My favorite time on South Padre Island is when the day exhales—sunlight turns gold, the water goes glassy, and time slows down. Those sunsets aren’t just stunning, they’re the Island’s signature.
This issue of SOCIALIFE SPI is chock-full of things to do year-round. From lazy summer beach days to the fantastical Lighted Boat Parade during the winter holidays, from meeting hundreds of feathered residents at the Birding & Nature Center to waking up early to witness a release of endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles—SPI is magical twelve months a year.
And then there’s the food—casual to candlelit, dockside to date night—served by restaurants that know how to season a memory. You’ll find a handy listing throughout these pages.
If your perfect day includes salt spray and a little adrenaline, the Island’s water-sports scene delivers: paddleboarding, kiteboarding, sailing, surfing, and jet skiing. Bring your own gear or rent from the many outfitters across SPI.
South Padre fits every season of life. It’s a place to bring your family for a true vacation. It’s a spontaneous day trip with friends, with the only agenda: cocktails and laughter. It’s a smart choice for business retreats and events, where creativity, teamwork, and strategic plans tend to show up in flip-flops.
SOCIALIFE South Padre Island exists because we believe in telling good stories about a great place. To our advertisers
Welcome from the Mayor
Welcome to South Padre Island! We’re glad you’re here.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, this is a place where it’s easy to relax, explore, and feel right at home. Start with the basics: sun, sand, and salt air. A morning walk on the beach or a quiet moment looking out over the Gulf is often all it takes to settle into “island time.”
You’re in a Gulf-to-table destination, so make time for our seafood. From casual tacos to white-tablecloth dinners, local restaurants serve shrimp, snapper, and daily catches that showcase the best of our waters.
If you’re ready for activity, you’ll find plenty: surfing, fishing, boating, dolphin watching, paddleboarding, or a peaceful stroll on the Laguna Madre Nature Trail. Prefer to wander and soak up the vibe? Visit our markets, shops, and local art spaces to get a feel for the community.
Most of all, we ask that you help us take care of this beautiful place. Keep our beaches clean, respect wildlife, and leave only footprints in the sand.
and partners—thank you. Your support keeps these pages turning and helps us spotlight the people and places that make the Island special.
Keep this issue handy. Try a new spot, revisit a favorite, and share it with someone planning their first trip. SPI is built for memory-making—whether it’s a long weekend or a quick reset.
Sally Fraustro Guerra
On behalf of South Padre Island, welcome. Enjoy your stay— we hope this trip is one of many.
Patrick McNulty Mayor, South Parde Island
Beach Patrol The lifesaving rescue team that keeps the SPI Beaches safe.
By Thomas Denton | Photography by Cliff Ranson
Picture this: you’re on the beach with your family, soaking up sun and surf, when a commotion erupts at the waterline. Someone’s in trouble. A lifeguard sprints, dives, and hauls the swimmer ashore. A quick radio call, swift medical care—then relief. On South Padre Island, that hero is a member of the Beach Patrol, a team of elite lifeguards who risk it all so everyone else can have a safe, fun day in and around the water.
Building the Beach Patrol
Before 2008, there were no lifeguards on duty. Emergencies fell to the Fire Department: a firefighter would swim out tethered to a rope while colleagues hauled them back from shore. It was brave—but far from ideal.
As tourism surged, the City built a dedicated lifeguard program, inviting veteran crews from other beach communities to train local first responders. Current Fire Chief James Pigg was among the first SPI firefighters to learn from Galveston’s lifeguards. “There was a need for it,” Chief Pigg explains. “We were having 10 drownings a year in South Padre on average. We’ve been growing and learning ever since.”
The results show. In 2011, the Island recorded zero drownings for the first time in its history. And the job
isn’t a real-life Baywatch sprint every hour. Much of it is prevention—anticipating problems and heading them off. “Hopefully, there is no one to rescue,” says Beach Patrol Lieutenant Pedro Casillas. “We are constantly out there moving people in and out of the water. There are missing kids, minor medical situations. It’s not just about rescue. There’s a lot that goes with lifeguarding you might not think about.”
Most days, Chief Pigg says, are “pretty boring.” Then Spring Break hits—when around 100,000 people descend on the Island—and the tempo spikes. While the city has shifted away from the hard-party image toward a more family-focused crowd, the workload stays intense. With roughly five miles of beach split between 10 lifeguards— six on towers and two patrolling on ATVs—things can get overwhelming. But the payoff is undeniable. “Being able to help people is fulfilling,” explains Chief Pigg.
Joining the Beach Patrol
Each year, several new guards try out, open to anyone 16 and older. Candidates face an exhausting slate of qualifiers, beginning with a 500-meter swim in 10 minutes. Those who make the cut enter the Academy—40 hours of nonstop training and testing that pushes recruits to their limits—followed by 16 additional hours of Advanced First Aid. In 2022, the Beach Patrol launched a junior lifeguard program for local kids ages 10–15: two weeks each summer learning lifeguarding skills, with the hope they’ll become full-fledged guards at 16. Five current guards came through the program. According to Lt. Casillas, most guards stay about three years before moving on to the Fire Academy or becoming EMTs.
In 2021, the United States Lifesaving Association chose South Padre Island for its annual Lifeguard Competition—think lifeguard Olympics. The following year, the international version arrived, with six countries competing in heroic water events: running, swimming, paddleboarding, and more. A junior guards competition ran alongside, featuring local kids ages 10–15.
Beach Patrol Safety Recommendations
If the Beach Patrol could leave visitors with one thought, it would be to stay aware of your surroundings. “Know
what beach access you are at,” Chief Pigg says. “Know what building you are behind. When you get out there and turn around, everything looks the same. I’ve been driving up and down that beach for 25 years, and sometimes I still get turned around.”
A smart safety habit for families: take a photo of your children each beach day. Small changes in a swimsuit can mislead searchers if a child wanders off. “If we are driving up and down the beach,” Chief Pigg warns. And we are told a child, “That’s supposedly in purple bottoms and a white top, and that’s what he was wearing yesterday, which makes it a lot more difficult to find them.”
The Beach Patrol also offers Mobile Chairs for visitors with special needs—sturdy beach wheelchairs with wide, treaded tires that roll through sand and into the water. Guests can borrow them for up to three days.
Since the Beach Patrol’s creation 15 years ago, South Padre Island’s beaches have become safer for the thousands of families who vacation here. By preventing emergencies, responding quickly, and educating the public, SPI’s lifeguards have saved countless lives—and shown everyone how to enjoy the shore more safely. Next time you’re on the sand, thank one of the men and women who dedicate themselves to your safety.
Embrace the Ultimate Island Adventure: Your Must-Do Checklist for South Padre Island GET OUT THINGS TO DO
Whether you’re here for a day or a week, in the summer or the winter, there’s no wrong way to do South Padre Island. From sunrise strolls to fireworks over the bay, every season brings its own reason to play. So kick off your shoes, relax, and dive into the rhythm of Island life.
Year-Round Adventures
Soak up the sun on pristine beaches or lounge poolside.
Spot dolphins on a bay cruise or eco-tour.
Explore underwater worlds with snorkeling or scuba diving.
Book a fishing charter and reel in your own fresh catch.
Visit Sea Turtle, Inc., the world’s largest sea turtle hospital.
Wander the Birding & Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary.
Discover the local art scene or take a painting class at ABI SPI.
Attend the First Friday Art Walk, held monthly yearround, where local artists and galleries open their doors for an evening of creativity and coastal charm.
Indulge in spa and wellness experiences.
Go horseback riding on the beach with South Padre Island Adventure Park.
Parasail or kiteboard above the Gulf (year-round, weather-dependent).
Savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.
Enjoy live music and nightlife at beachfront bars and clubs.
Catch fireworks over the Gulf or the Bay.
Visit community parks like Turtle Park and Tompkins Park.
Attend festivals and Island events celebrating culture and community.
Watch a SpaceX launch from Isla Blanca Park or the amphitheater.
Summer Highlights
Race across the water on jet skis, paddleboards, or banana boats.
Sail away on a catamaran—snorkel, sunset, or dinner cruise options.
Attend a Sea Turtle hatchling release (June – August).
Catch weekly fireworks shows over the bay (Tues & Fri) and beach (Fri & Sat, March – October).
Cool off at Beach Park at Isla Blanca (April –September).
Enjoy outdoor concerts at the Cameron County Seaside Amphitheater.
Spend an afternoon at the UTRGV Coastal Studies Lab for family-friendly learning.
Winter Escapes
Trade snow for sand—enjoy mild, sunny days perfect for beach walks.
Kayak or paddleboard the calm Laguna Madre Bay. Watch migratory birds arrive along the Gulf flyway.
Take a bayside sailing or eco-tour during golden-hour sunsets.
Ring in the New Year with holiday fireworks and live music.
Experience the magic of the Christmas Lighted Boat Parade (first Saturday in December), when decorated boats illuminate the bay.
Discover beachfront bliss at Hilton Garden Inn, South Padre Island. Immerse yourself in luxury with stunning ocean views, convenient amenities, and direct access to the beach. Enjoy our inhouse restaurants Barry’s Bistro and Barry’s Beach Bar, which sits right on the shore. Your perfect coastal escape awaits!
Artists on the Island
How one group is turning an Island block into an arts district.
By Thomas Denton | Photography by Cliff Ranson
Director
Julie Boughter, ABI SPI Program
Viviana Sanguino
Originally from Mexico City, Viviana “Vivi” Sanguino spent many summers of her youth vacationing on the island with her family. During a stay a few years ago, she decided to paint every day. Taking her supplies, she set up at a local coffee shop and got to work, drawing inspiration from the relaxed spirit of island life and the female form. During her breaks from painting, she began coming into the ABI every day to enjoy the work adorned on the walls. Then a fortuitous piece of happenstance occurred. A previous program alum asked about her artistic aspirations. While she was modest and didn’t admit to being an “artist,” she did show her some paintings she made while on vacation. She was advised to apply for residency and was quickly accepted.
Initially inspired by her mother’s paintings, Vivi quickly realized the soothing and expressive nature of painting.
She was never discouraged by negative feedback, “I was always just drawn to doodling in school,” she remembers. “I fell in love with watercolors because it was so easy to make a big piece with just a lot of water, but art teachers disagreed. I failed all my art classes.” A steadfast nature never let her doubt herself.
Vivi’s paintings typically focus on the female form and whatever color she is drawn to at the time. She uses a mix of gouache (pronounced goash) and watercolors; her work will draw a viewer in with the mysterious nature of her subjects, often hiding the eyes, leaving the viewer to make their own connections about what is being expressed.
