OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
welcome TODD HUNTER Texas State Representative District 32 Padre Island is a diverse and great place to visit and live. It offers many opportunities, places and events to make your visit enjoyable and memorable. We want you to shop, eat or just take it easy and relax. Please take time to enjoy Island Time!
PAULETTE KLUGE, CTA Chief Executive Officer Corpus Christi Convention & Visitors Bureau We are delighted to welcome you to our island! We hope you enjoy the miles of beautiful, sandy beaches, along with some of the best shopping and dining in South Texas. While you are here, make time to kayak in the canals and go horseback riding on the beach or catch a wave on the Boogie Bahn at Schlitterbahn’s newest waterpark. No trip is complete until you try a hand at
catching a fish during one of our amazing sunsets. We love sharing our island with you...Come back to see us soon because memories are made here!
BRENT CHESNEY Nueces County Commissioner Precinct 4 Welcome to the most beautiful Island in all of Texas! You will enjoy the culture, the weather and mostly the warm and friendly people of the Coastal Bend. I hope you will kick off your heels and put away your ties in our “No Tie Zone” and enjoy our Coastal hospitality. Thank you for visiting us and please come back again soon.
table of contents
08 13 27 36 GETTING HERE
THINGS TO SEE & DO
DINING GUIDE
THE BEACH
WHO WE ARE
ISLAND ATTRACTIONS
LIBATIONS
AREA MAP
STAY HERE
OVER THE BRIDGE
SHOPS, BANKS, & CHURCHES
09 20 32 37 10
22 34 41 44
REAL ESTATE
RELOCATION
08
getting here
Padre Island is a part of the city of Corpus Christi in Nueces County and lies just across the JFK Bridge. It is bound on the West by the Laguna Madre Bay and on the East by the Gulf of Mexico - the two connected by the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW). BY ROAD - From the North, Interstate Highway 37 connects to Highway 358 (S. Padre Island Dr.) which brings traffic across the JFK Bridge to Padre Island. Access to Padre Island is also possible via Highway 361 from Port Aransas after crossing the Corpus Christi Ship Channel by ferry. To use the ferry, travel Highway 361 from Aransas Pass. From the South, Interstate Highway 77 leads to Highway 358. BY AIR - Three major airlines fly into the Corpus Christi International Airport - just 25 minutes from Padre Island. See below.
Photo by Brandi Gahl
who we are
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Padre Island is a region within the Sparkling City by the Sea of Corpus Christi, Texas. In geographical terms, Padre Island refers to the 113-mile barrier island that stretches from Corpus Christi to the city of South Padre Island. The north and south ends are separated by the Port Mansfield Channel. NOR TH
CORPUS CHRISTI
P A DR
E
GULF OF MEXICO
ADRE SOUTH P
PADRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE
LAGUNA MADRE
This Guide is for the northern end, referred to as “North” Padre Island. It borders Mustang Island and Port Aransas to the north and the Padre Island National Seashore to the south.
Today, Padre Island is a combination of suburbia (primarily to the west of Park Road 22) and quaint resort style amenities that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. The natural beauty of Padre Island beaches, the blue/green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, natural environment, nature-sports opportunities and incredible sunsets draw vacationers and keep residents. Padre Island is the perfect place for beach-going, fishing, surfing, kiteboarding, horseback riding on the beach, snorkeling, sailing, shopping, dining, and of course, playing at the new Schlitterbahn Waterpark.
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stay here
Padre Island offers all types of accommodations - from multi-bedroom condominiums, to full service hotels, motels and nearby RV sites. It’s where you’ll hang your hat during your stay, but we hope with all Padre has to offer, you won’t be indoors often. Accommodations marked with can be found in this guide HOTELS / MOTELS Best Western - (361) 949-2300 • 14050 S. Padre Island Dr. bwontheisland.com Hawthorn Suites - (361) 949-2400 • 15201 Windward Dr. Holiday Inn - (361) 949-8041 • 15202 Windward Dr. Holiday Inn Express - (361) 949-1112 • 15209 Windward Dr. La Quinta Inn & Suites - (361) 949-9777 • 14430 S. Padre Island Dr. Monterrey Motel - (361) 949-8137 • 15705 S. Padre Island Dr. Passport Inn - (361) 949-8111 • 15378 S. Padre Island Dr.
Schlitterbahn Riverpark & Resort - (866) 932-4362 14353 Commodores Dr • schlitterbahn.com/cc CONDOMINIUMS El Constante - (361) 949-7088 • 14802 Windward Dr.
