South Padre Island Attractions for Families

Stephanie W.:  Island Adventure Park in South Padre Island, Texas, offers family fun for all ages. Experience ziplines, horseback riding on the beach, a petting zoo, mini-golf, go-karts, and more. This is a great spot to spend a day while on vacation on South Padre Island!

Stephanie W.:  South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center has a must-walk boardwalk trail for families to experience. The nature center has a 5-story-high viewing tower, as well, that overlooks the conservation sanctuary. Among the many species who inhabit the area, you're bound to catch a glimpse of butterflies, alligators, hummingbirds, warblers, and ospreys. Get out those binoculars and head to this 3,300-foot boardwalk trail!

Stephanie W.:  Join Sea Turtle, Inc. for their Turtle Talks and learn about their mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured sea turtles! A visit to this marine life conservatory is fun and educational. They even have a scavenger hunt for your kids to participate in. Your kids will love this enriching experience to marvel and appreciate these awesome sea creatures!

Stephanie W.:  Enjoy a beautiful, family-friendly horseback ride on the beach, this would make the perfect South Padre Island family vacation photo! The Stables have sunrise and sunset rides that will give you breathtaking views of the ocean, or you can also schedule a ride at different times throughout the day as well.

Stephanie W.:  This “Christ of the Fishermen” statue is a must-see landmark in South Padre Island, Texas. The inscription at the base reads: “Father! Receive the souls of these brave fishermen who have sailed through this pass and never returned.” Located on Isla Blanca Park, on the south end of the island. There's also a mile of beautiful beach and recreational opportunities, covered picnic areas, and walking trails.

Stephanie W.:  Head to Gravity Park for some South Padre Island mini golf, go-karting (for kids and adults), trampoline and bungee jumping, a giant ferris wheel, and more. In fact, Gravity Park boasts the "tallest reverse bungee in the world!"

Sue Krawitz Tandoc:  Beat the heat at Beach Park at Isla Blanca. This waterpark features something for everyone including their famous Sand Castle Cove with sand castles in the middle of a giant family water playground. They have shaded, zero entry areas for the smallest kids and thrilling slides and tubes, tidal wave river and other water rides for older kids and adults.

Stephanie W.:  Dolphin watching is an absolute must when you're on an island, and the Original Dolphin Watch is one of the best ways to do it while visiting South Padre with kids! Their cruise prices are fair and family friendly! South Texas is home to many pods of dolphins all year long. From bottle-nose to spinner dolphins, your kids will love catching a glimpse of these beautiful creatures hopping around in the wild. Decide upon the best time for your family; trips conveniently run three times a day!

Stephanie W.:  Some of the best South Padre Island attractions for families are at sea via Osprey Cruises! They have so many different charter options for how to spend a day on the water. Check out their high-speed cruises, dolphin watches, deep sea or bay fishing, and more. This is an adventure you and your family won't forget! Kids especially love the Black Dragon Pirate Ship cruise, filled with cannons, fireworks, professional actors playing pirates, and treasure hunts.

Stephanie W.:  A visit to the Port Isabel Lighthouse offers something a little unique and fun to do in South Padre Island with kids. It's a beautiful monument and is the only lighthouse available to the public along the Texas coast! This historic lighthouse was built in 1851. Families can climb the lighthouse and see gorgeous views, as well as explore the Treasures of the Gulf Museum and the Port Isabel Historical Museum to learn more about the history of South Padre Island and Port Isabel.

Stephanie W.:  Established over 70 years ago, this refuge was created to be a habitat for animals in the area, including the endangered ocelot! Seven days a week during daylight, you and your family can explore this beautiful outdoor landscape hiking, enjoying bird tours, and fishing. Check out special events that are worth making the trip out for as well, such as the Ocelot Conservation Festival, or the Christmas Bird Count.