South Padre Island gives the winter blues a whole new meaning, with its bright blue skies and clear blue waters. Named “the Destination of the Year” by the Texas Travel Awards, it not only houses Texas’s best beach, but there are so many things to see and do. So, trade in a sled for a surfboard this winter and bask in the year-round warm weather and golden sunshine on the only tropical island in Texas.

SAND AND SURF

Book a lesson with an expert sand sculptor in the “Sandcastle Capital of the World.” For the water sports enthusiasts, surfing, kiteboarding, windsurfing, parasailing, stand-up paddleboarding and jet skiing are accessible. For an up-close and personal encounter with exotic wildlife, snorkel in the clear and shallow waters of Laguna Madre Bay or book a dolphin watch and ecotour.

THE FORECAST CALLS FOR FISHING

Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of angling through one of the island’s off-the-hook fishing excursions. The highlight is taking your catch-of-the-day to one of the island restaurants and having it cooked in whatever style desired!

ISLAND ADVENTURES

Hear the call of wild fun! Picture 16 hectares of adventure at South Padre Island Adventure Park where you can horseback ride on the beach, zip on zip line circuits and parasail, just some of the surefire ways to get the adrenalin pumping. Other island outfitters can have you ride the waves by learning how to kiteboard, or splash around on a boogie board—a fun activity for the whole family.

ALL WALKS OF LIFE

Both kids and adults alike will love visiting Sea Turtle, Inc., the only educational, rehabilitation and rescue facility on the island. Visit the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary, which is the ideal spot to observe birds, butterflies and wildlife. Swing by the gator sanctuary and say hi to Big Padre and Lady Laguna.

TROPICAL FLAVOURS

After a day of fun in the sun, it’s time to explore some island eats. Quench the thirst with a cold one from the second oldest brewpub in the state, Padre Island Brewing Company. Later, head over to Louie’s Backyard for an all-you-can-eat seafood buffet. At Sea Ranch Restaurant & Bar, their fare is paired with a signature Sea Ranch Swirl Margarita. Another local staple is nestled by the dunes. Known as Café on the Beach, you’ll truly get unobstructed beach views. Order the red snapper sandwich with cilantro-lime tartar sauce or creamy seafood bisque, complete with salmon, shrimp, red snapper and crab. Lastly, for the ultimate dining experience, be sure to hop aboard the Southern Wave catamaran for their Original Sunset Dinner Cruise.

Travel Planner

For more travel information about South Padre Island visit sopadre.com