Local guide
South Padre Island local guide
Legitimate local businesses for guests, owners and long-term tenants — each one has a working phone and a real address.
daily-life
Banks / ATMs / notaries
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First National Bank of South Padre Island
Independent community bank founded in 1983 and headquartered on the island, with a second branch in Port Isabel. Deposits stay local; a natural pick for residents who prefer a hometown bank.
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Lone Star National Bank - South Padre Island Banking Center
Rio Grande Valley-based bank with a full-service branch at the south end of Padre Blvd. Convenient for tenants who want a local account for rent payments and in-person banking on the island.
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Churches
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Chapel by the Sea
Independent, non-denominational Christian chapel inside Isla Blanca Park at the island's south end, serving visitors and Winter Texans since 1980. Come-as-you-are services; also hosts weddings and memorials.
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First United Methodist Church of Port Isabel
United Methodist congregation in downtown Port Isabel, a short drive over the causeway from the island. Office phone listed on the church website for service times.
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Island Baptist Church
Baptist congregation on Padre Blvd, listed by the City of South Padre Island as a community facility. A year-round church option on the island itself.
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OneTwo Church
Small, informal grace-focused church that meets Sunday mornings in a rented venue on north Padre Blvd. Acoustic worship and Scripture study; children welcome in the main service.
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St. Andrew's by the Sea Episcopal Church
Episcopal parish on the Laguna Madre shore in Port Isabel serving Port Isabel, South Padre Island and Laguna Vista. Explicitly welcomes seasonal visitors and Winter Texans.
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Furniture rental
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Aaron's (Brownsville)
Rent-to-own furniture, appliances and electronics with delivery; the nearest furniture-rental option since none operates on the island or in Port Isabel. Useful for tenants furnishing an unfurnished lease without buying outright.
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Laundromat & laundry service
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Bluewater Laundromat South Padre Island
Coin-operated, air-conditioned self-service laundromat on the island with attendants and drop-off wash-dry-fold service. Wi-Fi, TV and vending on site; detergent and supplies sold at the counter.
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Libraries
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Port Isabel Public Library
The public library for the Laguna Madre area (South Padre Island has no library of its own), with books, DVDs, public internet computers, Wi-Fi and online reference databases. Serves residents and visitors alike.
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Movers
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Scott Sikes Moving
Island-based, state-licensed moving company (USDOT 3919121) offering packing, loading/unloading and statewide moves, including specialty items like pianos and safes. The practical local choice for a tenant relocating on or off the island.
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White Lumber & Supply (U-Haul dealer)
Local lumber yard that serves as the closest U-Haul truck and trailer rental point to the island, with Spanish-speaking staff. Handy for do-it-yourself moves when you only need a truck for a day.
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Post office & shipping
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Port Isabel Post Office (USPS)
USPS post office for the 78578 mainland side (Port Isabel, Laguna Heights). Backup option when the island office is busy or for tenants living on the mainland side of the causeway.
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S.O.S. Services (Shipping's Our Specialty)
Locally owned pack-and-ship store and UPS Authorized Shipping Outlet that also handles FedEx, USPS and DHL, private mailbox rental, package receiving, printing, shredding and notary public service. Covers most of a renter's mail and paperwork needs in one stop.
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South Padre Island Post Office (USPS)
The island's own USPS post office, offering retail mailing services and PO Boxes. Renters without a fixed mailbox can rent a PO Box here rather than in Port Isabel.
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Renters insurance agents
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Cameron County Insurance Center (Coleman Hall & Heinze)
Independent agency in Port Isabel that quotes renters, condo, flood, auto, boat and umbrella policies and specifically lists Padre Island and Port Isabel in its service area. Flood and windstorm familiarity matters for coastal renters.
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Coastal Insurance Agency
Independent insurance agency in Laguna Vista offering renters, condo, homeowners, flood, windstorm, auto and boat coverage for the Laguna Madre area. A second local option for tenants who need a renters policy that accounts for coastal risk.
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Schools (Point Isabel ISD)
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Point Isabel Independent School District
The public school district serving South Padre Island, Port Isabel, Laguna Vista and Laguna Heights, with four campuses covering PreK-12 (Garriga and Derry elementaries, Port Isabel Junior High, Port Isabel Early College High School). Start here for enrollment and bus information when moving to the island with kids.
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Storage units
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Mini Stor All of Self Storage
The only self-storage facility located on South Padre Island itself, with climate-controlled and drive-up units, gated access and camera security. Useful for tenants who need to stash bikes, beach gear or furniture between leases without crossing the causeway.
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Tarpon Self Storage
Drive-up self-storage on Hwy 100 just off the island that also operates as a U-Haul neighborhood dealer for trucks and trailers. One stop for renters moving in or out who need both a unit and a truck.
