South Padre Island is a hotbed of beach culture with lodging, dining, nightlife, and watersports. Northward, Padre Island National Seashore protects the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world, along with the wildlife that depends on it.
Upcoming Events
SPI Kite Fest
Feb. 2-4
South Padre Island Convention Center, 7355 Padre Blvd.
Watch professional flyers showcase their skills in both outdoor and indoor performances. Food concessions are available.
Surfin' Sunday Lessons
Feb. 21-Sept. 30
DJ Lerma Pavilion, Isla Blanca Park, 33174 State Park Road 100
Every Sunday in front of the DJ Lerma Pavilion, patrons can learn to surf for free.
SPI Triathlon
March 25
Parrot Eyes, 5801 Padre Blvd.
The South Padre Island Triathlon offers a course for the seasoned veteran or the first-timer, with both Olympic and sprint distance courses. The race features an open-water swim and a bike course up the South Padre Island strip. After the scenic bike course, participants head south on the strip for the run portion that loops back to Parrot Eyes. The transition area location is accessible for friends and family to cheer on their favorite triathletes and loved ones.
Texas State Surfing Championship
April 15-16
Isla Blanca Park, 33174 State Park Road 100
The Texas Gulf Surfing Association is a family-oriented organization that specializes in grassroots surfing events that are healthy and fun while still placing emphasis on maintaining academic excellence, good sportsmanship, and environmental awareness. See surfers battle the waves for the top spot in this surfing competition.
Texas Beach Ultimate Festival
April 22-23
Isla Blanca Park, 33174 State Park Road 100
Ultimate is an exciting, non-contact team sport played by thousands the world over. It mixes the best features of sports such as soccer, basketball, American football, and netball into a simple yet fascinating game.
Splash South Padre
April 27-30
South Padre Island, Padre Boulevard
Enjoy a weekend of nonstop fun and relax by the beach. A perfect getaway for the LGBTQ community and friends. Television personality Carson Kressley makes an appearance.
Shallow Sport Fishing Tournamnet
May 12-13
South Padre Island Convention Center, 7355 Padre Blvd.
Fish one of the biggest and best boat owner's fishing tournaments on the Gulf Coast.
5K Kemp's Krawl
May 13
Holiday Inn Resort, 100 Padre Blvd.
Runners, walkers, and everyone in between is invited to traverse the beach to raise money, with all proceeds going directly to the conservation and care of the Texas coast's precious sea turtles. Starting at the Holiday Inn Resort, this unique community event enables participants to experience the coastal beauty of South Padre Island up close and personal. There are three race categories: timed 5K, non-timed 5K, and a virtual option. Finishers receive a T-shirt and medal.
Jailbreak Beach Escape
May 20
Clayton's Beach Bar and Grill, 6900 Padre Blvd.
The Jailbreak Beach Escape has become a South Padre Island tradition. Each May, thousands of runners conquer the 5K course, covering 20 challenging obstacles on the sun-drenched beaches of South Padre before heading to Clayton’s Beach Bar for a Texas-sized beach party.
Memorial Day Fireworks
May 28
South Padre Island, 211 W. Whiting St.
Celebrate Memorial Day weekend on South Padre Island with a fireworks display over the bay. For the best viewing spots, check out the restaurants and bars in the Entertainment District.
