Summer’s almost here and we all are looking forward! With spring break, sunny skies, and some well-deserved free time just around the corner, it’s the perfect moment to start planning an unforgettable getaway to South Padre Island. This Texas beach gem isn’t just about the sun and surf (though those are pretty amazing!). It’s also about the way you explore this unique place with unique activities.

Imagine cruising from beach to boardwalk in a golf cart, slingshot, or bike from Paradise Fun Rentals—because getting around the island should be just as fun as the destination itself. Discover peaceful beaches, hidden nature spots, and all the island’s lively attractions in serious style.

TOP 10 Unique Things to Do in South Padre Island

1. Cruise the Island in a Slingshot

Yes, you don’t need flip-flops because you will travel around South Padre Island in a Slingshot! Turn heads while you explore the Island in a sporty, open-air 4-seater Slingshot. It’s perfect for scenic drives along the coast or visiting iconic spots like the Port Isabel Lighthouse. With your slingshot, you can stop at iconic places to explore the history and culture of the island. The nature of the island is something you have to observe.

2. Visit the South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center

At the South Padre Island Birding, Nature & Alligator Sanctuary, you can learn about the resident gators or wildlife landscaping. Go on a guided tour in small groups and enrich yourself while enjoying the beauty of nature.

3. Take a Golf Cart Along the Beach Roads

Another way to get around is the golf carts. Get a 4 /6 or 8-seater depending on your group size. You can plan your day and hop between interesting sites and attractions in the comfort of your golf cart. These spacious, comfortable golf carts offer visitors easy transport across the island without walking long distances between attractions, ensuring you see all and are on time for guided talks and walks. Customize your itinerary with easy hire and cost-effective transport.

4. Try Glow Kayaking at Night

Exploring wildlife after dark is something not many people have experienced before! The glowing kayak tour lets you paddle over shallow, LED-lit waters filled with marine life. It’s a surreal way to experience the island’s vibrant underwater world in a new light.

5. Take a Dolphin Watching Eco-Tour

Observe playful dolphins in their natural habitat on a boat with the breeze in your hair. Fall is a great time to do this; tours are available from sunrise to sunset. View these magnificent creatures as if performing for you only. Don’t miss this display where the dolphins slice through the waves with effortless grace and playful, synchronized dives. It’s nature’s own acrobatic spectacle—raw, free, and breathtakingly beautiful.

6. Bike Along the Shoreline of South Padre Island

When renting a bike, you can get a little exercise that won’t exhaust you because of the beautiful surroundings. Explore scenic beach trails with the beach bikes, perfect for those who want to feel the breeze and stop along the way to drink in the beauty.

7. Enjoy the Art of Sandcastle Building and Sea Turtles

Art lovers should not miss the locals’ natural art exhibits. Sandcastle building! Take a sandcastle building lesson from a pro on this Sandcastle Trail. It’s one of the island’s most fun and unexpected traditions. The Sea Turtle Trail offers art sculptures of sea turtles right across the city of South Padre Island. Travel to these in your rented vehicle from Paradise Fun Rentals and get food for the soul with these fantastic creations.

8. Go on a Scenic Drive to Boca Chica

You can stop and admire the beauty around every corner on South Padre Island or participate in an exhilarating activity. Rent a golf cart or Slingshot and explore routes from driving on the beach to visiting the sea turtles or dolphins at the Sealife Centre. Explore trails in the comfort of your rented vehicle or stop for a bite to eat.

9. Grab a Bite at a Local Beach Bar

You must experience authentic island cuisine and cocktails. South Padre Island is a culinary paradise by the sea, and the unique mix of tropical flavors will give you something to satisfy your palate at one of the many restaurants, cafes, and bars. Have a plate of fresh oysters or enjoy the fresh seafood. The eateries cater to all tastes, offering international cuisine from Polynesian, Italian, and, of course, Mexican. You can enjoy traditional American comfort food and handcrafted beer at the Brewing Company. Perfect meals for laid-back dining with a view.

10. Book a Helicopter Tour

A once-in-a-lifetime experience is to take flight for a bird’s eye view of the Gulf, dunes, and even dolphins. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime way to experience SPI. Before traveling there, check out the sites by air, and take the perfect transport to the sites from Paradise Fun Rentals.

💑 Bonus: Unique Things to do in South Padre for Couples

We have special suggestions for couples to enjoy together. Decide on a special time and get there in style with a rented golf cart or Slingshot.

Sunset Dinner Cruise

Sail into the sunset with a romantic dinner on the water. These cruises are perfect for anniversaries or surprise proposals.

Couples Spa Retreat

Unwind with oceanfront massages and sea salt treatments at local spas. Rent a golf cart or Slingshot and enjoy the time travelling there and being spoiled.

Private Surfing Lesson

Bond while learning to ride the waves together. This is for adventurous couples to have fun and enjoy SPI!

Beach Bonfire Setup for Two

Plan a romantic time and get a company that provides fire pits, tiki torches, and s’mores kits for a cozy night under the stars.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Bonus: Family-Friendly Adventures

Even though many of the activities on SPI can be enjoyed by families, here are some more that you can consider. You don’t have to worry about transport, as you can rent a special vehicle from Paradise Fun Rentals to get there on time.

Pirate-Themed Dolphin Cruise

Complete with costumes and treasure hunts, this is more than dolphin watching. Ride around the island in comfort using a golf cart while aspiring to become a pirate on a boat! Share in your children’s anticipation and excitement and build life memories.

Waterpark Fun at Beach Park in Isla Blanca

Slides, lazy rivers, and surf simulators make this a hit with kids of all ages. Take your kids and be a child again, enjoying the thrills and exhilarating rides.

Crabbing in the Shallows

Show your child old-school fun with nets and bait—simple, safe, and full of laughs. Explore the rocks and beach, bonding and enjoying nature.

Plan Your South Padre Island Adventure Today!

Ready to explore South Padre Island in style? Whether planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Paradise Fun Rentals has you covered with fun and convenient transportation options like golf carts, slingshots, scooters, and bikes. Cruise the island at your own pace and make every stop an unforgettable experience.