If you are looking for sun, sand and the ocean but want to avoid crowded beaches, try South Padre Island in Texas. This small island built by a sand bar offers beach access without the overwhelming crowds.
Getting there. Taking the US 83 Expressway from McAllen or Brownsville is the easiest way to get to South Padre Island. Take the Expressway to Port Isabel and then take the bridge across to the island.
When you get to the island, visting the beach park and jetties area cost only $4 for whole day access. The early morning after the tide comes in is the best time to find seashells and washed up sea treasures. However there are also washed up jellyfish and dead fish so it is important to watch where you walk.
If you want to avoid the crowds visit in late January or early February or after Spring Break. South Padre Island is a big spring break destination and crossing the bridge can take up to two hours during peak times.
