Just need a place to sleep? These 'breaker-friendly properties will offer that and more and will also make a perfect fit for a tight budget.

Tip: Follow the Guest Reviews links -- you might be surprised by who gets the best ratings in this bunch!

Mainland: Why would anyone want to stay on the other end of the causeway? I can think of several reasons, including proximity to Mexico (should you plan to be partying there a lot); budget concerns; and a desire to only dip a toe in spring break (as opposed to the total immersion plan.)

Finally, consider Port Aransas. It doesn't have the activities or cachet of SPI, but his town has plenty of charm all its own... and it's closer to nearly everything.

Map Links:

• mid island
• hotels/motels