By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON
Special to the PRESS
Each month, bikes light up like fireflies, and laughter rises with the tide. The Full Moon Bike Ride, started by Kyle Johnson in January, is more than just a loop around the area — it’s a gathering. A low-key invitation to step outside, get moving, and maybe meet someone new.
Johnson, who arrived on South Padre Island in late December, was part of similar rides in Sandpoint, Idaho. When he moved to the island, he felt compelled to bring that sense of community with him. “I wanted to do something, even something small, that could help people feel a little more connected,” Johnson said.
The response was modest at first. Johnson had hoped more Winter Texans would participate, but colder nights kept some away. Still, he sees promise in the small start. “As the weather warms and word spreads, I think it’ll grow,” he said.
For some, it already has. Niki Sincan, a participant in the ride, recalls her first experience. “My favorite part of the Full Moon Bike Ride was meeting amazing people that welcomed me into a community that then turned into a family,” she said. “It was one of the first community events we attended, and it just showed me that there is such an amazing vibe and culture on South Padre Island. I will never forget the love and acceptance I felt while being there.”
Her advice to newcomers? “Enjoy the ride, feel the vibe, and deck out your bike in lights!!”
Teri Kendhammer also found more than she expected. A Facebook post about the event reminded her of the Beer By Bike Brigade back home in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Started by a friend years ago, the brigade began as a casual ride to local bars and eventually grew into a nonprofit with more than 400 participants. The group’s mission is rooted in community support, having raised funds for school lunch debts, provided bikes and helmets for families, and even hosted food tables during the pandemic.
Kendhammer saw a similar spirit in South Padre. “We thought maybe we would find our people,” she said. “We noticed that Isla Blanca Campground is not very active after 8 p.m., so we got on our bikes, lights, helmets, and were off to meet all of the other campers who like to bike.” What they found was a small but welcoming group. “We were surprised there were so few people, but we were pleased to have already met one couple and their daughter from karaoke. Everyone was very friendly,” she said.
After riding around the campground, the evening ended at the hosts’ camper. “The night was over before we knew it, but we continued to get together with two of the couples throughout our February stay at Isla Blanca,” she said. “I’m thankful and grateful for that Facebook post that brought fun, friendly folks together all because of the full moon!” Her favorite part? “Getting out on a bike ride at night is always fun and exciting! It’s better than sitting in your camper!”
Johnson was inspired by the positive feedback. “It’s cool to see how something that started small can grow into something that matters,” he said. “That kind of community building — yeah, I’d love to see where this could go.”
While the Full Moon Bike Ride on South Padre Island is still in its early days, the foundation is there. “If you show up, you belong,” Johnson said. “That’s the beauty of it — no membership, no expectations. Just a ride, a full moon, and maybe a few new friends by the end of the night.”
Full Moon Bike Rides are scheduled throughout the summer months. For dates or questions, call Johnson at 208-520-9563.
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