A Letter from the Editor
Dianté Marigny
editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com
Dear Visitors and Readers,
Welcome to our summer tourist guide—and welcome to one of my favorite places on Earth.
Much of the reason I fell in love with the Rio Grande Valley is because of the South Padre Island area.
They weren’t kidding when they called this “Texas’ best beach.” From the moment you cross the Queen
Isabella Causeway and catch that first salty breeze, it’s like the island wraps you in a warm, sun-drenched
hug. The smell of the sea, the sound of the waves, and the vibrant energy of the island all come together to
create a place unlike any other.
There’s so much to do here, and I’d love to share a few of my personal favorites. If you’re looking for a
resort that truly captures the island spirit, check out the Isla Grand Beach Resort. The poolside bar,
volleyball nets, tennis courts, and direct access to the beach make it an ideal spot to soak up the sun. I
highly recommend grabbing a bite at Windjammer’s Café or unwinding at the Quarterdeck Lounge—where
the fun never stops. With karaoke on Mondays, comedy shows on Thursdays, and live music throughout the
week, it’s always a good time. And don’t leave without getting a beachside massage—it’s the ultimate way
to relax and embrace island life.
For those who love adventure, you’re in the right place. Try jet skiing, parasailing, dolphin watching, or
book a sunset dinner cruise for an unforgettable evening on the water. And while our island waters are
typically a stunning blue-green, don’t worry if you catch them on a murky day—it’s usually just due to some
high winds or a passing storm.
Be sure to spend some time in the bayside entertainment district. It’s perfect for families and kids with
attractions like mini golf, a slingshot ride, arcade, candy shop, ferris wheel, the whimsical Sandcastle Village,
and fireworks shows every Tuesday and Friday night. The live music, great food, and beautiful views are just
the icing on the cake.
There’s also horseback riding along the beach, a charming petting zoo at the far end of the road, and
plenty of ways to get around—from free shuttle buses to golf cart rentals that let you explore in style. Don’t
miss a side trip to nearby Port Isabel, home to the historic lighthouse and a collection of locally owned
shops full of character and charm.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a short drive inland and explore the culture and color of the
Valley — check out downtown Harlingen, McAllen’s art scene, or even hop across the border to
Progreso, Mexico, for a true taste of regional flair.
Whether you’re here for the first time or coming back for your tenth summer, I hope this guide helps you
experience all the reasons why I—and so many others—have fallen in love with this corner of Texas.
Enjoy your stay, make some memories, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself already planning your
next visit before this one’s even over.
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