Baja versus Padre Island

[dllee]

Someone never visited SPID.
In Texas, you can surfsail any day there is wind.
You can surf or learn to surf at SPID.
There is the sound side that has the same wind and is mostly chest deep water.
Yeah, lots of semi fast food.
No hills for mountain biking.
No hot springs.
Snorkeling not as exotic.
But you're in USA.

[mac]

Agree with lhdr on every point. Best food value ever. Outside of the water features, and friends I know there, Corpus is a strip mall mess.

[windsrf]

Just back from 13 days at Los Barriles/Vela/Playa del Sol. Thirteen WS sessions over 7 days, out of 13 possible - if foiled would have been more. One day of rain (?!?). Flew down from SFO in AM via United and on the water by 2:30 PM.

Been there most years starting in 1996. Town is great for restaurant access, variety, walkability, and services - including almost free, drop-in medical clinic (used last year for strep throat). Farmers Market on Saturdays is another treat - excellent baked goods, fresh produce/fish, etc. Many Pickle Ball sites. Serious trail biking courtesy of Todd with BATS and Vela gear (Google- Barriles Area Trail Stewards). Family friendly, especially for non-water types.

Word is that LB beach/water much less crowded than La Ventana, but both locations have pros and cons I expect.

David