |CALENDARS |BROCHURES
4954 Space Center Dr. San Antonio, TX 78218 512.480.0860 | www.shweiki.com
SOME OF THE BEST PLACES FOR
Eats &Treats On The Island
BadaBing Bagels BBQ Haus at Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark Beach Club Bar & Grill at LaQuinta Beachside Bar & Grille at Pearl South Padre Blackbeards’ Restaurant Blue Marlin Supermarket Breakaway Cruises Boomerang Billy’s BurgerFi Café on the Beach at Palms Resort Captain Donut Cap’n Roy’s Ceviche Ceviche Chilitto Pikin Clayton’s Beach Bar & Grill Coconuts Bar & Grill Coffee Hut at Isla Grand Beach Resort D’ Pizza Joint Daddy’s Seafood & Cajun Kitchen Dairy Queen Denny’s Dirty Al’s Dolce Roma at Mirage Dolce Roma at Wings Gabriella’s Italian Grill & Pizzeria Garden Grille & Bar at Hilton Garden Inn Grapevine Café Isla Grand Grill at Isla Grand Beach Resort Island Market Jax Burgers, Fries & Shakes Johnny Rocket Kelly’s Pub
Bagels, Sandwiches BBQ Beachfront, Pizza, Burgers Beachfront, Seafood, Steaks Seafood, Burgers, Steaks Deli, Take-out Bay, Seafood, Dinner Cruise Beachfront, Burgers, Seafood Burgers Beachfront, Seafood, Steak Donuts Seafood, Mexican Customized Ceviche Mexican Food Seafood, Burgers, Sandwiches Bayfront, Seafood, Burgers Pastries, Fruit, Starbucks Pizzas, Subs, Burgers Seafood, Burgers Burgers, Ice Cream, Sandwiches Seafood, Steaks, Burgers Waterfront, Seafood Ice Cream Ice Cream Italian, Pizza Seafood, Steaks, Pasta Steaks, Burgers, Mexican Beachfront, Burgers, Hot Dogs Take-out Burgers, Fries, Shakes Hamburgers, Salads Authentic Irish
1817 Padre Blvd, .#3 33261 State Park Rd. 100 7000 Padre Blvd. 310 Padre Blvd. 103 E. Saturn 2912 Padre Blvd. Sea Ranch Marina Dock 3201 Padre Blvd. 5001 Padre Blvd. 3616 Gulf Blvd. 2500 Padre Blvd. 1313 Padre Blvd. 1004 Padre Blvd. 3305 Padre Blvd. 6900 Padre Blvd. 2301 Laguna Blvd. 500 Padre Blvd. 2413 Padre Blvd. 1808 Padre Blvd. 2401 Padre Blvd. 1110 Padre Blvd. 1 Padre Blvd. 4200 Padre Blvd. 904 Padre Blvd. 700 Padre Blvd. 7010 Padre Blvd. 100 E. Swordfish 500 Padre Blvd. 5012 Padre Blvd. 1912 Padre Blvd. 410 Padre Blvd. 101 E. Morningside
956-761-5550 956-772-7873 956-772-7000 956-761-6551 956-761-2962 956-761-4966 956-761-2212 956-761-2420 956-433-5502 956-761-2703 956-761-2311 956-761-9990 956-772-1555 956-433-5484 956-761-5900 956-761-4218 956-761-6511 956-761-7995 956-761-1975 956-761-1072 956-761-1887 956-761-4901 956-761-1198 956-761-3418 956-761-6111 956-761-8700 956-761-8463 956-761-6511 956-761-5171 956-772-8182 956-433-5380
continued on page 73
sopadre.com
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Kentucky Fried Chicken Kohnami Sushi Japanese Restaurant Kranzler La Copa Cabana Bar & Grill Laguna BOB Las Olas at Peninsula Liam’s Steakhouse & Oyster Bar Louie’s Backyard McDonald’s Meatball Café Montana’s Bar & Grill Oyster Bar SPI Padre Island Brewing Co. PadreRitaGrill Painted Marlin Grille Palm Street Pier Parrot Eyes Restaurant Paulino’s Restaurant Pier 19 Pizza Hut Quarterdeck/Hammerhead Deck at Isla Grand Beach Resort Red Mango South Padre Island Russo’s New York Pizzeria Sea Ranch Restaurant & Bar Seaside Grill at Schlitterbahn Señor Donkey Mexican Restaurant & Cantina Shrimp Haus Restaurant at Schlitterbahn Southern Wave Sailing Cruises Stripes Su Casa Café at Ramada Subway Ted’s Restaurant Tokyo Teppanyaki Tom & Jerry’s Beach Club Bar & Grill Tropical Smoothie Café U-Mix Yogurt & Deli Wanna Wanna Whataburger Windjammers at Isa Grand Beach Resort Wing Stop World Flavors Coffee House Yummies Bistro
