South Padre Island is a possible winter retreat over Xmas vacation. Though cold snaps occur frequently, usually there are enough warm days to make a good Xmas vacation. By closely monitoring weather forecasts one can determine when to go. However, there are usually strong and unpleasant winds and the surf is too cold for swimming. Because of the weather liabilities winter is the off-season and hotel rates are attractive. Over the last decade I have vacationed 6 times at South Padre Island during Xmas vacation and the Super 8 is the only hotel I have returned to.
The Super 8 is an older hotel. It is typical of most lower priced properties in that it does not have much curb appeal. The hotel is non-smoking ( a real plus), and another plus is that this have a large number of cable channels. The rooms are all tile rather than carpet and with the problems with sand and mold this is another plus. Mainteance of the hotel is fair and the rooms are fairly clean.
The breakfast is better than in the past, but still below average. Occasionly a smoker is out in front of the room smoking so this fouls the air of nearby rooms. The management of the hotel gives the impression of trying to grub a few extra dollar from each guest. In my case I found that the reserving the room through the Super 8 number was cheaper than calling the hotel directly. Then they slip an extra $1.50 safe charge on my bill for a safe I never used. If I return to South Padre next Xmas I will consider this hotel, but there is a lot of competition on the island.

We were there this November and were very happy with the stay.
The property was well maintained. The room and breakfast area were clean.The included breakfast was great. Hot waffles were very tasty.
The bathtub drain pugged and was fixed almost immediately when we mentioned it.
Nice room and accomodating staff.