Be Sure to Visit Port Isabel During Your South Padre Island Vacation

Don’t miss out on sister-city Port Isabel on your South Padre Island vacation. Port Isabel to South Padre Island is only a quick 10-minute drive across the Queen Isabella Causeway, right down into the heart of this gorgeous little port city. Its small-life charms and pretty views will enrapture you. So what is Port Isabel, TX all about?

family on south padre island fishing charter

History of Port Isabel 

For generations, the area where Port Isabel stands was inhabited by local Native Americans. It was called the Wild Horse Desert to its harsh climate, and Native Americans retreated to the gulf coast here as they were pushed out by settling Europeans further north and west.

The area of Port Isabel was initially formed in the mid-1770s as El Fronton de Santa Isabel by Spanish general Colonel Jose de Escondon. It was a popular fishing village for decades and was more formally established by Padre Nicolas Balli- the area’s namesake- in 1803.

For a hundred years, the area had a compelling history as a Mexican base and further as a place of operations run by General Zachary Taylor (future president). Taylor renames the area, Point Isabel. The Mexican War in 1846 and the Civil War circa 1863 dramatically reshaped the region, bringing it extra attention and notoriety. Just before the Civil War, the town was populated by eager aspiring gold miners. Thousands rushed to the point, scanning the fields for gold and entering along a rough route further south from Mexico. 

Travelers kept coming. This was furthered by the Port Isabel Lighthouse, established in 1852. The lighthouse was more than a cozy beacon for gold-seeking travelers. It was a pivotal point of contention during the Civil War, where confederates used it as a spying nest. This came in particular help when the union entered Brazos Island.

During this confrontation, the union took the upper hand. In an effort to thwart the union, confederate Colonel John “Rip” Ford removes the light from the lighthouse, thus making it non-functional for the union. It didn’t work, and the union held a strong foothold in the area towards the close of the American Civil War.

Most forts, including Fort Pol stationed by Zachary Taylor before the war, were destroyed following the conflict. The lighthouse was the only major site of the area to stand. 

The lighthouse seemed to attract a lot of attention, and it became the centerpiece for the area’s history. It was essential for traveling anglers, allowing Port Isabel to expand as a key commercial fishing point. The Coast Guard established a base of operations on the south end of Padre Island, by the lighthouse, and a channel is cut to improve travel by the beginning of the 1900s.

The history of fishing continues to this day. By the 1920s, it was marketed as a major sports fishing location. The Texas International Fishing Tournament in 1934 is one of the largest of its kind. This is all despite a point in 1928 where the entire city was underwater after a massive storm. 

The Port Isabel Lighthouse was always in sight. It stands as one of Port Isabel’s prime appeals and an iconic image of its city line. Visitors can see the lighthouse today, Monday to Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Thursday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person.

Overall, Port Isabel has had a storied history of intense storms, important conflicts, and tales of brave travelers from generations prior.

pirate sign in south padre island

Attractions 

In and around our top-rated South Padre Island rentals, attractions are aplenty.

The Black Dragon Pirate Ship is an enthralling interactive pirate ship experience, suitable for all ages. This adventure cruise carries you aboard a “real” pirate ship led by Captain Black-Hearted Andy, the “Scourge Of the Laguna Madre.” Experience the pirate life and learn a bit of pirate lore along the way. You can experience some swashbuckling sword fights and even an onboard mutiny!

It’s both a water-faring cruise and an interactive theatre show. Cruises depart at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. daily and typically last about three hours. We suggest arriving 30 minutes before departure to get properly checked in and fitted for the journey. Tickets are $38 for adults and $27 for children.

Plan Your Next Stay

Our South Padre Island condo rentals put you only a quick drive from Port Isabel! Explore our South Padre Island pet-friendly rentals and condos and plan your family’s next vacation.

The Black Dragon Pirate Ship is part of the Osprey Cruise company. We suggest exploring the provider’s other water-bound options, like bay fishing with the Buccaneer or deep-sea fishing for five hours with the team of the Osprey II.

The Sea Life Center is also a top attraction. Visitors to the center can see starfish, crabs, octopuses, snails, and more in both observation and touch tanks. It also offers educational-focused boat excursions. Visitors of all ages can seek dolphins and other marine life. The Sea Life helps accentuate the mission of ocean preservation and protection. 

shopping in south padre island

Shopping & Dining

Shopping and dining are plentiful. Visitors can find a lot of excitement right in the city’s shopping district, called Lighthouse Square. 

In this district, by the lighthouse, sits some acclaimed shops, like the craft, creative, and colorful Faro Mercado. It specializes in crystals and stones. There’s also the family-friendly Pirates Landing restaurant for an all-American lunch or dinner. 

Nearby, you’ll find the Laguna Madre Yacht Club. Contact the office directly for details on boat rentals, local events, and top attractions. 

Port Isabel to South Padre Island 

Directions from the many South Padre Island beachfront rentals to Port Isabel are incredibly simple. You head south on padre Blvd and cross the bridge to the right at the Queen Isabella Memorial Park. This is 100, or the Queen Isabella Causeway. You will drop directly into Port Isabel. 

Padre Getaways offer unprecedented access to this fantastic gulf side escape. Opt for a rental with channel access if you love to hit the water in an instant. Bring your boat right up to the dock. Utilize amenities like a pool with a covered cabana, picnic tables, Jacuzzi, and a short walk to the sand. Book today!