Relax and Recharge Along the Texas Gulf Coast in South Padre Island

South Padre Island, or SPI, as locals call it, might get a lot of attention for the one week per year in March when thousands of Texas college students invade the island for spring break.

But visit any other time of year and the world’s largest barrier island, located on the Gulf of Mexico, is a tranquil, family-friendly place to spend some leisure time.

In addition to the beaches with oh-so-gentle waves, there are excellent casual restaurants, museums, bird-watching platforms, alligator sanctuaries and enough sun and sand to help ease your way into relaxation.

As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.

Friday: Relax on Isla Blanca

Take a drive to familiarize yourself with South Padre Island. The long, narrow strip of land is 34 miles long and while navigating the length of the island, it almost feels like you’re driving in the dunes.

It’s okay, by the way, to actually drive a car on some parts of the beach (look for signs). It’s recommended that you have a four-wheel drive, though.

Head north until you see the “Dead End” sign, then turn around and drive the length back again — windows down — until you reach Isla Blanca Park, on the island’s southern tip. The park is home to some of the very best beaches on SPI.

Enjoy some sunbathing and when hunger strikes, head to nearby Dirty Al’s. The Isla Blanca institution has a no shirt, no shoes, no problem vibe. Order an icy blended margarita served in a plastic cup and spend an hour or so making your way through a meal of peel-and-eat shrimp, dipped in cocktail sauce.

In the afternoon, stop by the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. On-site docents and guides will introduce you to the legendary bottlenose dolphins that are plentiful in the waters around the island. You’ll set off on a boat to get an up-close-and-personal view of the dolphins and learn about how these wonderful sea creatures live.

For dinner, nab a table at Ceviche Ceviche, popular for the special build-your-own ceviche option. Dig into some delicious Peruvian fish and wash it down with a refreshing beer.

Saturday: SUP and Sand Castles

Stand-up paddleboarding (or SUP) is huge on South Padre Island. Head to any stretch of shore and you’ll see locals and vacationers paddling up through the surf.

Around Laguna Madre, where the water is much calmer (and thus preferable) for paddleboarding than the Gulf of Mexico, there are plenty of places that can outfit you with all you need for a few hours on the water. Pro tip: Keep your core engaged and paddle from your knees if you feel unsteady.

Dry off and hop in the car to drive over the scenic 2.5-mile Queen Isabella Causeway. Once on the other side, go for a stroll around Port Isabel, home to a few intriguing museums, including the Port Isabel Historical Museum, the Treasures of the Gulf Museum and the Port Isabel Lighthouse.

For lunch, try Pirate’s Landing. Kids will love the kooky pirate decor, while adults will appreciate the Buffalo Shrimp and water views.

With so many miles of sand, it’s no surprise that the island is known for its pint-sized architecture. Back on South Padre Island, follow the famous Sand Castle Trail, where the sand is dotted with 30 different castles.

Along the way, you’ll find a throne that you can sit on, a colorful sea turtle and more — culminating in the largest sand castle in the United States. (It really is majestic.)

Take it one step further and head to Sand Castle Lessons, where you can learn to build your very own fortress in sand from a master castle maker.

After a serious sand castle workout (all that digging and building is harder than it looks), park yourself at Lobo del Mar. This popular cafe and restaurant serves up excellent fish tacos, grilled salmon and fried shrimp.

Sunday: Find South Padre Island’s Natural Side

Fortify yourself for the day by filling up at Yummies Bistro. The casual restaurant has hearty egg sandwiches and breakfast tacos. If you’re hungry, try the most popular dish: the Yummie Burrito, stuffed with house potatoes and honey-cured ham.

Once you’re well fortified, it’s time to take a hike. The Laguna Madre Nature Trail stretches from the convention center to the Laguna Madre Westlands. The lagoon has a super-high saline content and it’s only one of a few on the planet that is saltier than the ocean — the Dead Sea being one of the most famous.

There are over 300 different species of birds that call the area home and you might just spot some alligators gliding in the water or sunning themselves on the shore. (Don’t bother them and they won’t bother you).

Come lunchtime, head to Bar Louie in the Courtyard Marriott. This beachside spot serves classic American eats with a Tex Mex flair. The craft burgers served with a mug of fries are especially tasty.

If you have kids, they’ll love Gravity Park. Mini-golf, go-karts, a Ferris wheel and arcade games will keep the whole family entertained for hours.

If time allows, pay a visit to Sea Turtles, Inc., a local rescue dedicated to preserving this native species where guests can watch feeding and daily presentations, featuring the hard-shelled residents.

In the evening, head over to Liam’s Steakhouse & Oyster Bar to tuck into some local surf and turf. The creamy ice cream and gelato at Dolce Roma will end the trip on a sweet high note.