Since our usual spot in Key West is not able to rent weekly we are expanding our thoughts. What is the weather like in February? Any recommendations for accomodations? Bahia Mar or something condo-like? We are traveling with an 11 year old and a 6 year old...both boys.

Thanks for your help.

Peace,
Chris

February is really variable at SPI. The water in the gulf will be too cold to swim in, but hotel pools may be okay. It can get cloudy and gray then; in that case, the air temperature would be around 50 F. If it's sunny, it may get into the 70s or 80s.

A condo is the way to go. I think the Bahia Mar may have some condos in addition to regular hotel rooms. It's a little isolated at the north end of the island, but very nice. I can't really comment on other condos, because I always stay at my parents' place, Puesta del Sol, on the bay side.

As you're making your decision, realize that there are two water-view sides: the bay (Laguna Madre), and the gulf. The bay side is only a few blocks (a quarter mile, max) from the gulf because the island is so narrow. You see the sunset best from the bay side, and it will be more sheltered from the wind. If you like sunrises better than sunsets, and you want to walk out your door onto the beach, the gulf side is better.

If you are used to Key West you will be sorely disappointed with South Padre. Padre is okay if you want to go there from Texas. But if you are used to Key West I would go somewhere like Destin, Naples, Sanibel the list goes on..
It really is not pretty there. I have lived in Texas all my life and trust me I do not think you will like it. You will have wished you had booked in Florida. I do not mean to be so negative but I don't want you disappointed.

I'm going to agree with Katherine that SPI is NOT at all like Key West. Just because two places have the same latitude doesn't make the water the same color, or the climate the same. SPI can be a fun place for families to vacation in the summer, but it is really different during the school year. SPI in February is usually full of "Winter Texans" who have come south in their RVs to escape the winter. Therefore, most of the summer activities, like the Schlitterbahn water park, will be closed since they do not appeal to the senior citizens.

Thank you for your honest opinions. I was just trying to find someplace where I could be relatively assured of warm weather. I kind of had a vibe that it wasn't the place for us but that's why I asked.

Chris