South Padre Clubs
Club 202
Club 202 has been voted by our travelers three straight years as their favorite party spot. Why? It has somewhat smaller, more intimate bar feel right on the water than the super-clubs like Tequila Frogs & Club Chaos.
We like that it’s different, clubs get old fast.
Home of Inertia’s Island-Renowned Reality Mardi Gras Series Party, with free beads to all that enter, and the only bar that we actually have good drink specials at, it’s no wonder it’s a wild party.
The girl with the most beads at the end of the night (really!) gets a FREE Winter Ski Trip to Breckenridge next year!
Inertia brings in the Real World Cast from the latest MTV’s Real World and Road Rules Challenges, as well as Inferno II.
This bar is right on the water, about ablock north of Louies Backyard, across Padre Blvd from Jessie’s Cantina, right behind the pink South Padre Island Bank. It’s within an arm’s throw of Amberjacks Restaurant, as well.
We also do a lunch and a dinner here, and they HOOK UP the island during spring break with 6 beers for $5.00 in a bucket from 3 pm.-8 p.m. daily.
Another establishment that is PRO spring break, not anti, so we luv em!
Pnce again, because of its size, we do not guarantee admittance if you arrive after 10 p.m, so beware of that….the lines get super long to get in. So, if you get there later, just make sure you're wearing your patience pants for the wait.
Inertia Tours hosts not only the only Mardi Gras party, but the original one. Several other lame copies are attempted, but the real problem is, no one brings as many students to South Padre Island during spring break, so a large, pre-sold party crowd is totally ensured. If you don't know how Mardi gras works...come on...you get two really decent beads at the door to get you started, and you can also purchase more beads inside of Club 202 from the staff if you've burned through yours too fast.
Tequila Frogs
Tequila Frogs is one of the three best spots for spring break clubbing in South Padre for Spring Break!
Our Sunday night for our Wild ON! Party, expect 2-3 thousand spring breakers partying at this water front club. On Tuesday nights, we launch our muy famoso Mexican Border Bash, and drop everyone off there at the end of the night to finish off the partying. Global Groove Productions throws down a huge Wednesday Day party called the Party on the Lagoon, and our Thursday Night parties launch our killer party yacht cruises, which include free cover charge when you’re done.
The parties here are by-far the largest, fullest, and wildest parties this island has to offer for spring break. Located right on the water lagoon-Side, it is on the very south end of what we call the entertainment district. it truly is what you’d expect a spring break bar to be….huge 44 oz drinks, a wet t shirt Contest each night, and tons of people.
Get here before, say, 9:45 p.m., or you’re screwed…the Lines are ¼-over ¾ of a mile long (show pic of line here), and we’re NOT kidding! Way hot, and way fun!
We recommend the Froggy drink, or the Paradiso, wow are they huge & tasty! The staff at Tequila Frogs is also the coolest, and love to high five and hang out with party people. Place rocks, and the service is actually super fast for how many people they have. Hang out upstairs for mingling, or on the very front deck over the water by the stage. Both areas are not as crowded, and offer better opportunities for socializing.
There is also a super-VIP area….ladies look super cute to get picked or know someone on our staff….guys, it’s $40 per night to get into..but well worth it for the socializing aspect, and not having to wait for a drink is key. You can buy a super VIP pass by at the door when you pay your cover charge. If you have an Inertia Red Carpet Package, you’ll enjoy VIP line-cutting until 10 p.m., and no cover charge no matter what time you arrive on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday Day, and Thursday night. Visit our photo album if you need a visual as to how long the lines get.
Club Chaos
Chaos is one of the best spring break clubs in Padre, and on Monday nights at the Inertia event, expect other clubs to be ghost towns.
Chaos has a great location, 3 floors of over 7 different bars. This means the lines for drinks aren’t TOO bad...but still crazy busy, our Saturday Night and Monday Night events feature wild contests that go beyond the wet t shirt contest you’ve already witnessed. With free spring break trips to the winners for next year, it’s gets pretty nutty. We do a huge crowd there on Inertia Tours’ nights, and Inertia brings down the house with ridiculous MC & events!
Chaos’ location makes it really pack up, since it is on the southern tip of the area we consider mid-beach..it’s a walk from every property we offer excepting the Bahia Mar.
This place is over 13,000 square feet, and is just plain immense. We also like Chaos because while the center corral is outside, the rest of the place is inside. If God forbid it’s raining, you’ll be able to get out of the tropical rain. You must go to at least our Saturday & Monday Night events on Spring Break to see how crazy it gets!
Once again, getting there early is key. The place will seem empty & dead until 10 p.m., then all at once it’s a half hour line wait to get in. If you have an Inertia Red Carpet VIP Package, you’ll cut the line & stroll in a separate entrance on the carpet, and enjoy free cover charge.
