Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 956-761-3377;
www.flamingo-spi.com
;
3408 Padre Blvd; r $50-150; )
It looks like a chain
motel but the managers live right here and there are delightful quirks (like the colonnaded
Jacuzzi suites) that make it pure indie. Needless to say, the Flamingo is painted pink. All
29 rooms have fridges and microwaves.
Palms Resort
( 800-466-1316, 956-761-1316;
www.palmsresortcafe.com
; 3616 Gulf Blvd; r $70-200; )
This tidy
two-story motel looks right over the grass-covered dune to the gulf. Units are large and
have fridges and microwaves; some have granite wet bars and showers for two (no more
dirty backs). The beachfront cafe/bar is fun.
MOTEL
$$
Wanna Wanna Inn
MAP
MOTEL
$$
GOOGLE MAP
( 956-761-7677;
www.wannawanna.com
;
5100 Gulf Blvd; r $80-200; )
Much remodeled, the low-
rise Wanna Wanna has but 15 rooms, some with excellent views of the gulf from this
beachfront location. Units have either microwaves and fridges or kitchenettes. Murals in
the rooms include one with a spunky Flipper that is bound to be inspirational. The beach-
side bar is fun.
South Beach Inn
( 956-761-2471;
www.southbeachtexas.com
;
120 E Jupiter Lane; r $100-200; )
This 19-unit motel
is vintage 1961 but has been colorfully kept and exudes a fun vibe. It is a half-block from
the beach and has a pool, barbecue area and rooms with kitchens.
MOTEL
$$
Tiki Condominium Hotel
( 800-551-8454, 956-761-2694;
www.thetiki.com
; 6608 Padre Blvd; r $100-350; )
It's Ginger or
Mary Ann time at this wonderful Polynesian-themed veteran that plays the tiki-cliché to
the max. Large, two-story blocks cover the beachfront site at the north end of developed
SPI. Units have full kitchens and range in size from one to three bedrooms.
RESORT
$$
Camping
Camping is popular on SPI. You can choose an organized park with all the amenities or a
pristine, nearly deserted beach with no facilities whatsoever.
