Fun Activities in South Padre Island

Fishing the Gulf and Bay La Copa Inn Beach Resort Kite Boarding / Windsurfing

Dolphin Watching. Bottlenose and spinner dolphins swim the waters around South Padre Island year round. There are several eco-touring companies that will take those who are curious on the waters to “meet” these intelligent, friendly mammals. Locals have been tracking families of dolphins for several years, getting to know them as individuals, each with unique personalities, and their stories touch the hearts and minds of visitors, as do those actual close encounters on tour boats or in kayaks.

Fishing the Gulf and Bay. With so many state and world records set in Laguna Madre Bay and the Gulf of Mexico waters, South Padre Island has a world class reputation among fishermen. Half day and full day trips in the Laguna Madre Bay and the Gulf of Mexico cost less than $20 or as much as $1000, depending on your prowess and how far offshore you want to venture. The list of species is as long as the gulf is deep: whiting, drum, flounder, trout, redfish, kingfish, Wahoo, tuna, marlin, and sailfish are a few.  [Top]

Kite Boarding and Windsurfing. Laguna Madre Bay separates South Padre Island from the Texas mainland and is recognized as one of the world's top windsurfing destinations. The sailing season off South Padre runs from September through May. Water depth varies from three to five feet, daytime winds average 18 mph, and the average yearly temperature is in the 70's Fahrenheit. Novices and pros come to sail the bay, the Jetties, Boca Chica, and the Ditch, site of some of the fastest windsurfing speeds in North America. Kite boarding is the hottest new water sport and South Padre Island offers year-round kite boarding conditions. Consistent winds offer beginner to expert riders near perfect flat-water conditions to hone their skills. Advanced kite boarders will enjoy riding the Laguna Madre and the waves of the Gulf of Mexico.  [Top]