Chaos is located right in the Entertainment District on Padre Blvd, the main drag. You can’t miss it on the street. Right beside the Howard Johnson & directly in front of Tequila Frogs.If you drive to the club, you can park next door at the adjoining Howard Johnson Hotel that is between the hotel, and the club. Chaos owns that parking lot as well. Just remember to grab a cab on the way home…Chaos won’t tow you if you park overnight, no worries, they, like us, don’t want you to drink and drive on spring break.
For anyone that shows up by 10 p.m. with an Inertia Tours Spring Break promotional flyer, you’ll receive at no charge a complimentary souvenir spring break tee shirt. The drink to get at Chaos is the “Knock-Out” Drink…it’s 32 ounces and like 6 or 7 shots.
Louie’s Backyard
Louies Backyard is an island Icon. Three levels, on the water, serving as the hub & center of the entertainment district. They offer two specialty drinks, the Charlies Cherry & the Whammy. whoa! Texas-sized. Also, try their happy hour fajitas, some of the best steak we have ever had. We listed their Fajitas, and seafood buffet as outstanding as well in our restaurant reviews.
Louie’s Backyard in South Padre Island is located bayfront, in the entertainment district.
Tequila Sunsets
We listed Tequila Sunsets in our Restaurant section as well, but they really belong as a bar.
Another bayfront, outside bar, this one is located next door to Amberjacks Restaurant. Open seasonally, it gets super packed on the 4th of July weekend, as well as weekends in general.
The service here is super fast, & it’s a nice change of pace from a huge bar or club. Generally, in the summer, you’ll find a live band.
We feel that with its live bands, if you are interested in pre-party, or in Padre in the summer, this small bar eally rocks. Go for at least one beer.
El Jefe @ Schlitterbahn Waterpark
El Jefe is a local’s sports bar that is also beachfront, with a great view of the Gulf of Mexico & ocean from the bar.
It’s located by walking into Schlitterbahn Waterpark as if you were going to their restaurant, named the Shrimp Haus.
It’s a killer off season bar; check it out after you try the Shrimp at the Shrimp Haus. So not really a spring break bar, but they do have a cool bowling alley.
Quarterdeck @ the Radisson
This is, if not Louie’s in the off season, the next place to check out for local action. The wings aren’t bad, neither is the service. Expect tons of locals in their 30’s & 40’s, live music, and various hotel guests. It’s not a spring break bar. If you are in Padre in a dead part of the season, it’s a good place to go, because you will still be guaranteed a reasonably full bar, particularly on Friday & Saturday nights.
We like it a lot, but….the ceiling is very low-hung, and it gets sort of smoky, as well as claustrophobic after awhile. You won’t notice if you’re polluted wasted. Plus, if you are staying on the south end/south beach area, it’s not a bad walk home.
Sort of expensive, since it’s a hotel bar.
Palm Street Pier
We didn’t give them a restaurant review, but we should have. The shrimp here, any way, and the raw oysters are simply outstanding. The beer is really, really cold, they have a cool setting next to Tequila Frogs.
We’re giving it a big “thumbs” up as an alterative to spring break crowds, even IF you are on spring break, but like a bit smaller, more social atmosphere.
The service needs a heck of a lot of improvement. If they do, this place is going to really take off big.
The Margaritas are also tasty here, and the generally run a good live band each night. This is a great place to go during the day if you don’t feel like the beach, and want to grab a quick lunch somewhere fun with a few drinks.
The Palm Street Pier is located in the heart of the entertainment district, next door to the super-club Tequila Frogs.
We highly recommend giving it a whirl for lunch & a margarita. Bungee jumping is also available here, and it’s killer to do the Bungee on Sunday night when Tequila Frogs is packed.
Make sure you bring your camera to capture all of the spring break South Padre Island action when you are up top.
Wanna Wanna Beach Bar
It always amazes us that during spring break, people tend to either
a.) go to the Sprite Remix Beach,
b.) get drunk at their condo
In South Padre, don’t let yourself be that group that doesn’t go to a bar other than at a hotel this spring break.
Check it out, play free beach volleyball, and see some more of the island. Located at Island Inn and the International Condo complex we offer.
Wanna Wanna is this cool little tiki-themed bar hooked onto the Island Inn right on the beach in Padre. I eat there probably once a week, the fried shrimp basket is simply outstanding.
One complaint: if you order any sort of soft drink, its 10 ounces only, and full of ice. You get like 3 big gulps and its gone. For about $2 each, that’s just not cool. So, if you are like me, order up two at once, because the service is super slow…and when I’m eating, I need something to drink.
Wanna Wanna Beach Bar & Grill has the potential to be busy all the time, with these slight improvements, because the food is super good.
This bar is located RIGHT ON THE SAND of the beach in South Padre.