Gulfstream - (361) 949-8061 • 14810 Windward Dr. gulfstreamcondos.com Island House - (361) 949-8166 • 15340 Leeward Dr. ccislandhouse.com Los Balcones - (361) 749-0027 • 14422 Verdemar ccislandrentals.com Port Royal Ocean Resort & Conference Center (361) 749-3712 6317 State Hwy 361 • port-royal.com
Multi-Resorts at Puente Vista - (361) 949-7006 • 14300 Aloha St. multiresorts-puentevista.com Surfside Condominiums - (361) 949-8128 15005 Windward Dr. VACATION RENTAL COMPANIES Bay Area Rental Management - (361) 949-2131 rentpadreisland.com Padre Escapes - (361) 760-0270 • padreescapes.com Palm Bay Rental Management - (361) 949-1055 pipalmbay.com The Rental Management Company - (361) 949-9050 • rentalmgmt.com
RV SITES Padre Balli Park / Nueces County - (361) 949-8122
VRBO Toucan’s Hideaway - vrbo.com/854475
Photo by Nicholas Allee
things to see & do 13
BIRDING - Corpus Christi has been named America’s Birdiest City. Great sites are located all over the city and surrounding areas, including Padre Island. They include the JFK Causeway Wetlands, Padre Island National Seashore, Packery Channel, Packery Channel Park, Mollie Beattie Coastal Habitat Community, JP Luby County Park and Jetty, Corpus Christi Pass, and Mustang Island State Park. For more information on these and other birding sites, please visit the CCCVB’s website at visitcorpuschristitx.com FISHING - Padre Island and the entire Coastal Bend is a Mecca for fishing. In this area, you can fish the bay, fish offshore, fish off a pier, surf fish, fish from a jetty, kayak fish, fly fish, even fish from under a bridge. The only type of fishing not offered is ice fishing. And we’re happy not to offer that one. On Padre Island, the pier at Bob Hall Pier in Padre Balli Park is a great fishing site. You can even rent poles and buy bait. This is the ideal spot for teaching the little ones fishing for the first time. We have jetties both on the Packery Channel side near the hotels, or at JP Luby County Park off Highway 361 - both a very short distance away. If you are boating, there is a ramp at Marker 37 under the JFK Bridge. You can also launch at one of seven boat ramps within the Padre Isles development, however you need to be a resident or guest with a ramp sticker to park your vehicle and trailer in the adjacent lots. There are many fishing guides offering their services, however we strongly suggest using only those who have been certified by the Corpus Christi CVB. To see a list of those, go to visitcorpuschristitx.com FUNTRACKERS - Had enough beach time? Or the kids driving you crazy? Head over to Funtrackers in Flour Bluff. The kids will go crazy for the Go Karts, the Bumper Boats, seven new Batting Cages, a redesigned Grand Prix Track and Himalaya Ride for the younger ones, or the whole family can play the new Miniature Golf. No need to worry about chow - Funtrackers is home to the Raceway Cafe, and grownups can even enjoy a beer or a margarita there. For more information visitfuntrackers.com. (See ad on page 33.)
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things to see & do
GOLF - Schlitterbahn Beach Country Club features a 9-hole golf course. Originally part of the Padre Isles Country Club, it is now a beautiful and challenging golf course adjacent to the water park. RENT A GOLF CART - Padre Island made it legal for golf carts to cruise through our neighborhood streets (you can cross S. Padre Island Dr./Park Rd 22, but not drive on it). And most rentals are equipped to drive on the beach. Better than getting your car full of sand, or stuck. HORSES ON THE BEACH - offers daily horseback rides on the beaches of North Padre Island. Discover our shores in a whole new way. Try a romantic 1-1/2 hour Sunset Ride. For the little ones or kids at heart, you can visit Captain Kidd’s Petting Zoo with chickens, goats, ducks, and a miniature horse. Horses on The Beach also offers cook outs and picnics. Got a group? Call about their bonfire ranch style cookouts under the stars. And be sure to get your picture taken with Padre Island’s very own longhorn, named TEX! For more information call 361-949-4944. (See ad next page) KAYAKING - Kayaking has been growing steadily as a favorite pastime. You can see many fishermen in the Bay casting from their kayaks. If you just like paddling and enjoying the lazy currents, consider that Padre Island has many miles of canals on its west side. Ocean kayaking is more aggressive and takes a bit more skill. If you want to rent a kayak, try Wind & Wave Watersports (361-937-9283). Padre Island is also the site of the annual Paddle for Parkinsons - a relay race through the Padre Island canals. See catchthecure.org for more information.
