Some vacations are great. But the ones where your dog gets to come? Those are legendary.
South Padre Island doesn’t just allow dogs, we roll out the sandy red carpet. From sunrise beach walks to dog‐friendly patios, breezy boat rides, and even pup‐approved treats, SPI is a place where your dog doesn’t just tag along... they live their best beach life.
So if you’ve been thinking about boarding them, don’t. Load up the leash, pack their favorite toy, and bring them along for the ride. Here’s everything you need to make it the best trip both of you have ever had.
PUPS OF PADRE: QUICK TIPS
We love your dogs almost as much as you do, and we want them to have the best, safest time possible.
- Leash on, adventure on. SPI has a leash law to keep all pups safe.
- Scoop the poop. Keep SPI clean for paws of all sizes.
- Saltwater is for splashing, not sipping. Bring plenty of fresh, cold water, saltwater will make your pup sick.
- Skip the midday scorch. Summer mornings and evenings are prime pup‐beach hours to avoid hot sand, pavement, and paws.
- Vet‐approved. Make sure vaccinations are current before you travel.
- Lost or found a furry friend? Call the Friends of Animal Rescue 24/7 hotline: (956) 772‐1171
WHERE SWEET DREAMS & MORNING WALKS BEGIN
From beachfront stays with Gulf views to budget‐friendly spots just steps from the sand, South Padre Island has plenty of pet‐friendly places to call home base.
All are close to the beach, so sunrise walks and quick sandy breaks are easy. Just check with your hotel for any pet policies or fees before you book.
Pet‐friendly stays include:
- Isla Grand Beach Resort
- Sand Rose Beach Resort
- Hilton Garden Inn & Suites
- Coco Beach Hotel
- Blue Bay Inn & Suites
- La Copa Inn Beach Hotel
- The Palms Resort
SANDY PAWS & SWEET TREATS
From colorful acai bowls to buzzworthy coffees, there's guaranteed to be a sweet treat stop on the agenda. Check out these dog-friendly gems that make it easy to savor a treat along with your fur baby:
- Baked Bear (free pup cup!)
- Kics Ice Cream
- Tropical Smoothie Cafe
- Cafe Karma
- Karma Coffee & Books
- Grapevine Cafe
DOGS DINE TOO IN SPI
On South Padre Island, dining out doesn’t mean leaving your doggo out. Scattered along the stretch of Texas coastline are numerous local restaurants ready to seat you and your furry friend. We guarantee that the sunny patios, killer views, and delicious food will set the scene for lifelong memories.
- Cafe on the Beach at Palms Resort
- Clayton’s Beach Bar & Grill
- Coconut Jacks
- Lobo Del Mar
- Longboard Bar & Grill
- Meatball Cafe
- Russo’s New York Pizzeria
- Bar Louie
- Dirty Al’s
- Jake's Restaurant & Bar
- Josephine’s Kitchen
- Nautico Island Grill
- Windjammer’s at Isla Grand Beach Resort
(ALL ON OUTDOOR PATIOS ONLY)
PET-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES
This isn’t just about walks on the beach, though you’ll get plenty of those. SPI is full of activities where your pup can tag along for the ride:
- Eh Brah Sup
- Captain Murphy’s Isla Tours (dolphin watches only)
- Sea Turtle Inc.
- Laguna Madre Trail
- Enjoy the Beach
Whether you’re chasing waves, lounging on a patio, or making new friends in the sand, South
Padre Island is ready for you and your pup. Because here, paradise is better with paws.