TRAVEL ADVISOR'S

TRIP TIPS

Best Time to Visit

South Padre's peak seasons occur from March to September as well as during the holidays.Most summer events and activities kick-off on Memorial Day Weekend and run strong until September. Spring Break starts early in the month of March, and because universities have different spring break periods, this means spring break on the Island lasts between four and five weeks. Hundreds of thousands of students flock to the Island and traffic is at a stand still usually from noon till 1:00 AM everyday during Texas Week which usually is Mid March.

Off peak

The off season is between September though late February. This is a quite and relaxing time loved by Winter Texans as well as many locals. You can also enjoy lodging and dining discounts during the months of September though Feburary.Du ring the off-peak seasons, you can usually find better rates on lodging and occasionally two-for-one deals at local restaurants. South Padre Island has an average temperature of 74 degrees during the winter and 87 degrees during the summer months.

Lodging Tips

It’s best to have lodging booked before you arrive. During peak seasons, lodging can be difficult to find. Many lodging companies have deals available for pre planned trip reservations. During the Fourth of July and Spring Break, it is a great idea to have reservations at least two months in advance. Book through Exploresouthpadreisland.com for the best lodging South Padre Has to offer. Click here for details.

Dress

South Padre prides itself in its laid back, casual paradise atmosphere. No need to bring your high-heels or dress clothes, you can dress casually. South Padre also has a relaxed "no tie" attitude. Shorts, board shorts, jeans, (no ties) and sandals go with everything for any occasion.—beach wear is appropriate anywhere you go.

ATM's/Banks

Visa, Master Card and American Express cards are widely accepted throughout the Island, in addition to Traveler’s Cheques. ATM machines are located at almost every convience store around SPI and accepts most cards for a small fee. Make sure to carry cash to the beach. No ATM's on the beach.....as well as electricity!

Transportation Around Town

A good portion of lodging properties are within walking distance to the center of town. Free transportation "The Wave" serves most of town and requires no fare. Click here for pick up times. Taxis are available twenty four hours a day.

Grocery Shopping.

There is only one small grocery store on the Island. It would not hurt to stop in Port Isabel to stack up on groceries before the trip over the Causeway.

Dining

Before 11 a.m. or after 8 p.m. Best times to dine out. Check out Exploresouthpadreisland.com coupons for great deals on great restaurants.Rght at 5 p.m. or after 8 p.m.`Best bayside restaurants

Dangers

You can become sunburned even on cloudy days. Babies and small children should be protected with sunblock whenever exposed to the sun. Sunburns can be very unpleasant and sometimes burns can really ruin your vacation. SPF 45 is recommended for everyone to use.

Sharks are a dramatic fish that have captured to public's imagination. Sharks attacks are extremely rare events. You have a better chance of getting stuck by lightning, than by getting bitten by a shark. Jellyfish are a little more common. They will sting whatever they touch. The Portuguese man of war is especially painful. If stung, rubbing alcohol or a mixture of meat tenderizer and vinegar should do the trick. (doctors orders).

If entering the Gulf be sure to know how to swim. There are no lifeguards on the Island . Watch out for rip currents. Never Swim alone if going to Mexico have an ID or Passport and obey all Laws. check out our mexico page. Click Here

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