South Padre Island 

At South Padre Island, it's all about having a good time. Pack your swimsuits and flip flops for a tropical adventure of Texas sunshine and warm water. As easy as it is to kick back and relax on the 34-mile long beach, ranked the #1 beach in Texas by U.S. News & World Report, you don't want to miss out on everything else the island can offer. 

The pristine shoreline is the perfect place for swimming, fishing, or boating, but that's just the beginning of the South Padre Island experience. After you've had a sip or two at one of the beachside bars, gather your friends or family for a heartwarming dolphin-watching tour. Go windwurfing and kiteboarding at Laguna Madre, one of only six hypersaline lagoons on the entire planet. Then there's the famous Sea Turtle Inc., which makes its mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release sea turtles, ensuring the survival of these gentle creatures. At their facility, you can see the turtles up close, learn about them and the facility's mission, and even attend public hatchling releases. 

Beyond the sea, South Padre Island is bustling with family-friendly activities. Flock to the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center, and Alligator Sanctuary, where you can catch a glimpse of the area's most fascinating wildlife. For history buffs, there's no better place to be than the Port Isabel Lighthouse, a coastal landmark more than 200 years old. But South Padre Island isn't just about honoring its history; it's about paving a path forward. The nearby SpaceX Starbase, located just across the bay, makes the island the best seat in the house for witnessing our continuing mission to sail the stars.

Whether you're looking to unwind at the beach, seeking adventure, or marvel at mankind's march to the final frontier, South Padre Island is the tropical getaway that's never far away.