South Padre Island is a coastal resort town on the Gulf of Mexico in Texas. It has five miles of seashore fun, dining, and water activities. South Padre Island is bordered by the Laguna Madre bay, and is also ecologically significant with 34 miles of sand dunes.

SPI does get rather crazy during spring break. The bridge is backed up for hours, and you are not allowed to walk across. Clubs on the island include: Charlie's, Louis' Backyard, and Babe's. The night life is a plus, and during the day there is lots to do.

Mexico is just 30 miles away, so you can enjoy a two-nation vacation if you ever visit.

Surfrider Foundation says SPI is the 7th best beach in the US based on water quality, sand softness and wildlife. SPI was the only Texas beach to make the top 10 and earned marks for amenities such as hotels & restaurants.