South Padre Island is perfect for vacationing families and honeymooners. Restaurants, bars, shops, beach access and things to go are plentyful and the atmosphere is casual and relaxed. Water sports abound (one of the nations top beach destination) deep-sea fishing, diving, dolphin watches and other ecological excursions. Both the town and the beach are clean and safe.

The weather is pleasant when the rest of the state is at its coldest. Because of its moderate winter climate, Padre Island is home away from home to hundreds of "Winter Texans" — retirees who spend the colder months in campers and condos on the island.