From sea turtles to sunset horseback rides–the surprising family-friendly wildlife adventures of South Padre Island

When you think of South Padre Island, Texas, you might immediately conjure images of spring breakers and party scenes. (Or if you’re a New Englander like myself you might be learning for the first time that Texas has tropical white sand beaches, period.) However, this sun-soaked destination on the Gulf of Mexico offers so much more, especially for families seeking a crowd-pleasing blend of relaxation, adventure, and wildlife encounters. Recently I embarked on a press trip to this Texas Gulf Coast gem. Little did I know I was in for a wild ride–and no, I’m not talking about tequila shots and beach parties. If you’ve got a budding naturalist on your hands, it turns out it’s well worth adding to the top of your travel list.

A beachfront haven: Margaritaville Beach Resort

Our home base for a couple days of sun-soaked adventure was the Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island. Situated right on the beach and an easy 20ish minute ride from the Brownsville airport, it’s an ideal choice for families. The rooms are spacious with balconies to enjoy the ocean view and full bath tubs which are always a plus when traveling with kids in tow. On the property you’ll find multiple heated pools and rentable cabanas to relax in while keeping an eye on splashing littles.

The on-site restaurants offer a variety of options to satisfy even the pickiest eaters, making mealtimes a breeze. And for any parent who can’t start their day without coffee, don’t worry. Joe Merchant’s Coffee is situated right off the lobby, serving up the fancy (or not so fancy) caffeinated must-haves from 6:30am-10pm. (I am a picky espresso over ice drinker and must say, theirs was really good!)

The resort’s location also means that the sound of the ocean and the feel of sand between your toes are just steps away from your room. With 86 degree water, calm waves and plenty of shells to hunt, I could have spent the entire day parked right on my beach chair, dipping in and out as the sun blazed overhead. 

Sea Turtle Inc: Where conservation meets education

One of the most inspiring stops on our trip was Sea Turtle Inc, a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of sea turtles. Here, you get to see firsthand the incredible work they’re doing to protect some of the world’s most endangered turtle species, including the rarest of all, the local Kemp’s Ridley. 

In addition to rehabbing a revolving door of sick or injured turtles, it’s their seriously sweet residents that truly captivate visitors both young and old. From Cowgirl, a Kemp’s Ridley who washed up on shore four separate times to Poppy, the massive loggerhead who was permanently injured by a boat propeller, each one seems to have a personality. (They also each have a Spotify playlist you can jam out to when you inevitably get attached.) 

The staff here are like the rock stars of the turtle world. They’ve got stories that’ll make you laugh, cry, and seriously consider a career change to professional turtle hugger. (During an unprecedented freeze a few years ago, they literally took in 5,000 turtles to wait out the weather before returning them to the gulf. I can’t even imagine this undertaking.) While you’re there, make sure to attend one of their 15 minute Turtle Talks which are filled with fun facts kids will love to flex to their friends when they get home. Fair warning: You might leave with a new family motto of “Save the turtles!” and a sudden urge to ban plastic straws from your house. And while your kids might beg to bring one home, you can meet them halfway and adopt one to help aid in Sea Turtle Inc’s efforts from afar!

Horseback riding into the sunset at South Padre Island Adventure Park

For a truly magical experience, absolutely do not miss the sunset horseback rides offered at South Padre Island Adventure Park. Prior to our leisurely 1.5 hour adventure, I’d never ridden a horse in my life–now I’m contemplating how I can become a cowgirl at age 42. I was definitely nervous before we got started but within moments of hoisting myself atop Shrek, the good-natured fella one of our guides expertly paired me with, I felt confident and comfortable. The instructions are clear and minimal, and truthfully the horses are so adept, they didn’t seem to require much from the riders at all. 

As we ambled along the shoreline, the setting sun dipped below the dunes on the other side, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink, a view that was nothing short of breathtaking.

Guides lead the entire ride, pausing occasionally for stragglers to keep up, so don’t worry if you get a horse that’s on the pokey side. They also make sure to snap some great photos so you can brag to your friends (but also not get dumped in the sand while trying to take a selfie.)

