Here are a few of our most popular South Padre Island resorts:
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TripAdvisor traveler rating
based on TripAdvisor reviewsHoliday Inn Express & Suites SOUTH PADRE ISLANDHarlingen
Relaxing hotel with great Gulf views, and excellent amenities. Just a short walk from great entertianment and restaurants.
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TripAdvisor traveler rating
based on TripAdvisor reviewsLa Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham South Padre Island Beach
Harlingen
Beachfront property located right on the Gulf of Mexico, and close to the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center.
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TripAdvisor traveler rating
based on TripAdvisor reviewsBest Western Beachside InnHarlingen
Escape to the charming island of sun drenched fun and explore miles of our sparkling Gulf Coast beaches.
Things to do on South Padre Island
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Sea Turtle Inc
If you are visiting South Padre Island, your trip will not be complete without visiting Sea Turtle Inc. The world-renowned non-profit dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, preservation, and care of sea turtles. Sea Turtle Inc works during sea turtle nesting season, April through November, to identify and move nests to a safe location until hatched. Through dozens of scheduled releases in the summer months, volunteers get to see and learn the importance of protecting sea life. There is not much more thrilling than watching tiny sea turtles journey into the ocean for the first time. -
The Port Isabel Lighthouse
The historic lighthouse built was built in 1852 to guide ships through the Brazos Santiago Pass to Port Isabel. It is now a nationally registered historic site. The lighthouse has a storied past, including being occupied by soldiers from both sides of the American Civil War as a look-out post. The lighthouse was extinguished in 1905. There are 75 steps to the top of a tower; visitors make the journey for the breathtaking view. -
The largest outdoor, permanent sandcastle in the USA
South Padre Island, Texas, is home to the LOPSITU, or the largest outdoor, permanent sandcastle in the world. Unofficially, South Padre is known as the "Sandcastle Capital of the World" because of the sand quality. You can take sandcastle building lessons, and countless visitors have over the past 30 years. The LOPSITU was created with a mixture of clay infused river sand and weighs 150 tons! Book a South Padre Island beach vacation package with Southwest Vacations for your next fun in the sun getaway!
Family activities on South Padre Island
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Gravity Park
Gravity Park is an amusement ride and go-kart park in South Padre Island that features go-karts, mini-golf, The Rocket (a 150' reverse bungee ride for single or double occupancy), and the Skycoaster Giant Swing. For kids, the park has a Ferris Wheel for riders 36" or taller, 48" or taller can ride without an adult. Kids mini go-karts, a rock climbing wall, and the "Trampoline Thing" So get your adrenaline rush on and take the family out to Gravity Park while vacationing in South Padre Island. -
Sea Life Center Dolphin Educational Boat Tours
Vacation with a porpoise! No, that isn't a typo. Close encounters of the porpoise kind! Get up close & personal with a dolphin is many a kid's (and honest adult's) dream! Dolphin Tours gets you up close and personal to observe the dolphins on their home turf. Experience dolphins in their natural world in an exciting educational adventure. Catch a glimpse of these intelligent and social mammals interacting with one another and going about their daily lives. Sign me up! -
Pirate's Landing Fishing Pier
Located on the Queen Isabella Causeway leading to South Padre Island Pirate's Landing Fishing Pier. Billed as "The Longest Fishing Pier in Texas," it is your one-stop spot to try your hand at fishing without much hassle. The pier is complete with bait and tackle rental to meet all your needs. And if the fish aren't biting or you need a break, there is a snack bar and full restaurant. Safe, secure, and ample paved parking and clean facilities and restrooms. Oh, and the restaurant is first class too.
Nightlife and entertainment on South Padre Island
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Fine dining
Seafood is a no-brainer, but when in Rome, right? Ample sunshine and white sandy beaches, there is no shortage of fresh seafood and fine dining on this two square mile island. In this laid back, Margaritaville type vibe, you will find gulf oysters, freshly fried fish platters, and shrimp any way you like it. Dine on the catch of the day on outdoor patios with a dreamy ocean sunset backdrop. Standouts are F&B, Sea Ranch Restaurant & Bar, and Liam's Steak House & Oyster Bar. -
Bar scene
Clayton's Beach Bar and Event Center is a sprawling party scene sure to please singles, couples, or groups. Want something more intimate? Bar Louie is right across the street, and both bars are right on the beach! There is Louie's Backyard, and Coral Reef Lounge plus Laguna BOB, WannaWanna, and Padre Island Brewing Co. Whether looking for a party bar, a local hangout, a brewpub/craft beer spot, a patio bar to take in the views, South Padre Island has your jam! -
Music/dancing
Known for Spring Breakers and beach vacationers alike, you know South Padre Island is going to have a stellar nightlife with plenty of options. WannaWanna Beach Bar & Grill is food, beach, music, and drinks, in any order you like. The unofficial spring break headquarters title for Louie's Backyard probably tells you all you need to know. The Quarterdeck features local and national acts consider high-energy dance bands to get your groove on every evening starting at 9 pm. Let Southwest Vacations help you book hotel and flight in an all-in-one South Padre Island vacation package deal.
Resting on the coastal tip of Texas, South Padre Island is the perfect destination for those looking to spend time under the big skies of Texas. Large sandy shores meet the Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre Bay, creating beautiful beaches where the whole family can enjoy fun in the sun. With some of the country's best sport fishing, South Padre Island is the perfect destination for everyone from brand new fishermen to deep-sea experts. A variety of other water sports and outdoor activities will keep everyone busy. At night, cooler temperatures make for beautiful atmospheres and an exciting nightlife. Head to Texas and enjoy South Padre Island with a Southwest Vacations® package.