Top 5 South Padre Island Winter Activities
What comes to mind when you think of Tropical Texas in the wintertime? From lighted boat parades to sun soaked cabana days, South Padre Island is unlike any other holiday destination. When you stay at Margaritaville Beach Resort, you’ll be near the season’s most exciting activities, with some of the best offered onsite. Join the polar bear dip challenge, tour Christmas villages built from sand, and drift back to paradise to unwind in the heated resort pool before calling it a night.
Experience the Texas Bird Migration
You’re not the only one searching for an escape during the winter. South Padre Island is located on the Central Flyway, a major bird migration route that guides Sandhill cranes, snow geese, and several other species to North, Central, and South America. Start your holiday early, and flock to South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center, and Alligator Sanctuary during November for your best chance at spotting something unique. Keep your eye out as you stroll down the boardwalk, or for the ultimate experience, enlist the help of an expert during a guided tour. With unlimited drip coffee available during your stay, rise with the tide and embark on your journey.
Enjoy the Christmas Lighted Boat Parade
After a day spent birdwatching, float into Sea Ranch Marina to watch the South Padre Island Christmas parade. Held at the end of November and free to the public, this lighted boat festival marks the beginning of a magical season. Vessels of every size are adorned with sparkling lights and festive decor, competing to win the title of best holiday display. The event starting point is less than a mile from the resort, so you can settle in and enjoy a meal at LandShark Bar & Grill before heading to the docks.
Tour the Holiday Sand Castle Village
If Santa Claus needed a vacation, the Holiday Sandcastle Village would be his ideal getaway. Every year, master sculptors gather to build festive displays with sand. Beach buggies, Christmas trees, and present-filled sleighs are carved from the shoreline to create a distinct South Padre Island experience. Tour the city from November to January, or visit during early December to meet up with Santa and enjoy a pancake breakfast before he departs from the tropics.
Relax During a Cabana Day
Everyone needs a little time to rest and recharge between the festive activities. With a heated pool, mini-fridge and large TV, our cabanas are the perfect place to unwind. Lounge out in comfort while the kids splash away and sip a LandShark Lager while enjoying an NFL game, available on your outdoor flatscreen. Between commercials, you can step out to enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf Coast or take the short walk down for a victory lap after a touchdown.
Join the Annual Polar Bear Dip
If taking a cold plunge after a warm swim in the pool sounds like an exciting thing to do, the Polar Bear Dip might be perfect for you. Visit South Padre Island at Christmas time, and stay into the New Year for a 50 yard dash into the Gulf of Mexico. Hundreds of participants line the beach each year to take the challenge and bid farewell to December. Dive in or cheer from the sidelines, when you’re finished you can return to your room and toast to new beginnings as the sun sets on the shoreline.