Riders must be age six and up, and in addition to the sunset ride, they offer others throughout the day, including a shorter, hour long family-friendly ride in the morning or afternoon (depending on the season). The Adventure Park also offers other activities like zip-lining and a petting zoo, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring and having fun.

A bird watcher’s paradise: South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center

South Padre Island is a crucial stopover point for many migratory birds, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts of all ages. The South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center offers an incredible opportunity to introduce kids to the fascinating world of ornithology. With over 3,300 feet of boardwalk winding through wetlands, and over 300 species of birds that call South Padre home throughout the year, families can spot a diverse array in their natural habitat.

I know what you’re thinking. “Birding? Seriously? My kids can barely sit still for a Bluey episode.” Trust me, I had the same thought. But the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center? It’s like Pokemon Go, but with actual living creatures.

The center provides binoculars and bird guides, turning your walk into an exciting scavenger hunt. Keep your eyes peeled for vibrant roseate spoonbills, majestic great blue herons, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a peregrine falcon. Before you know it, you’re all experts, obsessively hunting for a brown booby or bald eagle. (Extra points for those!)

Face to Face with Alligators: The Alligator Sanctuary

Within the same complex as the Birding and Nature Center, visitors can experience an entirely different kind of wildlife encounter at the Alligator Sanctuary. This facility provides a safe haven for rescued alligators that can no longer survive in the wild. The star of the show is undoubtedly Big Padre, the sanctuary’s resident 12-foot-long alligator. 

The highlight for many visitors is the alligator feeding show. Jake, the fearless (and surprisingly full-fingered) handler regaled us with tales of Big Padre’s origins while enticing the prehistoric behemoth to the surface for a meal of pork chops. When I tell you I was not prepared for something so large to emerge from the murky water with its jaw agape. Holy smokes. The deep, breathy roar sounded like nothing short of an actual dinosaur. It was thrilling and educational, and provided fascinating insights into alligator behavior, biology, and conservation efforts. It’s an experience that left every kid (and adult) wide-eyed with a mix of fear and fascination. 

Beyond wildlife: Beaches and cuisine

While the wildlife experiences are undoubtedly the stars of the show, South Padre Island offers so much more for families. The island boasts miles of soft, powdered-sugar like sandy beaches perfect for building sandcastles, playing beach games, or simply soaking up the sun. The gentle waves of the Gulf of Mexico are ideal for lowkey splashing and wading and the temps while we were there were nothing short of perfection. 

When it comes to dining, South Padre Island doesn’t disappoint. Fresh seafood is abundant, with many restaurants offering kid-friendly options alongside more sophisticated fare for parents. Don’t miss the chance to try local specialties like blackened red snapper or Gulf shrimp. Pro tip: restaurants like Viva SPI have sunset views that’ll make you forget all about the sand in uncomfortable places and the inevitable sunburn on that one spot you missed with the sunscreen.

Planning your family adventure

When planning your trip to South Padre Island, consider visiting during the shoulder season (spring or fall) to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy milder temperatures. Most attractions are open year-round, but it’s always a good idea to check in advance, especially for wildlife-related activities that may be seasonal.

Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for nature excursions, and don’t forget your swimwear for beach and pool time.

A trip to remember

South Padre Island offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and wildlife encounters that make it an ideal destination for families. From the awe-inspiring work at Sea Turtle Inc to gator-feeding adrenaline rushes, from peaceful birdwatching to dreamy sunset horseback rides, there’s something to captivate family members of all ages.

By the end of your trip, you’ll likely find that South Padre Island has worked its magic on your family. Kids will have gained a newfound appreciation for wildlife and conservation, while parents will have enjoyed the perfect mix of education and relaxation. As you leave this Texas paradise, don’t be surprised if you’re already planning your return visit. South Padre Island: come for the beach, stay for the wild side. Just don’t forget the sunscreen. Seriously. Don’t.