Boomerang Billy’s
It always amazes us that during spring break, people tend to either:
a.) go down to Saida Towers to the Sprite Remix Beach
b.) get drunk at their condo.
In South Padre, don’t let yourself be that group that doesn’t go to a bar other than at a hotel this spring break.
Check it out, play free beach volleyball, and see some more of the island. Located at Island Inn and the International Condo complex we offer.
Boomerang Billy’s is super duper packed on the weekends during the day, and is a short walk since it’s located on the south end of mid beach to get to.
This bar is located RIGHT ON THE BEACH. Expect high drink prices. The menu is really good greasy bar food…we’re serious about that. Again, they have pint sized super tiny Cokes, so if you are a thirsty eater…order two right away.
Like the other beach bars, service is appalling, since it tends to always be busy.
Costa Rica Bar & Grill
Located North of the Bahia Mar, even more North, North of the La Quinta and Tiki Motel. Right on the beach. Decent chicken tacos, too.
They do dirt cheap margaritas if you go there during spring break. What the place lacks is free transportation out there. Do that, and they’ll start quietly crushing it.
I can envision a Fat Tuesdays like in Cancun, Mexico if they add a Daiquiri Bar, more sponsors & good concerts, and free transportation bus.
Jake’s
Hey, their sandwiches are awesome. Please visit our Restaurant reviews section on Jakes if you want to read more about their food…but this section is to talk about their booze!
They are good about putting the NCAA Tourney on, or various sports. A great place if sort of, an “up north” or “bar by the cabin” is what you are more comfortable with.
I’ve seen big groups of girls there too, because the food is somewhat oversized, sinful, and just plain good.
They mix the drinks in talls for you, and it is reasonably priced.
They kind of treat spring breakers with indifference, neither overly friendly, nor overly rude, which is fine with us, we blend in better then.
Inertia typically does our VIP Rep Dinners here once a week for those campus reps that actually arrive in South Padre, for a beer & a good sandwich.
The music isn’t on so loud you can’t think, and its location near Chaos, Club 202, and Tequila Frogs also make this a great warm up, pre-game bar if your condo is getting to you in South Padre.
Bahia Mar – Lobby Bar
The place is packed with spring breakers.
Its very North location on the island can make it someone of a trek to get to during the spring break high season, but if you are staying there, check it out. It’s not worth going to if you are not, since they over charge for drinks at the hotel bar in our opinion.
Drinking in your condo boring you….so go Where else? The Lobby Bar.
Hell, there’s even a Ceasars Pizza in the lobby, and the Bahia Mar is sponsored by Sobe.
Peak week during spring break, DEFINITELY don’t go, because you’ll be 2+ miles to the nearest club, and cabs won’t come to get you, since the traffic will take an hour.
The Bahia Mar Lobby Bar on spring break is a great place to grab a quick one as you go out the door to the Inertia Tours party that night.
If you came on spring break to hang out at a lobby bar, we gotta talk.
Padre Brewing Co.
If you get sick of drinking your cheap assed beer or plastic judge tequila each night, and would like a proper, draft beer, check out their microbrews.
Their pizza is also excellent. Expect to spend about $4 per pint.See our restaurant review for more advice on the menu.
As this is the only Brewery on the island, you can get a great draft beer.
They also have this sampler platter of beer…..you get like six separate half-glasses of beer of all of their current brew varieties. If you’re a beer lover, this place is a must see place.
Located mid-beach right on Padre Blvd.
Coconuts
Karaoke, but that’s ok, to each his own. The also have a grill.
The food’s decent. Not excellent, not horrible.
They rent jet skis, that’s their watersport we recommend trying.
Coconuts is located in South Padre in the entertainment district mid beach, bayside of the island.
If you are looking to jet ski, this is the place to go to rent them, about $50 for a half hour.
The Fried Shrimp are the only thing I’d order off the menu there, but they come with miserable French fries, ugh.
The New Upper Deck Hotel & Bar
Hey, we’re listing everyone!
This is the gay bar on South Padre Island.
There, & if that is offensive, as Ali G sez, …. “We’re just keepin’ it real peeps…”
Go to Atol Street, look for rainbows outside, duh.
South Padre Restaurants
Reviews are the opinion of the Webmaster at Inertia Tours only, and should be considered as such.
Fast Food - Mmmmm...the grease.
Dairy Queen
Dairy Queen is of course an all-American staple in fast food & ice cream. For spring break, it’s a decent choice for Chicken Strips.
And seriously, they have a grilled chicken sandwich which is fairly healthy and the Ice Cream…THE ICE CREAM!
Our staff manager Ryan likes the Hunger Buster combo..it’s ¾ lbs of hamburger, and sure to take some good care of your arteries.
They’re open late-night during spring break as well.
