South Padre Island is one of the RGV’s greatest, and most beautiful, nature destinations. It’s where memories are made and dreams can come alive. Even if you’re only there for just one day, or taking a family vacation, there’s always something to do.
The island has grown tremendously since I was a child. Back when I would just sit back and listen to the waves while Dad would light up the pit at Isla Blanca Park. I used to think that was all there was to do. Eat-swim-repeat. As the years went by and I grew older, I realized the island held endless possibilities. Day trips to lie out in the sun turned into day trips to eat at my favorite restaurant or enjoy some fishing on my favorite charter boat. So just because summer is almost at an end doesn’t mean that all the fun over.
It seems like everyone is dying for a little R&R and SPI is just the place to find it. During my last visit I KNEW that the Island was going to be jam packed, so I decided to head over to some calmer areas where I could get away from the madness and take in some deep breaths. We all know that Clayton’s and Wanna Wanna are two of the more popular areas to visit, and while they can be fun and exciting, sometimes they can be a bit overwhelming.
Ever heard of Boomerang Billy’s? Well, that’s where I headed. A small beach bar and grill located right behind the Surf Motel. I figured that it would be a bit calmer there and would give me more space to stretch out and concentrate on my latest read. There was a small crowd of people as expected, but luckily not to where I felt like a sardine in a can. I had an optimal area to spread out my belongings with a gorgeous view of the ocean, which in my book, makes for a perfect weekend.
After about an hour, my quench for a delicious beverage started creeping in, so I took a short walk to the bar area to see what my options were. I got to talking to the bartender, Neitabeth, and she suggested I try the Tsunami. I took her advice and then headed back to the beach to sit under my umbrella, listen to the waves, and sip on my delicious cocktail.
If lying on the beach enjoying the sounds of the ocean isn’t your cup of tea, there are many more ways to get some relaxation in. Maybe watching a beautiful sunset is something you enjoy, and let me tell you, at South Padre Island you can experience some of the most amazing sunsets (and rises) of them all.
After a long day on the beach, I head to the bay area, and decide to stop by Coconuts Bar and Grill. Again, this is another spot I like go to, as it tends to be a bit calmer than other popular restaurants and allows me to avoid the commotion I might find elsewhere. At Coconuts Bar and Grill I head upstairs, where it’s nice and quiet, and sit back to let nature to take it’s course. Man, staring out into the seemingly eternal sea can bring such soothing thoughts into your mind and really give you perspective as you sit in deep meditation. Now this is RELAXATION. Watching the multicolored sky as the sun falls into the sea just takes away all of your worries and puts an instant smile on your face. Yes, this is what you call happiness.
I finally head back to my hotel, The Pearl South Padre, which is one of my favorite places to get a good night’s rest. The environment is family friendly and the amenities are amazing! Their pool area is to die for, the on-site restaurants are sensational, and there are even spa services available at The Sapphire, which is located right next door. What more can you ask for? After a long day, I decide to get some rest so I can wake up early to enjoy the delightful breakfast buffet at the hotel’s Beachside Bar and Grille located on the first floor.
The following morning I woke up bright and early to enjoy some delicious food and the scenery. Taking a seat outside, I sat back and enjoyed my coffee while soaking in the view of the ocean, which were absolutely breathtaking and brilliant. There’s just something about eating right along the beach that is so calming.
This blissful morning all of the food is fabulous, especially the Belgian waffles with all the fixings. After such a heavy breakfast, I felt like I was falling into a food coma, so I decided to head to my room for a quick change so I could take a dip in the pool before check out. In the resort style pool I decompressed one last time and enjoyed the breeze in the shade before I headed back home. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to enjoy the services available at The Sapphire Salon, but next time I’ll definitely make some time for that much need massage and facial.
We are undoubtedly very lucky here in the RGV for having South Padre Island at the tip of our fingers. The Island is something that I will always be grateful for. Not only can you go there for some R&R, but you can also experience a romantic getaway or some thrill seeking adventures if you should choose to do so.
Make sure to stay tuned for parts two and three to check out what more SPI has to offer. You won’t be disappointed.
More relaxing ideas to partake include:
Birding and Nature Center
Massage and Healing Arts Center
Day or Evening Walk on the Beach
Kayak on the Bay
Brunch at Yummies Bistro
