SOUTH PADRE

Seemingly far away from the hustle and bustle of city life, but conveniently close for a quick getaway, awaits South Padre Island. A peaceful bit of paradise located on the southern tip of Texas, the nation’s longest barrier island is steeped richly in romantic history, tropical treasures and Texas hospitality.

South Padre Island is far more than just the place to be for college students celebrating the annual rite of spring. The island is home to a beautiful beach alongside the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, plentiful sightseeing and shopping, mouthwatering island fare and luxurious accommodations where service is king.



The Radisson Resort is a beach-front fixture on the island, where fun is a perennial way of life. The resort property features 128 cabana rooms and 57 condominium units and combines business with all the pleasures a tropical island can offer.

Improve your game on Radisson’s four lighted tennis courts or soak up the sun beside the swimming pools. Head to the Gulfs sparkling waters to parasail or take in the popular local sports, waverunning and beach volleyball.

Feast on seafood and steak specialties at the Windjammer’s Cafe and listen to the sounds of live music daily. Located 30 minutes from Mexico, the Radisson Resort offers transportation services across the border to indulge in sightseeing and shopping.

Prices start at $79 for cabana rooms and $175 for two-bedroom condominiums. Radisson Resort, 500 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. (512) 761-6611.

In Port Isabel, just across the causeway from South Padre Island, visitors can find a private retreat in the historic Yacht Club Hotel & Restaurant. Built in 1926 by an affluent Rio Grande family, the building’s architecture is pure Spanish influence with its white stucco exterior and terra-cotta styled roof.

The Yacht Club Hotel & Restaurant features the intimacy of 24 plush guest rooms. Known for its fine dining experience, the restaurant takes you back to an atmosphere of the ’20s where you can enjoy casual, yet first-rate dining. Relish the taste of local specialties red snapper, oysters and shrimp complemented by prime rib, homemade pasta and an extensive wine list

Fall and winter early bird menu prices range from $6.95 to $12.95. Yacht Club Hotel & Restaurant, 700 Yturria St., Port Isabel. (512) 943-1301.



South Padre’s condominiums are also a popular lodging mode, and the striking elegance of the 28-story Bridgepoint Luxury Condominiums is no exception. At the end of the Queen Isabella Causeway, all you need is a beach towel when you bask in the fully equipped, plush, contemporary Bridgepoint units situated just yards from the rolling surf of the gulf.

Each room houses all the comforts of home with color TVs, telephones, washer/dryer, dishwasher and more. In addition, enjoy a weight and exercise room, tennis courts, whirlpool and ming pools.

Bridgepoint Condominiums are available for rent or for purchase. Average unit price $150 to $275 per day. Bridgepoint Condominiums, 334 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. (800) 221-1402

Travel south of the Bridgepoint Condominiums to dine with a view of the sparkling waters at the family owned and operated Joseph’s Restaurant. Owners Fred and Jill Joseph take pride in operating a trendsetting establishment. Joseph’s Restaurant features appetizers, steaks, prime rib, pasta and, of course, the island fare: seafood, including the popular lobster tails. Cap off the evening at Joseph’s fully enclosed bar specializing in espresso and cappuccino coffees.

This upscale restaurant caters to families, group meetings and weddings. Entree prices range from $8.95 to $15. Joseph’s Restaurant, 210 South Padre Blvd. (512) 761-4540.

You’ll find nothing but fresh food served in a charming European setting at South Padre’s The Pantry. The informal luochtime fare provides a true deli experience with smoked salmon, corned beef and turkey sandwiches.

For a still charming but more formal affair for evening, try The Grill Room. Local favorites- -fresh crab meat, flounder and red snapper-are the specialties, along with lamb chops and filet mignon, and, , of course, an extensive wine list.

Top off your dining experience with scrumptious crepes suzette or cherries jubilee. At The Pantry and The Grill Room, attention to detail, and the quality of the food and service are paramount. The Pantry prices range from $2.95 to $12.95 while The Grill Room entree prices range from $17.95 to $23.95, The Pantry and The Grill Room, 708 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, (512} 761-9331.