Plush Hotel among South Padre Island’s Rolling Sand Dunes and Exotic Wildlife

Though the Laguna Madre lagoon is all that separates it from southwest Texas's mainland, South Padre Island still feels like a far-off natural paradise. Here, along its narrow beachfront, you’ll find 300 types of waterfowl, 40-foot sand dunes, and rare Kemp's ridley sea turtles. The Suites at Sunchase puts you in the middle of this relaxed, exotic getaway, just a five-minute walk from the Gulf of Mexico and a few blocks away from the Laguna Madre Bay.

After exploring the barrier island, you can retreat to the spacious guest rooms, which offer a relaxing rest spot with flat-screen TVs and an additional sleeper sofa. Further refresh at the onsite spa or indulge in a manicure at the nail salon. For dinner, drop by the upscale Calesa Grill for fresh seafood and wine, followed by dancing at the Casablanca Club, which is open until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

While at the hotel, guests should be sure to take advantage of the spectacular natural setting at nearby surf spots and scuba-diving sites. Head out on a deep-sea fishing trip to catch marlin and flounder, or simply kick back in hotel’s outdoor pool and hot tub.

South Padre Island: Inviting Waters and Diverse Wildlife in Quiet Coastal Town

Between South Padre Island and the Texas mainland, the Laguna Madre lagoon boasts excellent conditions for windsurfing and other outdoor activities. Full-service rental shops offer lessons and group instruction, allowing beginners to harness the steady breezes that sweep across the Gulf. Other sailing charters offer dolphin cruises, as this area of Texas is a year-round home to bottleneck and spinner dolphins.

A half-mile south of the hotel, Sea Turtle Inc. houses endangered Kemp's ridley sea turtles, an indigenous species that ranks smallest in its reptilian family. Founded in 1977 by Ila Fox Loetscher, affectionately known as the "Turtle Lady," the nonprofit organization was based out of her backyard until it was transferred to the current rehabilitation and rescue center. Tours include open swimming-tank observation and conservation education.