The view from the Laguna Madre Bay is breathtaking — especially at sunset. Soak in the stunning views with an equally amazing meal at any of the many bayside restaurants South Padre Island has to offer.

The Painted Marlin Grille

the painted marlin

Address: 202 W Whiting St, South Padre Island, TX 78597 | Hours: Sunday through Thursday 11am–8pm, Friday & Saturday 11am–10pm Phone: (956) 761-2977 | Website

The Painted Marlin Grille is one of the newest restaurants on the Island. It’s family friendly and offers up a gorgeous view of the sunset over the Laguna Madre Bay. Live music by local talent completes the ambiance most days of the week, and the food choices have a little something for everyone. Try one of their fabulously fruity cocktails and enjoy the ceviche or catch of the day. If nothing else, go for the view — it's breathtaking every time.

Parrot Eyes

Photo by Marina John – Mommie Snippets

Address: 5801 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597 | Hours: Monday through Thursday 9am–8:45pm, Friday, Saturday & Sunday 9am–9pm Phone: 956-772-9040 | Website

Savor American, Mexican, and Cajun flavors at this Island staple. The blackened fish tacos come highly recommended or you can opt to bring in your own fresh caught seafood. The chef will prepare your catch how you like — blackened, fried or grilled. Take advantage of the full service bar and unwind with some awesome views. If you sit on the patio you may even see some paddle-boarders or kayakers!

Sea Ranch Restaurant & Bar

Address: 33330 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island, TX 78597 | Hours: Sunday through Wednesday4:30-8:30pm, Thursday 4:30-9pm, Friday & Saturday 4:30-9:30pm Phone: (956) 761-2977 | Website

For upscale seafood and a table with a view, you can’t beat Sea Ranch Restaurant & Bar. The seafood is fresh and carefully prepared, the wait staff is top notch, and the wine list has every variety you could want. Sea Ranch serves up fresh red snapper, lobster, pasta dishes, delicious desserts and more. It’s the perfect spot for a special occasion or date night.

More Bayside Dining

Coconuts Bar & Grill

Address: 2301 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597 | Hours: Monday through Sunday 10am–2am Phone: (956) 761-4218 | Website

Dirty Al's

Address: 33396 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island, TX 78597 | Hours: Monday through Sunday 11am–8pm Phone: 956) 761-4901 | Website

Laguna BOB

Address: 2401 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597 | Hours: Monday through Sunday 11:30am–2am Phone: (956) 433-5499 | Website

Lobo Del Mar Cafe

Address: 204 West Palm street, South Padre Island, TX 78597 | Hours: Monday through Sunday 11am–12am Phone: (808) 640-4891 | Website

LongBoard Bar & Grill (New!)

Address: 205 W Palm St, South Padre Island, TX 78597 | Hours: Monday through Sunday 4pm–2am Phone: (956) 772 7022 | Website

Louie's Backyard

Address: 2305 Laguna Blvd, S Padre Island, TX 78597 | Hours: Monday through Sunday 5pm–2am Phone: (956) 761-6406 | Website

Tequila Sunset

Address: 200 W, Pike St, South Padre Island, TX 78597 | Hours: Monday through Friday 3pm–2am, Saturday & Sunday 12pm–2am Phone: (956) 761-6198 | Website

* Tequila Sunset does not serve food, but they always have food trucks. You can grab some grub from their rotating cast of vendors and enjoy it with a drink and a view. *