South Padre Island attracts families for Spring Break

Sea Life Safari

Explore the shores of Texas’ best beach, South Padre Island, for the ultimate family-friendly Spring Break getaway. From action-packed water sports, to bay and deep sea fishing, to engaging nature tourism attractions, and relaxing on the white, sandy beaches, it’s no wonder South Padre Island was recently named one of the 10 best destinations in Texas for families at Spring Break.

Here’s a preview of family-friendly experiences this Spring Break season:

Waterpark fun  

Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Beach Resort  One of South Padre Island’s biggest attractions, Schlitterbahn Waterparks are considered the best water parks in the country.  The outdoor water park is nestled right next to the beach with its own inland surfing attraction, uphill water coasters, and more fun than should be allowed.

Learn more about sea life.

Water sports galore Older children and parents can get active and take up kayaking, surfing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, stand-up paddle boarding or flyboarding. Rent your equipment and take a lesson from a variety of expert, local vendors.

Sea turtle adventures and bird watching. The Island is a nesting ground for the endangered Kemp’s Ridley species. Visitors can get an up-close look at these and other species of sea turtles  at Sea Turtle, Inc., an educational, rehabilitation and rescue facility on the Island. Also, the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, situated along the wetlands of the Laguna Madre Bay, features exhibits on the Island’s birds and other natural features. The Center includes a five-story viewing tower, viewing blinds, and boardwalk nature trails.

Fascinating sea turtles

Catch a cruise with the Black Dragon - All cruises include a crew of pirates entertaining with stories, face painting, treasure hunts, water pistol battles, sword fighting, booty, music and loads of family fun. Sunset cruises are also popular in the springtime.

Enough wind to fly a kite

Go horseback riding on the beach with Island Adventure Park. The riding center has a large selection of horses specifically trained to accommodate children and first-time riders. In addition to horseback riding, the park offers a petting barn for the kiddos and a zip-line course for the thrill seeker.

Hook a fish! Then, cook your catch. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy bay and deep sea fishing; Inshore or offshore, charter boats or kayaks, surf fishing, you can get bowed up no matter what species you’re fishing for. Even better, many restaurants will prepare your catch for lunch or dinner, any way you like it (think grilled, blackened, fried and more).

Information courtesy of The South Padre Island Convention and Visitors Bureau sopadre.com