Endless beaches. Ample activities. And sun-kissed weather. South Padre Island, Texas, is the ideal family retreat. Tucked into the state’s southwest corner, it’s a marvellous place for Canadian snowbirds. And this Spring Break when the average daily high in March will be 23 oC, you’ll want to consider dropping off the mainland for this tropical island.

Here are 4 Family Travel Tips.

Head to the Sea

The waters around South Padre Island (SPI) are rich with marine life, including Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. Reserve a seat on a tour boat and watch these docile water mammals slice through the waves. Listen to experts on board passing along fascinating facts about these whip-smart creatures.

Children love visiting Sea Turtle, Inc., a rescue centre that rehabilitates and releases injured sea turtles. The non-profit group rescued 120 cold-stunned sea turtles on Christmas Eve alone.

A Pirate’s Life

Venture on the high seas aboard the Black Dragon pirate ship. Costumed pirates tell swashbuckling stories of life on the briny sea, and kids can enjoy face painting, water gun fights and treasure hunts.

Animal (Land) Kingdom

The Island Adventure Park has a petting zoo/barn, with all kinds of creatures great and small, everything from soft, cuddly baby lambs to talking parrots. Another recommendation (remember, you’re in Texas) is a horseback ride on the beach.

Outdoor Tales

Speed enthusiasts and those who love challenges will want to try either parasailing high above the Gulf’s deep blue waters, or perhaps bouncing over the waves on a thrilling jet ski. Another adrenalin-inducer is the zip line at Island Adventure Park.

Popular Family Stays

South Padre Island has a variety of hotel options, including a Holiday Inn Resort with on-site kids’ activities and three pools, including a swim-up bar, popular with parents. The former Pearl South Padre Beach Resort is set to open in spring as the new Margaritaville Beach Resort. Anticipate the usual, fun, laid-back Margaritaville food and drink places (think tiki huts, limes and a lost shaker of salt), as well as swimming pools and tropical landscaping. Condominium rentals are popular for longer stays. Many condos have balconies with ocean views and offer state-of-the-art amenities that might be better than what you have at home. If you’re planning a multi-generational trip or a visit with friends, there are dozens of beach house rentals available.

Travel Planner

South Padre Island Convention and Visitors Bureau 1-800-SOPADRE, sopadre.com