2401 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-1072
Located pretty much in front of Louies Backyard & on the main drag, Padre Blvd.
KFC & A&W
The colonel’s new menu for $4 complete makes your spring break dollar go pretty far.
I’ve yet to meet someone that doesn’t like their mashed potatoes, and the A&W Root Beer is on tap.
I generally get the extra crispy chicken breasts, but the grilled chicken is good, and the twister wraps are good grubbin’ too.
3201 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-2392
Up the strip a way on the main drag. Near Whataburger, drive through is really fast as well, good work.
McDonald’s
The #1 restaurant in the US is open 24 hours per day during spring break.
The greatest thing about Mickey’s is that during spring break, they set these big speakers outside & pump 50 Cent and other droning hip hop just in case you don’t hear enough of it “in da club!”
Grilled Chicken is real good, as are the new Chicken Select strips.
I sort of fell over when I read how much fat they have though, check the Nutritional data maybe first.
The new salads are also really tasty, particularly the Cesar.
Girls always claim they “don’t eat here” sort of like the French do, but on spring break, the lines are stupid long.
908 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-4999
Next door to Sunchase Mall & our office. Right on the main drag..you can’t miss it
Subway
Get a low-carb wrap or a low fat sandwich here on the island.
If you haven’t ate at Subway, ummm…well….that’s odd.
Since your condo with Inertia will have a fridge, grab a sub, throw it in your fridge, and you’ll have a nutritious drunk meal when you have the munchies.
Might as well plan ahead, it’s one hell of a lot better for you than other fast food.
They won’t take any coupons, including National ones, nor will they honor the sub club cards.
They say it’s due to “abuse of the cards.” What the hell could that mean we wonder? Humm…
2100 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-6700
Right by Taco Bell & Long John Silvers
Taco Bell & Long John Silvers
Until 3 a.m. during spring break. I mean, use some common sense here…
They are cheap as hell. My stomach sort of starts to hurt thinking about this stuff…but…
We lumped them together.
If you’re going to go all out, get the Treasure Chest at Long John Silvers.
Lots of breading & grease.
Taco Bell. For real, dawg?
Ok, get a Nachos BellGrande, a double decker “supreme” and a huge Mountain Dew.
Prolly keep you up for more than just the caffeine.
2000 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-4456
Next to a gas station of course. Open super late, long ass line after bar close.
Our boys & girls get hungry after bar close!
Whataburger
24 hours a day during spring break, expect a 30 minute to 1 hour wait at bar close…but their breakfast tacos (Taquitos) & Jr. Whataburger, when you’re wasted, rock the world my man!
Remember, according to our Inertia friend...
"They don’t claim to be “fast- food”
— Jason Reagan, Dallas, TX
…and they certainly are not.
Ryan on our staff eats the Three Ply there..it’s 3 plys of salty meat…weighs like a pound.
I’ve seen him eat two, and a breakfast taquito, provided I buy.
He lived, and so will you.
(I think.)
105 W. Retama
(956) 761-7862
On the main drag up north end, a long walk from Bahia Mar, super close to Inverness.
Do-able from La International.
Please don’t drink & drive, grab a cab…they have cops outside sometimes at bar close!
Asian Cuisine - Chow FUN!
Kohnami Restaurant
Kohnami is part of the Inertia meal plan, and we have 2 meals here that consist of teriyaki chicken, crab puffs, and vegetable fried rice with a small soda.
They also are the only place on the island that has sushi & hibachi grills. Located next to blockbuster video.
Get the Treasure Boat…it’s an amazing feast of Sushi, hibachi chicken, and other delicacies.
We like to start the night off here with a few Sake bombs, they’ll show you how to do them right. If you aren’t into shots, you should try one of these there. Super good.
The Japanese food is superb here. Most food in South Padre Island is so far from superb it’s absurd.
They get PACKED…it’s in front of the Saida Towers…near our party condos…so plan on a wait…but almost all great restaurants have a long wait here …it’s WELL WORTH IT.
Inertia Sponsor!
410 Padre Blvd. Ste. O
(956) 761-2446
Inertia Recommended
Ocean Palace
The only all u can eat buffet near the island for Asian cuisine, it’s about $8 & has fresh peel-to-eat shrimp, the General’s Chicken, and a TON of other things to get MESSED UP on, we love it.
The Iced Tea here for some reason is also amongst the best near the island.
1200 W Hwy 100 (Port Isabel)
(956) 943-6988
Across the Causeway (bridge) from South Padre Island in Port Isabel.
Italian Food — ’atsa Spicy Meatball!
D’Pizza Joint
I’ve never personally eaten here, but our friend Chris Brandriff recommends the large pizza, with one topping.
The also have loud, boisterous piano playing here…makes for different dining experience with some entertainment thrown in.
2413 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-7995
Just up the street from Club Chaos, right on the main drag.
Marcello’s Italian Restaurant
We Recommend the appetizers, and the Chicken Marcela, it’s truly delicious.
A great restaurant for a wine buff too.
If you are hungry for Italian, it’s the only real place, so thank God it’s really good.
110 N. Tarnava, (Port Isabel)
(956) 943-7611
Inertia Recommended
Just across the causeway (bridge) from South Padre Island on the west side of the highway.
Pizza Hut
Do we have to tell you about this, they also have a decent salad bar for the island.
There is a sister restaurant over in Port Isabel.
During Spring Break, remember that no pizza place will really deliver because of the terrible traffic jams…so you’ll have to walk to pick up your pie.
1905 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-1361
On the main drag Padre Blvd, just up the road from Club Chaos, and sort of in front of Tequila Frogs.
Pizza Express
The have a good deal on big orders of food, I believe our special is two large pizzas for $20, a real deal on spring break.
Remember, on spring break, it might take awhile to get your pie…so order up about an hour before you’re really ready to eat since the island is just so busy.
2600 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-7273
Inertia Sponsor!
Right on the main drag (padre blvd) mid-beach location.
Nice "Sit Down" Restaurants — Treat yourself to local flavor!
Amberjack’s
We recommend the grilled fish of any type here, and they have a killer ½ pd. Fried shrimp upstairs during happy hour for $5.00.
A great place for an outside meal since they have a patio on the water.
For the ladies, if you have two “dress up dinner nights,” Amberjacks should probably be one of them on spring break.
I also always catch a drink at the upstairs bar with our MTV’s The Real World cast & talent prior to going to Club 202 for our Mardi Gras party...
... since it’s right next door.
209 W. Amberjack St.
(956) 761-6500
Right on the bay side of the island, just up the street from Louies Backyard, & next door to our Reality Mardi Gras Party at Club 202 on Wednesday nights.
Jake’s - Beachside Bar & Grill
The best bar food in South Padre. A little on the high side of bar food pricing, we think it’s worth it. Any sandwich here rocks.
This place is almost always full of tables of sorority girls & fraternity dudes drinking some rail drinks & eating.
If you’re looking to meet some people BEFORE going to the Inertia Tours blow out party, and want a little bit more laid back atmosphere, try your pick up here.
2500 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-5012
Sort of up the street (beach side of Padre Blvd) from Peggy’s Tattoo. Big red & white sign
Bubba’s Texas Smoked BBQ
Killer brisket & BBQ, worth a try. Lots of $6 dinner specials if you’re sick of fast food junk.
They also stay open late during spring break, and have great homemade BBQ sauce. If you’re not from Texas, you must eat this meat!
1313 Padre Blvd
(956) 772-8000
Across from Sunchase Mall & Denny’s.
Blackbeard’s
Grilled fish is the way to go here. They also have good-ass daiquiri’s and fruity-tooty foo-foo drinks for the ladies.
Our buddy Bryan Pinkerton’s favorite place for lunch.
The sweet tea is also very good to whet your whistle.
103 E. Saturn
(956) 761-2962
North Mid-Beach Location right off of Padre Blvd.
Club 202 Bar & Grill
Another Inertia Tours official sponsor, we do a lunch and a dinner here.
We LOVE the place, as Elmer & Evan, the owners, are great guys with a cute little restaurant at the bar right on the Laguna Madre water.
Sunsets? Well, they are incredible here, the best on the island.
Their fried fish for $7 all you can eat, with that view, is what to go for.
They also host our Reality Mardi Gras party on Wednesday nights during February, March & April for spring break.
We PACK the house, get their early, & visit up close & personal with MTV’s The Real World cast personalities. Everyone gets free beads & cheap drafts.
Inertia Sponsor!
Located near Jim’s Pier & Fisherman’s Wharf. Behind South Padre Island Bank, and about 2 blocks north of Louies Backyard right on the water.
Tom & Jerry’s
Burgers. Burgers of any type are good here. Don’t order the Ribs though, no good..they put Buffalo Sauce on the ribs, that’s not tasty. It’s a great local burger chain though. They almost always have a specialty burger with fries for about $6, a good deal.
3212 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-8999
North Mid-Beach Location on the main drag
Padre Brewing Co.
Funny thing is, not only is their freshly made beer tasty, their custom made pizzas here are awesome.
They also have really good fish and appetizers.
I generally do a side order of Calamari rings & a Cesar Salad to start.
Be prepared for a wait though, it does take some time up here. At peak eatin’ time a 30 minute wait should be expected.
3400 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-9585
North Mid-Beach Location up by the Flamingo Inn/Motel
Bryan & I eat up here for lunch all the time – it’s good.
