7 days in South Padre Island Itinerary

A vibrant resort town, South Padre Island sits on a barrier island of the same name, located just off the Texas Gulf Coast.

Change things up with these side-trips from South Padre Island: Brownsville (Gladys Porter Zoo, Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, &more), Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan Del Valle (in San Juan) and Harlingen (Hugh Ramsey Nature Park, Iwo Jima Memorial & Museum, &more). There's lots more to do: discover the deep blue sea with a scuba or snorkeling tour, look for all kinds of wild species at South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, relax and rejuvenate at some of the best spas, and make a trip to Largest Outdoor Sandcastle in the USA.

For traveler tips, ratings, and more tourist information, go to the South Padre Island holiday planning site.

Chicago to South Padre Island is an approximately 6.5-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of bus and taxi. Plan for somewhat warmer temperatures traveling from Chicago in May, with highs in South Padre Island at 81°F and lows at 71°F. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 20th (Sat) to allow enough time to fly back home.