South Padre Island is the perfect starting point to many golf courses in the area. South Padre Island Golf Club, although not actually located on South Padre Island, is the closest public championship golf course to the island. It is a short 20 minute drive away.

Located within a 30-45 minute drive of South Padre Island are many other fine golf courses.

In Brownsville, which is about 30 minutes from South Padre Island,  you can check out the Valley Inn & Country Club or in neighboring Rancho Viejo is the Rancho Viejo Country Club .

In Harlingen, which is about 45 minutes from South Padre Island, try the Treasure Hills Country Club, or the Tony Butler Municipal Golf Course.