South Padre Island is a great place for kids of all ages. There are plenty of things to do to keep them entertained, whether it’s exploring the beautiful beaches, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or enjoying the many activities and attractions that the island has to offer.
For those who love the outdoors, there’s plenty to do on South Padre. Kids can build sandcastles and hunt for shells on the beach, go kayaking or fishing in the lagoon, or explore the nature trails. There’s also a water park and a playground for them to enjoy.
If your kids are looking for a little more excitement, they can try their hand at parasailing or windsurfing, go whale watching or deep sea fishing, or take a ride on a banana boat or Jet Ski.
No matter what your kids are interested in, they’re sure to find something to do on South Padre Island.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In South Padre Island, Texas
1. Visit the South Padre Island Dolphin Research and Sealife Nature Center
The South Padre Island Dolphin Research and Sealife Nature Center is a great place to learn about and see dolphins and other sea life up close. Visitors can take part in dolphin encounters, feedings, and educational presentations. The center also has a touch tank where kids can pet stingrays and horseshoe crabs.
2. Go on a Sea Turtle Release
Sea turtle releases are offered seasonally on South Padre Island. Visitors can help release newly hatched turtles into the wild and learn about the efforts to protect these endangered animals.
3. Visit the Laguna Madre Nature Trail
The Laguna Madre Nature Trail is a short, easy trail that winds through the dunes and salt flats of South Padre Island. Along the way, visitors can check out the interpretive signs to learn about the local plants and animals.
4. Collect Shells on the Beach
South Padre Island is known for its beautiful beaches and great shelling. kids can spend hours combing the sand for pretty shells to take home.
5. Go Kiteboarding or Windsurfing
South Padre Island is a great place to try out kiteboarding or windsurfing. The island’s beaches offer wide open spaces and steady winds, perfect for learning how to ride the waves.
6. Play Miniature Golf
South Padre Island has several miniature golf courses where kids can putt their way through pirate ships, dinosaurs, and other fun themes.
7. Rent Bikes or ATVs
Renting bikes or ATVs is a great way to explore South Padre Island. There are several miles of paved trails perfect for biking, and the ATVs can be taken out onto the beach.
8. Go Deep Sea Fishing
Kids can try their hand at deep sea fishing on one of South Padre Island’s many charter boats. They’ll have a chance to reel in some big fish and learn about the local fishing industry.
9. Play in the Spray Park
The South Padre Island spray park is a great place for kids to cool off on a hot day. They can run through the sprinklers, play in the water jets, and slide down the waterslide.
10. Visit the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center
The South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is a great place to learn about the local bird species and see them up close. The center has a number of bird feeders and education exhibits.