South Padre Island
I grew up on South Padre Island and for the rest of my life will remain connected to the community. As I took a personal approach with the Helotes, Grey Forest entry, I am taking the same here. Because, as my heart is in the Hill Country, a part of it will always be in South Padre Island.
I could go on about it having the best beach in Texas, which is true, and yes, summertime fireworks, TIFT fishing tournament, and Turtle, Inc. are some of the biggest draws to the island; I love the people, and the community, because SPI is me.
On a side note, Brownsville, Texas, is fifteen minutes away. Space-X is a big draw; investment property figures are still low; although the selection is limited — now would be the time to take advantage of spots in SPI.
Business aside, SPI’s five-mile stretch of sandy, tropical paradise on the rich Texas Gulf Coast never has, nor ever will lose its luster — its dunes, sandy beach, bayside flats snorkeling, fishing, wind, or kite-surfing, and sharing company with hermit-crabs.
When the kids are packed off to Schlitterbahn, spend time at Wanna-Wanna with a Pina Colada listening to the Bongo Dogs before going to watch the sunsets at Laguna Bob’s. If you don’t have kids, or you have all night and dig karaoke, make a stop at The Coral Reef, just accept you’ll need to wash clothes the next day — they smoke inside…but say hello to Geoff, from Scottland, running Karaoke, he’s a great fellow.
Food
The Pizza Joint, “D Pizza Joint,” in front of the Island Entertainment Center is unparalleled pie in an unassuming atmosphere where the Shiner Boch is always cold.
Go to Yummies, and Bistro has been the island staple of sandwiches for decades.
As a young adult, before becoming a real estate agent, I waited at Tom & Jerry’s, which serves the best burgers on the island and other family fares.
Go to Isla Blanca park to watch the dolphins following the shrimpboats’ return is a relaxing must.
Honestly, there is far more to mention about SPI, but at least I’ve given you a primer, call me — Just Call Carmen.