Guest Author - Marilyn Crain

So, you’re all set for a week-long vacation on South Padre Island, but can’t decide where to stay. Think about it for a moment. After a day of fun on the beach what could be better than heading back to your home away from home—a hotel room? Not a chance, instead, think beach house.

Why Rent a Beach House?

The simple answer is “because its there.” You have the choice. Is it a hotel room or suite, with maid service and room service? Or, is it the comfort, space and freedom of a South Padre Island beach house? Beach houses offer all the comforts of home, sometimes much more.

You will be able to do what you want to do when you wish, without being concerned about disturbing family members or neighboring hotel guests. With bedrooms for everyone and plenty of living space, if you can’t sleep you can get up and read a book or enjoy the sounds of the ocean from the deck, without waking any one.

As to cost, many times, if you choose carefully you can enjoy a beach house for the same amount as a hotel room or suite. You’ll also have the choice of eating in if you’re on a tight budget.

When to Rent a Beach House

With its mild climate, South Padre Island beach houses can be rented any time of year. Summer, of course, would be prime vacation time, but also the most crowded. And spring is time for Spring Break which is definitely not the time for a family vacation on SPI. Many visitors prefer the fall and even the winter. So the possibilities are wide open.

Beach House Choices

Since South Padre Island is only three blocks wide in most areas, any location is a good location for a beach house. You can choose from ocean view, interior (center block) or bayside. No matter where the home is located, you’ll be very close to the beach and a wide range of great restaurants. For most visitors the ocean view would be first choice. The homes without a water view tend to be less expensive.

Beach houses range from condos and townhomes to single family homes with one to five or more bedrooms. Some have tiny balconies overlooking the ocean, while others in the interior block may offer beautiful outdoor living areas. On the bayside you may have access to a fishing pier.

Beach House Amenities

You can expect fully-equipped kitchens, telephone, cable TV and air-conditioning. Almost all rentals on the Island provide linens. Some have a washer and dryer. Those are the basics, so it goes up from there. Some beach houses are beautifully decorated, upscale homes while others are comfortable, but well-used cottages. A few rentals even offer hot tubs and pools right in the back yard or on the property.

Considerations

Don’t make any assumptions when selecting and reserving a beach house. Go through a reputable property manager. Ask questions about the location and condition of the property and the amenities provided. Address your expectations and those of the owner. Smoking, pets and cancellation policies are some areas of concern. Ask for pictures of the home. With the ease of emailing photos or viewing them online, there is really no reason not to see exactly what you’re getting for your money.

A Final Word

Spending your vacation in a beautiful, and comfortable, beach house on South Padre Island can be “a dream come true” for you and your family. Just do your homework and make an informed choice. Then pack your bag, your camera, sunscreen and a bunch of beach towels and head out for fun on the beach and in the water.