One of the things I like most about Texas is that you can enjoy the beach almost year ’round. While the Texas gulf coast can’t compare with the sugar-white sands and turquoise waters of the Caribbean and parts of Alabama and Florida, they do the trick for a beach fix. If Texas beaches are on your radar, here are some cool things to do in South Padre Island with kids! Aside from the occasional fluke weather, the Texas gulf coast is warm all year, giving you lots of flexibility when planning family fun in this area. While the things listed here are family things to do in South Padre Island, they can easily be adapted to adults-only groups.

This list of things to do in South Padre island with kids assumes you’re going to want to hang out at the beach, so I’ve curated some fun things to do during your non-beach time.

1. GO FISHING

I think South Padre Island is a great place to take kids for their first experience fishing. If you’re not sure how it all works, I recommend you hire a guide. You can read all about fishing in South Padre Island in this post about National Cook Your Catch Day. And, although National Cook Your Catch Day is in January, with the amenities available on the island, any day can be National Cook Your Catch Day. 

2. SEA TURTLE, INC.

Sea Turtle Inc. is a fantastic educational experience for kids and adults alike. This facility is actively engaged in rescuing sea turtles and educating people on what to do if they encounter a sea turtle. You’ll have a chance to explore static exhibits and see sea turtles in rehabilitation. There are also some fun permanent residents to check out.

3. SPI BIRDING, NATURE CENTER, AND ALLIGATOR SANCTUARY

This is a great place to learn about local wildlife. You’ll find 3300+ feet of boardwalk, 5 bird blinds, a viewing tower, and more. Check the website for info on guided tours and other activities.

4. GRAVITY PARK

This bayfront fun area offers lots of options for family fun. You’ll find go-karts, miniature golf, kiddie rides, and thrill rides with a great view of the water. If all the fun makes you hungry, there are lots of places to eat or grab drinks within walking distance. Nearby Driftwood Landing is a great place to watch the sunset. Check their website for hours and pricing.

5. BEACH PARK AT ISLA BLANCA

If your kids love being near the ocean but not necessarily in it, check out this fun water park. My kids LOVE a good water park.

6. ISLAND ADVENTURE PARK

Island Adventure Park is on the top of our list to do on our next visit. If you fancy horseback riding in the surf (major bucket list item for me) or ziplining, this could be your place. They also offer a petting barn, children’s play area, go-karts, and mini-golf. If you’re looking to organize a beach wedding or beach bonfire, Island Adventure Park can help set that up, too.

7. SEA TURTLE ART TRAIL

Sea Turtle Art Trail is a trail with colorful 5-foot tall sea turtle sculptures. If you’re looking for “most Instagrammable” in South Padre Island, this is a great place to start.

8. TAKE A SANDCASTLE LESSON

Our family has taken sandcastle lessons in Port Aransas and in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Both sandcastle builders approached sand art in totally different ways and I would absolutely take another lesson if I had the chance. The South Padre Island visitor's bureau recommends Sand Castle Lessons or Sandy Feet Sandcastle Services. 

9. DOLPHIN WATCH OR ECO TOUR

Head down to the Sea Ranch Marina where you can find various boating companies that offer dolphin watches and eco tours. These cruises allow your children to get a closer look at the natural sea life that lives in the bay.

10. SANDCASTLE TRAIL

The Sandcastle Trail takes you al around South Padre Island where you'll find various sandcastles located at different business. These sandcastles stay up permanently all throughout the year and are often changed to match the season. The main highlight of the trail is our Sandcastle Village where various sandcastles are located together in our entertainment district and showcase some of the most impressive works done by our sculptors. 

WHERE TO STAY IN SOUTH PADRE ISLAND

Here's a list of hotels in South Padre Island worth checking out:

 - The Courtyard by Marriott South Padre Island

 - Hilton Garden South Padre island Beachfront 

 - Blue Bay Inn and Suites 

I also recommend checking out vacation rentals on Vrbo. Renting a beach house or condo is more affordable than you may think. 

KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN SOUTH PADRE ISLAND

Most of the eateries are going to be family-friendly and cater to vacationers of all types. I personally recommend The Painted Marlin Grille and Ceviche Ceviche, although the latter doesn’t have inside seating – it’s strictly grab and go. Parrot Eyes also comes highly recommended. South Padre Island is also a big enough city to have a decent selection of fast food along the main drag. While I always encourage people to eat local, not everyone has an adventurous palate. Sometimes, the familiar chicken nuggets are going to be what makes the difference between a good day out with kids and a tense one. You gotta do what you gotta do.

SPRING BREAK IN SOUTH PADRE ISLAND 

If you're planning a family trip to South Padre Island, you probably already know that SPI is popular with college spring breakers. If you're a family vacationing with kids, hearing a late night dance party in the condo next door might not be the experience you're after. If you are planning on visiting during spring break, I recommend being very intentional about your lodging choice and pick a hotel or rental that might be less popular with the spring breakers.

 

Jill is an experienced digital content creator, essayist, and humorist. She is a proud Air Force veteran who spent 26 years in the United States Air Force and is loving her second act as a writer. 

She's married with three children and lives in San Antonio with her husband and two sons. She writes about adoption, adventures in Texas and beyond, and everyday mom life on her blog, Ripped Jeans and Bifocals, so named for being the oldest mom with the youngest kids.