Her residency began in September of 2023 and lasted until September 2024, when she was asked to stay on as a Senior Artist. “I get to teach the new people coming in,” she says with the vibrancy of one of her paintings. “As an artist who went through it, so I get to teach them what I learned.”
When asked about her future, she laughs, “That’s a good question!” As of right now, her art is hanging all over Texas, in museums and shops all over South Texas. “Right now, I’m just gonna paint,” she explains, spoken like a true artist.
ABISPI: SPOTLIGHT
Joel Garza
Sometimes the life of an artist chooses you, which is exactly what happened to Joel Garza, a silversmith currently in residence at the ABI. A few years ago, he was living in McAllen but spent several days a week at Port Isabel visiting his mother. When a friend asked if he wanted to work in a metal smithing shop nearby, Joel jumped at the chance.
While he had never really considered the smithing arts as a possibility, he soon took to it like a natural. Early on, he was asked to fashion wedding bands out of silver. The whole project took 20 minutes, and the couple buying the rings were enthusiastic about the work. The idea of people wearing something he made by hand for the rest of their lives lit a fire inside him, “I wanted more of that feeling,” he remembers.
Eventually, the shop he was working at closed, and the
owner asked if he wanted to buy the equipment. He did. Before long, he was selling his uniquely fashioned and stamped jewelry online and at the Art Lounge (also owned by an ABI alum) on the Island, which is when he first found out about the ABI. Knowing it would be an amazing opportunity to learn, teach, and display his work, he applied and was accepted to the residency program.
Joel is currently teaching two silversmithing classes through the ABI: Stamp and Solder, where students learn to fashion and stamp rings from silver, and Stone Setting, where students can learn to fit gems into jewelry in many unique ways. Teaching has become his favorite part of working with ABI. “I like enjoy teaching classes,” he says. “Instead of me selling you piece, I’d rather you have the experience of making the ring, pendant or bracelet that you want,”
Garza now uses a 3D printer to fashion molds so he can sculpt molten gold and silver into whatever his mind can imagine. As for the future, he plans to open his own workshop on the Island after the residency, where he can continue to teach and sell his work.
South Padre Island Art Galleries & Creative Spaces
ABI SPI – Art Business Incubator
956-433-8097
2500 Padre Blvd , Ste 1, South Padre Island
The Art Lounge
956-433-5307
33256 State Park Rd 100, Ste 102, South Padre Island
ArtSea Gallery & Goods
956-943-3200
5200 Padre Blvd , Ste 103, South Padre Island
Art Space
3256 State Park Rd 100, Ste 106, South Padre Island
Cactus Flower Interiors & Gifts
956-761-1705
2000 Padre Blvd , South Padre Island
Meridian & Muse Fine Art Gallery (Ryan Henry Fine Art)
956-590-7012
103 E Amberjack St , Ste C, South Padre Island
Paper Caper Co.
956-299-8281
104 E Pike St , Unit B, South Padre Island
Quinn Gallery (Malia Quinn Studio & Gallery)
956-377-0179
2500 Padre Blvd , Ste 5, South Padre Island
Sandcastle Village & Trail
956-433-9948
310 Padre Blvd , South Padre Island
Sisters Interiors & Gallery
956-761-1444
6100 Padre Blvd , South Padre Island
Nearby — Port Isabel
Laguna Madre Art Gallery (Co-op)
956-943-1407
405 E Maxan
The Essential Guide to Sunscreen and SPF
When you’re headed to South Padre Island, sunscreen isn’t optional—it’s part of the dress code. The Island’s sunshine doesn’t clock out in the fall or winter; UV rays here are strong year-round, even when the breeze feels cool or the skies look overcast. Whether you’re basking on the beach, paddle-boarding the Laguna Madre, or just strolling to brunch on the bayfront, protecting your skin should be as routine as grabbing your sunglasses. Pack (and reapply) a broadspectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30, and you’ll keep your glow healthy, not hazardous. Because on South Padre, the sun is always in season.
The Science Behind Sunscreen
Sunscreen is your first line of defense against the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause skin damage, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer. UV radiation is divided into two types: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin, causing long-term damage and aging, while UVB rays cause sunburn and can directly damage the DNA in your skin cells.
Understanding SPF
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a measure of how well a sunscreen protects the skin from UVB rays. The number indicates how long you can stay in the sun without burning compared to no sunscreen. For instance, SPF 30 means you can stay in the sun 30 times longer than you could without protection.
Here's a breakdown of what different SPF levels mean:
• SPF 15: Blocks approximately 93% of UVB rays. Suitable for everyday use when you're mostly indoors but might have occasional exposure to the sun.
• SPF 30: Blocks about 97% of UVB rays. Ideal for longer periods of sun exposure, like a day at the beach or an outdoor picnic.
• SPF 50: Blocks 98% of UVB rays. Recommended for fairskinned individuals or when you're spending extended periods in intense sun.
• SPF 100: Blocks 99% of UVB rays. Offers maximum protection, but remember that no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
1. Broad Spectrum: Ensure your sunscreen offers broadspectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
2. Water Resistance: If you're swimming or sweating, opt for water-resistant formulas. These typically offer protection for either 40 or 80 minutes of activity.
3. Skin Type and Sensitivities: For sensitive skin, look for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free options. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are great for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
4. Environmental Impact: Consider reef-safe sunscreens free from harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can damage coral reefs and marine life.
Application Tips
• Generous Application: Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen. Use about one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body.
• Reapply Regularly: Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating, even if the sunscreen is water-resistant.
• Don’t Forget the Lips: Use a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from sun damage.
Sun Safety Beyond Sunscreen
While sunscreen is vital, it’s not your only defense. Combine it with other protective measures for comprehensive sun safety:
• Seek Shade: Especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses can significantly reduce sun exposure.
• Stay Hydrated: Sun exposure can dehydrate you quickly, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Flat panel TVs with HD channels
• In-Room dining available
• Coffee maker, microwave, and refrigerator in all rooms.
Castles in the Sand
By Thomas Denton | Photography by Jaqueline Wallace & Courtesy Photos from SPI.
Afoundational beach memory for almost anyone is the gentle, meditative act of building a sandcastle. Even the tiniest beachgoer instinctively starts piling sand on sand, carving out a little world where imagination rules. A one-story citadel for a wandering hermit crab? Easy. A moat-ringed, manytowered keep? Doable with lunch and a bucket. A monumental welcome of fairies and hearts? That takes serious craft—but yes, it can be done. Most sandcastles eventually surrender to the tide; a rare few linger for years. “How?” you ask. When an artist pours heart, science, and stubborn joy into the art of shaping sand, the impossible becomes the everyday.
Drop onto the Island in early October for Sandcastle Days and you’ll be surrounded by world-class works rising straight from the shoreline—faces and figures you’d marvel at in marble, and castles that soar ten feet into the sea breeze. A long swath of beach outside Clayton’s Beach Bar & Event Center becomes a living gallery, where the same grains you brush from your sandals are coaxed into impossibilities.
If there’s a single North Star for this movement, it’s SPI legend Lucinda “Sandy Feet” Wierenga. She hasn’t just built some of the Island’s most unforgettable sand sculptures; she’s built the culture that keeps sandcastling thriving.
Wierenga’s story starts in Michigan, summering on lakeshores and shaping castles with her family. After college, she taught English—writing, teaching, and plotting her next chapter. When she moved to the Island in 1980, a chance
meeting with local sandcastle icon The Amazing Walter rerouted everything. He showed her the ropes, and soon they were creating for the sheer fun of it. “Nobody else was building sandcastles that we knew of, we started building for fun,” she says. “Then we entered some contests and won some money.” By 1991, the pair was competing at the Sandcastle World Championships.
The early ’90s also sparked her unexpected teaching career. “I was writing articles for a local paper,” she recalls. “They said they could pay me with free advertising.” She placed a tiny ad: sandcastle lessons, $25. The rest wrote itself. Today, she still teaches, helps bring international talent to Sandcastle Days (now in its 36th year), and stewards two signature attractions—Sandcastle Village and the Sandcastle Trail— through her nonprofit, Sandcastle Island Inc.
Launched in 2019, Sandcastle Village is a wonderland of permanent-style pieces: an eight-foot Taylor Swift mermaid; an intricate centerpiece with fairies, toads, and mushrooms; and longtime favorites carefully maintained so they can delight through seasons. It’s open year-round, free to wander (donations encouraged).
The Island-wide Sandcastle Trail features 30+ sculptures by artists from around the globe—some commissioned by local businesses, all mapped online with fascinating before-during-after photos. Time it right, and you might meet an artist on site, brushing edges, trimming a turret, or coaxing yesterday’s wave back into today’s crisp line.
Both Sandcastle Village and the Trail are powered by the City of South Padre Island, generous local sponsors, and the volunteers and staff who keep the work standing tall. Community-driven installations pop up all year—like the recent Dog Days Graffiti Wall, where pet parents added carved dedications for $10, raising funds for local rescues. Come February, the Valentine’s display lets romantics etch a short message for $25— weather willing, your love note lingers for weeks.
And Sandy Feet’s footprint stretches far beyond SPI. She’s traveled the world to help create jaw-dropping installations— like six weeks in Kuwait with dozens of fellow sculptors to carve a life-size homage to One Thousand and One Arabian Nights, recognized among the largest sand sculptures ever attempted. She also penned a best-selling how-to on the craft, translating beach magic into step-by-step mastery.
Building sandcastles will always be part of a perfect beach day. But on South Padre Island—thanks to Sandy Feet’s vision and the community that rallies around it—those castles become landmarks, lessons, and living art. On your next trip, carve out time to stroll Sandcastle Village, chase the Sandcastle Trail, and see what happens when imagination meets the tide.
HOW TO: Simple art in drive for this one
The Art of Sandcastle Building: Unleash Your Creativity on the Beach
There's something magical about building sandcastles by the sea, where the rhythmic waves provide a soothing soundtrack, and the golden sand becomes your canvas. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned sand sculptor, creating a sandcastle is a fun and rewarding activity that allows you to tap into your creativity and enjoy the great outdoors. Here’s your guide to building the perfect sandcastle, from basic techniques to advanced tips.
Getting Started: The Basics
Choose the Right Spot
Find a spot on the beach where the sand is damp but not too wet, usually close to the waterline but not so close that the waves will wash your castle away.
