South Padre Island is ramping up its promotional efforts to enhance visitor engagement and community involvement, as discussed in the recent Convention and Visitors Advisory Board meeting on March 26, 2025. A key initiative highlighted was the bi-weekly text messaging program, which has already garnered over 1,200 subscribers. This program aims to keep local partners and visitors informed about upcoming events and activities on the island, with a notable increase in engagement during the spring break season.

The text messages, sent out every Tuesday and Thursday, provide timely updates on events, ensuring that both residents and visitors are aware of what South Padre Island has to offer. The initiative has received positive feedback from local partners, who appreciate the promotion of their events at no cost. The board encourages all local businesses to share their upcoming activities to be included in these communications.

In addition to the text messaging initiative, the board discussed the successful advertising campaign at the Austin FC match, where South Padre Island's branding was prominently displayed on jumbotrons and throughout the stadium. This exposure reached an audience of over 20,000 attendees, showcasing the island as a premier destination.

Looking ahead, a collaborative beach cleanup event is scheduled for April 22, in partnership with Austin FC and Pantalone's Tequila, owned by actor Matthew McConaughey. This event not only promotes environmental stewardship but also strengthens ties with influential partners, potentially opening doors for future collaborations.

These initiatives reflect South Padre Island's commitment to enhancing its visibility and fostering community engagement, ultimately aiming to attract more visitors and support local businesses. The board remains focused on leveraging these opportunities to ensure the island continues to thrive as a sought-after destination.