DISCOVER THE ISLAND SIDE OF TEXAS

Find refuge from our Canadian winters on this sunny tropical paradise.

The tropics are closer than you think. Enjoy an idyllic island getaway with your loved one or family and friends on South Padre Island, or SPI as the locals call it.

Easily accessible via three nearby airports, SPI is Texas’ only tropical barrier island located at the southernmost tip and stretching 55 kilometres in length. The Laguna Madre Bay and the Gulf of Mexico are its warm-water neighbours. A vacation sanctuary any time of year, SPI is especially appealing to snowbound visitors from the north who seek refuge in a sun- and funfilled tropical paradise.

Rated one of the world’s top 30 island beaches by Condé Nast, there’s more than the sun, sand and surf. Warm Gulf breezes entice you to try windsurfing, kiteboarding, parasailing, jet skiing or paddleboarding. Or, saddle up for a leisurely horseback ride along the beach. Renowned as the “Sand- castle Capital of the World,” take your sand sculpting skills to the next level with a sandcastle lesson. You’ll learn how to make almost any sculpture you want!

Not only do tourists migrate to South Padre Island, but thousands of birds, butter- flies and marine animals do as well. View nature at its best and most preserved with serene nature walks, turtle releases, touch tanks and interactive presentations at the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary, South Padre Island Dolphin Research & Sealife Nature Center and Sea Turtle, Inc. Observe soaring peregrine falcons and migrating piping plovers from a five-storey tower or take a scenic cruise and watch bottlenose dolphins frolicking in the Laguna Madre Bay. Catch the big one on a deep-sea fishing adventure.

All of these activities are sure to work up an appetite. Experience the bold, tropical flavours of the Island at one of more than 40 local dining and live music venues. Casual, takeout, fine dining, with beach and bayside views—the Island has it all. Don’t feel like driving? Hop on the complimentary Island Metro shuttle to the Island’s restaurants, hotels, shops and beach access points.

Accommodation options range from romantic luxury hotels and easy-on-thebudget hotel chains to vacation rentals ideal for couples, families and even your lovable Fido.

South Padre Island deals its own version of Texas Hold ’Em for visitors. Once you visit, you’ll love it so much you won’t want to leave.

TOP: Thanks to the tropical climate and mild, sunny days even in the depths of winter, South Padre Island’s beautiful beach provides a perfect backdrop for water sports and adventure. Joey Waves Photography ABOVE: Kiteboarding is one of many water-sports activities you can enjoy. South Padre Island CVB