Gather Your Tools
You don’t need fancy equipment to build a great sandcastle. Basic tools include:
• A bucket for carrying water and molding sand.
• A shovel or spade for digging and shaping.
• Small tools like a spoon, knife, or plastic spatula for fine details.
• A paintbrush or straw for adding finishing touches.
The Perfect Sand and Water Mixture
The key to a sturdy sandcastle is the right mix of sand and water. Wet sand holds together better than dry sand, but too much water can make it difficult to shape. Aim for a consistency where the sand clumps together easily without crumbling or oozing water.
Building Your Foundation
Dig a Moat
Start by digging a moat around the area where you plan to build your castle. This will provide a source of water for your sand and help protect your creation from incoming waves.
Create a Strong Base
Pile damp sand into a mound and pack it down firmly. This will be the foundation of your sandcastle. A solid base ensures stability and allows you to build taller structures.
Constructing Your Castle
Layering and Packing
Add layers of sand, packing each one firmly before adding
the next. Use your hands or a flat tool to press the sand down, removing any air pockets.
Carving and Shaping
Once your base is solid, start carving and shaping your castle. Use larger tools to form the basic structure, such as towers and walls, then move to smaller tools for intricate details like windows, doors, and battlements.
Adding Details
Let your creativity shine by adding details that bring your sandcastle to life. Use a straw to blow away excess sand for cleaner lines, and a paintbrush to smooth surfaces. Add seashells, pebbles, and driftwood for decoration.
Advanced Tips and Techniques
Drip Technique
For a whimsical, fairy-tale effect, try the drip technique. Mix sand with a lot of water to form a slurry, then let it drip from your fingers onto your castle. This creates an organic, textured look reminiscent of melted wax.
Sculpting Figures
If you’re feeling ambitious, try sculpting figures or animals to add to your sandcastle scene. Start with basic shapes and add details gradually. Remember to keep the sand damp and work slowly to avoid collapse.
Protecting Your Creation
The beach environment can be harsh on sandcastles. To prolong the life of your masterpiece, build it during the cooler parts of the day and consider lightly spraying it with water occasionally to keep the sand moist.
Enjoying the Experience
Involve
Friends and Family
Sandcastle building is a fantastic group activity. Invite friends and family to join in, assigning different parts of the castle to different people. Collaboration can lead to even more impressive creations and shared fun.
Capture the Moment
Don’t forget to take photos of your sandcastle before the tide comes in. These snapshots make great memories and can be shared with others to inspire their own sandcastle adventures.
Respect the Environment
When you’re finished, remember to dismantle your sandcastle carefully if it’s in a high-traffic area to avoid accidents. Leave no trash behind and be mindful of local wildlife.
Get Out on the Water!
When the South Texas sun starts to sizzle, there’s only one smart move—get out on the water. And when it comes to watersports, South Padre Island sets the pace.
Whether you’re chasing speed, soaring sky-high, or taking it slow, the Island has it all. The waves of the Gulf and the calm stretch of Laguna Madre Bay make the perfect playground for every kind of adventure. With outfitters all over the Island offering rentals, lessons, and tours, trying something new on the water has never been easier.
If speed is your thing
Sunshine, salt spray, and the thrill of acceleration—it doesn’t get more exhilarating than cutting through the
Gulf on a jet ski. Take a friend, or ride solo for the ultimate adrenaline rush. Want to share the fun? Round up the crew for a banana boat ride and hang on tight as you’re pulled across the bay on a high-speed splash fest.
If you want to go higher
Parasailing lifts you hundreds of feet in the air for panoramic views of the Island, the Gulf, and the Laguna Madre. No experience needed—just a sense of wonder. For those craving even more intensity, kiteboarding harnesses the Island’s steady breezes for airborne thrills. Beginners and pros alike will find year-round perfection, with calm bayside waters for learning and Gulf waves for showing off.
If you’re here to slow it down
The glassy surface of the Laguna Madre is tailor-made for standup paddleboarding. It’s peaceful, beginner-friendly, and a front-row seat to dolphins, fish, and coastal birds. Book a sailing trip on a catamaran to stretch the relaxation even further—
sip something cold, feel the wind, and let the Island horizon do the rest. Whether you sail at sunrise or drift into a sunset dinner cruise, life really is better on the water.
During the Winter
When the rest of the country starts reaching for parkas, South Padre Island keeps the sunshine coming. Winter here means mild temperatures, calm water, and wide-open space to play. The Gulf stays inviting, the bay stays bright, and the only ice you’ll see is in your drink.
It’s the perfect time to paddle the Laguna Madre without the summer crowds, spot dolphins gliding alongside your board, or catch a gentle breeze on a catamaran. The steady winds make it kiteboard season for the bold, while those who prefer calm can explore the bay by kayak or take a tranquil eco-tour.
Evening sails in the cooler months have their own kind of magic—the sky deepens to gold, the air is crisp, and the Island glows in a softer light. Around here, “off-season” doesn’t exist.
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND
AIR PADRE KITE BOARDING
956-266-8100
5709 PADRE BLVD , STE A
AMERICAN DIVING
956-761-2030
33256 STATE PARK RD 100, STE 104
BAYSIDE WATER RENTALS
956-660-6645
JIM’S PIER, 211 W SWORDFISH
COCONUT JACKS
956-761-4218
2301 LAGUNA BLVD
COCONUTS WATER SPORTS
956-761-4218
2301 LAGUNA BLVD
EH BRAH SUP
956-433-9116
108 E MARLIN ST
FLYBOARDING SOUTH PADRE ISLAND
956-299-1763
5709 PADRE BLVD , UNIT A2
H2O SPORTS KITEBOARDING SCHOOL
956-574-4344
102 E . OLEANDER ST
HENRY’S CHARTERS
956-254-9427
33256 STATE PARK RD 100
KA MOTION SAILING ADVENTURE
956-410-9945
200 W . PIKE ST
PARROT EYES WATERSPORTS
956-761-9457
5801 PADRE BLVD
PROKITE KITEBOARDING LESSON CENTER
541-490-6872
2500 PADRE BLVD , #5
SANDY FEET SANDCASTLE SERVICES
956-459-2928
117 E SATURN LN
SANDCASTLE LESSONS (ANDY HANCOCK)
956-433-9948
3000 GULF BLVD (SUNTIDE III)
SKYDIVE SOUTH PADRE ISLAND
956-744-5867
2812 PADRE BLVD , STE A
SONNY’S BEACH SERVICE
956-761-5556
310 PADRE BLVD
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND ADVENTURE PARK
956-761-4677
21040 STATE PARK RD 100
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND WATER SPORTS
956-299-9463
5709 PADRE BLVD , STE A
SOUTH PADRE SURF COMPANY (SURF LESSONS)
956-772-7272
ISLA BLANCA BEACH PARK, 33174 STATE PARK RD 100
SOUTHERN WAVE CATAMARAN CRUISE
956-772-7245
205 W PALM ST .
SPI EXCURSIONS
888-709-8283
204 W PALM ST
SPI PONTOON BOAT CHARTERS
956-466-7168
5800 PADRE BLVD , STE 203
SPI SESSIONS
956-455-5238
7010 PADRE BLVD | 5717 PADRE BLVD
SPI SESSIONS WATERSPORTS
956-433-2191
5717 PADRE BLVD
SPI WATER RENTALS
956-970-2628
2401 B LAGUNA BLVD
THE BOATYARD
956-561-4189
206 W DOLPHIN ST
WINDSURF INC.
956-761-1434
224 W CAROLYN ST
PORT ISABEL
SPI EXOTIC JETCARS
956-227-4946
418 TX-100, PORT ISABEL
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND
A BLAST TO CAST GUIDE SERVICE
956-243-0039
206 W SWORDFISH
AAA LOCAL FISHERMAN
956-299-3900
211 W . SWORDFISH
ALWAYS A CATCH FISHING TRIP
956-524-3002
209 W WHITING, CHARTER LAUNCH FROM JIM’S PIER
ANDY’S GUIDE SERVICE
956-372-3338
5801 PADRE BLVD
BODE’S BAY FISHING
956-832-3761
206 W SWORDFISH STREET
BRYAN RAY’S FISHING ADVENTURES
956-433-6469
33256 STATE PARK ROAD 100
CAPTAIN JORGE FLORES FISHING
956-376-7921
209 W WHITING STREET
CAPTAIN MURPHY’S DEEP SEA FISHING
956-761-2764
33256 STATE PARK ROAD 100
CAPTAIN ANDREW FISHING SPI
956-320-9099
5801 PADRE BLVD
CHACHI CHARTERS
956-608-7828
1 PADRE BLVD, SEA RANCH MARINA
COAST WISE CHARTERS
956-433-2455
33256 STATE PARK ROAD 100
DANNY B FISHING CHARTERS
956-761-1389
2305 LAGUNA BLVD
DAVID LEAL FISHING SERVICE
956-499-4852
5705 LAGUNA CIRCLE S #4
FISHING’S FUTURE
956-238-9476
2216 PADRE BLVD SUITE B #26
GET’M HOOK’D FISHING CHARTERS
956-367-6554
211 W SWORDFISH ST
HAPPYTIDE CHARTERS
956-761-5791
227 W MORNINGSIDE DRIVE
ISLA TOURS
956-761-4752
33256 STATE PARK ROAD 100
ISLAND OUTFITTERS
956-433-9935
206 W SWORDFISH STREET
THE JETTIES
956-761-5494
33174 STATE PARK ROAD 100
LONE STAR CHARTERS
956-346-2736
1 PADRE BOULEVARD, SEA RANCH MARINA
MISS DIRECTED SPORT FISHING CHARTERS
956-299-0492
33257 STATE PARK ROAD 100, SEA RANCH
PLAYIN HOOKY FISHING CHARTERS
956-639-6604
1 PADRE BLVD
PRIME TIME FISHING CHARTERS
956-320-4020
33256 STATE PARK ROAD 100
REEL ACTION CHARTER SERVICE
956-320-0812
5801 PADRE BLVD
SALT WALKER FISHING CHARTERS
361-793-1598
33256 STATE PARK RD 100
SEA RANCH MARINA
956-761-7777
33256 STATE PARK ROAD 100
SPI EXCURSIONS
956-761-4752
33256 STATE PARK ROAD 100
SPI PONTOON BOAT CHARTERS
956-466-7168
5800 PADRE BLVD, SUITE 203
TEQUILA FLATS CHARTER SERVICES
956-266-5308
101 PADRE BOULEVARD
TEXAS BLUE WATER REHAB SPEARFISHING
956-245-7400
5801 PADRE BLVD
THE ORIGINAL DOLPHIN WATCH
956-761-4243
33256 STATE PARK ROAD 100
TIP O’TEXAS GUIDE SERVICE
956-243-1465
208 W KINGFISH E101
PORT ISABEL
ANGLER’S CHOICE GUIDE SERVICE
956-459-0594
418 HIGHWAY 100
BOB’S BAY FISHING
956-433-1389
418 W HIGHWAY 100
CAPTAIN JACK BARTON
956-433-1092
1114 POMPANO AVENUE
CRYSTAL FLATS GUIDE SERVICE
956-346-0140
418 TX-100
DRIFT WATER CHARTERS
956-433-3409
501 E MAXAN STREET
GEORGE’S FISHING CHARTER SERVICE
956-434-9971
110 N GARCIA STREET
GILBERT VELA’S FISHING SERVICE
956-778-6976
1006 TROUT AVENUE
OSPREY CRUISES
956-761-6655
501 E MAXAN STREET
PIRATE’S LANDING FISHING PIER
956-943-7437
110 N GARCIA STREET
SOUTH PADRE BOAT RENTALS
956-408-0441
1506 C STATE HIGHWAY 100
CRUISES & DOLPHIN TOURS
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND
AMERICA YACHT CHARTERS
956-382-0749
205 W PALM STREET
BREAKAWAY CRUISES
956-761-2212
33384 STATE PARK ROAD 100
GALLOPING CLAM BOAT TOURS
956-761-5467
211 W SWORDFISH
ISLA TOURS (CAPTAIN MURPHY’S)
956-761-4752
33256 STATE PARK ROAD 100
KA MOTION SAILING ADVENTURE
956-410-9945
200 W . PIKE STREET
PARROT EYES WATERSPORTS
956-761-9457
5801 PADRE BLVD
SPI EXCURSIONS
888-709-8283
204 W PALM STREET
SPI SESSIONS WATERSPORTS
956-433-2191
5717 PADRE BLVD
SOUTHERN WAVE CATAMARAN CRUISE
956-772-7245
205 W PALM STREET
THE ORIGINAL DOLPHIN WATCH
956-761-4243
1 PADRE BOULEVARD
PORT ISABEL
DOLPHIN DOCKS
956-943-3185
510 E QUEEN ISABELLA BOULEVARD
FINS TO FEATHERS
956-299-0629
500 S POINT DRIVE
OSPREY CRUISES (SEA LIFE SAFARI)
956-761-6655
501 E MAXAN STREET
Launch Chasers
When Starship flies, Boca Chica’s launch tower lights up the sky—and South Padre Island becomes the VIP balcony to the show. Here’s a fresh guide to catching a SpaceX launch from our corner of the universe.
