13 Fun Activities South Padre Island
Fun activities are easy to find on South Padre Island. Not only will you find miles of beautiful beaches, but there are fun activities for adventure seekers, nature lovers, children, and families. For instance, boating, fishing, diving, surfing, kiteboarding, and simply lounging on the beach. South Padre Island, Texas, is perfect for families and outdoor lovers!
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13 Fun Activities South Padre Island
Chill at the Beach
I must confess the beach is my favorite, and of course, South Padre has plenty of fabulous beaches to enjoy. It’s easy to spend your time strolling along the beach, sunbathing, and body surfing as well. In addition to these fun activities, South Padre is also a great place for windsurfers and kiteboarders. Not to mention, kids will love spending hours building sand castles on the beach.
Isla Blanca Park
On the south end of the island, you will find Isla Blanca Park. Not only does this park offer some of the prettiest beaches on the island, it is also home to El Cristo de los Pescadores (Christ of the Fishermen). This colossal statue is one of the most visited spots on South Padre. In addition, some other fun activities include great fishing spots, playgrounds, and boating facilities. As a matter of fact, you can find all sorts of water sports to enjoy and a full-service marina.
Laguna Madre Trail
The Laguna Madre Trail is a great way to experience both nature and bird lovers. This free trail begins at the South Padre Island Convention Center and continues to the Laguna Madre wetlands. Not only is this trail a unique look into the wetland ecosystem, but over 300 bird species visit this area yearly. For that reason, it’s a great place to view them in their natural habitat.
South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary
Of course, if you would like to learn even more about the animals that call this area home, then head next door to the SPI Birding Center. Not only do you have more bird-watching opportunities from a five-story viewing tower, but it’s also now an alligator sanctuary. You’ll be able to see different bird and butterfly species as well as alligators and possibly other local wildlife. Admission to the center costs $6 for adults, $5 for students and $3 for children. Visit the nature center’s website for more information.
Sea Turtle Inc
Founded in 1977 by Ila Loetscher, Sea Turtle, Inc. was established to help protect all species of marine turtles. If you want to see these fascinating creatures up close, this is the place to go. The team offers presentations about turtle conservation, not to mention kid-friendly activities to teach children how to identify different types of sea turtles. There is also a scavenger hunt that is a hit with the kids. You also have the opportunity to “adopt” individual sea turtles and nests, the proceeds of which go to help the center’s conservation programs. Be sure to visit the website in advance to see what kind of fun activities will be happening when you visit. There is a small donation fee to enter.
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Beach Waterpark at Isla Blanca
If you get tired of the beach, head over to the Beach Waterpark at Isla Blanca. Here, you’ll find water rides, a surfing machine, a hot tub bar, and a giant sandcastle play area that will amuse you. Of course, there are numerous options for lunch if you get hungry. Even better is the fact that you can also bring your picnic lunch and snacks.
Visit the Port Isabel Lighthouse
One of the best fun activities if you need a break from the beach or it rains is the Port Isabel Lighthouse. The lighthouse was constructed in 1852 to help guide ships through Brazos Santiago Pass. Currently, it’s the only one open to the Gulf Coast public. You are also invited to explore the ground’s keeper’s cottage next door. Climbing to the top of the lighthouse is great fun for the kids and educational. In addition to the lighthouse, you can visit the Port Isabel Historical Museum and the Treasures of the Gulf Museum. Tickets are discounted if you visit all three. Additionally, Port Isabel is a great place for a sunset photo op.
Dolphin Research & Sea Life Nature Center
Dolphin Research & Sea Life Nature Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to being a voice for sea life and dolphins. The center offers visitors unique encounters with many of the marine animals native to the area. There are aquariums featuring live fish, starfish, crabs, octopus, snails, and many other exciting creatures. They even have touch tanks so visitors can get hands-on and discover! You can also take a dolphin tour to see the dolphins in their natural habitat and learn more. The dolphin tours are $25 per person and are limited to six people per trip.
Explore the Sandcastle Trail
Another fun activity to do in South Padre is building sand castles. Considering there are miles and miles of wide open beaches and tons of sand, it’s the perfect place to build them. Due to the popularity of the numerous sandcastles built by local artists and others worldwide, you can explore the Sandcastle Trail. You can have hours of fun trying to find them all. There is currently an initiative to rebuild, sustain, and grow more castles on the island. If you want to learn to build a masterpiece, you can also take lessons. You can find all your available options here.
Go-Karts, Mini Golf & a Ferris Wheel
Gravity Park has many fun activities for kids of all ages and features the Rocket, the tallest reverse bungee in the world. In addition, there is a Skycoaster (Giant Swing), a multi-level Adult Go-Kart track, and children’s Go-Karts. There is also a Mini-Golf, a Ferris wheel, a Trampoline Ride, an Arcade, and a Climbing Wall as well.
Sunset Horseback Rides
Horseback riding on the beach is fun for everyone! Not only is this a great activity option for families and couples, but also for friends and solo travelers. The Stables and Island Adventure Park both offer sunset horseback rides.
Go Fishing
The Gulf of Mexico is known for great seafood, so if you’re feeling adventurous, why not catch some for yourself? Restaurants like Pier 19 will even cook it for you. There are numerous charter fishing services to choose from, and you can find a complete list here.
Enjoy the Fireworks
Lastly, Clayton’s Beach Bar offers free fireworks all summer long on Friday and Saturday nights!
Finally, I hope this Fun Activities South Padre Island post excites you to plan your next vacation! It is a perfect destination for the Spring, Summer, or Fall!
If you’re looking for more things to do in Texas, then check out our Family Friendly Things to Do on Galveston Island.
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