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food-drink
Bakeries
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Sunrise Bakery
Morning bakery on Padre Blvd with croissants, pastries, muffins and specialty coffee drinks. Opens at 6:30am, before most island breakfast spots.
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Bars & live music
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Clayton's Beach Bar & Grill
Large beachfront bar and grill at the north end of the island that bills itself the biggest beach bar in Texas, with seafood, pier seating and a concert/event calendar. The venue to check for touring acts and spring-break-scale events.
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Laguna BOB
Bayfront bar on Laguna Blvd with food, drinks, sunset views and live music every night. A lower-key alternative to the beachfront bars.
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Longboard Bar & Grill
Bayside restaurant and bar with live music every day, outdoor seating over the Laguna Madre and Friday-night fireworks views. The main daily live-music venue on the island.
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Louie's Backyard
Bayfront restaurant and sports bar known for its prime rib and seafood buffet, with a large TV wall and live entertainment. Sunset-facing deck seating over the bay.
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Padre Island Brewing Co.
Island brewpub since 1995 on Padre Blvd with house-brewed beer, hand-tossed pizza and ribs. The only brewery on the island.
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Pineapple Ninjaz
Waterfront bar and grill on Laguna Blvd serving its signature island bowls in a carved pineapple, plus drinks. Often listed with the island's food trucks, but its own site describes it as a bar and grill.
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Wanna Wanna Beach Bar & Grill
Beachfront bar and grill on Gulf Blvd with cocktails, seafood and weekend live music, attached to a small inn. Walkable from most mid-island Gulf-side rentals.
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Breakfast & coffee
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Cafe Karma
Independent coffee shop on the north half of Padre Blvd serving espresso drinks and light breakfast. One of the few dedicated coffee stops for rentals north of the convention centre.
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Grapevine Cafe & Coffeehouse
Coffeehouse and all-day-breakfast cafe one block off Padre Blvd, with fresh-roasted beans, lunch fare and Wi-Fi. Pet-friendly seating makes it handy for guests travelling with dogs.
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Josephine's Kitchen
Scratch-made all-day breakfast and lunch spot mid-island, with a sister coffee shop in Port Isabel. Opens at 7am, useful on check-out mornings.
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Yummies Bistro
Owner-run breakfast and lunch bistro with specialty coffee, pancakes, egg dishes and breakfast quesadillas. A go-to morning stop at the south end of Padre Blvd.
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Grocery
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Blue Marlin Supermarket (IGA)
The island's only full-service grocery store, an IGA with meat, seafood, deli, bakery and wine. Saves the drive to Port Isabel for everyday groceries.
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H-E-B Port Isabel
The nearest full-size supermarket, just across the causeway in Port Isabel, with bakery, pharmacy-style services, curbside pickup and a fuel station. The standard big weekly-shop run for island rentals.
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Liquor & ice
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Feldman's South Padre Island Liquor Store
Package liquor store on Padre Blvd carrying beer, wine and spirits, with ice and mixers. Closed Sundays under Texas law, so plan weekend purchases ahead.
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Pizza & delivery
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D'Pizza Joint
Family-owned pizzeria since 1983 with pizza, pasta, sandwiches and seafood baskets, a full bar and live music. Delivers to addresses on the island, which makes it the practical arrival-night option.
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Seafood restaurants
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Blackbeards' Restaurant
Casual steaks-and-seafood restaurant one block off Padre Blvd serving seafood platters, ribeyes and sandwiches. A family-friendly sit-down option near the mid-island rentals.
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Daddy's Seafood & Cajun Kitchen
Cajun-style seafood restaurant with a full bar and an attached seafood market on Padre Blvd. Useful both for a dinner out and for buying fresh local seafood to cook at the rental.
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Dirty Al's
Family-owned casual seafood house at the Sea Ranch Marina, operating since 1986, serving fried and grilled seafood baskets and po'boys. A reliable walk-in dinner option for renters at the south end of the island.
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Los Tortugo's Seafood Market
Fresh seafood market with a full-time kitchen in Port Isabel, supplied by the owners' own shrimp boats, known for shrimp plates and takeout. The practical place to buy Gulf shrimp and fish to cook at the rental.
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Sea Ranch Restaurant
Sit-down seafood restaurant at the Sea Ranch Marina that advertises local wild-caught Gulf seafood. Longstanding island dinner spot, per the SPI Chamber and spadre.com listings.
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Tex-Mex
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Lobo Del Mar Cafe
Family-owned waterfront cafe on the Laguna Madre serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with Mexican comfort food, seafood and grilled items. Opens early, so it doubles as a breakfast stop.
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Señor Donkey
Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurant on Padre Blvd serving fajitas, enchiladas and local seafood; the house specialty is its shrimp enchiladas. The island's main dedicated Tex-Mex sit-down option.