Why South Padre Island Is The Sweet Spot
Starship launches from Starbase (formerly the Boca Chica launch site), just across the Laguna Madre from South Padre Island. Because the rockets lift off east over the Gulf, SPI ends up being one of the best—and safest—places to watch a launch, with views stretching straight across the water to the pad. Starbase itself doesn’t offer public tours or a visitor center, and access to Highway 4/Boca Chica Beach is typically closed for major testing and launches.
Best Places To Watch The Launch
Isla Blanca Park
This is the classic launch-viewing spot on the south end of the Island. From here, you get a wide-open view of the Starship pad across the ship channel— no binoculars required, though they’re fun.
Beachfront & bayside hotels/condos
Many Island properties on the south end (especially with higher floors and south-facing or bayside balconies) offer excellent views right
from your room. Official Island guides even recommend launch-watching “from your balcony or beachfront” if you’re lucky enough to snag the right view.
Around the bay
Even if you’re not at Isla Blanca, Starship can be seen—and felt—from all over South Padre, Port Isabel, and even parts of Laguna Vista when conditions are clear.
How to time your trip
Launch dates are notoriously slippery. Weather, technical checks, and regulatory approvals can shift times by hours or days. Official Island guidance is to plan a 3–4 day stay if seeing a launch is your main goal, giving yourself a cushion for delays or scrubbed attempts.
To track what’s coming up:
• SpaceX Launches page lists official missions and windows. spacex.com/launches
• Road & beach closures are posted by Cameron County and Starbase; check the county’s SpaceX closure page and Starbase beach/road access updates before you drive anywhere near Boca Chica. cameroncountytx.gov/spacex/
On big-flight days, expect heavy traffic and early birds. Veteran launch-watchers suggest being at Isla Blanca around opening time and giving yourself plenty of time to park, walk in, and stake out a spot.
What to bring
• Lawn chairs or a blanket
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses (this is South Padre)
• Water and snacks
• Binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens
• Ear protection if you’re sensitive to loud sound—the rumble is very real
While you’re waiting on the countdown, you’re not exactly suffering: there’s the beach, bay tours, fresh seafood, and those famous Island sunsets to keep you busy between “hold” and “liftoff.”
ETIQUESTIONS
Summer is my favorite time of the year because we get to spend lots of time at the beach with our family. I sometimes wonder if we mind our manners when it comes to beach etiquette. What is the top rule we should follow?
The beach is such a great place to spend with the family However, a long, hot, tiring beach day primes every kid for a meltdown Pay attention to your children and make sure you are aware when it is time to go inside for a break Screaming kids disrupt people around you and is considered extremely rude when people are trying to relax Additionally, make sure your children respect the space of the people around them—do not throw balls into other people's chairs Summer is the time for everyone to relax and enjoy the beach Do your part in making sure you are mindful of those around you
We went to the beach last weekend and had a blast. The beach was very crowded, and we had a hard time finding a place to set up our chairs, etc. We found a great place; it was very close to the people on both sides, but it was really the only place we could set up. My husband wanted to play music on our speaker, but I told him we couldn't because we were too close to our neighbors. Was I correct, or is it okay to play the music you want to listen to?
The beach is a great place to visit in the summer It is also a popular place, so there are generally lots of people Because it is common to be close to your neighbors on a busy day at the beach, the right thing to do is not play your music at all . The reason for not playing your music is that your taste in music may be very different from your neighbor's You want to be respectful and enjoy the time to relax
Baggerly-Hinojosa,
Dr. Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa
I always have trouble shaking all the sand out of my towels when I am on the beach. I try not to shower everyone around me with sand, but others do not seem to do the same thing. Help?
Do be mindful of where you shake out sand Shaking out towels into a breeze or kicking sand onto others' towels are sure ways to annoy your fellow beachgoers Think twice before shaking out any of your sand-coated belongings Take them to a place where the wind is not so strong, and people are not around before you shake the sand out
www.leadershipempowermentgroup.com
Coach of the Coast
Aarin Hartwell, turning South Padre Island into a year-round hub for surf, science, and stewardship.
By Dr. Kimberly Selber | Photography courtesy of Kayla Bravo
A light south wind, waist-high sets rolling in, and a pack of groms shouting every time they pop to their feet. Out past the whitewater, a familiar figure on a longboard is watching it all—calling kids into waves and coaching turns, still finding a second to crack a joke. That’s Aarin Hartwell, founder and owner of SPI Sessions, the woman at the center of South Padre Island’s unofficial surf classroom.
From Boca Chica to “Princess of the Surf”
Hartwell’s story starts on the Brownsville side of the bridge. She grew up heading to Boca Chica Beach, where beach cleanups with her mother turned the shoreline into a playground and classroom. She taught herself to surf as a teenager, pushing through wipeouts and long paddles, inspired by the determination she saw in older surfers who “paddled out” no matter what.
By her early 20s, surfing wasn’t just a hobby. She plugged into the local surf scene, helping with events, and traveled for Texas Gulf Surfing Association (TGSA) contests along the coast. South Padre Parade profiled her in 2011 as “Princess of the Surf,” a local standout in both the water and the community.
Chasing Waves—and Titles— Around the World
Ask Hartwell about her favorite wave, and she’ll take you far from Texas. Jeffrey’s Bay (aka J-Bay) in South Africa tops the list, with its long, peeling right-hand point break. Spots in Central America, the Caribbean, and Hawaii also shaped her as a sponsored athlete and broadened her view of surf culture.
In recent seasons, Hartwell has dominated the TGSA
Senior Women’s divisions, taking first place in both shortboard and longboard for the 2024–25 season and overall points titles. In 2025, she secured a USA Surfing national title for Senior Women 40+ Longboard at the USA Surfing Longboard Championship event in Oceanside, California— something she’d long wanted: to test her surfing against competitors from across the country.
On South Padre, she spent several seasons working on the SPI Beach Patrol, sharpening her ocean-safety instincts from the lifeguard tower and on rescue boards. That experience—paired with years in the competitive lineup—became the backbone of her teaching philosophy: make the ocean fun but never stop respecting it. Today she serves as vice president on the Texas Gulf Surfing Association board, helping steer the statewide contest series that crowns Texas champions.
Building SPI Sessions
After years of competing, traveling, and working in events and action-sports marketing, Hartwell decided to build something on her own coast. In 2016, she founded SPI Sessions, a surf and watersports school on South Padre Island that emphasizes skill, safety, and stewardship.
SPI Sessions started as a surf and stand-up paddle (SUP) school and has grown into a program offering kids’ surf camps, lessons, SUP tours, and kayak and jet ski rentals.
The business now runs out of two primary locations: a Surf Camp & Lessons Center behind Barry’s Beach Bar and a busy watersports shop on Padre Boulevard.
Today, SPI Sessions runs year-round, blending beach instruction with ocean science, water safety, and environmental awareness.
Surf, Science, and the Next Generation
Hartwell lights up when she talks about teaching kids. Camps typically start at age five, once little surfers can swim and feel comfortable in the ocean, and serve youth from across Texas and beyond. Instructors drill ocean safety and awareness—how to read waves, understand currents, and respect conditions before paddling out.
All instructors are experienced waterpeople trained in first aid and CPR. Lessons usually run about an hour and focus on fundamentals: paddle form, pop-ups, stance, and the adjustments that turn flailing into flying down the line. Make it easier, she believes, and you make it more fun—and suddenly that nervous first-timer is planning their next trip before the board hits the sand.
She also loves teaching the science side of surfing—sandbar formation, wind direction, and how storms in the Gulf or Caribbean can change the surf for weeks. In 2024, she formally launched the South Padre Island Surf Team as part of SPI Sessions. In its first full season, the team fielded 13 competitors—some as young as seven—at the Texas State Surfing Championship.