Sunset Cafe & Deli
We’ve used Sunset Deli for years, and Joan-Mei the owner is always happy to see us. Why do we use them? Easy, they’re the BEST Deli sandwiches, not only in SPI, but anywhere in Texas!
I also like the quiche, and Global Groove’s Paul Magee dies for the Breakfast Tacos up there.
It’s so bad that I have a tab there during spring break that I run to high heaven & try to wiggle a discount! &mdash J
A MUST TRY restaurant!
Inertia Sponsor!
1004 Padre Blvd., located in Sunchase Mall, ground floor, right by the Inertia Tours Spring Break office area.
(956) 761-9400
Wanna Wanna Beach Bar
One of only 3 (surprised?) beach bars in South Padre, we recommend the Bacardi Anejo & Diet Cokes…their fried shrimp is really good, and if you hit it right, they also have DELICIOUS Rum Cake.
Next to the International Condo complex and part of the Island Inn, we think if you’re on the beach….yeah, it’s cool. The drinks are pricey, so come prepared…they also have beach volleyball out during spring break.
5100 Gulf Blvd.
(956) 761-7677
One block off the main drag right on the beach.
Super “Sit Down” Restaurants
Scampi’s
If romance is on your mind, this is our 2nd place winner on the island. They have really unique seafood, including their award-winning, although strange sounding, peanut butter shrimp.
The rare Tuna Steak is killer, as well as the Cesar Salad. The drinks there are also first class, and the view right across the bay is sweet.
The service is about a 4 out of a 5, or it would rank higher. Expect about $30-$50 per person, but it’s a great place to celebrate your vacation.
206 W. Aries
(956) 761-1755
Located right on the bay, north beach location on the island.
The Lost Galleon
They do the famous $5.95 all you can eat fish fry. You gotta try it at least once.
Lots of side item choices, but they’re so-so o.k.
Another good place for the Sweet Tea.
Always packed with Winter Texans, if you go from 5 p.m.–7 p.m. you’ll be looking at a wait.
(Port Isabel)
(956) 943-1301
Located right across the causeway in Port Isabel from the Island.
Bubba’s Texas Smoked BBQ
Inertia’s mom, Hilda, thinks this is the best lunch choice for Senior Adults on the island as the soups and sandwiches are not only specialty, they are delicious.
708 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-9331
The Soup Shack
The Soup Shack is the best restaurant near/on South Padre Island.
By far the best fresh sandwiches & soups… HUGE lunches.
The old Jacks management & cooks are there, and the burgers are also the best on/near the island.
It is highly recommended, open for lunch only. A must try restaurant 100%.
103 E. Saturn
(956) 761-2962
North Mid-Beach Location right off of Padre Blvd.
Pirates Landing & Sea Ranch
Sea Ranch Restaurant — South Padre Island
Pirates Landing (Port Isabel)
Our number 3 ranked restaurant (they have the same owner).
Sea Ranch is slightly better, since it’s right on the Marina on the island.
It earns a must try… Be hungry for seafood, though! Great service also.
Both restaurants are waterfront & very nice. Pirate’s Landing is a little bit more family oriented, and Sea Ranch is more candlelit & romantic … also on the island.
Expect to spend about $20 per person, the seafood is the way to go. Sea Ranch has a very nice wine selection, and I always take my family there since it’s slightly less than Scampi’s, and every bit as good.
Lantern Grill
This is the place for steaks on the Island. The prices really aren’t that bad either ($15-$20 per person).
A full bar is available, and I’ve had pasta there which was decent.
3109 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-4460
Located mid to North beach right off of Padre Blvd.
Louie’s Backyard
Well, Louies is a bar. But they actually do have what I feel is the best fajitas on the island.
I can’t remember what day is their $6.95 special, but it’s DAMN good.
Busiest bar on the island in the off season, recommended for getting hammered if you’re in Padre Sept, Oct, Nov, May.
The place is huge, on the water bay side, 2 levels.
It’s one of the most popular bars during spring break for the valley & people from Texas, (not our spring break crowd) also the drink prices are way too high…$16 for a Red Bull Absolut isn’t fair.
I mean I was just in the City (New York) and didn’t pay that, so…what gives?
We don’t use the place on spring break, too many valley locals.
The Seafood Buffet is also KILLER good, $19 per person…if you are a crab legs person, give it a try.One more thing, the low slung, suspended ceilings and confusing, casino carpet décor just need to be fixed….claustrophobic.
2305 Laguna Blvd.
(956) 761-6406
Windjammers at Radisson
Dunno about this. Hotel food… is hotel food.
The breakfast buffet is decent, but the lines to wait to get food are unacceptable.
I went there with my Mom and she was complaining up a storm.
Radisson Hotel
Beefeaters
My on-site staff’s favorite restaurant. Their salad bar is among the best we’ve ever eaten, ANYWHERE.