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getting-around
Airport
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Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport (BRO)
The closer of the two commercial airports, about 45 minutes from the island; shuttle operators quote it slightly cheaper than Harlingen. Rental counters (Enterprise/National, Budget, Avis) are in the terminal.
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Valley International Airport (HRL)
Harlingen's airport, about an hour from the island, with the region's Southwest Airlines service and six rental-car counters. SPI Shuttle keeps a desk inside the terminal near baggage carousel 2.
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Airport shuttle (BRO/HRL)
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Seaside Shuttles
Laguna Vista-based shuttle serving Harlingen and Brownsville airports (posted $65 plus tax for a single passenger one way) as well as private charters up to 11 passengers, SpaceX launch viewing and Progreso trips. Pet-friendly; an after-hours fee applies 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.
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SPI Shuttle & Tours
Licensed group airport shuttle and private charter service from Harlingen (HRL) and Brownsville (BRO) to South Padre Island, Port Isabel and Laguna Vista, oriented toward larger parties. Bookings are by call or text.
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SPI Surf Shuttle
Family-owned (est. 2021) shared and private door-to-door airport shuttle between the island, Port Isabel or Laguna Vista and both Harlingen (HRL) and Brownsville (BRO) airports. Posted fares are $75 one way from HRL and $70 from BRO for the first passenger, plus a per-person add-on.
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Bike / e-bike / scooter rentals
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Island Motor Bikes
Port Isabel bike shop on Hwy 100 renting electric bikes, fat-tire and cruiser bicycles and electric scooters, with a full repair shop and parts for guests who bring their own. Open Mon-Sat 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed Sunday.
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Boat trailer storage
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Shallow Master Boat & RV Storage (Island RV & Boat Storage)
Fenced, gated outdoor lot on Hwy 100 (across from Bobz World) for boats, trailers and RVs, about 15 minutes from Port Isabel and 20 from the island, with daily access and 24-hour camera monitoring. Also offers a hauling service to and from resorts.
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Car rental
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Enterprise Rent-A-Car (Brownsville/SPI Airport)
On-airport rental counter at Brownsville/South Padre Island International (BRO), about 45 minutes from the island; there is no full-service rental agency on the island itself. Shares the counter with National.
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Enterprise Rent-A-Car (Harlingen/Valley International Airport)
On-airport rental counter at Valley International (HRL), roughly an hour from the island. Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz and National also operate at HRL.
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Golf cart rentals
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Paradise Fun Rentals
Rents 4-, 6- and 8-seat golf carts, Slingshots and bicycles (regular from $10, beach bikes from $14) from five storefronts along Padre Blvd (904, 2216, 4200, 4700 and 6516). Carts are street-only: no beach, no causeway.
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SPI Activities
Street-legal gas 4-, 6- and 8-passenger golf carts plus about two dozen bicycles by the hour, day or week; pickup and drop-off is at the Ocean Motion shop at 4309 Padre Blvd. Golf-cart partner referred by SPI Rentals' property-management office.
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SPI Fun Rental & Island Surf Rental
Golf carts, bicycles (including fat-tire beach bikes), scooters and Jeeps by the hour (1-6 hour blocks) or by the day, with online booking and delivery offered. Open daily 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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Island shuttle / public transit
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Island Metro (formerly The Wave)
The City of South Padre Island's free deviated fixed-route bus system, formerly called The Wave, runs the length of the island and across the causeway to Port Isabel; dispatch operates 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Buses carry bike racks, are ADA accessible, and real-time positions are shown in the TransLoc app.
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Parking info
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City of South Padre Island Shoreline Dept. - Beach Access Parking
The city's Shoreline Department publishes a Beach Access Parking Guide mapping the public beach-access circles off Gulf Blvd (Whitesands through Sea Island and beyond) and handles beach permits. Call before assuming street parking near a given access is available.
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Isla Blanca Park (Cameron County)
County park at the south tip of the island with paid gate-entry parking for the jetties and beach; gate hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in peak season and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. off season. Fees are set by the county; call or use the county reservation page.
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Taxi
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A Cab
Island taxi listed on the city visitor bureau's getting-around page. No website found, phone only.
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B.B.'s Taxi
Family-owned island taxi company operating 24 hours, with airport runs to Brownsville, Harlingen and McAllen plus roadside assistance (lockouts, jump-starts, fuel). Second line (956) 761-7433.
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JJ's Taxi
Island-based taxi listed by the city's visitor bureau; a second option when B.B.'s is busy. No website found, phone only.
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government-utilities
AEP Texas
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AEP Texas (electric delivery)
AEP Texas owns the poles and wires serving the island; you buy electricity from a Retail Electric Provider of your choice, and AEP handles meters, new connections and outages. Report outages at (866) 223-8508.
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Beach access / lifeguard info
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Isla Blanca Park (Cameron County Parks)
County-run beach park at the island's south end with restrooms, pavilions, RV sites and jetty access; entry is charged per vehicle and RV/pavilion reservations are made online. Named the #1 beach in Texas by USA Today 10Best readers in 2026.
