This popular seaside resort area on the Gulf Coast at the southern tip of Texas, includes the island and the neighboring mainland town of Port Isabel. Its 34 mile long stretch of white sand is bordered to the east by the Gulf of Mexico and to the west by the Laguna Madre Bay. The conveniences and attractions of a modern resort, coupled with miles of pristine island terrain are what draws thousands of visitors to the area each year and has brought many back to live. South Padre Island is a dream come true for those that love to play in the water or soar through the sky. There are several places on the Island to rent equipment. Jet skis, wave runners, kayaks, and Hobie cats can be rented for as little as one-half hour or for longer periods of time. Windsurfing and kiteboarding are also popular water sports on the Island. There is a wide array of choices for touring the Island by land or by water. A horseback ride on the beach at sunset is one of several ways to end a perfect day in the tropics. South Padre Island is the spot to try those water sports that you have imagined yourself trying as you sat at home dreaming of a vacation in the sun.

Kiteboarding is fast becoming the hottest new water sport, and South Padre Island offers year round, world-class kiteboarding conditions. The Laguna Madre's waist deep water and consistent winds give everyone from beginners to expert riders near perfect flat-water conditions in which to hone their skills. Advanced kiteboarders will enjoy riding the Laguna Madre and the waves of the Gulf of Mexico.

Other local activities include boating, swimming, fishing, surfing, sailboarding, beachcombing on long white beaches, birding, camping, in-line skating, parasailing, and bungee jumping.

Among the places to see in Port Isabel is the lighthouse, that was built in 1853 and is now a State Historic Site. You can climb to the top for a bird's-eye view of the coast. Boats from Port Isabel's fleet can be seen docked all around the harbor area, and you can watch them head out every morning.

The natural surroundings of South Padre Island and the Rio Grande Valley give birders and wildlife enthusiasts the opportunity to study and observe a wide variety of species. On South Padre Island, nature lovers will appreciate and enjoy the last 34 miles of ecologically significant, unspoiled beaches and sand dunes along the Gulf of Mexico. Due primarily to its location, South Padre Island is a feeding ground for various migrating birds. The fall months, namely October and November, bring birds headed south for the winter.

The white, sandy beaches of South Padre are well known throughout the United States. In fact, the beaches of South Padre Island are ranked among America's top 10 beaches, with the emerald water of the Gulf of Mexico serving as the perfect backdrop for spectacular sunsets. The island is perfect for sailing, fishing, windsurfing, dolphin watching, horseback riding, shopping, and golf. The evenings come alive with dining, dancing and music. Large selections of fine restaurants are available, and many will cook your catch! South Padre Island is the perfect place for a for a change of pace in a vacation paradise.