Photo by Nicholas Allee
KITEBOARDING - Kiteboarding is the fastest growing water sport. And Corpus Christi is one of the top locations in the United States for kiteboarding. The main reason for this is the great wind action we get. And what helps set us apart is the diverse conditions that exist here. Beginners and those looking for a gentle ride can kiteboard in the Laguna Madre Bay from Padre Island and Flour Bluff. Those looking for some great wave action can launch at JP Luby County Park, Packery Channel, or just about anywhere along the beach. LORELEI BREWING COMPANY - Corpus Christi’s own craft beer brewery, located over the JFK Bridge in Flour Bluff near Naval Air Station-Corpus Christi. Taproom and tours are available Fridays and Saturdays. Lots of games in their courtyard along with a food truck. For styles of beer they offer and additional information, visit loreleibrewing. beer. (See their ad on page 19)
things to see & do 17 GET A MASSAGE. - You are already on an island paradise, why not pamper yourself with a nice soothing massage? Or perhaps you overdid the kiteboarding or running around with the kids and your muscles are a little sore. Maybe your significant other is out fishing with his buds all day and you want a little “me” time. Sounds like a massage is just what you need. There are several massage and spas on the Island. MINIATURE GOLF - Everyone loves mini-golf, right? The kids might beat you, too. The best place for mini golf is Funtrackers in Flour Bluff. (See entry on page 13 and their ad on page 33.) SCHLITTERBAHN WATERPARK - The newest attraction on the Island, this award-winning water park company opened Summer 2015. Exciting slides, tubing along the current-driven river, wave surfing, kiddie areas and swim-up bars are just some of the activities awaiting you. Check schlitterbahn.com for opening details. (See their ad on page 6.) SURFING - Looking at all those waves on the beach makes you itch to jump on a surfboard. If you didn’t bring your own, there are a few places around that will rent one to you. What if you don’t know how to surf, but want to learn? Check out texassurfcamps.com and padreislandsurfcamp.com
Photo by Patrick Gamman
TEXAS SEALIFE CENTER - A non-profit rescue and rehabilitation facility, the newly opened Texas Sealife Center is a place of treatment and recovery for injured coastal wildlife. A great educational opportunity to see sea turtles, raptors, ocean birds and other indigenous creatures. Stop by and say hello at the Packery Channel Park. (See their ad on page 5.) WINDSURF - Just like kiteboarding, Padre Island is a boon for windsurfing.
barefoot mardi gras Make plans to attend the 2017 Barefoot Mardi Gras and leave your shoes at home!! This unique event held on Padre Island, includes the ONLY Mardi Gras parade on a Texas beach. The Barefoot Mardi Gras returns on February 25, 2017 for the eighth year in a row raising money for children’s charities. Events include the Barefoot Mardi Gras Family Parade down the beach off Park Road 22 between Whitecap Blvd and Bob Hall Pier and the Barefoot Mardi Gras Festival at the Briscoe King Pavilion! Mardi Gras theme floats, jeeps, trucks, golf carts, horses, dogs and Krews in costume breeze down the sandy shores of the Gulf of Mexico throwing beads & good vibes and all end up at The Barefoot Mardi Gras Festival where attendees can find Cajun music, spicy food, exhibits, hot entertainment, booths, kids activities & merriment for all ages. An adults only party, The King & Queens Ball, will let the good times roll that evening at the Veranda Restaurant & Bar at Schlitterbahn. Miss Neesie and the Earfood Orchestra will perform and Cajun style food will be served. More information can be found at www.barefootmardigras.com
20 island attractions PADRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE - is a unit of the National Park Service. Established in 1962, the National Seashore is located at the end of Park Road 22 and protects over 130,000 acres of land including approximately 70 miles of undeveloped Gulf of Mexico beach. (Note that an entrance fee is charged.) Renowned for surf fishing and windsurfing, the park also provides a critical nesting habitat for endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles and is a globally important site for migratory birds. Camping is available. For the more adventurous campers, free camping is allowed to anyone willing to drive out onto the wilderness beach portions of the National Seashore. A free camping permit is required to camp on park beaches and may be obtained from a ranger or from the kiosk found at the end of Park Road 22 at the South Beach access. For those unwilling to drive on the beach, two developed campgrounds provide dry camping opportunities for a small fee. There is no electrical, water, or sewer hookups at either campground. A free dump station at Malaquite Campground has potable water for use by all campers. No campground reservation system is used, so for site availability or fees please call the Malaquite Visitor Center at (361) 949-8068. The Malaquite Visitor Center is open daily, except on December 25th. Whether visitors camp or come for the day, there are a variety of things to do. Windsurfing lessons and kayak and windsurfer rentals are available on the west side of the park at Bird Island Basin. Free ranger-led educational programs are offered year-round. The beach in front of the visitor center is a popular day use area since there is ample parking, restrooms, shaded picnic tables, and vending machines. Bird watching, summer hatchling sea turtle releases, and shell hunting are other popular park activities. For visitors with four-wheel drive cars or trucks there is a 60 mile stretch of wilderness beach that provides driving access to popular fishing and shell hunting destinations, such as Big Shell and Little Shell beaches, and to the Mansfield Channel. For more information, please visit the park website at: www.nps.gov/pais or follow them on Facebook at: facebook.com/nps.pais/ PACKERY CHANNEL AND JETTIES - Opened October 2006, the channel extends from the Intracoastal Waterway and bays to the Gulf of Mexico. Navigable by boat, enjoy fishing and access to the Gulf, or fish from the jetties. By car, go to the end of Windward Drive and use the beach access. Beach Parking Permits are required and are available at most convenience stores. MIKE ELLIS BEACH & SEAWALL - Located on the Gulf in front of Padre Island’s Hotel / Condo area, the Mike Ellis Beach and Seawall offers 1.8 miles of leisurely stroll and biking area. There is a public parking area next to the hotels. Rentals for beach accessories, including umbrellas and chairs, can be found at this popular beachfront destination.