Every Kind of Session
SPI Sessions has evolved with Hartwell’s own relationship to the water. As she added jet skis to the program, she added a new line to her skill set: mechanic. The shop now offers jet ski and kayak rentals alongside surf and SUP, options from mellow bay paddles to more adrenaline-heavy rides.
Paddleboarding, she points out, is often less intimidating than people expect. It’s more about balance and body
awareness than brute strength, which makes it accessible to a wide range of ages and abilities. Reviews and social posts are full of first-timers—50-somethings who finally stood up on a surfboard, families who discovered the quiet side of the bay on SUP, older adults who never thought they’d feel comfortable on the water—walking away surprised at what they could do.
One of the things she’s proudest of: adaptive sessions for kids and adults with special needs. Through SPI Sessions and community partners, she’s hosted days where participants of all mobilities and abilities can experience the water on their own terms—often with extra instructors, tandem boards, and modified plans to meet each person
where they are.
Beyond the Break: Gulf Guardians
Hartwell’s love for the ocean doesn’t stop when the boards come out of the water. She is the director of Gulf Guardians, a nonprofit originally founded in 1991 by her mother, Penny Hartwell, to promote environmental responsibility on South Padre Island. Under Aarin’s leadership, Gulf Guardians has helped spearhead initiatives such as the Plastic Free Padre program and a pilot beachside-recycling project approved by the South Padre Island City Council.
The group collaborates with local authorities, businesses, and schools to offer programs that give residents and visitors practical ways to protect the Island’s fragile ecosystems. Her community résumé also includes producing surf-related events and bringing surf films and fundraisers to coastal Texas, always with a focus on keeping Texas surf culture connected, inclusive, and environmentally aware.
Still Making Waves
These days, Hartwell is at once an athlete, entrepreneur, nonprofit director, TGSA vice president, coach, and mom. Her bucket list isn’t about ticking off distant surf spots—it’s about longevity: she wants to still be active on the water in her 80s.
If you’ve ever watched a nervous kid take their first wave with her cheering from the shore, you get the sense she just might do it. For Aarin Hartwell, a “session” is more than time in the water. It’s a chance to transform fear into confidence, strangers into surf families, and a small barrier-island town into one of Texas’s most vibrant surfing communities.
And on South Padre Island, chances are good that your very first session starts with her.
Know the Flags: Staying Safe on South Padre’s
Shores Year-Round
There’s something magnetic about South Padre Island—the endless blue horizon, the soft hum of the surf, and that salt-laced breeze that whispers, “Stay a little longer.” Whether you’re a year-round resident or a beach-weekend regular, the call of the ocean is irresistible. But even paradise comes with rules, and on South Padre, the first rule of beach life is knowing what the flags mean.
If you’ve ever wondered why the lifeguard towers fly different colored flags each day—green, yellow, red, or even purple—here’s the truth: those colors aren’t decoration. They’re your first and best guide to staying safe in the water. And they matter every single month of the year, not just in the summer.
The Flag System: A Universal Beach Language
The beach flag warning system is like a silent lifeguard— visible from a distance and easy to understand once you know the code.
• Green Flag: Low hazard. Calm conditions, but caution never hurts.
• Yellow Flag: Medium hazard. Moderate surf and currents. Strong swimmers only should venture past the shallows.
• Red Flag: High hazard. Rough surf and dangerous currents—stay close to shore or, better yet, stay dry.
• Double Red Flag: Water closed to the public. No exceptions.
• Purple Flag: Marine pests present—think jellyfish, stingrays, or even Portuguese man o’ war.
South Padre Island’s Beach Patrol posts these flags daily, adjusting to wind, tides, and unseen dangers like rip currents. Their vigilance saves lives. According to the SPI Beach Patrol, conditions can change quickly—what looks calm in the morning may develop strong currents by noon. That’s why checking the flags each day is vital before heading into the surf.
Year-Round Ocean Awareness
Many assume that flag warnings are just for summer tourists, but the Gulf doesn’t take a holiday. Winter brings cold fronts and high surf; spring invites strong rip tides; and even in the mild, sun-drenched days of fall, currents can shift dramatically. Locals know this: surfers, fishermen, and winter Texans all rely on the flag system to gauge how the ocean is feeling that day.
The Island’s growing number of full-time residents and yearround visitors makes awareness even more essential. Whether you’re walking your dog along the shoreline or watching your kids splash near the pier, checking the flags before stepping into the surf is a simple habit that can prevent tragedy.
A Lifesaving Habit
The SPI Beach Patrol’s goal, says Lt. Casillas, is to empower the public through education rather than fear. When people understand the ocean, they develop a healthy respect for it— and that awareness makes beach days both safer and more enjoyable.
So next time you pack your beach bag—alongside that sunscreen, water bottle, and hat—make it a ritual to check the flags. Think of it as your personal forecast, one that could mean the difference between a perfect day and a dangerous one. Understanding the flags isn’t just smart—it’s part of being an Islander, whether you’re here for a day or a lifetime.
Gladys Porter Zoo Launches the Soaring Eagle Zipline
Adventure has officially taken flight at the Gladys Porter Zoo. The Soaring Eagle Zipline, the Zoo’s newest attraction, officially opened this summer, giving visitors the chance to take flight 120 feet above the ground and enjoy breathtaking, bird’s-eye views of Brownsville’s most beloved destination. The Zipline has added a new dimension of excitement to South Texas tourism.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a new adventure to share with family and friends, this dual-rider zipline offers the perfect mix of thrill and scenery. Riders are gently lifted backward to the top of the launch tower where they can take in sweeping views of the Zoo’s tropical landscape, the Rio Grande River, and even glimpses across the border into Mexico, before smoothly soaring back to the landing dock.
“The Soaring Eagle Zipline is more than just a ride,” said Zoo Director Dr. Patrick M. Burchfield. “It’s a testament to our commitment to innovation, enhancing the visitor experience, and driving a more active tourism economy for South Texas.”
The Zipline is the first major milestone in the Zoo’s ambitious Zoo Director Dr. Patrick M. Burchfield, marking a new era of growth and innovation. For visitors, though, it’s simply a chance to experience the Zoo from a whole new vantage point, feel the wind in your hair, and maybe even capture it all with a souvenir using the ride’s built-in camera system.
Priced at $8 per ride, the Soaring Eagle is an affordable, can’t-miss addition to a day at the Zoo. It’s the perfect way to cap off a visit after exploring the animal exhibits, cooling off with a treat, or spending time at the playground.
The Gladys Porter Zoo invites visitors near and far to “take flight” and see Brownsville from a whole new perspective.
A Sea Change: South Padre Island Welcomes the World’s Largest Sea Turtle Hospital
By Dr. Kimberly Selber | Photography by Cliff Ranson & Courtesy Photos Sea Turtle Inc.
On a beautiful March morning in 2025, just before spring break crowds hit the beaches, South Padre Island made history. Sea Turtle Inc. opened the doors to its brand-new, 15,000-square-foot, $7 million facility—a gleaming glass-and-steel structure that instantly became the largest fully enclosed sea turtle hospital in the world.
Inside, visitors step into a space that feels like the ocean itself—blue-lit corridors, massive tanks, and entire walls of windows offering a view into turtle medicine in action. It’s not just an upgrade; it’s a game-
changer. The hospital can now treat triple the number of patients, handle mass cold-stun emergencies, and even perform CAT scans on-site.
Already, the impact has been undeniable. “We’re on track to have the largest number of patients we’ve ever seen in a single year,” says Wendy Knight, CEO of Sea Turtle Inc. “It changes the way we can respond—not just to natural events on the island, but to worldwide disasters—by giving us the ability to take patients from other hospitals and triple our capacity.”
From Backyard Beginnings
Nearly fifty years ago, Sea Turtle Inc. was little more than a backyard dream. Aviator Ila Fox Loetscher, affectionately known as the “Turtle Lady of South Padre Island,” began caring for injured sea turtles at her home in the early 1970s. What started as a personal act of compassion soon grew into a community movement. Friends, neighbors, and local families joined her on the beaches, answering the same call to protect and preserve. Together, they built the foundation for what would officially become Sea Turtle Inc. in 1977.
That grassroots energy still defines the organization—many of the families who helped nurture the first hatchlings are part of the South Padre Island community to this day. What began as a small band of volunteers protecting endangered nests has grown into a global leader in conservation,
education, and research—drawing more than 250,000 visitors every year and supported by hundreds of volunteers who patrol 35,000 miles of beach each nesting season.
Knight says the legacy is never far from mind. “I think Ila and her friends would be proud of the work we’ve done and the growth that’s happened in this organization since then.”
Expanding Capacity
The new hospital is designed to handle crises that once overwhelmed the organization. “In our prior hospital, we could fit between 50 and 75 cold-stunned sea turtles in our garage, maybe up to 100 if they were small,” Knight recalls. “Now we can house 700 to 1,000 in this hospital.”
Daily care has also grown. “We could only handle about 15 to 25 patients before,” Knight explains. “Now we can manage up
to 80, with a dedicated surgical center, CAT scan, and X-ray machines.” This technology also reduces stress on patients. In the past, a turtle in need of a scan had to endure a fivehour round trip to McAllen. Today, it happens on-site in half an hour.
Visitors can see that care firsthand. Large windows look directly into treatment rooms where surgeries and rehabilitation take place. “If we need a CAT scan, they’ll see it happen,” Knight adds.
Breaking Records on the Beach
The timing of the new hospital couldn’t be better. South Padre Island’s beaches are experiencing a nesting boom that conservationists have spent decades working toward.
Once, the island counted just 50 to 70 Kemp’s Ridley nests in a season. In 2024, that number surged past 100. This year, the total has already topped 140, with more than 10,000 hatchlings protected—and the season isn’t over yet.
Kemp’s Ridleys, the world’s most endangered sea turtle, take 10 to 12 years to reach maturity. Each female can lay several nests a season, with as many as 120 eggs each time. Protecting those nests has created a ripple effect: today’s
hatchlings will become tomorrow’s mothers, returning to the same beaches to lay eggs of their own.
“This is a long-tail game,” Knight explains. “The growth we’re seeing now is the result of nearly fifty years of work by staff, volunteers, and communities across the Rio Grande Valley.”
Research That Makes a Difference
The new hospital isn’t just about caring for turtles in crisis— it’s also about preparing for the future. The Research Center pursues actionable projects that directly impact survival.
