The Texas Island With Tropical Charm, Stunning Wildlife, And Miles Of Beaches

Travelers looking for a tropical vacation at a fraction of Hawaii getaway costs will love the beachy paradise that is South Padre Island in Texas. Accessed from the mainland via Queen Isabella Causeway, South Padre is home to some of Texas' best beaches and one of the best U.S. snorkeling destinations. Plus, as Texas' only tropical island, South Padre revels in over 300 days of sunshine a year.

With 34 miles of beach, natural beauty and oceanside relaxation is easy to find on South Padre Island. But where should travelers go to see the absolute best of this Texan gem? Where can sightseers find shell-rich beaches, dolphin-filled waters, and eye-catching landscapes? Discover everything from the destination's best resorts and beaches to top local attractions and activities with this guide to South Padre Island. Get ready for a journey through one of the most beautiful places in Texas, with stops at parks, landmarks, and other unique spots along the way.

Experience the best of South Padre Island at luxurious local hotels and sunny, sandy beaches. Stay close to the shore at South Padre Island resorts like Peninsula Island Resort & Spa, Sand Rose Beach Resort, and Isla Grand Beach Resort. Each one offers beachfront views, a pool, and on-site options for food and drink. Families with kids will especially appreciate the fun waterfall pool feature at Isla Grand Beach Resort. Meanwhile, Jimmy Buffet fans can enjoy the island vibes at South Padre's Margaritaville Resort.

Away from the resorts, vacationers can find South Padre's best beaches at spots like Isla Blanca Park, Andy Bowie County Park, and Edwin King Atwood Park. At Isla Blanca Park, beachgoers can swim, parasail, snorkel, sunbathe, watch rocket launches, and visit a fascinating statue named El Cristo de los Pescadores (aka Christ of the Fishermen). Farther north, South Padre visitors can park their RV and lounger under shady beachfront pavilions at Andy Bowie County Park. For a beach with concessions, restrooms, and showers that welcome swimmers and anglers alike, head to Edwin King Atwood Park. Shell collectors can travel even farther north for a special treat at Sea Shell Beach, a beloved local spot known for tons of shells and gorgeous dunes.

Get closer to South Padre's natural beauty at the island's top wildlife attractions. Sea Turtle, Inc. is a responsible, eco-conscious education and conservation center focused on South Padre Island's sea turtle population. Visitors can guide themselves through fascinating sea turtle exhibits or watch the organization's website and Facebook page for summertime announcements of public sea turtle releases. At the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary, sightseers can join birding tours, visit rescued alligators, or listen in on an expert-led snake talk. In addition to the general cost of admission, birdwatchers can rent binoculars on-site for $3.

Outdoorsy adventures continue on the Laguna Madre Nature Trail. Located near Andy Bowie County Park and the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary, this trail invites birdwatchers to search for different species nesting in the surrounding marshland.

See even more adorable animals on a dolphin-watching trip with The Original Dolphin Watch. Offering morning, afternoon, and sunset dolphin tours, The Original Dolphin Watch sets sail from Sea Ranch Marina to give guests an up-close look at local marine life. Get even closer to the magic with a snorkeling trip led by The Original Dolphin Watch's sister company, American Diving.