National landmark
WWII Aircraft Carrier • WWII Planes • Jets • Huge Battle Guns Over 250,000 Sq. Ft. & 11 Decks to Explore • Flight Simulator Virtual Battle Stations • Scale Model Exhibit • Mess Deck Behind The Scenes Hard Hat Tour • Ship’s Store • 3D MEGA Theater
Open Daily On NORTH BEACH IN CORPUS CHRISTI 1- 800 - LA DY- LEX USSLEXINGTON.COM
1 on
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BOUTIQUES, EATS, MUSIC & ART? YOU BET YOUR BOTTOM SAND DOLLAR!
VISIT THE PORT ARANSAS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR MORE ACTIVITIES, MAPS, BROCHURES AND FRIENDLY CONVERSATION. 403 W. COTTER. CLOSE TO THE FERRY.
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overwelcome the bridge
OTB is the term locals use for “Over The Bridge.” That is, anything over the JFK leaving the Island. And any visitor to Padre Island should check out several popular attractions that make Corpus Christi such a great destination. ART MUSEUM OF SOUTH TEXAS - 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd. (361) 8253500, artmuseumofsouthtexas.org. 30,000 sq. ft. building downtown with over 1300 works of art. Includes an interactive kids’ playroom. CORPUS CHRISTI MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY - 1900 N. Chaparral St., (361) 826-4667, ccmuseum.com. Archeological and historical museum. Visitors can step aboard life-size reproductions of Columbus’ ship - the Pinta. LA PALMERA MALL - 5488 S. Padre Island Dr is your place to shop in Corpus Christi. Over 100 retailers including Dillard’s, Macy’s, JCPenney, 2b bebe, American Eagle, Charming Charlie, Coach, Forever 21, Pandora, Papaya, New York & Company, Soma Intimates, Victoria’s Secret, White House Black Market and Longhorn Steakhouse. SOUTH TEXAS BOTANICAL GARDENS & NATURE CENTER - 8545 S. Staples St., (361) 852-2100, stxbot.org. 180-acre showcase of nine floral exhibits, a butterfly house, hummingbird garden, and interactive displays. TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM - 2710 N. Shoreline Blvd. (361) 881-1200, texasstateaquarium.org. Thousands of animals representing over 250 species. Dolphins, sharks, stingrays, alligators, exotic birds and much more. Daily presentations and shows. TEXAS SURF MUSEUM - 309 N. Water St. (361) 888-7873, texassurfmuseum.com. 3000 sq. ft. museum that pays tribute to Texas surfers who started in Corpus. Memorabilia, photos, vintage surfboards. USS LEXINGTON MUSEUM ON THE BAY - 2914 N. Shoreline Blvd. (361) 888-4873, usslexington.com. USS Lexington, CV-16 is an Essex-class aircraft carrier from World War II. It set more records than any other carrier in Naval history. Also known as the Blue Ghost. Inactive exhibits and vintage aircraft.
let’s eat
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Great destinations have great places to eat. And Padre Island is no exception. Leave all the chain restaurants behind and treat yourself to fantastic Coastal cuisine that expresses itself in many flavors and styles. On the Island, we have fine dining, we have waterfront dining, we have Italian, pizza delivery, buffets, Thai food, German cuisine, Peruvian ceviche, sushi, steaks, fast food, Mexican fare, and well…you get the idea. We won’t leave you hungry on Padre Island. We promise.
featured eats 29 F
BOATHOUSE BAR & GRILL 15241 Leeward Dr. (361)589-960 boathousepadreisland.com On the water across from the beach. Variety menu, Sunday Brunch, and full sports bar.
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BROOKLYN PIE COMPANY 15326 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-1100 brooklynpie.com padreisland Simply stated - the only place to get true New York style pizza, plus wings, sandwiches and a lot more. DELIVERY.
DOC’S SEAFOOD & STEAKS 13309 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-6744 docsseafoodandsteaks.com Located under the JFK Bridge, featured entrees, live music nightly, and beautiful waterfront sunsets.
GOOD-N-CRISP CHICKEN 14601 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-0011
JOE’S F ISLAND COFFEE &
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Fried chicken
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COSTA SUR CEVICHERIA 15113 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 945-1989 Authentic Peruvian ceviche and cuisine. A true international dining experience.
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ISLAND ITALIAN RESTAURANT 15370 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-7737 islanditalian.com Family owned and operated since 1987, serving pastas, steaks, seafood, pizza and family memories.
GALLERY 13919 S. Padre Island islandjoescc.com Espresso, Fro-Joes, Smoothies, Pastries. Also a gallery of incredible photographs by Bryan Tumlinson. FREE WiFi.
ISLAND TIME SUSHI BAR & GRILL 14225 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-3046 Traditional and creative sushi, fresh local seafood, nightly specials
JB’s GERMAN BAKERY & CAFE 15137 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-5474 jbsgermanbakery.com As authentic as you can get. Real German food, incredible fresh baked bread and pastries of all kind.
