Attractions in South Padre Island

Just like the waves, good times keep rolling at South Padre Island. Beach lovers know it. Kiteboarders and windsurfers know it. Little kids and big kids know it. Sun worshippers and builders of sandcastles know it. Ride the waves, birdwatch on the bayside, get an up-close look at local wildlife and conservation efforts, and take in sky-high views from the historic lighthouse. With the SpaceX Starbase as a new neighbor, you’ll even be able to watch a rocket launch from the island’s coastal paradise. Boldy go to South Padre Island.

South Padre Island Beach

South Padre Island Beach is 34 miles of gorgeous shoreline. It’s the epitome of the Texas beach experience, as it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and refreshing body and soul amongst the blue coastal waters. Get there early in the morning to collect seashells or late in the evening to watch the sun tuck itself into the covers of the gulf.

SpaceX Starbase
If you want to boldly go where no one has gone before, go to South Padre Island, where the SpaceX Starbase is only a short drive away. This futuristic launch site is where SpaceX both develops and launches new rockets in its continuing mission to reach the Moon, Mars, and beyond. On clear days, the island is an idyllic spot to watch launches and test flights. 
1 Rocket Rd, Brownsville, TX 78521

South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary

Have an unforgettable wildlife experience at South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary. Among the 43 acres of coastal wetland, you’ll learn about all the creatures and plants that populate the south Texas area. Visit the bird blinds, butterfly gardens, American Alligator sanctuary, Sulcata Tortoise sanctuary, and much more. 
6801 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597

Sea Turtle, Inc.

Get an up-close look at South Padre Island’s conservation efforts at Sea Turtle Inc, a nonprofit that rescues and rehabilitates sea turtles to ensure their survival. Tour the facility to meet the sea turtles, learn about the project, and even witness the release of hatchlings into the gulf. 
6617 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597

Beach Waterpark

A surefire hit for the entire family is Beach Waterpark, a Texas-sized playground of water coasters, swim-up bars, and play areas for kids. Don’t miss out on the inland surfing of Surf Rider or the Soaring Eagle zip line experience. The park is open from April to September, so plan your trip to South Padre Island accordingly!
33261 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island, TX 78597

Port Isabel Lighthouse

Get your history fix and a stunning view all at once at the Port Isabel Lighthouse. Built way back in 1852, the lighthouse still stands strong—no longer as a beacon for seafarers, but now guiding visitors to its unbeatable views. Being 72 feet tall and offering a panoramic view of the area, the lighthouse may end up being the most memorable part of your trip. And now that the Starbase is a neighbor, it’s an amazing spot to witness a launch on a clear day. 

The Original Dolphin Watch
Everybody loves dolphins, and The Original Dolphin Watch makes it easier than ever to get an up-close look. They’ll take you out on a guided tour by boat, where you’ll see the Atlantic bottlenose dolphins leaping and playing in the Laguna Madre. Zoos can be fun, but there’s nothing like seeing animals in their natural habitats.  
33256 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island, TX 78597