Southwest® flights to Harlingen/South Padre Island starting at $52

If you’d rather stay on the mainland side of the Causeway, Harlingen and the larger Matamoros-Brownsville metropolitan area have plenty for those who aren’t beach-bound. Lovers of flora and fauna can explore the Hugh Ramsey Nature Park, which is the partial home of one of Rio Grande Valley’s nine World Birding Centers. The Harlingen Arroyo Colorado World Birding Center is an urban preserve that stretches across several parks following the Arroyo Colorado waterway. Hike, bike, or bring your binoculars for some local birding.

Looking for opportunities for local color? Head to neighboring Brownsville, where there always seems to be a festival. Notable calendar entries include Charro Days—a local Mexican culture celebration shared with Matamoros, Mexico—and its sister festival Sombrero Festival, and the annual three-day Latin Jazz Festival. Art and history lovers will also find several galleries and museums in Brownsville, including the Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts and the Historic Brownsville Museum.

Experience the echoes of rich culture during day-to-day life on the Gulf Coast—plan your next trip to Harlingen/South Padre Island and book a flight to Valley International Airport with Southwest®. Southwest Airlines flies to Harlingen/South Padre Island often, which makes it easy to plan your next visit. Of course, having a memorable trip is about more than finding a deal on airfare. Learn more about the Southwest Experience and book your upcoming flight to Valley International Airport.