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MIKEL MAY’S PADRE ISLAND PADRE PIZZERIA BEACHSIDE BAR & GRILL BURGER COMPANY 14493 S. Padre Island Dr. at Bob Hall Pier on the beach. 14414 State Hwy. 361 (361) 949-0787 (361) 949-3490 padrepizzeria.com (361) 949-PIER padreislandburgercompany.com Family owned, menu items Best view on the Island. The Awesome gourmet burgers, only restaurant on the beach. cold beer on tap, weekend live feature the finest and freshest quality ingredients: Fresh Everything from gourmet music, indoor & patio seating, dough, homemade sauce, etc. dinner items to bar menu. open 11am - 2am. ROCK & ROLLS SUSHI LOUNGE 5121 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-1110 Rock-n-Roll theme lounge with creative sushi dishes.
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SUBWAY SANDWICHES SHOP 14425 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-9611 You know the place. But did you know they serve great breakfast too?
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VERANDA RESTAURANT
14353 Commodores (361) 589-4230 schlitterbahn.com/corpus-christi/ dining Seafood, steaks and chicken, to burgers, sandwiches and pizza.
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SCUTTLEBUTT’S SONIC DRIVE IN SEAFOOD BAR & GRILL 14401 S. Padre Island Dr. 14254 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-7886 (361) 949-6769 A fast food throw back to the scuttlebuttsbarandgrill.com 50’s. Burgers, shakes and Come Join the fun at Scuttlebutt’s! Seafood, Steaks, such. Pull right up and they’ll bring the food to your car. Sushi and More! Live Music Nightly!
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SURFSIDE SANDWICH SHOPPE 15513 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-0505 A local’s favorite; sandwiches, salads, etc.
Breakfast Lunch Dinner Full Bar Service Beer/Wine
TEXAS MESQUITE BBQ & GRILL 4457 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-0065 Brisket, Pulled Pork, Ribs, Gourmet Burgers, Chicken and so much more!
welcome the island
30 also on
ANGRY MARLIN RESTAURANT & COOL WATER BAR 15605 S. Padre Island Dr. (210) 272-9973 Southwestern American Cuisinebeach. Variety menu, Sunday
BANGKOK STAR 13923 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-4900
BLACK SHEEP BISTRO 15201 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-4819 Casual Fine Dining American Fare
CANCUN SEAFOOD BAR & GRILL 11862 Hwy 361 (361) 949-3125 Local seafood with an international flair.
DONUT PALACE 14457 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-0020 Donuts, Kolachis, Breakfast Sandwiches, and more
DRAGONFLY 14701 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-2224
LA ISLA MEXICAN RESTAURANT 14237 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-3341 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Happy Hour
LA PALMA #2 MEXICAN RESTAURANT 15326 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-0779 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Happy Hour
SANDY’S ON THE BEACH SCOOPY’S VERANDA DINING 13313 S. Padre Island Dr. 15202 Windward (361) 949-7810 (361) 949-8041 Sweet Treats, Soups, At the Holiday Inn, directly on the beach. Variety menu. Sandwiches and Ice Cream.
SNOOPY’S PIER 13313 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-8815 Located under the JFK Bridge. Seafood, Burgers, etc.
A la MODE GELATERIA 14254 S. Padre Island Dr. #101 (361) 589-4130
Casual Fine Dining. International Cuisine
SWEET SWIRL FROZEN YOGURT 14457 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-1144 sweetswirlfrozenyogurt.com Not just a fro-yo place, but a cool hangout.
WHATABURGER 14301 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-7777 A Corpus Christi Original. Open 24 Hours!
Thai food, Chinese and Sushi
Breakfast Lunch Dinner Full Bar Service Beer/Wine
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island drinks
What’s a visit to the coast without a boat drink? A beer or two is nice too. Whatever your preference, having a relaxing cocktail in the most casual of atmospheres can be had all over Padre Island. Many of our eateries offer some sort of bar service.
THE BARREL WINE & TAPAS 15201 S. Padre Island Dr (361) 949-4813 ANGRY MARLIN COOL WATER BAR
Great wine list offering tapas and sushi
15605 S. Padre Island Dr. (210) 272-9973 Southwestern appetizers and the “coolest” bar in town
CANCUN SEAFOOD BAR & GRILL
CURACAO BLUES 14701 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-2224 At Dragonfly restaurant, full bar, drink specials and tapas.
11862 Hwy 361. (361) 949-3125
BOATHOUSE BAR & GRILL 15241 Leeward Dr. (361) 589-9601 boathousepadreisland.com With a view of Lake Padre, this is a sports and music hotspot. Great drinks and bar food.