The Barbeque all you can eat is so-so fatty, but their roasted turkey rocks daddy’s palate, so we love it! Totally full gut.
The also have the island/area’s best steaks. I highly recommend Beefeaters. My friend Chris Brandriff & I from Original Tours eat just the salad bar there all the time.
Full bar, it’s a great place to hang out to pre-party on their drafts for cheap.
Port Isabel just across causeway/bridge
Breakfast Stops — The meal of champions — or at least good for soaking up last nights bevies!
Ted’s Restaurant
Super good omelets & pancakes. You’re on vaca, and if you’ve been to Denny’s any time besides after the bar, you’re stupid in the head.
Ted’s is also open for lunch, although I haven’t tried it. Well worth a stop for breakfast, I highly recommend it.
They do offer real Migas & Huevos Rancheros which are hard to find that actually taste good – these do.
West side of Padre Blvd, kaddy-corner across from the Travellodge by Bahia Mar.
Manuel’s – Breakfast Tacos
The best breakfast Tacos in Padre, in Texas, in the United States. I mean, they are about 1 foot by 1.5 feet, huge baby.
We’d have it on the meal plan if it wasn’t across the bridge… awesome!!!
You have to put your name on the list when you get there, don’t be intimidated; it’s located right on top of the candy machines just inside the door to your left.
The place is a dump inside & out, but it’s the food you’re after, not the ambiance here.
If you wander in back, you’ll even see the older Mexican lady back there rolling the fresh tortillas. Wow.
When you order your breakfast taco here, as it comes out to you, flip it over right away, wait 30 seconds for all the cheese to melt, and enjoy.
Building is red in color behind the laser-wash car wash.
If you think I’m kidding that you must try this place…well, I’m not. I eat out about 90% of my meals, it’s that seriously good….ask ANYONE on the island.
Port Isabel. Sort of behind the Laser Car Wash.
Denny’s
Well, we all love the meat eaters. The place will destroy you after the bar. Add a salad for $1.50, are you kidding? The place is packed at 2:30 a.m.
They never close. Yeah.
I’ve personally eaten every menu on the Denny’s menu since our office is right door, as well as Chris Mandala, our Operations dude. How many people can say that?
I’m still here baby, and I’ll bet you a million dollars I’ll eat it all again.
I usually snarf on some coffee as well, since it’s a bottomless pot.
We get a big hoot on spring break seeing extremely starved-up-to-spring-break-girls eating the Lumberjack Slam…and finishing it.
24 hours a day, right by Sunchase Mall. You can’t miss it.
Jim’s Pier
We like Jim’s for home cooking. They give you crap when they serve you about something, not like Dick’s Last Resort, It’s friendly!
They have tap beer, and a grill you can see, which I like because I can make sure they are not messing with my food.
Fun place out of the way. If you’re Grandma & Grandpa are coming down, they have this senior breakfast for $1.50.
Of course, they have beer on tap. Always somebody up at the 5 top bar sipping one.
Take Right off of causeway, across street from Schlitterbahn
Located near Sea Ranch in the Marina… has great home cooking.
Rovan’s Bakery Restaurant
Another long-time Inertia sponsor on the meal plan for all breakfasts. Why?
They actually have a chef here. The coffee here is the best on the island by the way if you like plain old coffee, and the huevos rancheros & pancakes are delicious.
We’re recommending it as a must try not only because they are part of our program, but because the breakfasts are good.
The menu is probably the biggest in South Padre, so this a place that can appeal to a wide variety of appetites. The all you can eat fried fish for $7 is real good too.
5300 Padre Blvd. East side of the blvd. Fresh made desserts as well. The lunch is good, the burgers we were really surprised…amongst the best in Padre!
Located North Beach right on Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-6972
Vegetarian — Because you are about eating right!
Naturally’s
The only health food place on the island. Good smoothies we’ve heard.
3112 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-5332
North Beach location in a bright aqua color building.
Port Isabel Health Foods
Huh? This is spring break toots! It's here though.
402 S. Garcia (Port Isabel)
(956) 943-7334
Seafood family restaurants — Huh? Ok...
Fish Bones
Don't let the name fool you, Fish Bones has excellent seafood, as well as excellent breakfast service. Located within Destination South Padre Park,
This unique restaurant is built over the water, on an enclosed pier. Offering
Hands-down the finest view of South Padre Island's causeway & bay,
All in air conditioned comfort. Their Full service Bar stretches way, way out on the pier, what is really one-of-a-kind is the fact that when large motorcraft Pass by, the entire place moves to the beat of the waves. Amazing.
BJ Pelican’s
Another $6 all you can eat fish place. This one is real decent also.
The side choices are very good with the fish, and for a quick bit to eat, it’s good.
823 Garcia St (Port Isabel)
(956) 943-8923
La Jaiba
Just had lunch there. It’s excellent, and a bargain.