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Cameron County Appraisal District + Tax Assessor
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Cameron Appraisal District
Sets appraised values for every island property and handles homestead and other exemptions and value protests through its Appraisal Review Board; property records are searchable online. It does not collect taxes; that is the county Tax Office.
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Cameron County Tax Assessor-Collector – Port Isabel Branch
Closest county tax office to the island for paying property tax bills and handling vehicle registration and title transfers. The Brownsville main office is at 835 E Levee St, (956) 544-0800.
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City of South Padre Island
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City of South Padre Island – Building Department
Handles plan review, building permits and inspections for everything from temporary structures to high-rise resorts. Owners renovating a rental unit or adding structures pull permits here.
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City of South Padre Island – Environmental Health Services / Code Enforcement & Recycling
City office for code enforcement, health, animal control and the recycling program; runs a free Saturday 8-11 AM recycling drop-off at 4501 Padre Blvd and publishes the residential solid-waste collection schedule. Call here for dumpster enclosure specs, bulky-item pickup questions and ordinance complaints.
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City of South Padre Island – Hotel Occupancy Tax & STR Licensing
Every short-term rental (under 30 days) on the island must hold a city STR license and remit the 10.5% city Hotel Occupancy Tax, both handled through the city's Deckard portal; taxes are due by the 15th of each month. Contact Angie Barrera ([email protected]) for account, remittance and filing questions.
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Courts
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Cameron County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1
The justice court covering South Padre Island and Port Isabel; it hears eviction cases, small claims and debt claims up to $20,000. Landlords file evictions and tenants answer them here.
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Hurricane evacuation resources
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Cameron County Emergency Communication District (911) – CodeRED alerts
Runs the free CodeRED service that calls, texts and emails registered numbers with local emergency instructions, including hurricane evacuation orders. Owners can register a rental's address so they get alerts even when off-island.
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Cameron County Emergency Management
Publishes the county evacuation zone map, local and regional evacuation routes, and an interactive zone lookup; residents needing evacuation transportation register for S.T.E.A.R. by dialing 2-1-1. The only road off the island is the causeway, so knowing your zone matters.
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City of South Padre Island – Emergency Management
City hurricane preparedness, evacuation and special-needs registry, plus voluntary sign-up for the Smart911/Rave emergency notification system by phone, text or email. Publishes sandbag availability and pre-, during- and post-storm guidance.
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Internet
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AT&T Internet – South Padre Island
AT&T's local page confirms home internet and wireless service for South Padre Island; check plan availability by address. Nearest retail store is at Cameron Crossing, 102 Bass Pro Dr, Harlingen.
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Laguna Madre Water District
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Laguna Madre Water District
Water and wastewater provider for South Padre Island, Port Isabel, Laguna Vista, Laguna Heights and Long Island Village; set up or transfer service, bank draft and e-billing online or by phone. After-hours main breaks and service emergencies: (956) 572-1716.
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Police / fire non-emergency
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Port Isabel Police Department (non-emergency)
Non-emergency line for reporting suspicious activity, noise or property issues in Port Isabel, with an online report form. Alternate number (956) 943-1242; dial 911 for emergencies.
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South Padre Island Fire Department & Beach Patrol
Fire department office for fire inspections and non-emergency questions; its Beach Patrol runs mobile lifeguard/rescue units along the city beaches and provides minor first aid for jellyfish stings and cuts. Dial 911 for emergencies.
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South Padre Island Police Department (non-emergency)
Non-emergency police dispatch for noise complaints, parking issues, lockouts and records requests on the island. Dial 911 for emergencies.
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Port Isabel & Laguna Vista city halls
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City of Port Isabel – City Hall
Houses Port Isabel's Building Department, City Secretary, Finance and Health departments; garbage collection payments and permits are handled here. Code Enforcement is (956) 943-0713 and garbage/debris is (956) 943-0703.
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Town of Laguna Vista – Town Hall
Administration office for Laguna Vista handling building permits, public records requests, notarization and utility-related accounts. Police non-emergency is (956) 943-3446.
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Texas Comptroller HOT Webfile
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Cameron County Hotel/Venue Tax (Localgov portal)
The county's separate venue/hotel tax is 0.5% for rentals inside South Padre Island city limits (2% elsewhere in the county) and is filed monthly by the 20th through the Localgov portal at tax.localgov.org. Portal support is [email protected].
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Texas Comptroller – State Hotel Occupancy Tax (Webfile)
Anyone renting sleeping accommodations for $15 or more a night, including condos and houses, must collect the 6% state hotel occupancy tax and file it through Webfile, due the 20th of the following month (monthly or quarterly). Webfile technical help is (800) 442-3453.