ISLAND TIME SUSHI BAR & GRILL 14225 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-3046
Sit at the sushi bar, or relax on couches within the lounge. Great beer and wine list. Set-ups welcome. 14414 State Hwy. 361 (361) 949-3490 padreislandburgercompany .com MIKEL MAY’S Daily drink specials, BEACHSIDE PELICAN LOUNGE BAR & GRILL live weekend music and happiness! 14330 S Padre Island Dr. at Bob Hall Pier on the beach. (361) 949-8222 (361) 949-PIER A local popular night spot. SAND BAR The newest bar right on Live music a nd where the ocean. This is what 15202 Windward things happen. a beach vacation (361) 949-8041 is all about. At the Holiday Inn, a bar on the beach seawall often SCUTTLEBUTT’S with live music. SEAFOOD ROCK & ROLLS No shoes required. BAR & GRILL SUSHI LOUNGE Margaritas and artisan cocktails made from scratch
PADRE ISLAND BURGER COMPANY
14254 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-6769 scuttlebuttsbarandgrill.com
15121 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-1110 With a rock & roll theme, a natural hot spot.
VERANDA RESTAURANT & BAR 14353 Commodores (361) 589-4230 Located at Schlitterbahn, beautiful wood bar with views of the state’s newest waterpark. Ask about the swim-up bar.
Wall of draft beer, bar menu, drink specials, happy hour.
shopping Angler Marine /Ace Hardware - 15326 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-3483 BLUE CRAB COASTAL INTERIORS & GIFTS - 14814 COMPASS ST. (361) 867-8033 CVS Pharmacy - 14525 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-4894 Island Jewelers - 14254 S. Padre Island Dr. #301 (361) 867-8028 ISLAND JOE’S COFFEE & GALLERY - 13919 S. PADRE ISLAND DR. (361) 867-1276 Isle Mail & More - 14493 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-932 Jesse’s Fine Spirits - 13947 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-8961 Mad Meats & More - 14254 S. Padre Island Dr. #213 (361) 949-8888 My Coastal Home - 14330 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-2266 Ocean Treasures - 14049 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-7558 Padre Island Mail Plus - 15037 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-7471 Padre Islander & Island Sports - 14514 S. Padre Island Dr. Pink Beach Boutique - 14225 S. Padre Island Dr. Ste. 5 - (361) 867-8122 Raggdoll Too - 14457 S. Padre Island Dr. Ste. 111 - (361) 867-8118 Boutique Third Coast Surf Company - 14501 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-1151 WB Liquors - 14457 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-0080
worship CHURCH UNLIMITED - 15205 S. PADRE ISLAND DR. (361) 949-0022 • wearechurchunlimited.com ISLAND IN THE SON METHODIST - 10650 Hwy (361) 749-0884 islandintheson.org Island Presbterian - 14030 Fortuna Bad Dr. (361) 749-0884 Padre Island Baptist Church - 14253 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-8273
ST ANDREW BY THE SEA CATHOLIC - 14238 Encantada (361) 949-7193 • saintandrewbythesea.org
banks American Bank - 14602 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-8070 americanbank.com • Born and raised in Corpus Christi First Community Bank - 14254 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 844-1010 Frost Bank - 14201 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 844-1010 Prosperity Bank - 15201 S. Padre Island Dr. (361) 949-1846
the beach
Photo by Debbie Noble
The Beach. Just saying the words makes you relax. Slow down a bit. Think of gentle breezes and stress-free existence. We know our visitors come primarily for the beach or beach lifestyle. Most of our residents admit that’s why they moved here. It is our defining feature on Padre Island. And we have more than one kind of beach. Whether you want watersports, an evening bonfire, or just a day playing in the surf, we have many miles of beach just for you. The following slightly edited information on our beaches was compiled by the Corpus Christi Convention and Visitors Bureau in their Beach to Bay Guide. We think they hit the nail on the head! J.P. LUBY (NORTH PACKERY) - Off Hwy 361, turn on Zahn Rd. Known as a hot surf spot and popular kiteboarding area, outdoor enthusiasts enjoy volleyball, socializing, and barbecue gatherings here. Visitors are drawn to JP Luby not only to catch a wave, but also to cast a line for that big catch in the surf or off the jetties. MICHAEL ELLIS BEACH (SEAWALL) - Access off Windward Dr. - Free Parking. Stroll the onemile long Seawall and gaze at the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. Short boarders are often spotted riding the waves at this popular beach. This group-friendly beach also features a large parking lot, rinse-off showers, restrooms and accessible ramps. NATURAL BEACH - Off of Park Rd. 22, South of Access Road 6. Newly designated, this beach
is committed to preserving the natural integrity of the area by limiting the use of heavy equipment and maintenance including seaweed removal. This 1.6 mile stretch of beach caters to the nature-minded visitor. NEWPORT PASS BEACH - Off of Hwy 361, turn at Newport Pass Rd. Known for its wide stretch of open space, this beach is a great spot for outdoor activities, relaxing with friends, and all around family fun. Newport Pass Beach is undoubtedly roomy enough to set up a beach camp for the day. PADRE BALLI PARK / BOB HALL PIER - 15820 Park Rd. 22, 361949-8121, Nueces County. Bob Hall Pier is an ideal family friendly beach spot with a parking area, car-free zone and convenient picnic tables. The location, water depth,(continued on page 38)
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PADRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE To Big Shell & Little Shell Beaches
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GU L F O F M E X I C O
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1 Packery Channel Nature Park & the Texas Sealife Center
9 Padre Balli Park 10 Bob Hall Pier
2 Mustang Island State Park
11 Natural Beach
3 Newport Pass Beach
12 Horses on the Beach
4 J.P. Luby Beach (North Packer)
13 Padre Island National Seashore
5 Packery Channel & Jetties
14 Bird Island Basin
6 South Packery Beach
15 Malaquite Visitor Center