One early initiative tracks the migratory patterns of Atlantic green turtles to pinpoint their feeding grounds. The goal: in the event of a cold-stun event, rescuers will know precisely where to focus recovery efforts. That kind of information could mean thousands more turtles saved in the crucial first hours of a disaster.
“Our mission around research is that it be actionable and meaningful,” Knight says. “We want projects that truly move the needle.”
A Visitor Experience Like No Other
For visitors, Sea Turtle Inc. offers something rare: the chance to watch conservation unfold before their eyes. From a viewing gallery, guests can watch surgeries and therapy sessions. Children press their noses to the glass as veterinarians X-ray a flipper or fit a turtle with a custom brace.
And education doesn’t stop at the island’s edge. Sea Turtle Inc. livestreams programs to classrooms across 32 states and even as far away as Japan. Teachers can pull up lessons on the Sea Turtle Inc. website and stream videos from its YouTube channel, allowing students thousands of miles away to witness the same magic that captivates families on Padre Boulevard.
Four Pillars, One Mission
From Ila Loetscher’s backyard to today’s cutting-edge facility, Sea Turtle Inc. has stayed true to its four guiding pillars: medical care, research, education, and conservation.
The new hospital embodies all four. It’s a place where injured turtles heal, scientists unlock new knowledge, children discover the wonder of marine life, and endangered species get a fighting chance at survival.
As Knight puts it, “We’re breaking records in our very first year. And this is just the beginning.”
How to Get Involved
Sea Turtle Inc. operates without state, federal, or city funding. Every patient treated, nest protected, and hatchling released is made possible by members, donors, and volunteers who return season after season. The organization’s strength remains what it has been since 1977: community support.
Memberships include unlimited visits for a year and behindthe-scenes updates. Donors often “adopt” a nest or fund field trips for underprivileged schools. And every spring and summer, armies of volunteers fan out across the beaches to protect eggs and guide hatchlings safely to the water.
SEA TURTLE INC. SEA TURTLE INC.
V I S I T T H E W O R L D ' S L A R G E S T
V I S I T T H E W O R L D ' S L A R G E S T
E N C L O S E D S E A T U R T L E H O S P I T A L .
E N C L O S E D S E A T U R T L E H O S P I T A L .
When to See Fireworks
If there’s one thing South Padre Island never skimps on, it’s sparkle. From spring through late fall, the Island sky glows with fireworks over both the bay and the beach—proof that every weekend can end with a little magic.
Tuesdays & Fridays — June through Labor Day
Fireworks Over the Bay – 9:15 p.m.
Louie’s Backyard and the Entertainment District, Bayside
Catch the reflections dancing across the Laguna Madre as bursts of color light up the docks and boardwalks.
Fridays & Saturdays — March through October
Fireworks on the Beach – 9:00 p.m.
Clayton’s Beach Bar & Grill and neighboring resorts
Spread a towel, sip something tropical, and watch the Gulf horizon come alive.
Holiday Highlights
Memorial Day, July 4, and Labor Day Weekends
Expanded bay and beach shows featuring synchronized music, special menus, and festive crowds soaking up the season.
Tip: Schedules may vary slightly with wind or weather. Check VisitSouthPadreIsland.com/ events or follow @SouthPadreTexas for the latest updates.
Discover seaside culinary excellence at Ola Seaside Grill on South Padre Island. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views, a vibrant atmosphere, and fresh coastal dishes at Sand Rose Beach Resort. Experience the ultimate beachfront dining destination just steps from the shore.
South Padre’s Wild Side
At the Birding, Nature & Alligator Sanctuary, it’s birds above, gators below, and butterflies everywhere in between—all year round.
By Dr. Kimberly Selber
At the southern tip of the world’s longest barrier island, the South Padre Island Birding, Nature & Alligator Sanctuary is more than a birding hotspot. It’s a year-round sanctuary for birds, butterflies, alligators, and a surprising amount of life packed into 50 acres overlooking the Laguna Madre.
“Every month is different,” says naturalist/educator Javier Gonzalez. “Throughout the year, visitors can see 70–80 different species of birds that live or migrate through the Island.”
Boardwalks stretch nearly two-thirds of a mile over 43 acres of wetlands, weaving through dune meadows, salt
marsh, and native shrubs—habitats that migrating birds simply can’t resist. A five-story tower looks out over the bay, while a 10,000-square-foot visitor center walks guests through Island ecology from Gulf waves to bay shallows.
And then there’s the colorful cast of characters: egrets, pelicans, warblers, herons, ducks, dragonflies, butterflies, turtles, and yes—alligators. Big Padre, the 12.5-foot star of the alligator sanctuary, shares the wetlands with dozens of nuisance-rescued gators who now call the center home.
There’s no wrong season to visit, but the performance you’ll see from the boardwalk changes with the calendar.
From Flyway Secret to World Birding Center
Long before there was a tower, visitor center, or even a boardwalk, birds were already using this skinny barrier island as a life-or-death pit stop. South Padre sits along the Central Flyway, and more than 200 species of migratory birds are known to pause here during spring and fall—so it’s no surprise the Island is a must-stop for birders.
By the late 1990s, locals and agencies decided to make that official. Texas Parks & Wildlife and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service launched the World Birding Center network, a family of nine Rio Grande Valley sites. South Padre Island jumped in early. The town’s Economic Development Corporation adopted the birding center as a showcase project, designers got to work, and a humble wastewater treatment site was reimagined as a wetland and outdoor classroom—using treated freshwater to build year-round habitat for birds and everything else that loves water.
The result is the Birding, Nature & Alligator Sanctuary we know today: a visitor center, observation tower, bird blinds, and a ribbon of boardwalks stretching out over the marsh. After a few hurricane delays (thank you, Dolly), the center cut the ribbon in 2009.
Spring: The Great Crossing
Imagine flying 200 miles over the Gulf of Mexico, at night, with no breaks. Stopping mid-flight isn’t an option. That’s migration for thousands of songbirds each spring as they make their way from southern Mexico and Central America to far-northern nesting grounds. South Padre Island is one of the first safe landfalls after that marathon over water.
“We work year-round to assure that the habitat here at
the Nature Center has everything the migrating birds need,” says Gonzalez. “They need bugs and berries, and we provide these by planting native plants and making sure they are in sync with the needs of the birds.”
From March through May—peaking in late April—the center can feel like an airport terminal for birds. On a strong migration day, visitors might see close to 100 species; in a recent spring, Gonzalez and the team documented around 240 species passing through. Warblers, tanagers, orioles, and thrushes light up the trees, while wetlands host herons, shorebirds, and waterfowl. Endangered or threatened species such as the Piping Plover and Brown Pelican also find refuge here.
Summer: Nursery Season
By summer, the energy shifts from long-distance travelers to new arrivals of a different kind.
Most resident birds are nesting, and late summer is prime time for “family watching.” Along the boardwalk, you may spot Reddish Egrets, Tricolored Herons, Black Skimmers, Black-bellied Whistling Ducks, Common Gallinules, and Great Kiskadees—often with downy ducklings or chicks in tow.
Warm, shallow water turns the wetlands into a nursery not just for birds, but also for fish, crabs, and other aquatic life. Dragonflies patrol the air, and 20-plus species of butterflies drift over the native gardens.
Summer is also peak people-watching season—for the alligators. As cold-blooded creatures, they move slowly in winter but become more active as temperatures climb. From the safety of the boardwalk, visitors can watch Big Padre and his fellow nuisance-rescued alligators cruise the channels or bask along the shoreline. Daily Gator Talks introduce guests to their biology, rescue stories, and their role in the wetland ecosystem.
Green Heron with chicks
Green Heron with chicks
Fall: Second Spring on the Island
Ask a serious birder their favorite season, and many will quietly nominate fall.
As cold fronts start to slide through, southbound migrants use the Island the same way their spring counterparts did—as a rest-and-refuel stop before continuing on to wintering grounds. Coastal nectar plants and the center’s native gardens are in full bloom, giving tired migrating birds an easy buffet.
“The best time for fall birding is right after a cold front,” Gonzalez explains. North winds push birds down the coast, and the center’s woodlots and wetlands offer a safe place to pause. Fall migration brings another wave of warblers, buntings, hawks, and shorebirds drifting through the Laguna Madre corridor.
Fall is also prime butterfly season. Monarchs in particular use South Texas as a critical pit stop on their 2,000-plusmile journey to wintering sites in Mexico, riding those same cold fronts Gonzalez tracks with the birds.
Winter: Quiet, Clear, and Full of Life
Winter on South Padre Island is calmer, but the center is far from sleepy.
Cooler temperatures bring in ducks, wading birds, and shorebirds that spend the season in the Island’s mild coastal climate. With crisp air and clear light, winter can be one of the best times for spotting birds along the water’s edge.
Alligators slow down as the water cools, often choosing sunny banks for long, still stretches. The boardwalk takes on a quieter feel.
“Nature is a way to release tension,” Gonzalez says. “The center is very peaceful and allows visitors to slow down and enjoy the natural world around them.”
Purple Gallinule
Tricolored Heron in Mangroves
Roseate Spoonbill
Flora & Fauna: The Life Behind the Views
The center’s magic isn’t just about who flies through—it’s about what’s growing.
The grounds are planted and managed with wildlife first in mind. Native shrubs and small trees offer shelter, nesting spots, and berries for hungry migrants. Coastal grasses and wildflowers stabilize the sandy soil and provide seeds and insects for birds to forage. In spring, the native gardens burst into bloom, drawing in warblers, tanagers, orioles, and hummingbirds in search of “bugs and berries.”
In the wetlands, cattails, rushes, and other marsh plants frame the boardwalk, concealing rails, gallinules, and ducklings at water level while herons and egrets stalk the shallows. Look down and you’ll often see blue crabs or schools of juvenile fish darting between stems.
Reptiles and amphibians quietly share the stage—turtles basking on logs, lizards slipping through leaf litter, and alligators cruising beneath the boardwalk. Together, the plants and animals create a living, layered ecosystem you can actually walk through.
Butterflies on the Flyway
If the birds are the headliners, the butterflies are the graceful opening act—and sometimes they steal the show.
South Padre Island sits in the path of major butterfly movements, especially in the fall. Monarch butterflies, in particular, rely on the Rio Grande Valley as an important fueling stop on their multi-generational migration between Canada and the high-elevation forests of central Mexico.
At the Birding, Nature & Alligator Sanctuary, monarchs and other species gather in the native gardens, nectaring on blooms that staff intentionally plant and maintain for both birds and pollinators. Social posts and local coverage frequently highlight “waves” of monarchs weaving through the Island and pausing at the center’s flowers when cold fronts drift in.
