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South Padre Island, Texas, is a resort community nestled on a barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico. The community has been best known as a spring break party spot for college students, but the secret of this tropical paradise is out and the island is attracting tourists year round to its newer upscale resorts. Other than the weather, with temperatures averaging in the 90's in summer and 60's in winter, the big appeal of South Padre Island is the beach. The sugar white sand and crystal blue water is the perfect setting for sun lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike, making South Padre Island the ideal destination for a fun family vacation or a romantic weekend getaway.

Lodging accommodations in South Padre Island are as varied as they are plentiful. From beachside RV parks to upscale hotels and exclusive resorts, to private condominiums and rental homes, whatever you desire is available. There are over 60 restaurants in the area that will accommodate whatever taste or ambiance you crave. Choose from fine dining to family dining, beach side cafes to fast food. There's plenty of fresh fish and seafood, as well as international cuisine and Mexican fare. There are nightclubs galore, both beachside, bayside, and in town.

The beach in South Padre Island is exquisite miles of warm sand and sparkling water that is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just enjoying the sun. Fishing is phenomenal on the island, bayside and oceanside. There are a multitude of fishing charters, as well as rentals for boating, surfing, scuba diving, and windsurfing.

Besides the beaches and water sports, South Padre Island offers a variety of dry land attractions as well. Golf is enjoyed year round at the South Padre Island Golf Club, just 15 minutes from town. The Island's exclusive resorts and condominiums also offer tennis court for their guests. There is shopping galore from beachside souvenir shops to quaint boutiques. There are 3 major shopping malls within a short drive. Sightseeing opportunities are plentiful from the Laguna Madre Nature Trail to the Port Isabel Lighthouse. Enjoy the South Padre Island Sealife Center, offering interactive, hands-on exhibits and presentations on a variety of local marine life, including dolphins, octopi, eels, starfish, and sea horses.

South Padre Island host a variety of events there's always something happening on the island. From golf, fishing, and beach volleyball tournaments to art shows, from the Ruffrider Regatta to holiday fireworks and parades, every month offers a celebration on the island. The South Padre International Music Festival, occurring the first weekend in November, offers over 60 bands of all genres rock, country, jazz, reggae, and latin music.

Getting to South Padre Island is as easy as enjoying your vacation there. Driving from the San Antonio area, take interstate 37 south to highway 77 south, to highway 100 east. The Brownsville/South Padre International Airport is served by Continental Airlines, and offers shuttle services to and from the island.

South Padre Island definitely has it all. Whether you're looking for a spring break destination or a weekend getaway for the family, you will find what your heart desires.

Learn more about this author, Tamara Iannello.
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