7 Michael Ellis Beach & Seawall Padre Island Surf Camp
16 Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle Releases
8 Whitecap Beach
17 Schlitterbahn Water Park
Photo by Patrick Gamman
and abundance of fish species at Bob Hall Pier can make for an outstanding fishing experience. The pier also makes this beach a popular surf spot as well. Surfers enjoy riding the waves at this park or a campfire on the beach. Campsites with all the amenities - cabanas and a bath house are available for visitor convenience. PADRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE - 20420 Park Rd. 22, 361-949-8068. Padre Island National Seashore consists of more than 130 thousand acres of undeveloped dunes, grasslands and pristine, natural, sandy beaches. PINS, as it is called by locals, is the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the entire world! Home to the nesting Kemp’s ridley sea
turtle each spring and summer; this stretch of beach represents Mother Nature at her best! It is perfect for the nature enthusiast. SOUTH PACKERY BEACH - Access off Windward Dr. This family friendly beach is perfect for children, and the jetties provide great fishing, surfing, windsurfing and kiteboarding. This beach caters to both the family experience and the popular beach pastime. WHITECAP BEACH - From Park Rd 22, turn East onto Whitecap Blvd. A local favorite, Whitecap Beach is the perfect beach area to enjoy a sunrise with a cup of coffee, a quick jog, or just escape from the world for a few minutes or hours.
Photos by Nicholas Allee
Photo by Patrick Kelliher
GETTING A BEACH PASS
Purchase your pass for just $12 at any local HEB or Stripes stores.
THESE SECTIONS REQUIRE BEACH PARKING PERMITS: • Corpus Christi / Port Aransas City Limits (Marker 62) to Access Road 2 (Marker 98) • Newport Access Road (Marker 196) to Marker 230 • Marker 234 to Marker 252
NO PERMIT REQUIRED IN THESE SECTIONS: • Access Road 2 (Marker 99) to Marker 103 • Access Road 2 (Marker 99) to Newport Access Road (Marker 196) (Exception of Mustang Island State Development Park which requires an entrance fee.) • Marker 230 to Marker 234 (Padre Balli Park/Bob Hall Pier has paved parking) • Marker 252 to Marker 253 (Corpus Christi City Limits) • Marker 253 (Corpus Christi City Limits) to National Seashore (6.27Miles)
Photo by Amberlee Allee
relocation
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RELAXED, EASY, SLOWER are words to describe living on the Island. Golf carts are the preferred mode of transportation for many of the residents. Dock your boat at your front door with direct access to the Laguna Madre or the Gulf of Mexico. A variety of fish can be caught in the canals. Dolphins are often seen playing in the canals. Sunrises and sunsets are truly beautiful viewed from the decks of many of the homes. The Padre Isles community started in the early 1970’s and has become one of the most recognized, affordable and celebrated waterfront communities. We are located within the city limits of Corpus Christi, Texas, on a barrier island at the edge of the Gulf of Mexico. The Padre Isles Property Owners Association includes about 5200 properties. The Association’s mission is to provide quality services to its owners. The Association owns and maintains the 32 miles of bulkheads which have 2342 waterfront properties along the bulkheads with the remainder of the properties being water access lots. Owners of all properties within the Association and their guests are able to use the 7 boat ramps located throughout the residential area. All construction must be approved first by the Association prior to the City issuing their building permit. The covenants and the accompanying Architectural Guidelines have requirements for the type and size of homes which may be constructed. The homes are different styles and colors with the majority of them being custom built. The Association maintains all the medians and cul de sacs on the Island, about 50 of the canal ends which are owned by the Association, and the boat ramps. The Association maintains the canal depths by dredging. Several government agencies require the water quality be tested weekly from May thru September and reports are filed with the various agencies to enable us to have the canal system. Residents enjoy decorating their boats and parading thru the canals for Fourth of July parties and the fireworks display. The second Saturday in December is another boat parade called the LaPosada. Admission to one of the parties along the LaPosada parade route is a toy. The Island is a major contributor to Toys For Tots with the toys being collected by the Marines in boats. Maybeth Christensen, Executive Coordinator
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schools
Padre Island is home to the state recognized charter school The Island Foundation Schools. Go to islandfoundation.com for more information. If a traditional public school is more to your liking, just over the JFK Bridge is one of the state’s top school districts. The Flour Bluff Independent School District (see ad on page 41) was established in 1892 and encompasses a 156 square mile area. This district includes the Naval Air Station, the Flour Bluff community and a developing resort and residential area on North Padre Island. Six campuses and athletic facilities are located on a single 170 acre site which supports approximately 5,600 students in prekindergarten through 12th grades. The district is extremely competitive in academic and athletic programs and has participated in the district, regional, and state competitions for many years. The district offers an early college high school program where students can earn 60 hours of college credit upon graduation, the nationally acclaimed NJROTC program, numerous dual credit and advanced placement courses, vocational and technical classes, state recognized math and science programs, and highly qualified faculty and staff including national board certified teachers. For higher education, Corpus Christi is home to not only one of the top universities of its size - Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, but also one of the leading two-year colleges in the nation - Del Mar College.