It’s not just about monarchs. Over the years, the center has documented dozens of butterfly species, including occasional tropical rarities like the Florida purplewing and Guatemalan cracker—guests from farther south drawn in by flowers and well-placed fruit feeders.
With so many butterfly populations under stress from habitat loss and shifting climate patterns, these patches of native plants on the Island matter. They help sustain pollinators that, in turn, keep the plants—and this whole little corner of the Island—thriving.
Planning Your Visit
Whether you’re a life-list birder, a casual nature lover, or someone who just wants a beautiful place to walk, the South Padre Island Birding, Nature & Alligator Sanctuary is an easy “yes.”
Stroll the boardwalk out to the bird blind over the Laguna Madre. Climb the tower for a wide-angle look at the bay. Time your visit to catch a Gator Talk or a guided birding tour. Or simply find a bench, let the breeze do its thing, and watch the marsh wake up (or wind down).
How much time do you need? Plan on at least an hour for a casual visit. If you’re with a birder, go ahead and block out the morning. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime time—for both birds and photos.
For current hours, tours, and special events, visit SPIBirding.com.
Monarchs on golden Rod
Mangrove Root Crab
Beatles & Big Turtles
Muralist Marcos Zamudio Paints South Padre’s Magic in Full Color
By Dr. Kimberly Selber
If you’ve found yourself staring back at a giant sea turtle or getting “pointed at” by the Beatles on South Padre Island, chances are you’ve already met the work of muralist Marcos Zamudio. His murals stretch across walls from San Antonio to Round Rock, Brownsville to Spring Branch. But he’ll tell you without hesitation: “The island is my second home… my favorite place.”
From the Countryside to the Seaside Marcos grew up far from any seaside resort, in the countryside of Tucumán, in northern Argentina. “I’ve been an artist my whole life,” he says. “Drawing was everything for me when I was a kid.”
His biggest influence wasn’t hanging in a museum. It was sitting at the kitchen table. Marcos’ father was a set designer for theater and television, building entire worlds on stage. Young Marcos tagged along, watching how paint, lights, and props could transform a space and swallow an audience whole. “I learned everything from him about art and about the transformation of space—especially big spaces,” he explains.
While many artists dream of gallery walls and perfect canvases, Marcos was hooked on scale. He didn’t just want people to look at art. He wanted them to walk into it. “A canvas you put in a room or an exhibition and maybe nobody sees it,” he says. “A mural lives with people. They can see it every day.”
Big Influences, Bigger Walls
Ask Marcos about his favorite artists and the names come quickly: Diego Rivera for his originality and storytelling; Monet for his immersive, room-sized “Water Lilies.”
“Monet is also one of my favorites,” he says. “He worked in a large space. When you stand in front of those paintings, you remember the feeling. You want to cry. It’s amazing.”
It’s that same emotional impact he chases with every wall he paints—especially on South Padre Island. He doesn’t approach a mural as just decoration or branding. For Marcos, each piece starts with a human connection.
“I like to know about the local culture, nature, music,” he says. “I want to tell a story with each mural—not just about the place, but about the people and the owners, what their business means to them.”
He calls himself a “very versatile artist,” resisting the pressure to lock into one visual style. Instead, he focuses on what people should feel when they stand in front of his work.
Turtles, Beatles & a Beachfront Psychedelic Vibe
If you’ve seen Marcos’ giant sea turtle mural outside Courtyard by Marriott South Padre Island, you may have already experienced what he’s going for.
“I wanted people to feel like the turtle is watching you,” he explains with a laugh. “You feel like a little fish and the turtle is looking at you.”
That sense of playful immersion runs through his work— including his favorite mural of all: The Beatles at Bar Louie inside the same hotel.
The project began with hotelier Herschel Patel, a devoted Beatles fan and lover of British culture. “He told me, ‘I want the Beatles with the suits of the English royalty,’” Marcos recalls. “That was the first idea.” Marcos sent a design. Herschel loved it—and then the ideas kept growing. “He started adding things,” Marcos says. “‘I want a small Yellow Submarine. I want the British flag.’ The idea kept growing. For me, it was amazing. We worked like a team.”
The Beatles mural became a true collaboration, not just between Marcos and Herschel, but also across continents. Marcos brought in one of his best friends—Argentinian artist Bruno Salica, whom he calls “the best artist in Argentina”— to help with the design. They worked online from different countries, layering details and personality into the wall.
“That mural is my favorite,” Marcos says. “Not just for the art, but for what it means. I got to work with my friend, give him an opportunity too, and create something special for the Island.
Another of his Island pieces, a mural for Mariluna, one of the newer beachfront bar/restaurants on the Island, shows a very different side of his style. “It’s a reinterpretation of the Island,” he explains. “Very hypnotic, psychedelic. I used a lot of green, pink, orange—very full color. My intention was to tell about the sensation, the magic of the Island.”
Branding As Art
Marcos is the first to admit that much of his work today is “commercial”—murals for hotels, bars, restaurants, and brands. But to him, that doesn’t make it any less art.
“These businesses need to show who they are,” he says. “I like
that. I consider it art, too.”
For each project, he digs beyond logos and taglines to find the story underneath.
“I focus more on what people want to feel,” he says. “Maybe the power of a big red fish. Maybe the magic of a place. I want the viewer to interact with the art—and the art to interact with them.”
Stand in front of his Beatles and you feel John, Paul, George, and Ringo pointing straight at you. Look up at that giant turtle and suddenly you’re the one being observed.
Fueled by Mate
If you spot Marcos painting, you’ll almost always see something in his hand that isn’t a brush: a cup of mate, the traditional Argentinian tea.
“Mate is a tea, like a coffee,” he explains. “Every Argentinian drinks it. When I’m working, I’m drinking mate all the time. It’s like my brand.” Herschel Patel once joked on social media that all he had to do was call Marcos and say, “Bring your mate, I have an idea,” and a new mural would be born.
That sense of warmth and inside-joke familiarity sums up Marcos’ relationship with South Padre Island. “I’m very, very grateful to the Patel family who gave me the opportunity to show my art on the Island and start here in the United States,” he says. “The Island is magic for me—for the people and the way they treated me. It’s my second home.”
Today, he lives in the San Antonio area, where he’s also planning a tango-themed exhibition of canvases exploring love, loss, and the drama of the dance. But South Padre remains the place that feels like a spiritual home base.
Marcos has already left a colorful stamp on South Padre Island, but his dreams are even bigger. “I want to do the biggest mural in Texas,” he says simply.
Authentic Farm-to-Market
Island Style
Photography by Jaqueline Wallace
South Padre Island’s Farmers Market pops up Sundays, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., at The Shores (8605 Padre Blvd), just past the Convention Center. It’s the real deal—producer-direct and local-first—so the person handing you tomatoes likely picked them yesterday in the Valley. Start with coffee, then work the loop: greens and herbs, fresh breads, small-batch salsas and seasonings, local honey, and flowers to take back to the condo or over the causeway. Ask questions—vendors will tell you which pepper brings heat and which just brings swagger. Pro tips: arrive before noon (the favorites sell out), bring a tote and a small cooler, and keep a few bucks handy—most take cards, but that “just one more” pastry is always cash. Dogs on leashes are welcome.
When you’re done and the market, hop on the Convention Center boardwalk for a quick look at the Laguna Madre—bonus points if you time it for birds or a breeze-cooled selfie. For visitors who want to feel like locals, this is your Sunday ritual.
SUNDAY RITUALS
Dining with Your Dog: The Ultimate Guide to Dog-Friendly Restaurant Etiquette
Dining out with your dog can be a wonderful experience, offering quality time and new adventures for both you and your furry friend. By following these etiquette guidelines, you can help create a positive environment that’s enjoyable for everyone involved. So, leash up, pack the essentials, and head out for a delightful dining experience with your canine companion. Bon appétit and happy tails!
Before You Go
Check the Restaurant’s Policy
Not all restaurants have the same rules regarding dogs. Call ahead or check the restaurant's website to confirm that dogs are welcome and to understand any specific guidelines they may have.
Know Your Dog’s Temperament
Ensure your dog is well-behaved and comfortable in social settings. If your dog is anxious, aggressive, or not well-trained, it might be best to enjoy a meal at home or in a less stimulating environment.
Pack the Essentials
Bring a leash, a portable water bowl, waste bags, and perhaps a small towel or blanket for your dog to sit on. Some establishments provide water for dogs, but it's always good to be prepared.
Arriving at the Restaurant
Keep Your Dog Leashed
Always keep your dog on a leash and close to you. This helps prevent any unwanted interactions with other diners or dogs and ensures your pet’s safety.
Choose the Right Spot
Opt for an outdoor table if possible, as this is generally more comfortable for dogs and less disruptive to other diners. Avoid high-traffic areas where your dog might feel overwhelmed.
Respect Other Diners
Not everyone is a dog lover. Be mindful of those around you and ensure your dog respects the space of other patrons. Keep your dog close and prevent them from wandering or approaching other tables.
During Your Meal
Mind Your Dog’s Behavior
A well-mannered dog makes for a pleasant dining experience. Discourage begging, barking, or jumping up on furniture. If your dog becomes restless or disruptive, be prepared to step outside with them.
Feed Your Dog Appropriately
Avoid feeding your dog from the table. Bring some of your dog’s favorite treats or a small portion of their regular food if they need a snack. Human food can sometimes upset their stomach or cause behavioral issues.
Stay Alert
Keep an eye on your dog at all times. Be aware of any potential hazards, such as dropped food, other dogs, or small children who might want to approach your pet.
Leaving the Restaurant
Clean Up After Your Dog
Accidents can happen, so be prepared to clean up if necessary. Dispose of waste bags properly and leave the area as clean as you found it.
Thank the Staff
Show appreciation to the restaurant staff for their hospitality. A kind word and a generous tip can go a long way in encouraging the continuation of dog-friendly policies.
Review and Reflect
If you had a positive experience, consider leaving a good review mentioning the dog-friendly aspect. This helps support the restaurant and informs other dog owners about pet-friendly options.
Tips for a Successful Dining Experience
Training is Key
Ensure your dog has basic obedience training. Commands like sit, stay, and quiet can be very helpful in a restaurant setting.
Socialization Matters
Regularly socialize your dog with other dogs and people to make them comfortable in various environments.
Health and Hygiene
Make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations and flea treatments to prevent any health issues for your pet or other diners.