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Texas Gas Service
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Texas Gas Service
Natural gas provider for the Rio Grande Valley service area; start, stop or transfer service through the contact center Mon-Fri 7 AM-7 PM. For a gas odor or leak, leave the area, call 911, then (800) 959-5325.
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Trash & recycling
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Republic Services – South Padre Island trash & door-side recycling
The city's contracted residential trash hauler; an active Republic account is required for monthly brush and bulky-item collection, and single-family homes can subscribe to door-side recycling. Also offers dumpster rental for renovations.
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health-pets
Dentists
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Port Isabel Dental (Dr. Armando Salazar)
Family dental practice just over the causeway that lists emergency dental care alongside cleanings, crowns, implants, dentures and children's dentistry. Open Fridays, unlike the island office.
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The Dentist (Dr. Aaron Unterbrink, DDS)
The only dental office located on South Padre Island, offering cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions and dentures with most work done on-site. No standalone website found; chamber listing linked.
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Gyms
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Island Fitness
The island's gym, with strength and cardio equipment, turf area, classes and showers. Sells day ($25), week ($75) and month ($120) passes for visitors plus monthly and annual plans for residents, no enrollment fee.
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Rip Current Athletics
Locally owned coached training gym in Port Isabel running 45- and 60-minute strength/HIIT classes, personal training and nutrition coaching, with drop-in sessions for visitors.
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Massage/spa
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Laguna Madre Yoga & Wellness
Island yoga and meditation studio with drop-in classes and massage therapy from a nationally board-certified therapist with 20+ years' experience. Also hosts in-person and virtual classes.
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Massage & Healing Arts Center
Independent island massage center (Dolores Ferrentino & Associates) offering Swedish, deep tissue, couples, prenatal and trigger-point massage plus facials and nails, seven days a week with online booking.
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Sapphire Spa
Full-service resort spa at the Sapphire/Margaritaville tower on the south end, open to non-hotel guests, with massage, facials, body treatments, nails and Aveda hair services. Online reservations available.
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Texas Touch Massage Therapy
Locally owned single-therapist practice (Aaron Metzger, former coach) focused on sports, deep-tissue, trigger-point and Swedish massage; posted rates $100-$120 per hour.
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Pet boarding/grooming
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Boarding & Daycare by South Bark Grooming
Port Isabel boarding and daycare operation of South Bark Grooming, the island's dog groomer. Covers overnight boarding, daycare and grooming just across the causeway.
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Friends of Animal Rescue (FAR)
The island's no-kill rescue and state-licensed quarantine facility, partnered with the City of SPI; call the 24-hour line if a pet goes missing or a stray turns up at a rental. Also offers microchipping and periodic low-cost vaccine clinics.
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Paws and Stay On Padre
Fully indoor, climate-controlled dog daycare and boarding on the island with kennels, suites and a supervised indoor activity center. Useful for a beach day or boat trip where the dog cannot come along.
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Pharmacies
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CVS Pharmacy
The only pharmacy on the island itself, with a drive-up window, immunizations and prescription transfers. Guests who forgot medication can have a prescription transferred here.
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Walgreens Pharmacy - Port Isabel
First pharmacy across the causeway, with longer store hours than the island CVS and a drive-thru pharmacy. Practical backup when the island store is closed.
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Urgent care & clinics
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ER 24/7 Brownsville
Closest freestanding hospital-affiliated emergency department to the island (a department of Valley Regional Medical Center), with on-site CT, ultrasound, X-ray and lab for true emergencies when the island clinics are closed.
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Family Wellness Clinic at SPI
On-island walk-in clinic run by Harlingen Medical Center with nurse practitioners handling minor injuries, lacerations, rapid flu/COVID/strep tests, physicals and vaccinations. Most insurances accepted.
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New Horizon Health Center - Laguna Vista
Nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center with a primary-care site in Laguna Vista, useful for tenants without insurance or on a sliding-fee basis. Appointments also bookable through ZocDoc.
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SPI Urgent Care (R. Joe Ybarra, MD)
Physician-run urgent care on the island for colds, flu, infections, rashes, stitches, lab work and school/sports physicals. Takes Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, Humana, Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, UHC and self-pay; online booking through Solv.
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Valley Baptist Medical Center - Brownsville
Brownsville's other full-service hospital, with an emergency department staffed by emergency-medicine physicians. Listed as a second hospital option since the island has none.
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Valley Regional Medical Center
Full-service HCA hospital in Brownsville, roughly 30 miles from the island, with a 24-hour ER, Level III trauma center and Advanced Primary Stroke Center designation. The island itself has no hospital.
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Veterinarians
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Aloha Veterinary Clinic
Locally owned small-animal practice (Dr. Kayla Lee) in Los Fresnos offering wellness exams, vaccinations, in-house diagnostics, surgery, dentistry and health certificates. A second option when Port Isabel is booked.
