If you’re still planning your summer vacation, you just have to check out South Padre Island, Texas! This southern Texas spot has fantastic and exciting activities for all ages and all budgets. Whether you want to sunbathe on the beach or stay busy with all-day adventures, South Padre is the right place for relaxation and excitement!
Book a flight from the Harlingen international airport to start your vacation on South Padre Island! Keep reading to learn about some the amazing attractions and activities South Padre Island has to offer to get your vacation started off right!
1. Discover With Sea Turtle, Inc.
Visit the rescued turtles and learn about the need to keep our ocean clean for our aquatic friends. Their fantastic work to rescue, aid, and rehabilitate turtles is impressive, and watching them feed the turtles is fun too!
2. Explore the Birding, Nature Center, and Alligator Sanctuary
Take a walk on the boardwalk to view the alligators, birds, tortoises, and butterflies that live here. Keep an eye out for Big Padre the alligator! But be quiet when visiting his home, he likes to hide under the water when he hears loud noises.
3. Have Adventure on Isla Blanca Park
Isla Blanca Park is the perfect spot to camp on your South Padre Island vacation. With many designated camper zones, you can comfortably stay right next to the beach. They have water rides for kids and adults, and you can also walk along the jetties to search for starfish or do some surf fishing.
4. Navigate the Laguna Madre Nature Trail
If you want to go for a nature walk without getting sand in between your toes, take a walk on this trail. The 1,500-foot boardwalk covers four acres of marshland, where you can experience one of South Padre Island’s most beautiful locations. The path is great for taking an after-dinner stroll to watch the sunset or look for seabirds!
5. Experience the Wyland Whaling Wall
Visit the South Padre Convention Center to experience this beautiful tribute to marine mammals, and take a picture in front of the Wyland Whaling Wall to spread the message. The mural, painted to help raise awareness for marine mammals, is titled #53, “Orcas Off the Gulf of Mexico.”
6. Try Out Some Fishing Charters
Get your fishing in without the hassle of bringing your gear with a fishing charter! There are many convenient fishing charters to choose from, and some local restaurants will even let you bring your catch for a special meal!
7. Don’t Miss Out on Cruises and Tours
South Padre Island has countless cruises and tours you can take to explore the island! Dolphin tours, snorkeling cruises, dinner cruises, and sunset tours are available throughout the island. Be sure to reserve early to get a spot on the boat.
8. Expand Your Horizon With Natural Beach Access
There are many different paths to the beach throughout the island for you to discover! If you want to drive out onto the beach, you can head to the island’s east side to reach some natural beach access. Heads up — some of these more remote sites don’t have restrooms!
9. Get More Out of Summer With Outdoor Activities
South Padre Island has endless activities if you’re looking for something more exciting! From horseback rides to jet ski rentals, South Padre has you covered. If you’re visiting in the summer, find a comfy spot on the beach to watch the fireworks every Thursday and Friday evening!
10. You Can’t Go Wrong With SPI Dining and Shopping
If you’re in the mood for some authentic Mexican cuisine, locally caught seafood, or just a quick smoothie to take to the beach, you can find plenty of delicious choices on the island! Check out the local shops to pick up some souvenirs or beach essentials you may have forgotten.
Travel to Your Next Adventure on South Padre Island With VIA!
Get your vacation on South Padre Island started right by booking your flight with Valley International Airport! With loads of airlines and flights to choose from, you can easily find the one that meets your wants and needs. Let us get you there, stress-free, so you can head to the beach and start your vacation today!