Editing South Padre Island, Texas (section)

=== Tourism ===
Subsequent to rebuilding from [[Hurricane Beulah]], the island became a popular [[spring break]] destination for college students and a resort destination for families. Many multistory [[Hotel#Resort hotels|resort hotels]] and [[Condominium (living space)|condominium]]s have been erected along the coastline of the [[Gulf of Mexico]]. The [[Schlitterbahn]] Beach [[Waterpark]], the second of its kind in Texas, opened in South Padre Island in 2001.<ref>[http://www.schlitterbahn.com/corp/media/2005/backgrounder-nb.asp Background information on Schlitterbahn developments in Texas] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070705032000/http://www.schlitterbahn.com/corp/media/2005/backgrounder-nb.asp |date=July 5, 2007 }} Accessed May 16, 2007.</ref>

South Padre Island is renowned for its diverse range of tourism activities, making it a popular destination for visitors. Key attractions include:

'''Beaches:''' South Padre Island boasts beautiful sandy beaches that are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. <ref>{{Cite web |title=South Padre Island {{!}} History, Convention & Visitors Bureau |url=https://www.sopadre.com/about/about-spi/ |access-date=2024-06-12 |website=www.sopadre.com}}</ref> Regarding Isla Blanca Park in SPI, USA Today ranks Isla Blanca Park in South Padre Island as the #1 beach destination in Texas.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sun, sand, and surf: Top 10 Texas beach destinations |url=https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/travel/best-beach-in-texas-2024/ |publisher=USA Today}}</ref> 

'''Water Sports:''' The island offers a variety of water sports, including kiteboarding, windsurfing, and jet skiing.<ref>Water Sports on South Padre Island." Visit South Padre Island, www.sopadre.com/water-sports</ref>

'''Surfing:''' The continental shelf drops steeply offshore of South Padre Island, creating the kind of waves not typically seen in the shallow Gulf.<ref>{{cite web |title=Best Surf Spots in Texas |url=https://www.surfertoday.com/surfing/the-best-surf-spots-in-texas#:~:text=the%20occasional%20shark.-,South%20Padre,-Every%20Texan%20surfer |website=Surfer Today |publisher=Surfer Today}}</ref>

'''Fishing:''' South Padre Island is a prime location for both deep-sea and bay fishing, attracting fishing enthusiasts from around the world.<ref>Fishing on South Padre Island." Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, tpwd.texas.gov/fishing</ref> 

'''Bird Watching:''' The island is home to the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, where visitors can observe a wide array of bird species in their natural habitat.

'''Eco-Tours''': Eco-tourism is popular on the island, with activities such as dolphin watching tours, sea turtle excursions, and nature walks.<ref>Eco-Tours on South Padre Island." Visit South Padre Island, www.sopadre.com/eco-tours</ref>

'''Amusement Parks:''' Attractions like Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark provide family-friendly entertainment and fun water rides.<ref>Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark." Schlitterbahn, www.schlitterbahn.com/south-padre-island</ref>

'''Nightlife:''' South Padre Island has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, restaurants, and live music venues .