LIVE AND [L]EARN! Staying in the Coastal Bend for a while? Discover what the locals already know: Del Mar College is the place to upgrade your skills, start a new career, train your employees, and even get help starting a business! Just visiting? Take a look at over 100 art exhibits and music and drama performances we offer each year, most free and open to the public!
Find out more! www.delmar.edu
The Padre Island Business Association is a regional chamber of commerce dedicated to the economic prosperity of the Padre Island expanded area. A not-for-profit, 501(c)6, it accomplishes its mission through its membership and fund-raising efforts. (361) 949-9498 • 14493 S. Padre Island Dr., A-313 • Corpus Christi, TX 78418 Published by ©2016 Toucan Graphics (361) 949-1400 Administrative office: 14725 S. Padre Island Dr., Unit 4, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
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real estate
Photo by Cassandra Strom
When you ask folks who live on Padre Island what drew them to life on the sand, they tend to respond by saying things like, “Here I’m part of a community that’s like a big small town.” Or, they simply look at you in their flip-flop attire and ask, “Have you seen our views?” Padre Island is a place where stars shine bright at night. Out in the Gulf waters, a gentle quiet exists (no traffic jams, hassled commuters, sirens). Life becomes simpler. Padre Island offers good real estate values. Laidback living in the sun! Culture vultures will get bored. But if you like to swim, boat, fish, swing in a hammock or sit with your feet in the sand, you’ll want to linger here. Every day I wake up and look at the tranquil water and thank God that I have such an opportunity as this. The lifestyle here is much more relaxed and slower paced - and, don’t forget, we get to live on ‘Island Time!’ Cheri Sperling, Coastline Properties
Photo by Patrick Kelliher
and estate islreal
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The list below include those recommended by the Padre Island Business Association who office on padre island and are PIBA members in good standing at press time of this publication. Real Estate groups, properties or realtors marked with can be found in this guide
REAL ESTATE Alice Palumbo Real Estate (361) 949-7055 Amy Willis & Associates (361) 993-7653 Berkshire Hathaway (361) 949-7033
BUMSTEAD PROPERTIES & ASSOCIATES, (361) 949-BUMS 14254 S. Padre Island Dr. #217 • bumsteadproperties.com Charlie Mader, Realtor (361) 947-3947, Keller Williams Commercial Cheryl Floyd, Realtor (361) 563-0444, Coldwell Banker, Island Cindy Molnar, Realtor (361) 949-7077, Coldwell Banker, Island
COASTAL AREA REAL ESTATE (361) 949-8485 • TexCoast.com COASTLINE PROPERTIES (361) 949-0101 coastline-properties.com • 14717 S. Padre Island Dr. COLDWELL BANKER ISLAND, REALTORS (361) 949-7077 cbir.com • 14945 S. Padre Island Dr Corpus Christi Realty Group (361) 215-8629 CSUSA, Inc. (361) 949-2611 Eskridge Properties (361) 877-2999 Gina Scott, Realtor (361) 876-8824
KELLER WILLIAMS ISLAND PROPERTIES • 15105 S. Padre Island Dr. Kim Erwin (361) 688-9509 • kimerwin.com Steve Sampson (361) 739-7254 • homesinsouthtexas.com Martha Wild, Realtor (361) 548-3392, Keller Williams
MEAGAN FUREY, Realtor (720) 308-6577, Coastline Properties Michael Lambert, Realtor (361) 510-4635, Coastline Properties Ricki McCallum, Realtor (361) 944-2051, Keller Williams Island Properties
PALM BAY RENTALS & SALES (361) 949-1055 • pipalmbay.com 15217 S. Padre Island Dr., Ste 100 STX Properties (361) 331-0762 Tara Gallaspy, Realtor (361) 652-1950, Coastline Properties Tate & Associates Commercial Real Estate (361) 854-8844 Victoria Rogers, Realtor (361) 548-6804, Coastline Properties
ISLAND MORTGAGE COMPANIES AMERIPRO HOME LOANS (361) 949-4600 • mortgagesbyshelly.com 15205 S. Padre Island Dr. #240A Wells Fargo Home Mortgage (361) 949-8348