Wide open skies, long farm roads, seven-lane interstates outside the cities, H-E-Bs bigger than some northern strip malls. Texas is big and wide and it feels like it. Crossing it by road gives you a sense of wonder that reality often scrubs away. That's what the drive down to South Padre Island is like. The only tropical island in Texas where sky rises don't hide the ocean shoreline between the streets. Where you can cook your catch and dine later at big city-quality restaurants on the same island strip. Welcome to South Padre Island, it's waiting for you. I went to South Padre in January 2020, and had what I consider the perfect long weekend trip. Here's our itinerary, with thanks to all of the kind vendors who hosted Wide Open Eats. South Padre Island is a welcoming, unfussy beach destination that doesn't quite know just how beautiful it really is. It (and you!) are about to find out. How to get to South Padre Island If you're too far to drive, you can reach SPI through Valley International Airport (VIA). Rent a car for the drive in, you won't regret that stretch of the Queen Isabella Causeway where the sea air begs for you to open the windows. I drove the six hours from Austin, leaving around 6:30 a.m. in the pouring rain and let me tell you, when the rain cleared just outside San Benito and the desert opened up, it was like chicken soup for the soul. Route 77 does that to you, and the family-owned Valley citrus farm stands make every mile even more worth it. Stay at the new Courtyard Marriott near the end of Padre Boulevard and you could be the first person in that room! It opened January 2020 and has scenic views, a continental breakfast that opens to the beach past the pool, and more space than you thought you'd want but somehow deserve. Just go with how right it feels. Start your morning on the water You're on the Texas Gulf Coast, so grab that continental breakfast and start your day under the sweet sunshine. It's time to enjoy the sea life