Over 100 tourist related stores with gifts, antiques, etc. South Padre Island Located on the Gulf of Mexico. Offers the best in boating, swimming, sunbathing, etc. They don't have shopping but they have great lake views and water sports. It is also a good place to retire.
Waterfront lodging is available.
It is about an hour drive northwest of Austin, and an 85 minute drive north of San Antonio. This quant village is very popular with the tourists. Visit the art galleries, wade in the creek, swim in the clear blue water of the Blanco River. There are a lot of nature activities in this beautiful little town. Great sight seeing.