Top 15 Things to Do in South Padre Island, TX

Thing to do (0) in South Padre Island, TX

Prepare to be amazed as we present the top 15 must-experience adventures in South Padre Island, TX, USA. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for breathtaking scenery, we have something special in store for everyone.

Thing to do (2) in South Padre Island, TX
Thing to do (2) in South Padre Island, TX

The Best Thing To Do in South Padre Island, TX

Beach Park At Isla Blanca

  • Address: 33261 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.2 (2999)
  • Phone: +1 956-772-7873
  • Website: Link
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    Thursday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

What People Are Saying: 5 Customer Reviews

  1. Spent the entire day here and was a good time. The rides are fun. The endless river is fun to float around in, but gets a little crowded with people in some spots. Had a good drink at the float-in bar but they thought my ID wasn’t real and that was a little embarrassing🥲

  2. Excellent family environment. Tickets are a little more than $50 for adults and $40 for younger kids. You can buy online. If you get there early; you can always find a picnic table to set up your ice chest and rest between water rides. They do charge extra for taking in an ice chest, but it’s well worth it. However, you must have someone watch over your belongings while you are in the water. Otherwise, they have lockers. They charge $25 for the entire day. You can bring all kinds of food except glass containers and/or alcohol. We’ve been here a few times this summer, and we have a blast every time. I recommend staying on the river if the lines are too long for the wild slides. Otherwise, you and your companion might get fussy by waiting times. We waited a little more than one hour on one of those rides. The river has a drop that entertains every age, so there is no need to wait on those lines.

  3. Came across this place because it was next to our Airbnb. Parking is limited. I recommend purchasing tickets online to speed up the process of getting your access bracelets.
    We booked a cabana. It came with a safe, 4 person tableset, two lounge chairs, 2 chairs, a cooler table, and a server. The food and drink menu offered with the cabana is okay and $$. If you don’t mind walking, there is a food and drink court.
    There is a food spot immediately to the right as soon as you enter the park. The turkey legs 🍗 are tender and flavorful; they have loaded mac-n-cheese (chopped brisket on top).
    There’s a dippin’ dots and a few other bars that served different drinks.
    The kids had fun and the staff was great for us.

  4. Beach Park at Isla Blanca was a must do for our vacation. I felt that if we did not do this, it would be regretted later. The overall atmosphere of the waterpark was great and accommodated for kids and adults of all ages. I would most definitely go back again, but once my kids are older and stronger swimmers. The only issue we had was waiting for the rafts that accommodated parents with smaller children. The park had plenty of the rafts, but it seemed that there was no regard to ensuring that those rafts were used as intended. I understand that it is hard to control all situations, but when you see adults and kids using these rafts as single rafts not as intended and there are plenty of other single rafts available it is frustrating to stand and wait for 30 minutes to try to get a raft to go for a ride with your kids, as you watch all the ones that accommodate your needs being improperly used. Overall, though, the sandcastle splash pad, the wave pool, and the Lilly pad landing accommodated well for my families needs. Definitely had a great time overall, just a mild frustration waiting for the rafts. The food selection and drink selection were great. The pulled pork bbq mac and cheese was delicious, as were the tropical redbull strawberry daiquiris. Would love to come back to this waterpark when my kids are bigger!

  5. Loved this place! You are able to bring in your own food and drinks at $12 a cooler.. there are restaurants in case you don’t..
    discounts for tickets are available at Juniors and the visitors guide.. lazy river takes you to slides.. kids area.. surfing area.. kids had an amazing time will definitely go again.. no parking fee

Comments are closed.

Making the Most of Outdoor Activities in Texas

Texas offers a wide range of outdoor activities due to its diverse landscape, from beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Mexico to scenic hill country, vast plains, and picturesque state parks. To make the most of your outdoor adventures in Texas, consider the following tips:

  1. Stay Hydrated: Texas can get hot, especially during the summer months. Always carry plenty of water with you to stay hydrated, whether you’re hiking, biking, or enjoying any outdoor activity.
  2. Check the Weather: Texas weather can be unpredictable, so check the weather forecast before heading out. Be prepared for sudden changes in temperature, rain, or storms.
  3. Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Texas sun. It’s essential to prevent sunburns and reduce the risk of skin damage.
  4. Appropriate Clothing: Dress in lightweight and breathable clothing during hot months and layer up during cooler times. Proper clothing ensures you stay comfortable during your outdoor activities.
  5. Bug Repellent: In some regions of Texas, especially near water bodies or in rural areas, insects can be bothersome. Use bug repellent to avoid bites.
  6. Explore State Parks: Texas boasts numerous state parks with hiking trails, camping facilities, and stunning natural beauty. Consider exploring parks like Big Bend, Enchanted Rock, or Palo Duro Canyon for an immersive outdoor experience.
  7. Water Activities: If you’re near the coast or any of the lakes in Texas, take advantage of water activities such as swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing.
  8. Wildlife Viewing: Texas is home to diverse wildlife. Enjoy birdwatching or keep an eye out for unique animals while hiking or camping.
  9. Food and Drinks: Texas is famous for its barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine. Embrace the local flavors and try some authentic Texas food during your outdoor adventures.
  10. Respect Nature and Regulations: While enjoying outdoor activities, be mindful of the environment. Follow park rules, leave no trace, and respect wildlife.
  11. Plan for Crowds: Some popular outdoor destinations in Texas can get crowded, especially during holidays and weekends. Consider visiting during off-peak times if you prefer a quieter experience.
  12. Bring Essentials: Depending on the activity, bring essentials like a first aid kit, a map or GPS, a camera to capture memories, and any specific equipment needed for your chosen activity.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can make the most of your outdoor activities in Texas and create unforgettable experiences in the Lone Star State.

Top 15 Fun Things To Do in South Padre Island, TX

Thing to do (3) in South Padre Island, TX
Thing to do (3) in South Padre Island, TX

South Padre Island Birding And Nature Center

  • Address: 6801 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (1960)
  • Phone: +1 956-761-6801
  • Website: Link
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Reviews:
    Lisa Boyett✭✭✭✭✭
    a week ago
    It wasn’t worth the walk down the long paths in the heat with 2 kids to not really see anything special.Not that they can control the birds. It’s not that expensive so that was nice. And we had fun feeding the tortoise and Gators. The staff was nice . And they had a free wheel chair for my aunt to use. One bag of gator food is plenty just FYI. Definitely feed the tortoise.
    Nadia Nabulsi✭✭✭✭
    a month ago
    Not a whole lot to see. Fun place though. Tortoises, butterfly, birds, and gators. 10$ entry unless you are a certain age. 8$ for 65+. $3.00 to feed either. 10$ adventure package where you can hold a baby gator and non-venomous snake. Good place to bring family. There is also a nice gift shop.
    Lisa Valera✭✭✭✭✭
    2 months ago
    This is a lovely establishment for nature lovers!
    Although it can get a bit pricey fairly quickly, if the money goes back to improving the property then I think most would agree it’s worth it.
    I would recommend going early in the morning before the scorching sun makes an appearance. The birds and animals are much like us and seek shade when it’s too hot out, so plan accordingly.
    Kiki kiki✭✭✭✭✭
    4 months ago
    We had a great experience here today! The man giving the talk about alligators was informative and very sweet. Lots of interesting facts and stories about gators. We fed both the alligators and the tortoises. There also are options for holding snakes and alligators, but we didn’t do that.
    Kainee Burruss✭✭✭✭✭
    2 months ago
    What an incredible experience! Enjoy the long boardwalk along the wetlands seeing all of the tropical birds and the fish down below you. Gator talks everyday & a gator pool where you can buy food for 3$

