Season lures travelers with wildlife, water sports and more

South Padre Island has a reputation as a magnet for families in summer and as a mecca for college students during Spring Break.  In fall and winter, however, the barrier island's white, fine-sand beaches and blue Gulf waters take on a new appeal.

The crowds are gone and lodging rates are economical. Air and water temperatures remain comfortable year-round, and all of the Island's activities, from birding and fishing to water sports, are still in full swing. Here's a look at some of the attractions that lure winter visitors.

Birdwatch by land and sea

The island's location along a major migratory route, and between the shallows of Laguna Madre Bay and the Gulf of Mexico creates ideal conditions for more than 300 species of migratory birds, making South Padre Island one of the best birding locations in the Western Hemisphere.

The South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, along the wetlands of the Laguna Madre Bay, features exhibits on the Island's birds and other natural features, as well as a five-story viewing tower, viewing blinds and boardwalk nature trails. For other birding opportunities, visitors can choose a guided tour or visit one of the Island's dedicated birding areas. South Padre Island also offers boat tours for birders to view pelagic species, birds that spend almost their entire lives at sea.

Take to the (warm) waters

While Gulf of Mexico waves roll onto South Padre's east-facing beaches, the Island's western shore offers its own serene charms. The Laguna Madre Bay has thousands of acres of shallow, calm waters for surface sports such as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. With warm waters and consistent winds, the bay also provides excellent conditions for more high-adrenaline pursuits including kiteboarding and windsurfing.

Join the Winter Texan community

The Island is home to thousands of "Winter Texans" who come to South Padre for extended seasonal stays. The main attraction is the weather.  It also helps that South Padre Island is an affordable beach destination for long-term visitors (for example, guests staying longer than 30 days can receive a lodging tax exemption).