The ultimate trip from Houston to South Padre Island

Planning a trip from Houston to South Padre Island to spend spring break in Texas or enjoy summer vacation on your next trip?

South Padre Island is one of our favorite weekend getaways in the Houston area.

The resort town is famous for its beautiful beaches, great seafood, and fun attractions like the Sea Turtle Release Center.

Now that travel restrictions have been lifted, it’s time to visit this beautiful Texas beach town.

Also Read: 28 Best Road Trips From Houston

Houston to South Padre: distance and travel time

If you’re looking for a beach holiday without all the hassle of flying, a trip from Houston to South Padre Island is the perfect solution.

The total distance between Houston and South Padre Island is about 375 miles.

The trip takes about 6 hours non-stop.

The road distance via TX-35S and US-77S is 388 miles and takes about half an hour more.

With a few stops along the way, you can easily spend a weekend here.

Road Trip from Houston to South Padre Island: Main Stops

The best route from Houston to South Padre Island is via US-59S and US-77S.

Check out our favorite stops on the road right now.

Houston

Houston is a vibrant and multifaceted city.

There’s plenty to see and do in this Texas metropolis, from world-renowned museums to the Houston Space Center.

Try some of the amazing cuisines!

From Tex-Mex classics like fajitas and quesadillas to southern classics like fried chicken and shrimp pa-boys, there are plenty of options for food lovers.

Sugarland

After leaving Houston, Sugarland should be your first stop.

This suburb has some of the best shopping in the area.

If you need to stock up on supplies for your trip, this is the place to do it.

Rosenberg

Rosenberg is home to many shops and restaurants.

We recommend stopping for lunch at one of Rosenberg’s popular barbecue spots.

After lunch, stretch your legs and take a stroll through the historic center of Rosenberg.

The area is full of shops and boutiques.

Texas lake

Deviate from the road signs and visit Lake Texas.

Lake Texas is a great place to visit.

Boating, fishing, swimming, and camping are popular activities on the lake.

The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife including deer, raccoons, coyotes, and birds.

The area has several nature trails that are ideal for hiking and cycling.

Edna, Texas is an excellent base from which to explore Lake Texas.

Victoria

After Lake Texas, your next stop should be Victoria.

This city is home to many attractions, including the Coastal Bend Museum and the Riverside Park Zoo.

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, check out one of Victoria’s popular Mexican restaurants.

Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi, Texas has a lot to offer including beaches, museums, and restaurants.

Some popular beaches in Corpus Christi include North Beach, Mustang Island State Park, and North Packery Beach.

These beautiful white sand beaches have stunning ocean views and are suitable for swimming, sunbathing and surfing.

The excellent museums and art galleries of Corpus Christi are ideal for those who prefer indoor attractions.

The Texas State Aquarium is a must-see for kids and adults alike.

Another great option is the Art Museum of South Texas, which features the work of local and international artists.

A 3-hour drive from Houston, Corpus Christi also makes a great overnight stop: check into your hotel and head south the next day!

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park is a must-see for anyone interested in American history.

The park commemorates the site of the first major battle of the Mexican–American War.

Visitors can learn about the conflict through interpretive exhibits and ranger-led programs.

The park also has many hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views.

Port Isabelle

Port Isabel is an important stop on this journey.

It is a popular place for fishing, swimming and boating.

There are also several museums and historical sites, including the Port Isabel Lighthouse and the Port Isabel Historical Museum.

And of course, no visit to Port Isabel is complete without some delicious seafood!

Several restaurants serve fresh fish, shrimp and crabs caught right in the bay.

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Queen Isabella Road

The Queen Isabella Road is a bridge that crosses Laguna Madre and connects South Padre Island, Texas to Port Isabel, Texas.

The seawall is two and a half miles long and is the only way to get to South Padre Island.

The views of the bay as you drive over the causeway are amazing!

South Padre Island

South Padre Island is a popular beach destination in Texas.

Some popular attractions include the South Padre Island Birdwatching and Wildlife Center, which is the perfect place to explore the local ecosystem and observe the many unique bird species.

Other attractions include the Schlitterbahn Beach water park with its pools and thrilling waterslides;

…..Park Isla Blanca with a beautiful promenade, first-class beaches and calm surf;

…..and nearby nature reserves such as the Atascos Laguna National Wildlife Refuge, where you can go hiking or kayaking through the swamps filled with wildlife!

Activities on the island include swimming, sunbathing, fishing, windsurfing and parasailing.

Dolphin watching tours are also popular.

The island also has several hotels, restaurants and shops.

If you’re looking for nightlife, South Padre Island, Texas has plenty of bars, clubs, and concert venues to offer.

Flight from Houston to South Padre Island

Want to avoid driving and are planning to book flights from Houston to South Padre Island instead?

We have you covered!

Several airlines fly between the two cities.

The nearest airports to South Padre Island are Harlingen (44 miles) and Brownsville (22 miles).

United Airlines and American Airlines fly to Brownsville, and from there you can either rent a car or use the island shuttle with your travel companions.

Many airlines, including United and Delta, fly to Harlingen.

Southwest Airlines also flies from Houston Hobby Apt to Harlingen.

But the cheapest and most scenic way to get to the South Padre is by far the trip along the Gulf Coast!

Did you like our guide to visiting South Padre Island from Houston?