$8 includes all you can eat fish and shrimp, soup or salad & bread.
You’ll be full as hell! We recommend it cuz of this!
Their building is ugly as a moose’s ass, across from Pizza Hut but eat there.
A MUST TRY restaurant. Stick with the lunch special.
2001 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-9878
Located in the Entertainment District Mid-Beach
Shrimp Haus @ Schlitterbahn
Inertia friend Jeff Henry has created an amazing, beachfront restaurant that has, quietly, starting cooking the BEST fried shrimp, or shrimp PERIOD on this island.
You get a salad bar with it. The ambiance is very good, and Chuck & Leslie perform live at dinner. Go there.
We used to have them on the meal plan, but you just couldn’t get up there for traffic, but GO IF YOU CAN!!! Or Off season or summer.
Generally have all you can eat fried shrimp with the salad bar for like $12, and they are delicious.
A MUST TRY restaurant.
Located at Schlitterbahn Waterpark, very south beach location. You sort of walk past the water park to get into it.
Open year round, beautiful ocean view restaurant (the island’s only ocean view restaurant now with Joseph’s gone).
Gulf Coast Oyster Bar
If you’re hungry for crawfish, they have it here, all you can eat.
They are Cajun based, and one of Inertia’s founders thinks the fried seafood sampler rocks this world.
You can also get really spiced up food here, if you have a craving for it.
Sandwiches & burgers are available if you aren’t into Cajun food.
3409 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-7867
Located north beach on the bayside of Padre Blvd.
Mexican Food — Sit down style.
Jesse’s Mexican Cantina
Margaritas, that’s what we recommend. Margaritas….
The chips & salsa are also very good. The Mexican food I personally haven’t had a good experience with.
2700 Padre Blvd.
(956) 761-4500
Located Mid-Beach by the Entertainment District
Bigo’s
Bigo’s fajitas rock – huge portions, really tasty.
I like the place because of all the Tequila selections…plus…if you server barely speaks English, I think that they probably are going to have great Mexican food.
Watch out for the bathroom, that’s all I’m saying, it’s rigged.
Located North Beach on the Bayside of Padre Blvd.
Palmeto In
Ok, the Chips y Queso...ROCKS!The PERFECT appetizer, BEST in the US!!! Chile con Queso with chips…trust me.
24 hours a day, right by Sunchase Mall. You can’t miss it.
Costa Rica Bar & Grill
The lunch specials here are cool, and Inertia predicts that with the right dude at the helm, this could become one of the new up & coming bars in South Padre.
It’s a long ways out north of the Bahia Mar, they need a free shuttle & it’d pack up. Right on the beach, one of 3 bars in Padre on the beach (the damn hotels don’t count).
The food is ok..I wouldn’t go here starving at this point…it IS on the beach though.
North of Bahia Mar, next to the new La Quinta inn right on the beach. Worth it to have a taco & a beer!
Extreme North-Beach Location …right on the beach
Snack Food — Burgers and Thangs.
Coconut’s
The burgers aren’t bad. What sucks is everything is with French fries, and I mean, that’s not part of a healthy, low-carb lifestyle spring breakers!
Also, the fried shrimp are worth an order. They’ve got good karaoke for locals or off season. Don’t forget Oysters improve your libido guys! Eat em’ raw with lime!
Marlin St. & Laguna Blvd.
(956) 761-4218
Located right on the bay/water next to Louie’s in the Entertainment District mid-beach
Oasis Snack Bar
Corn dogs good, popcorn good.
Open weekends & holidays only
Andy Bowie Park
(956) 761-6849
Dolphin Cove Oyster Bar
Beer. Beer. Beer. $2.50 can. Not bad.
Right on the beach… open weekends.
Isla Blanca Park
(956) 761-2850
Costa Rica Bar & Grill
The lunch specials here are cool, and Inertia predicts that with the right dude at the helm, this could become one of the new up & coming bars in South Padre.
It’s a long ways out north of the Bahia Mar, they need a free shuttle & it’d pack up. Right on the beach, one of 3 bars in Padre on the beach (the damn hotels don’t count).
The food is ok..I wouldn’t go here starving at this point…it IS on the beach though.
North of Bahia Mar, next to the new La Quinta inn right on the beach. Worth it to have a taco & a beer!
Extreme North-Beach Location …right on the beach.
Wahoo’s
Awesome June, July, and August. Get a Wahoo drink, and get bombed.
The place is located right on the water, beautiful decks to watch the sunset, or pre-spring break party at.
If the weather is poor, you’ll be outside, so be prepared for that. They have several specialty foo-foo drinks for the ladies, and as mentioned above, some, like the Wahoo, are very powerful.201 W. Ling
(956) 761-5344
Located in the Entertainment District on the bay.