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Laguna Madre Humane Society Clinic
Nonprofit humane society running a weekly low-cost wellness clinic and spay/neuter surgeries for the public's pets (no surgery on flat-faced breeds). Also runs the Whiskers resale shop at 2013 Padre Blvd on the island.
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Port Isabel Animal Clinic
Nearest full-service veterinarian to the island (there is none on SPI), handling wellness exams, vaccinations, imaging, surgery and preventive care for dogs and cats. Appointments via phone or the PetDesk app.
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home-services
Electricians
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By The Bay Electric, LLC
Licensed, bonded and insured electrical contractor in Port Isabel with 20+ years' experience, handling service calls, troubleshooting, repairs, installs and new construction on South Padre Island and Port Isabel; free estimates.
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Reliable Electric
Licensed, bonded and insured Port Isabel electrician (chamber member) that emphasizes troubleshooting and repair calls alongside remodel and new-construction work for homes and businesses.
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HVAC
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Contract Service & Supply, Inc.
Long-standing island shop on Retama St that services and installs air conditioning (Carrier dealer per chamber category) and also takes appliance repair calls; open seven days including Sunday afternoons.
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Strong A/C and Refrigeration, LLC
Island-based, owner-operated HVAC contractor (Darin Strong, TACLB31192C) doing residential and commercial A/C repair and installation for any make, plus commercial refrigeration and ice machines, serving South Padre Island, Port Isabel and Laguna Vista. Bryant and Heil dealer.
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Handyman
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STR Property Solutions
Fully insured island contractor (chamber member) focused on short-term-rental properties: handyman repairs, remodels, construction and pool cleaning with what the listing describes as fast turnaround, using licensed trades where required.
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Landscaping
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J & R Landscaping
Family-owned landscaping company with 30+ years' experience and a nursery on Highway 100 in Laguna Heights; offers recurring mowing and lawn care, tree trimming and removal, sprinkler installation and repair, and hardscaping for South Padre Island, Port Isabel, Laguna Vista and Los Fresnos.
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John's Lawns
Port Isabel lawn service offering weekly or bi-weekly mowing, garden maintenance, weed control and tree trimming for residential and commercial properties on South Padre Island and Port Isabel, with free estimates.
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Locksmiths
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South Padre Auto Safe & Lock
The island's on-site locksmith shop: lockouts, rekeys and lock installs for condos and homes, plus automotive key and fob programming. Directory listings describe 24-hour availability.
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Pest control
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EcoTec Pest Management
Laguna Vista-based, TDA-licensed and insured pest company with a specific short-term-rental and commercial program, exterior-only options, and a 30-day free re-treat guarantee; serves South Padre Island, Port Isabel and Cameron County.
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Plumbing
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Gator Plumbing
Licensed and insured plumber (South Padre Island chamber member) doing service calls, repairs, remodels and water heater installs for residential and commercial properties; the 761 exchange is the island's.
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Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Brownsville
Locally owned Neighborly franchise (license 41307) that lists Port Isabel and South Padre Island in its service area and schedules 24/7; a fallback for drain, water heater and emergency plumbing when the local shops are booked.
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Peacock Plumbing Co
Owner-run plumbing company (John Peacock) on Highway 100 in Port Isabel, minutes from the causeway; directory listings cite remodel, kitchen/bath, sewer-camera and backflow work.
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Pool service
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Surf Side Pool & Spa
Family-owned pool company operating on South Padre Island since 2002 (owner in the industry since 1989), doing weekly maintenance, repairs, heating/automation, remodels and new builds for South Padre Island, Laguna Vista and Port Isabel. Chamber listing notes same-day and emergency service.
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SurfSide Supply LLC
Chamber-listed island pool service offering weekly swimming pool maintenance, equipment and automation repairs, and chemical sales; states it answers calls seven days a week.
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Pressure washing
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Lone Star Exterior Pressure Wash and Soft Wash LLC
Brownsville pressure- and soft-washing company that lists South Padre Island and Los Fresnos in its service area; does roofs, siding, driveways, decks, fences, gutters and window cleaning for homes and storefronts. Included because no island-based pressure-washing or window-cleaning firm could be verified.
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Roofing & windstorm certification
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CASA Engineering
Harlingen engineering firm whose TDI-certified engineers perform windstorm inspections and issue WPI-8 certificates needed for TWIA wind and hail coverage; its site shows South Padre Island projects. Useful after a re-roof, new windows or doors on a coastal property.
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Marva Roofing
Veteran- and family-owned Valley roofer with a dedicated South Padre Island / Port Isabel coastal roofing page that addresses TDI windstorm (WPI-8) requirements for re-roofs in Cameron County. Listed because no roofer based on the island or in Port Isabel was found.
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TADCO Roofing and Waterproofing
Family-owned roofing and waterproofing contractor established 2007 and a South Padre Island chamber member; offers free consultations and manufacturer warranties of 5-30 years across the Rio Grande Valley.
