Sun, sand, & thrills: your guide to amusement parks near South Padre Island
Headed to South Padre Island and looking to add some high-flying, adrenaline-pumping fun to your trip? You’re in luck, because there are several fun amusement parks near South Padre Island, and we’ve got the info!
South Padre is one of our favorite destinations in the United States. During our family gap year travels, we spent two separate months on South Padre Island — December 2018 and October 2019.
Let me take you on a tour of the coolest attractions near this gem of the Gulf of Mexico. From the thrilling heights of Gravity Park to the serene horseback riding at South Padre Island Adventure Park, there’s something for everyone!
South Padre Island Amusement Parks
For a small island, South Padre packs a punch when it comes to amusement parks! You’ll find four very different parks to choose from on the island itself, plus a bonus amusement center in nearby Los Fresnos. Read on to learn about all of them!
Gravity Park
Starting with our family’s absolute favorite, you’ll definitely want to pay a visit to Gravity Park on West Marlin Street! It’s not just an amusement park; it’s an adventure hub.
Our kids still talk about the awesome go-kart track. Okay, not just the kids! I loved racing up and down the hills and around the turns of the multi-level wooden track. They have both single and double karts to choose from.
They even had separate kiddie go karts for the little ones!
Another showstopper was The Skycoaster! Carter (10 at the time) and I strapped in and made the big, slow climb upward before releasing ourselves and soaring through the air.
This giant swing isn’t for the faint-hearted, but oh boy, is it exhilarating!
If The Skycoaster isn’t enough of a thrill for you (who ARE you?!), Gravity Park boasts the tallest reverse bungee in the world — The Rocket. It’s a heart-stopping ride where you’re catapulted into the air, only to experience a few moments of weightlessness before zooming back down.
We all watched in awe as some braver folks took the ride. It’s a must-do for adrenaline junkies! In fact, it’s on my own bucket list to return and ride The Rocket myself.
More than just rides, Gravity Park has lots for the whole family to do. The trampoline ride had our little ones bouncing with joy, and the climbing wall challenged them to new heights.
The arcade, with its flashing lights and enticing games, was a hit as well, and one night we enjoyed a game of mini-golf on their impressive course.
Admission is free at Gravity Park! Once you’re there, you can buy individual tickets for the attractions you want to experience. Check out their pricing here.
South Padre Island Adventure Park
Head to the north end of the island to find South Padre Island Adventure Park! This place is a treasure trove of activities, including horseback riding on the beach, zip lines that give you an aerial view of SPI, and even a petting barn for animal lovers!
You’ll have your choice of horseback riding experiences, including their Morning Special, Family Favorite, Sunset Ride, and even a Moonlight Horseback Ride!
They also offer water sports like parasailing and banana boat rides. Plus, you can book their ultimate parasail/island tour/fishing adventure for the full, 3-hour experience!
Try the “Bucket List” option where you’ll get unlimited zip lining plus a horseback ride on the beach and access to the Petting Barn.
Head to the South Padre Island Adventure Park website to learn more and book your visit!
Island Fun Park
Another option for fun on the island is Island Fun Park on Padre Boulevard. With its fun go cart track and relaxing 18-hole miniature golf course, it’s a great place to unwind and spend quality family time.
The double go carts are a hit for families with smaller children, allowing the kids to feel like they are in the driver’s seat!
Beach Park at Isla Blanca
For those who love a water park, you’ll want to visit Beach Park at Isla Blanca on the south side of the island, previously known as Schlitterbahn South Padre Island. Here you’ll find water slides that twist and turn, a lazy river for those chill vibes, and kiddie pools for the little ones.
Give the Storm Chaser a try — just exit the Rio Aventura into the floating queue and get ready for the uphill conveyor belt that will launch you down the flumes! Or try the Surf Rider, where you can go bodyboard surfing on an endless wave.
Ready to eat? You’ll find tons of delicious food and drinks here, including Texas BBQ and a swim-up bar!
You can get a cabana rental and spend the whole day here at the resort — the perfect escape from the Texas heat and fun for the whole family! If you’re a local or staying long-term, consider buying a season pass!
Bobz World
For some oversized fun, head off the island to nearby Los Fresnos and visit Bobz World! You’ll, uh, see what I’m talking about as soon as you arrive!
Bobz World is part amusement park, part museum, and part souvenir shop. You’ll find lots to do here both inside and out!
Play games in the arcade, challenge your friends to a round of black light mini golf, and take a stroll through Bobz Journey, a series of wax figures, giant animal sculptures, and lots of other photo ops!
Grab an ice cream before you leave, to put the cherry on top of a fun day!
There’s no shortage of fun to be had on South Padre Island. In addition to these exciting amusement parks, you can take a sandcastle building lesson (or admire sculptures by professionals all over the island!), visit a sea turtle rescue center, go on a pirate adventure cruise, and of course enjoy amazing local food and swim in the ocean!
Be sure to check out our other post on all our favorite things to do in South Padre Island!
Whether you choose to brave the dizzying heights of The Skycoaster at Gravity Park, ride a horse on the beach, or relax in a cabana while the kids swim, there’s an experience for every family member at the amusement parks near South Padre Island. So pack your bags and join us in the fun!