Gravity Park

  • Address: 106 W Marlin St, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.4 (1492)
  • Phone: +1 956-761-8588
  • Website: Link
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
    Tuesday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
    Wednesday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
    Thursday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
    Friday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
    Saturday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
    Sunday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
  • Reviews:
    Roberto Diaz✭✭✭✭✭
    a year ago
    Many different family fun activities to do here. The go cart track is really cool. The putt putt was fun with the kids. A Ferris wheel was added in the pst two to three years. A slingshot ride and a huge swing drop is also on location. The is a cool little sandcastle display as well. Bring a dollar for donations
    Brenetta D✭✭✭✭
    3 weeks ago
    It was fun. Each ride is priced individually, so you can pick and choose what you want to ride and pay for. On skyrocket 1,2 , or 3 people can go. The go carts are singles and doubles. They alternate which carts go for 5 or 6 laps. There were 9 single carts and 9 double carts in operation at the time we went. 57 inches and taller can operate the go carts.
    There was a cool sand exhibit there also. Hours at the time was 6pm-12am
    Ellen Campanelli✭✭✭✭✭
    in the last week
    Went on Tuesday night because you can see the fireworks from here while playing mini golf which was $8.00 pp for seniors… had a blast….they have a ferris wheel, bungee jumping ride, go carts for kids and adults……prices more reasonable here…..next to DQ to cool yourself off afterwards
    JustMe✭✭✭✭✭
    6 months ago
    Our family had a great time at this amusement park. As per the website, there was no food or drink accommodations, but it is not completely fenced in, so you can easily get to the local restaurants/bars right next to it. The go cart was $20 for 6 laps for 1 adult & 1 child riding double (child loved that he had his own steering wheel in his seat too to portray as if he was driving). I must say, we have visited quite a few go cart businesses in our travels, and this place has an awesome unique wooden track with different stories and the multiple laps was a bonus (most places are typically 3 laps & then you have to wait in line again) pricing was average (check other locations online). We also played the mini golf (has 18 pars). Very nicely kept coarse. Greens looked brand new. Paid 4 adult prices ($40 total) for 2 adults, 11 & 8 years old (only 6 and under considered a child- but knew this per website). The price was a few bucks more than the last mini golf course we visited of 18 pars, but this place has a more fun course, in my opinion. It also was fun just watching those who were brave enough for the bungee cord. It’s definitely a thrill seeking ride. We are hoping to have a chance to visit again before the end of our vacation trip. I suppose the only negative for me was waiting until the 6 pm opening time to start our fun, but seeing the place lit up at night made for some cool family pics.
    Stu Vars✭✭✭✭
    a year ago
    This place is fun. It is setup in a parking lot, what looks like permanently. There are no food or drinks available, though there are some bars and food trucks a little ways down, just not on site. While it was a little cumbersome that you had buy each ride ticket at the main tent, then present that to the attraction, it also provided a means to pace ourselves. We went like 2 or 3 nights. First was just mini golf, another was the cart racing, then we looked at the sand sculptures. It was just a fun thing to do after a long day at the beach and still be outside. The kids that were operating the rides where not at all interested in working, gabbing much to each other and checking phones nonstop, probably reading about themselves on reviews like this.

Andy Bowie County Park

  • Address: 7300 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.4 (1146)

South Padre Island Welcome Sign

  • Address: South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (564)

Jesus Christ of the Fisherman Statue

  • Address: South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (401)

Water Tower Park

  • Address: Laguna Blvd & W. Huisache Street, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.5 (212)

Laguna Madre Nature Trail

  • Address: 7355 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.6 (182)

Ka Motion Sailing Adventure

  • Address: 200 Pike St, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (172)

Sandcastle Lessons – South Padre Island Activities

  • Address: 3000 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 5 (145)

Beach Access #6 Seaside Circle

  • Address: 2412 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (134)

Beach Access #4 – Beach Circle

  • Address: 2100 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (60)

Statue of Padre Jose Nicolas Balli

  • Address: 330 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (46)

Island Fun Park

  • Address: 1201 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 3.8 (45)

Holiday Sand Sculpture Village

  • Address: W Ling St, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.9 (36)

Sea Turtle Hatchery

  • Address: Andy Bowie County Park, 7300 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (14)

In conclusion, South Padre Island, TX offers an array of unforgettable experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests. So, if you’re planning a trip to South Padre Island, TX, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the top

South Padre Island Birding And Nature Center

  • Address: 6801 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (1960)
  • Phone: +1 956-761-6801
  • Website: Link
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Reviews:
    Lisa Boyett✭✭✭✭✭
    a week ago
    It wasn’t worth the walk down the long paths in the heat with 2 kids to not really see anything special.Not that they can control the birds. It’s not that expensive so that was nice. And we had fun feeding the tortoise and Gators. The staff was nice . And they had a free wheel chair for my aunt to use. One bag of gator food is plenty just FYI. Definitely feed the tortoise.
    Nadia Nabulsi✭✭✭✭
    a month ago
    Not a whole lot to see. Fun place though. Tortoises, butterfly, birds, and gators. 10$ entry unless you are a certain age. 8$ for 65+. $3.00 to feed either. 10$ adventure package where you can hold a baby gator and non-venomous snake. Good place to bring family. There is also a nice gift shop.
    Lisa Valera✭✭✭✭✭
    2 months ago
    This is a lovely establishment for nature lovers!
    Although it can get a bit pricey fairly quickly, if the money goes back to improving the property then I think most would agree it’s worth it.
    I would recommend going early in the morning before the scorching sun makes an appearance. The birds and animals are much like us and seek shade when it’s too hot out, so plan accordingly.
    Kiki kiki✭✭✭✭✭
    4 months ago
    We had a great experience here today! The man giving the talk about alligators was informative and very sweet. Lots of interesting facts and stories about gators. We fed both the alligators and the tortoises. There also are options for holding snakes and alligators, but we didn’t do that.
    Kainee Burruss✭✭✭✭✭
    2 months ago
    What an incredible experience! Enjoy the long boardwalk along the wetlands seeing all of the tropical birds and the fish down below you. Gator talks everyday & a gator pool where you can buy food for 3$