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STR cleaning/turnover
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Kiwi Cleaning Services
Rio Grande Valley cleaning company based in Olmito that lists South Padre Island, Port Isabel and Laguna Vista in its service area, offering short-term-rental turnover, deep, move-in/out and recurring house cleaning with a 42-point checklist and a free re-clean within 24 hours. Included because no island-based turnover company survived verification.
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on-the-water
Attractions
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Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge
Federal refuge on the mainland side of the Laguna Madre with more than 60 miles of hiking and biking trails; trails are open dawn to dusk every day. About 30 miles from the island via Hwy 100 and FM 510.
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Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site
The 1852 lighthouse just across the causeway can be climbed for views over the Laguna Madre and the island; admission $5 adult, $3 child. Closes during wet weather and the top catwalk may close on high-wind days.
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Sea Turtle, Inc.
Nonprofit sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation center with resident turtles on view and daily educational programs. Admission is card-only ($15 adult, $5 child); summer hatchling releases are announced on its site.
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South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary
World Birding Center site with over 3,300 feet of boardwalk over the Laguna Madre wetlands, five bird blinds, a five-story viewing tower and a rescued-alligator sanctuary. Guided birding tours and daily wildlife talks; admission $15 adult, $5 child.
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Bait & Tackle
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Jim's Pier
Island bait and tackle stop with live and frozen bait, gasoline, a boat ramp and slips on the bay; several local guides depart from here. Opens at 6am for early launches.
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Quik Stop
Port Isabel bait shop on Hwy 100 just before the causeway with live shrimp, tackle, rods, fresh local fish, shrimp and oysters, and trip basics; opens 5:30am seven days a week.
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Beach Chair & Umbrella Rental
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Jim's Beach Service
On-sand umbrella and chair rentals with setup at beachfront properties including Sunchase, Wanna Wanna, Parkshore, Seabreeze, Tiki, Suntide II, Aquarius and Sangria; also banana boat rides and beach games.
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SPI Beach Services
Umbrella-and-two-chairs day passes booked online or by QR code, with same-day availability, at the Courtyard by Marriott, Hilton Garden Inn, La Copa Inn and Sand Rose Beach Resort beachfronts.
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Boat / Jet Ski / Kayak / Paddleboard Rentals
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Parrot Eyes Watersports
Bayside one-stop with jet ski rentals and guided tours, kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals ($35), parasailing, banana boat rides and fishing charters, plus an on-site restaurant and gift shop on the Laguna Madre.
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South Padre Watersports
Bayside rental shop for jet skis, single and double kayaks and paddleboards, plus guided jet ski dolphin and SpaceX-viewing tours. Same operator as the SPI Sessions brand.
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Dolphin & Eco Tours
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Breakaway Cruises
Operating for more than 40 years, Breakaway runs 1.5-hour dolphin watches (from $18), 3-4 hour bay fishing charters (from $35), snorkeling trips, and fireworks, drone-show and SpaceX launch-viewing cruises.
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Isla Tours
Runs dolphin watch and eco-tours, sunset and fireworks cruises, and bay and deep-sea fishing trips from Sea Ranch Marina at the south end of the island. Separate fishing line is (956) 761-2764.
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Osprey Cruises
Four-boat fleet running year-round from Port Isabel: party-boat deep-sea fishing, bay fishing, dolphin watch and eco-tours, sunset cruises and a kids' pirate adventure cruise. Private charters available.
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The Original Dolphin Watch
Ninety-minute dolphin watch and eco-tours several times daily from Sea Ranch Marina, from $18 per person; eco-tour versions pull a small net so guests can see bay marine life up close. Also runs summer fireworks cruises and a Wednesday Port of Brownsville tour.
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Fishing Charters & Guides
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Big Mother Bay Fishing
Capt. Kevin runs private bay trips on a 20-foot Shallow Stalker for up to 4 anglers, targeting redfish, trout, flounder, black drum and snook; $550 for two, $100 per additional guest, gear and water included.
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Blast to Cast Fishing Guide Service
Capt. Mike Knox offers half- and full-day guided bay charters for all skill levels, fishing the Laguna Madre from Arroyo City down to the island's southern tip. Departs from the Jim's Pier basin.
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Crystal Flats Guide Service
Capt. Cliff Fleming runs private light-tackle trips across the Laguna Madre for redfish, speckled trout and flounder, plus jetty and Brownsville Ship Channel trips for snook and snapper. Up to 6 passengers, all gear included, no experience needed.
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George's Fishing Charter
Port Isabel charter running half- and full-day trips on the Lower Laguna Madre and into the Gulf for redfish, black drum, flounder and speckled trout, from $350; up to six anglers, rods, tackle and live bait included. Bring a Texas saltwater fishing license.