Chicken Teppanyaki Grill, Sushi Seafood, Steaks, Pasta Beachfront, Pizza, Burgers Bayfront, Seafood, Burgers Beachfront, Seafood, Steaks Steaks, Seafood Bayfront, Seafood, Steaks Burgers Italian Burgers, Fried Fish, Chicken Seafood Burgers, Pizza, Ribs Seafood, Sandwiches, Salads Seafood, Burgers, Sandwiches Bayfront, Seafood, Burgers Waterfront, Seafood, Sandwiches Italian Bayfront, Seafood, Sandwiches Pizza, Italian
3201 Padre Blvd. 410 Padre Blvd. 3109 Padre Blvd. 350 Padre Blvd. 2401 Laguna Blvd. 340 Padre Blvd. 3409 Padre Blvd. 2305 Laguna Blvd. 908 Padre Blvd. 2412 Padre Blvd. 2700 Padre Blvd. 2001 Padre Blvd. 3400 Padre Blvd. 4001 Padre Blvd. 202 W. Whiting 204 W. Palm 5801 Padre Blvd. 4600 Padre Blvd. 1 Padre Blvd. 1905 Padre Blvd.
956-761-2392 956-761-2446 956-772-1840 956-761-6000 956-433-5499 956-761-3767 956-772-4700 956-761-6406 956-761-4999 956-299-4562 956-772-7002 956-708-9482 956-761-9585 956-761-7482 956-761-2977 956-761-7256 956-772-9040 956-761-4000 956-761-7437 956-761-1361
Beachfront, Appetizers Yogurt, Smoothies, Fresh Juices Pizza, Salads, Italian Waterfront, Seafood, Steaks Beachfront, Seafood, Steaks Mexican, Seafood Beachfront, Seafood, Pizza Bay, Seafood, Dinner Cruise Take-out Mexican, Seafood Sandwiches, Salads Seafood, Sandwiches, Burgers Chinese Burgers, Steaks, Seafood Smoothies, Sandwiches, Salads Coffee, Frozen Yogurt, Deli Beachfront, Seafood, Burgers Burgers Beachfront, Seafood, Steaks Wings Coffee, Specialty Drinks, Pastries Sandwiches, Salads
500 Padre Blvd. 1808 Padre Blvd., Suite B 410 Padre Blvd., Ste 101 3330 State Park Rd. 100 100 Padre Blvd. 4215 Padre Blvd. 33261 State Park Rd. 100 Wahoo Saloon Dock Various locations 6200 Padre Blvd. 2100 Padre Blvd. 3009 Padre Blvd. 1004 Padre Blvd., Suite I-1 3212 Padre Blvd. 410 Padre Blvd. 1004 Padre Blvd. 5100 Gulf Blvd. 105 W. Retama 500 Padre Blvd. 2400 Padre Blvd. 5009 Padre Blvd, Suite 4 700 Padre Blvd.
956-761-6511 956-299-4921 956-299-4987 956-761-1314 956-761-1160 956-761-4843 956-772-7873 956-772-7245
956-772-1515 956-761-7600 956-761-7862 956-761-6511 956-761-1300 956-772-8050 956-761-2526
1679 W. Hwy. 100 110 N. Tarnava St. Lighthouse Square 418 Hwy. 100
956-943-1171 956-943-7611 956-943-3663 956-943-2414
956-761-4744 956-761-6700 956-761-5327 956-509-6339 956-761-8999
SPI Chamber Member Restaurants Located in Port Isabel H.E. Butt Grocery Co. Marcello’s Italian Restaurant Pirate’s Landing White Sands Restaurant
Deli, Take-out Italian, Pizza, Seafood Bayfront, Seafood, Sandwiches Waterfront, Seafood, Burgers
sopadre.com 73
37th Annual Ladies Kingfish Tournament On Beautiful South Padre Island August 10 - 12, 2018
Follow Us On Facebook Facebook.com/ LadiesKingfishTournament
Let the journey take flight SM
FlyBrownsville.com