Museums of Port Isabel

While South Padre has earned a reputation as Spring Break Central, history buffs won't be disappointed here. For one entry fee, visitors gain access to three popular historic sites: the Port Isabel Lighthouse, the Port Isabel Historical Museum and the Treasures of the Gulf Museum. 

The lighthouse was constructed in 1852 to help guide ships through Brazos Santiago Pass; now it's the only one in the area that's open to the public (visitors are also invited to explore the ground's Keeper's Cottage). Located just south of the lighthouse and housed in an old dry goods store, the Port Isabel Historical Museum has one of the largest collections of artifacts from the U.S.-Mexican War, not to mention a theater and gift shop. Right next door is the Treasures of the Gulf Museum, a must-see if you're traveling with kids. Here they can learn all about what life was like aboard a 16th-century ship and get a good look at some of the treasure found beneath the waters of the Gulf. According to one TripAdvisor user, "We learned alot and my 6 yr old had fun too. Make sure you check out the front of the Port museum building to see the fish paintings."

You can enter all three sites for less than $10 per person, but each sites hours are different. Check ahead with the Museums of Port Isabel website before planning your itinerary.