South Padre Island, Texas

© Jeff R Clow/Getty Image

An endless stretch of sky. South Padre Island, Texas, USA

Located just a few miles offshore on the Gulf Coast of Texas, South Padre Island is the largest and longest barrier island in the state. Barrier islands like South Padre Island usually run parallel to the coast and serve as the mainland's first line of defence against storms. Connected by a bridge to the mainland, the island draws in thousands of visitors every year for swimming, boating, fishing, kite fishing or simply lounging on the beach in the sun. Another attraction is the scattered display of elaborate sandcastles around the island, created by professional artists from around the world.