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Jess Merrill
Hula dancers perform at a Hawaiian Luau for retirees and guests at an RV resort in Mission, Texas.
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Jess Merrill
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Jess Merrill
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Jess Merrill
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Jess Merrill
Story and Photos by Matthew Baumueller
It’s sunrise on a warm August morning and a crowd has gathered around a couple of coolers on the beach. It’s not what you think. This beach is the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world – South Padre Island National Seashore. Gently lifted and released onto the sand from the coolers, are hatchling sea turtles, which migrate to the sea.
South Padre Island is one of the many attractions enjoyed by ‘Winter Texans’ who have made their own migration to Sleepy Valley Resort. Don’t let the name fool you, this resort is anything but sleepy. All the features of a luxury RV resort are here, but at an affordable price. From the light reflecting off the sun drenched pool to the effervescent whirlpool spa, from the 10,000 sq ft activity-filled clubhouse to the brand new petanque courts, you’ll always find plenty to enjoy right at the resort.
Those of you with an adventurous spirit won’t be able to resist the call of the wild from unique-to-Texas natural, outdoor wonders. The Lower Rio Grande Valley encompasses no fewer than 11 different types of habitat, including tidal wetlands and riparian forests; and this region is home to more than 1,200 different species of plants, 500 species of birds, 200 vertebrate species, roughly 300 species of butterflies, and over 90 species of dragonflies!
After hiking the wildlife trails and visiting the wildlife refuges (including the World Birding Center), revel in the Texas Butterfly Festival Nov 1-4 or take in a parade at the Texas Citrus Festival at the beginning of January. Aside from the events and natural wonders, the outdoors offers excellent opportunities for sports, with five golf courses just minutes from the resort, including the championship 27 hole Martin Valley Golf course adjacent to the resort, and world-class fishing on South Padre Island.
Need an intellectual break? South Texas has a wealth of museums and theatres to satisfy you, or take a day or weekend trip to Austin or San Antonio for some shopping therapy and a big-city fix.
Speaking of shopping, Canadians also find large discounts on medicines and medical services just across the border in Mexico.
Sleepy Valley Resort is a safe, gated, friendly and welcoming community that is family owned. With so many amenities and activities on site, and a variety of nearby attractions and events, you’ll see why so many Canadians love becoming Winter Texans year after year.
Sleepy Valley Resort
2301 North Abram Road
Mission, TX 78572
(956) 581-1871
Explore the unique character of Sleepy Valley Resort's sister properties also part of family-owned Leisure Communities in Mission, Texas by visiting: