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Family Fun in South Padre Island

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Let’s play a word association game. If I say South Padre Island (SPI), what’s the first thing that pops into your head? For me, as, I imagine, for many of you, the first thought is spring break. In fact, back in my younger years, a group of friends and I did visit South Padre for spring break. (We drove from KC, and I’m here to tell you, it is a l-o-n-g drive!) But like I, South Padre Island has grown up. Though it’s still a spring break destination for those college kids with boundless energy who think the drive will be super easy, SPI is becoming a great destination to bring the entire family! I recently returned to the island for a visit to learn about all the family-friendly offerings they have available, and I was really pleasantly surprised.

On my trip I stayed at the island’s newest hotel, the Courtyard by Marriot (Marriott.com, search “Courtyard South Padre Island”). In my travel adventures I’ve stay at several Courtyard hotels, but this one was a step above. It has a spacious lobby with a gift shop and coffee bar, a restaurant and beach bar, and pool and beach access, plus it’s within walking distance to several points of interest. My room was sparkling clean, too. Often photos on a website aren’t true to what you get, but in this case, my room looked exactly like the online photos, and the bed was comfy. I dined at the hotel’s restaurant, Bar Louie (it’s the same chain that used to have a location in Power & Light), and my burger was one of the best I’ve savored in quite some time. With a kids menu and a wide variety of options, it’s the perfect place to dine on your visit. And—bonus!—they have live music every night. You read that right. Every. Night. To know me is to know I love live music, so this was, of course, welcome news. Another welcoming bit of info is that the restaurant is strategically located so that you don’t hear the music in your room.

Directly across the street from the hotel is the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary (SPIBirding.com). We spent the morning there and, had the weather been better, could have stayed longer. Every member of the staff is so knowledgeable, and you learn so much about the animals that live at the sanctuary, including a bunny, snake and alligator. Not only do you learn about them, you can hold them. Yep, you can hold an alligator! Although I didn’t actually hold one, I did pet one—and it was really cool! An outdoor boardwalk takes you through 50 acres of wetlands, home to so many different types of birds. The avian critters were very active, and we spotted many species. Be sure to go up in the observation tower for a bird’s eye view. In keeping with the animal theme, make plans also to visit Sea Turtle, Inc. (SeaTurtleInc.org). Their mission is to educate the public, rehabilitate injured turtles and lead with conservation efforts, and they definitely achieve their mission. It’s inspiring to see the work they do and learn about little things even we in the middle of the country can do to help the turtles. The stars of the visit are, of course, the turtles themselves—and they don’t disappoint. Kids of all ages will love watching these majestic creatures at this must-see attraction.

Another place you’ll want to put on your itinerary is the Art Business Incubator (ABISPI.com) that houses some very talented artists. You can view their work and even visit with them. They also offer some very fun art classes led by actual artists. Kids and adults alike will enjoy tapping into their creative side!

Lest you think my entire visit was spent indoors, SPI has miles of beach, so there are many outdoor opportunities for families! Sandcastle Village (SoPadre.com) highlights more than 30 sand sculptures throughout the island, truly something to behold. Sand castle lessons are available where kids can learn to create their own sand masterpiece. In addition to checking out the sand castles, make your way through Sea Art Turtle Trail, which has giant turtle sculptures in different locations decorated by artists. Snap a photo in front of the turtles and earn a t-shirt. This fun activity helps you see many places on the island! Across the bridge is the town of Port Isabel, a quaint seaside village with a lighthouse to visit (PortIsabelLighthouse.com), along with many shops. But that’s not all! There’s a water park, dolphin and fishing cruises and water sports of all kinds! Kids won’t be bored with so many options for fun and even a little learning.

On a vacation, not only are the accommodations and attractions important, but also the food, and South Padre Island does not disappoint! The breakfasts I enjoyed at Josephine’s Kitchen (JosephinesKitchenSPI.com) and Yummies Bistro (Facebook.com/yummies.bistro) were standouts. They both offer an impressive number of options, and let’s talk about their coffee—wow! Both eateries offer a wide variety of coffee drinks that are as good as any specialty coffee house. For lunch, Padre Brewing Company (PIBrewingCompany.com) and Blackbeards Seafood Restaurant (BlackbeardsSPI.com) offer a large menu with so many tasty options. If you aren’t too full and have room for dinner, dining at sunset at the Painted Marlin Grill (PaintedMarlinGrille.com) is a must. I’m not one who eats a lot of seafood, but I would go back in a heartbeat to have the Chipotle Guava Mahi Bowl. It was delicious! The laid-back vibe, along with the delicious food and outstanding view, make it the perfect way to end the day.

South Padre Island offers so many family fun options. Paired with delectable food and beach fun, it’s the perfect place for your next family getaway!

KC Parent editor Margaret Sarver enjoys traveling and discovering family-friendly adventures to share with her readers!

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