This barrier island off the tip of Texas offers a dizzying array of condo, apartment and duplex rentals sure to suit everyone from a sole vacationer to a large family. Some private home rentals even offer your own covered boat dock, ideal for fishing enthusiasts. Having your own vacation home assures the relaxing beach holiday that rests and restores, while offering the space and comfort of a home away from home.

Just to give you a sense of the atmosphere on South Padre Island, the residents passed a proclamation banning the noxious, civilized wearing of ties, deeming said ties to be detrimental to the islanders’ wellbeing. The Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre Bay border the island, where families opt for bathing suits and flip flops to enjoy a broad range of outdoor activities - warm Gulf swimming waters, fishing, boating, parasailing and kite boarding. The entire north area of the island is a natural sanctuary perfect for nature walks and bird watching. The Laguna Madre Nature Trail offers public access to the wetlands and dunes from a 1500-foot boardwalk. A number of boat tours provide sport fishing, dolphin watching, snorkeling and diving. At the day’s end, there’s nothing quite as pleasant as sipping a frosty drink, while you watch the sun set over the bay.

Typical laid-back restaurants dot the island to provide family-friendly dining, from pizza to steak and, of course, seafood. Zeste Cafe & Market offers an expansive menu, while Gabriell's Italian Grill & Pizzeria satisfies pasta/pizza fans. Looking for steak? Padre Rita Ville will fit the bill. Several restaurants will cook your seafood catch for the freshest possible meal from the Gulf.

Whether you choose a high-rise with a balcony view or a spacious beach home for the family and guests, you will enjoy the privacy, freedom and amenities of home. Cable TV, internet access and fully-equipped kitchens insure a pleasant stay. Particularly for families and groups, you will appreciate the savings, when you avoid multiple hotel rooms and mix dining out with home-cooked meals overlooking the water.