Aloft Hotels caters to today’s modern traveler who craves jet-setting style and a vibrant social scene. Urban-inspired design, accessible technology, and innovative programming centering on music and F&B make Aloft unique in the traditional hotel landscape. Aloft McAllen features 144 guest rooms conveniently located in the vibrant and exciting Palms Crossing area of McAllen's Convention Center District.
Hotel Highlights
Adjacent to McAllen Convention Center
144 Guest Rooms
In-House WXYZ Bar
Indoor Pool
Pool Table
Meeting Space for 20
Earn and Redeem Rewards and Perks
With Marriott Bonvoy
Conveniently Located Near Dozens of Restaurants and Shopping Spots
Henrietta's Bayfront Restaurant Bar Louie Meatball Cafe
Dolce Roma (956) 761-1198
4200 Padre Blvd
Driftwood Landing (956) 433-5555
2401 B Laguna Blvd
F & B SPI Restaurant
956-772-8114
3109 Padre Blvd
Gabriella’s Italian Grill & Pizzeria 956-761-6111
700 Padre Blvd
Grapevine Café 956-761-8463
100 E Swordfish
Jake’s Restaurant and Bar
956-761-5012
2001 Padre Blvd
Joe Merchant’s Coffee & Provisions (Margaritaville)
310 Padre Blvd
Karma Coffee & Books (956) 747-2568
2500 Padre Blvd , Ste #8
Kelly’s Irish Pub 956-299-4910
101 E Morningside
KIC’s Ice Cream
956-426-9181
2500 Padre Blvd , Ste 2
Kohnami Sushi
956-761-2446
410 Padre Blvd , Ste 102
La Copa Cabana Bar & Grill (956) 761-6000
350 Padre Blvd
Laguna Bob Bar on Bay 956-433-5499
2401 Laguna Blvd
LandShark Bar & Grill at Margaritaville 956-761-6551
310 Padre Blvd
Las Olas Restaurant Bar & Grill
956-761-2514
340 Padre Blvd
Liam’s Steakhouse & Oyster Bar
956-772-4700
202 W Tarpon St
Lifted Daiquiri Galaxy N’ Beer Barn
956-433-5167
3508 Padre Blvd
Lobo Del Mar
956-772-4700
204 W Palm St
Long Board Bar & Grill
956-772-7022
205 W Palm St
Louie’s Backyard
956-761-6406
2305 Laguna Blvd
Mahi Nic
956-243-0279
3338 State Park Rd , Ste 100
Milo’s Coffee House
956-433-9116
5009 Padre Blvd , Ste 4
Montana’s The Kraken
956-772-7002
2700 Padre Blvd
Nautico Island Grill (956) 772-7074
1313 Padre Blvd
Ola Seaside Grill
956-377-2019
7000 Padre Blvd
Padre Island Brewing Co.
956-761-9585
3400 Padre Blvd
Pineapple Ninjaz – Food Truck
956-662-8782
5313 Padre Blvd
Pirate’s Landing Restaurant & Bar (956) 943-3663
110 N Garcia St
The Quarterdeck Lounge (956) 761-6511
500 Padre Blvd
Russo’s New York Pizzeria
956-299-4987
410 Padre Blvd , Ste 101
Sea Ranch Restaurant and Bar
956-761-1314
1 Padre Blvd
Sea4Ever Bar & Grill at Holiday Inn Beach Resort (956) 761-1160
100 Padre Blvd
Señor Donkey
956-761-4843
4215 Padre Blvd
SPI Wine Bar
956-230-6899
4000 Padre Blvd , Ste A, B
Tequila Sunset 956-761-6198
200 W Pike St
The Beach Bar at Courtyard by Marriott
6700 Padre Blvd
The Lookout at La Quinta (956) 772-7000
7000 Padre Blvd
Tom & Jerry’s Bar & Grill
956-761-8999
3212 Padre Blvd
U-Mix Frozen Yogurt 956-426-9037
1004 Padre Blvd , Ste F1
UpperDeck
956-761-5953
120 E Atol St
Viva SPI —
202 W Whiting St
Wanna Wanna 956-761-7677
5100 Gulf Blvd
Windjammers at Isla Grand 956-761-6511
500 Padre Blvd
Yummie’s Bistro 956-761-2526
700 Padre Blvd
PORT ISABEL
Joe’s Seafood Market & Grill
956-943-1112
100 S Garcia St
Marcello’s Italian Restaurant & Bar 956-943-7611
110 N Garcia St
Pelican Station Restaurant 956-943-3344
201 S Garcia St
Pirate’s Landing Restaurant & Bar
956-943-3663
110 N Garcia St
White Sands Restaurant 956-943-2711
418 E Queen Isabella Blvd
Winter on South Padre Island: The Quiet Season You’ll Fall For
By Dr. Kimberly Selber
When people picture South Padre Island, they usually jump straight to spring break and summer—crowded beaches, sunburned shoulders, and kids running around with sand-covered ice cream. Don’t get me wrong, I love the Island in the summer. But what you might be missing out on is one of the Island’s best-kept secrets: winter.
Easy Weather, Easier Days
Winter here isn’t “winter” in the traditional sense. Think light sweater in the morning, sleeves rolled up by lunch. Most days hover in that sweet spot where you can walk the beach for miles, bike along the island, or sit on a bayside deck without breaking a sweat—or freezing.
It’s the perfect season for long, wandering beach walks, shell hunting, or just watching the gulls do their thing while you let your mind finally be quiet.
Room to Breathe
If you love the Island but not the crowds, this is your moment. The beaches are blissfully uncrowded, and it’s easy to feel like you’ve scored your own private stretch of sand.
Sunsets linger a little longer in winter, and you can spread out a towel, settle into a chair, and let the day go by without anyone stepping over your toes.
Wildlife Front Row
Winter is when the Island really shows off its wild side. Migratory birds turn South Padre into a busy layover, and the South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center becomes a must-stop. Stroll the boardwalks and you’ll spot everything from tiny songbirds to big, dramatic raptors scanning the wetlands.
Out on the water, dolphins are just as active. Cooler months are a great time to head out on a dolphin or ecotour, where you can watch them play in the bay and learn a little more about the Laguna Madre’s ecosystem while you’re at it.
Winter Flavor, Island Style
Shorter wait times might be the unsung hero of winter. You can slide into your favorite restaurant without a long line, linger over a cocktail, and your server has a little more time to chat about what’s fresh that day.
From shrimp pulled from nearby waters to local fish and oysters, the menus don’t take the season off. Many spots offer patio seating, so you can enjoy your meal with a view of the Gulf or the bay, wrapped in that golden lateafternoon light the Island does so well.
Events, Art & Island Life
Winter doesn’t mean “off” for the Island. Seasonal events, art shows, live music, and holiday happenings pop up across the Island, often with a more local crowd. It’s a great time to mix with Winter Texans, year-round residents, and repeat visitors who treat SPI like their second home.
You’ll find everything from bayside holiday lights and boat parades to markets and festivals celebrating food, art, and coastal culture. It’s island life.
A Little More Luxury for Less
Another winter perk: your budget suddenly stretches a lot further. With off-season rates, you can upgrade your stay— waterfront condo, resort room with a view, or a charming rental tucked into a quiet corner of the Island—without the peak-season price tag.
Wake up to waves outside your window, sip coffee on a balcony, and feel like you’ve splurged when, secretly, you scored a deal.
Winter on South Padre Island isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing everything at a different pace—slower and quieter. If you’re ready for a coastal escape where the beach is beautiful and the seafood is fresh, the Island is waiting.
El Paseo Arts Foundation:
THE ISLAND’S CREATIVE HEARTBEAT
Every thriving community has a spark—something that turns shared imagination into action. For South Padre Island, that spark arrived in 2005 when a group of artists, musicians, and dreamers on both sides of the Laguna Madre decided the region deserved more than beautiful sunsets and sandy beaches. They wanted to build an artistic home.
From those early conversations came the El Paseo Arts Foundation, created to nurture creativity, enrich the quality of life, and position the Island as an arts destination within the Rio Grande Valley’s tourism landscape. The idea was ambitious, the budget modest, but the timing was right. Their first production sold out before opening night, offering proof that islanders and visitors alike were ready for live theatre, music, and cultural programming that reflected the community’s energy and charm.
That debut performance didn’t just raise applause—it raised momentum. The proceeds helped fund the first full season and launch small educational outreach projects. Early productions often featured students and faculty from regional universities. Volunteers built sets, handled lighting, and sold tickets. The Foundation quickly became a place where artists of every stripe could collaborate and create.
As the seasons grew, so did the scale. By 2008, El Paseo had introduced a formal sponsorship program, welcomed professional symphonies and touring groups, and begun to host larger events that drew audiences from across the Valley. Partnerships with local art co-ops in Port Isabel and on the Island helped expand its reach, connecting theatre with visual arts and youth education. The organization also became a proud supporter of emerging groups like the Valley Voices choral ensemble and local literary events, ensuring the performing arts never existed in isolation but as part of a broader creative network.
Despite its growth, El Paseo has always operated with the improvisational spirit of a troupe that believes in “making it happen.” Without a permanent home, the company has rehearsed in borrowed spaces, stored costumes in garages, and built sets in makeshift workshops.
Today, the El Paseo Arts Foundation produces eight to twelve major events each season, ranging from comedies and musicals to concerts and educational programs. Its audience remains a blend of locals and tourists, with more than half of attendees each year visiting from outside the area—a testament to how deeply the arts contribute to South Padre’s economic and cultural vitality.
The Foundation’s dream remains clear: to establish a permanent arts center. Until then, the curtain keeps rising, the seats keep filling, and the applause keep echoing across the Laguna Madre.
SCHEDULE
November 23 - 25, 2025
God of Carnage
December 8 - 10, 2025
Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big South Padre Island Christmas Show
January 22 - 25, 2026
The Sweet Delilah Swim Club
February 19 - 22, 2026 [title of show]
April 20-21, 2026
Lucy’s Diamonds: A Beatles’ Tribute Band May 5 - 7, 2026
Jake’s Women
2216 Padre Blvd, Ste B, PMB 393 South Padre Island, TX 78597 (956) 943-4700 | JoAnnElPaseoArts@gmail.com www.elpaseoarts.org FB: ElPaseoArtsTX Instagram: elpaseoarts
There’s a place where shopping is fun, the food scene is fierce, and the festivals are larger than life. I know McAllen, TX. Visit this weekend, so you’ll be the one who knows a place.
