Community & Area Attractions

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AQUATIC & ANIMAL ACTIVITIES

Sea Turtle, Inc  was founded in 1977 by Ila Fox Loetscher, better known as "The Turtle Lady of South Padre Island. Originally this organization was formed to aid in the protection and recovery of the endangered Kemp's ridley sea turtle. 6617 Padre Blvd. 956-761-4511

UTPA Coastal Studies Lab The Coastal Studies Laboratory (CSL), established as a marine biology laboratory in 1973 in Isla Blanca Park on South Padre Island, was reorganized and expanded in 1985 with a concentration on University education, public education and coastal research. Isla Blanca Park 956-761-2644

Sealife Center An up close look at numerous locally indigenous sea creatures, as well as Educational programs. This facility is an excellent attraction for families interested in nature and marine life. Dolphin and bird watching boat tours also available. 110 North Garcia 956-943-6626

Island Equestrian Center Come see us soon and enjoy the memorable experience of riding horseback on the beach of South Padre Island!1 mile north of Convention Center 956-761-4677

Gladys Porter Zoo The Gladys Porter Zoo is an oasis nestled in the center of Brownsville, Texas. With 26 acres of lush tropical plants and some 1,600 animals, the Gladys Porter Zoo is known for its successes in breeding endangered species of wildlife. Brownsville 956-546-2177

MOVIE THEATER

Island Cinema Early shows on rainy days. Open Daily 4700 Padre Blvd. 956-761-7828

MUSEUMS & PLACES OF INTEREST

South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center The South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is the Rio Grande Valley's premier destination for birdwatching. Our unique location on South Padre Island is the perfect place to observe the birds, butterflies and natural wildlife in coastal South Texas. Visit us on South Padre Island, walk the bayfront boardwalks, take a birding tour and explore the nature center. 6801 Padre Blvd 956-243-8179

Padre Island Traders and Beachcombers Museum located centrally in South Padre Island.  From ornate driftwood to Spanish Gold to Civil War relics to shells and other natural items from the sea, the shop and museum are packed full of enough interesting items to keep you busy browsing through the displays and shelfs inside the store for hours. 104 W. Pompano 956-761-5231  entire South Padre Island from atop this historic lighthouse, first lit in 1853. A replica of the lighthouse keeper's cottage is on the grounds. Port Isabel 956-943-2262

Treasures of the Gulf Museum Three Spanish ships sank off the coast of Padre Island in the 16th century. Their remains, and lots of other cool stuff related to primitive sea travel, are displayed here. Manautou & Queen Isabella Port Isabel 956-943-7602

Treasures of the Gulf Museum Port Isabel Historical Museum is a state-of-the-art facility located in the Champion Building. Built in 1899 as a dry goods store and residence, it now houses two exhibit levels, a theater, gift shop and one of the largest collections of Mexican artifacts from the U.S.-Mexican War. Railroad & Tarnava Port Isabel 956-943-7602

PARKS

Andy Bowie Park 4 miles north of the Island. Picnic Pavilions, children's play ground. 956-761-2639 

Isla Blanca Park RV camping, 2 picnic pavilions, jetty fishing. Sea Ranch Marina. 956-761-5493

Laguna Atascosa Wildlife Preserve uses various management techniques to ensure wildlife will always have habitat. 956-748-3607

TOURS & EXCURSIONS

Black Dragon Cruises All cruises include a crew of professional Pirates entertaining with Pirate stories, face painting, treasure hunt, water pistol battle, sword fighting, booty, music and loads of family fun for ALL ages! at Ligthouse Square 956-943-6283