Gravity Park

  • Address: 106 W Marlin St, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.4 (1492)
  • Phone: +1 956-761-8588
  • Website: Link
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
    Tuesday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
    Wednesday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
    Thursday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
    Friday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
    Saturday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
    Sunday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
  • Reviews:
    Roberto Diaz✭✭✭✭✭
    a year ago
    Many different family fun activities to do here. The go cart track is really cool. The putt putt was fun with the kids. A Ferris wheel was added in the pst two to three years. A slingshot ride and a huge swing drop is also on location. The is a cool little sandcastle display as well. Bring a dollar for donations
    Brenetta D✭✭✭✭
    3 weeks ago
    It was fun. Each ride is priced individually, so you can pick and choose what you want to ride and pay for. On skyrocket 1,2 , or 3 people can go. The go carts are singles and doubles. They alternate which carts go for 5 or 6 laps. There were 9 single carts and 9 double carts in operation at the time we went. 57 inches and taller can operate the go carts.
    There was a cool sand exhibit there also. Hours at the time was 6pm-12am
    Ellen Campanelli✭✭✭✭✭
    in the last week
    Went on Tuesday night because you can see the fireworks from here while playing mini golf which was $8.00 pp for seniors… had a blast….they have a ferris wheel, bungee jumping ride, go carts for kids and adults……prices more reasonable here…..next to DQ to cool yourself off afterwards
    JustMe✭✭✭✭✭
    6 months ago
    Our family had a great time at this amusement park. As per the website, there was no food or drink accommodations, but it is not completely fenced in, so you can easily get to the local restaurants/bars right next to it. The go cart was $20 for 6 laps for 1 adult & 1 child riding double (child loved that he had his own steering wheel in his seat too to portray as if he was driving). I must say, we have visited quite a few go cart businesses in our travels, and this place has an awesome unique wooden track with different stories and the multiple laps was a bonus (most places are typically 3 laps & then you have to wait in line again) pricing was average (check other locations online). We also played the mini golf (has 18 pars). Very nicely kept coarse. Greens looked brand new. Paid 4 adult prices ($40 total) for 2 adults, 11 & 8 years old (only 6 and under considered a child- but knew this per website). The price was a few bucks more than the last mini golf course we visited of 18 pars, but this place has a more fun course, in my opinion. It also was fun just watching those who were brave enough for the bungee cord. It’s definitely a thrill seeking ride. We are hoping to have a chance to visit again before the end of our vacation trip. I suppose the only negative for me was waiting until the 6 pm opening time to start our fun, but seeing the place lit up at night made for some cool family pics.
    Stu Vars✭✭✭✭
    a year ago
    This place is fun. It is setup in a parking lot, what looks like permanently. There are no food or drinks available, though there are some bars and food trucks a little ways down, just not on site. While it was a little cumbersome that you had buy each ride ticket at the main tent, then present that to the attraction, it also provided a means to pace ourselves. We went like 2 or 3 nights. First was just mini golf, another was the cart racing, then we looked at the sand sculptures. It was just a fun thing to do after a long day at the beach and still be outside. The kids that were operating the rides where not at all interested in working, gabbing much to each other and checking phones nonstop, probably reading about themselves on reviews like this.

Andy Bowie County Park

  • Address: 7300 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.4 (1146)

South Padre Island Welcome Sign

  • Address: South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (564)

Jesus Christ of the Fisherman Statue

  • Address: South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (401)

Water Tower Park

  • Address: Laguna Blvd & W. Huisache Street, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.5 (212)

Laguna Madre Nature Trail

  • Address: 7355 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.6 (182)

Ka Motion Sailing Adventure

  • Address: 200 Pike St, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (172)

Sandcastle Lessons – South Padre Island Activities

  • Address: 3000 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 5 (145)

Beach Access #6 Seaside Circle

  • Address: 2412 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (134)

Beach Access #4 – Beach Circle

  • Address: 2100 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (60)

Statue of Padre Jose Nicolas Balli

  • Address: 330 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (46)

Island Fun Park

  • Address: 1201 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 3.8 (45)

Holiday Sand Sculpture Village

  • Address: W Ling St, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.9 (36)

Sea Turtle Hatchery

  • Address: Andy Bowie County Park, 7300 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (14)

best things to do and make your visit truly memorable. Also, be sure to explore some of the other articles on our Depkes.org for further travel inspiration.

Your journey to South Padre Island, TX, USA promises to be a fascinating and enriching experience, filled with cherished memories that will linger long after you’ve returned home.

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