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Parasailing
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SPI Excursions
Bayside operator offering parasailing over the Gulf, Sea-Doo rentals and guided jet ski tours, banana boat rides, dolphin and sunset cruises, bay fishing charters and North Bay snorkeling trips.
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Surf / Kite Lessons
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H2O Sports
One-on-one kiteboarding, wingfoiling, towfoil and surf lessons from IKO-certified owner/head coach Teran Hughes, who also holds a USCG captain's license; waverunner-assisted instruction and guided boat trips available.
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Prokite South Padre
Kiteboarding, wingboarding, hydrofoil, tow-in surf and kite buggy lessons for all levels, plus a retail shop with new and used gear, parts and repair supplies and local wind reports.
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South Padre Surf Company
One-hour surf lessons daily year-round at Isla Blanca Beach Park by the jetty, taught in standing-depth water on soft boards; suitable for all ages, non-swimmers and special needs. Board rentals $30/day with delivery available.
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property-finance
CPA / accountant
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A. Suzette Floyd, CPA
Island-based CPA practice (est. 2008) offering tax returns, bookkeeping, payroll and financial statements; a local option for owners who need monthly city, county and state HOT filings handled.
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City of South Padre Island - Hotel Occupancy Tax Office
City office for short-term rental registration and monthly HOT remittance (city rate 10.5%, due by the 15th); contact for registration, remittance and filing questions. City Hall main line (956) 761-6456.
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HOA management
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Bahia Mar Management
Full-service association management company whose portfolio includes Bahia Mar Villas and Solare Tower; useful to condo owners whose building is under its HOA management.
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Chacon Realty, LLC
Island brokerage that also manages condominium homeowners associations and offers property management and investment consultation on beachfront and bayside condos.
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Furcron Inc., REALTORS & Property Management Co.
Long-running island firm combining real estate sales, vacation rental management and condominium HOA management under one roof; serves South Padre Island, Port Isabel, Laguna Vista and Bayview.
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Home / property inspector
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Harrison Home Inspections
TREC-licensed inspector (Lic. #5575) inspecting island and RGV homes since 2001; offers home, pool, termite, new-construction, pre-listing and commercial inspections with same-day reports.
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Insurance agent
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Cameron County Insurance Services
Independent Port Isabel agency serving the island and Gulf Coast; writes NFIP federal flood insurance (building coverage up to $250,000, contents up to $100,000) alongside other lines.
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Interior design / furnishing
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Cactus Flower Gifts & Interiors
Island interior design firm and furniture store founded in 1981; services include interior design, home staging, custom furniture, and kitchen and bath work for condos and homes.
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Sisters Interiors
Island design studio and home-furnishings showroom offering full-service interior design, staging consultations, window treatments, furniture, lighting, art and rugs.
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Photographer
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ArcTechPHOTO
Island-headquartered studio photographing real estate, vacation rentals and hotels since 2013; offers interiors, drone stills and video, Matterport 3D tours, virtual staging and floor plans.
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ML Photo & Frame
Island photographer shooting for-sale and short-term rental listings since 2006, with drone work, 3D tours and floor plans; also does custom framing and art installation for furnishing units.
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Property management & co-hosting
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Franke Rentals / Franke Realty
North-island rental management and real estate office managing homes, townhouses and condos for owners; paired with Franke Realty at the same address.
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Padre Island Rentals
Full-service, 24-hour vacation rental management company on the island for over 35 years, handling marketing, reservations, in-house housekeeping and maintenance for 190+ properties.
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South Padre Trips (South Padre Island Trips LLC)
Locally founded rental management company that handles guest communication, bookings and property coordination for second-home owners; the founder cites 23+ years in island tourism.
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SPI Rentals, LLC
Island-only rental manager offering turnkey management: sales and reservations, housekeeping, maintenance, inspections and owner accounting.
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Real estate attorney
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The Franke Law Firm, P.C.
Island law office handling real estate, business law and civil litigation for South Padre Island and Rio Grande Valley clients.
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Real estate brokerage
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Troy Giles Realty
Island brokerage with MLS search and market reports covering South Padre Island, Port Isabel, Laguna Vista and Las Velas; a starting point for buying or selling an investment condo.
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Title company
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Edwards Abstract and Title Co. - South Padre Island
Rio Grande Valley title company with an island office for escrow, closings and title insurance.
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Rio Grande Valley Abstract Co. - South Padre Island
Cameron County title insurance, escrow and closing company with an island office; offers an online 'Paperless Closer' portal for orders and file tracking.
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Sierra Title Company - South Padre Island
South Texas title group handling residential and commercial closings, with a South Padre Island office on Padre Blvd.
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Stewart Title Company - South Padre Island
Island office of the national title underwriter for closings and title insurance on South Padre Island purchases; an affiliate member of the SPI Board of REALTORS.
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