San Juan, Key West or South Padre Island?

[busy mom]

We are looking for a beach vacation for our family, which includes 3 teenagers. Southwest flies from our location to Key West, San Juan and South Padre Island, and we are trying to use frequent flyer miles for our flights.

Has anyone vacationed at any of these locations? We would be travelling during the Thanksgiving holiday.


Any opinions and/or tips would be appreciated!!!

 

[Gumbo4x4]

We really enjoyed South Padre Island, although I've mostly gone for day trips (I used to fly to Harlingen, TX a LOT on business). Beautiful beach and lots of great food choices. I actually had time booked at Schlitterbahn over New Years, but we ultimately cancelled as it was going to be mid 40's down there that week I don't know anything about your other choices.

 

[Darcy03231]

We've vacationed in both Key West and Puerto Rico. While both were great vacations, I would do Puerto Rico with teens. You can visit Old San Juan (my teens loved the ghost tour there), the beaches, the rain forest, zip lining, scuba, snorkeling, etc.

 

[momtosam]

I love going to Key West, HOWEVER, it is not a good beach destination. Many people don't realize the shoreline is pretty rocky/crappy and not great for beach time. This suits me just fine as I prefer the pool and the bars, LOL. But it sounds like its not what you are looking for for your family.

 

[stsomewhere]

What about a cruise? Just pick an itinerary that has lots of ports. You can normally find a beach on every island. Key West does not have good beaches.

My teens love cruising.

 

[SplashMo]

Another thought is Clear Water Beach near Tampa. I always enjoy going there.

 

[dzndft]

My family has traveled to South Padre Island for many years. The island is small and easy to navigate. However, we have always gone in the summer when it was warm and all the summer venues are open (parasailing, jet skis, dolphin watches, fishing excursions, beach volleyball, banana boats, etc) The weather in late November may be colder and not as favorable for all the beach activities available in the summer.