south padre island eco tours

THE BEST South Padre Island Eco Tours

Eco tours in south padre island.

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1. The Original Dolphin Watch

2. Breakaway Cruises

3. Driftwood Landing

4. South Padre Wind Adventures

What travelers are saying

• Breakaway Cruises
• Driftwood Landing
• The Original Dolphin Watch

(956) 761-4243

Call to Reserve

33256 State Park Rd 100

South Padre Island, TX 78597

8:00 am - 8:00 pm

Online booking always open

The Original Dolphin Watch

Daily dolphin watch trips in South Padre Island. South Padre’s number one dolphin watch tour company.

Current Schedule

Dolphin watch eco tour.

• 11:00am - 12:30pm

$18 Per Person Morning Special

• 1:30pm - 3:00pm

$20 Per Person

Sunset dolphin watch.

• 6:30pm - 8:00pm

BYOB! Please no glass! Infants Under 2 Years Ride Free

• Dolphin Watch

One of the most unique activities on South Padre Island is the dolphin watching tour.

South Texas is a year-round home to several large pods of dolphin and The Original Dolphin Watch is your ticket to viewing them in all their natural splendor.  One of the most memorable activities you will take part in while visiting South Padre is a cruise with us.

Share the thrill of meeting bottle-nose and spinner dolphins in the wild and experience the unique bond and kinship they inspire in mankind.

Trips leave daily from the Sea Ranch Marina. Enjoy sunshine and salt air along with refreshments and an educational presentation aboard the 60′ tour boat The Double Sunshine or the 50′ boat the Diver I.

An Eco-Tour is an add-on to our dolphin watch tour. During the tour our crew will drag a small net along the bottom of the bay and collect a sample of marine life. They will then have a presentation on the boat of the marine life that they find, then continue on watching for dolphin. An Eco-Tour is a fun and educational tour for all ages. All marine life collected during the tour will be safely released back into the water.

Snorkeling Trips

Enjoy a 3 hour tour exploring the underwater world of the Laguna Madre. This snorkel tour is $45 per person and includes your rental gear and a licensed guide in the water with you.

This tour is provided by our sister company, American Diving. You can find more information and book online by visiting: https://divesouthpadre.com .

Seasonal activity that is available from April – Sept.

For the BEST IT and Security Services in the RGV contact  GD Security Specialists LLC

Dolphin Watch & Eco-Tour

• Eco-Tour Included

Dolphin Watch Sunset Tour

• Sunset Tour

Port of Brownsville Tour

• Wednesday Departure
• 12:30pm - 4:30pm
• Shrimp and Drinks Included

#1 Rated Dolphin Watch on South Padre island

“Saw an amazing amount of dolphins. More than we expected! Captain and crew were fantastic educators. Will recommend for sure!”

via tripadvisor

“Great experience. Very enjoyable. We even got to learn more things about the island. Staff was friendly and answered all our questions, they even took pictures for us!”

via Tripadvisor

“Our family loved the eco-tour dolphin watch! It was a great experience for all of us from grandparents to grandchildren!”

Google Local Guide

Digital gift card.

Looking to purchase a dolphin watch for someone special? Want to go on a dolphin watch but are not sure of the dates yet? Purchase a gift by following the link below. We will email you a Gift Card number that you can redeem on any of our trips with no blackout dates or expiration.

Where to Find Us

Located at the sea ranch marina, under the big blue flag.

• Snacks and drinks
• Clean Restrooms
• Friendly crew
• USCG inspected vessels

Mon-Sat: 8 AM - 8PM Sunday: 9AM - 6PM

33256 State Park Rd 100 South Padre Island, TX 78597

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Tours & Excursions

So memorable. so padre..

Explore the high seas surrounding South Padre Island. Choose from various tours and excursions to plan out your day on the water. Book a tour with one of our boating companies for dolphin and eco-tours to get a closer look at the marine life on South Padre Island. 

In your mind, you’re already here. The Island lets visitors be as active as they want to be.

Arts & Culture

Take a class, dance to the beat of live music, and immerse yourself in the arts.

From nearshore (bay) to offshore waters the fishing scene on the Island is welcoming and fun.

Save room in your suitcase! Shop for hidden gems at specialty shops and boutiques.

Spa & Fitness

Stay fit, relax or get pampered with therapies including massages, wraps and more.

“Sea-ze” the day and prepare to be amazed with a variety of excursions fun for all ages.

Surrounded by the Laguna Madre Bay and Gulf of Mexico, getting around the Island is a breeze.

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Eco Tours in South Padre Island

For your next beach vacation , book a trip to South Padre Island. Located off the shore of Texas, SPI is known for its soft, sandy beaches and the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre. You can spend your days relaxing on the beaches or out the water, fishing or cruising around the clear turquoise waters of Laguna Madre. There are several boat companies on the island that offer eco tours in South Padre Island .

Breakaway Cruises

Breakaway Cruises offers eco tours and dolphin watches at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. every day of the week. Cruise around on the Getaway or the Xcape for two hours where you will have the chance to see some of SPI’s resident dolphin pods. The boat’s experienced crew members will drag a special net along the side of the ship and bring up sea life, allowing you to look at them up-close and learn a little bit about some of the critters before they are released back into the wild. These tours which are among the top things to do in South Padre Island cost $15 for adults or $13 for children under the age of 12 and they can be booked online.

Captain Murphy’s Isla Tours

Captain Murphy’s Isla Tours also offers dolphin watching and eco tours in South Padre Island . Get up close and personal with the sea creatures on the tour’s hour-and-a-half long trip aboard the Murphy’s Law. The boat will take you through the bottlenose dolphins’ natural habitat in the waters of Laguna Madre. The crew will then use a net to bring sea creatures onboard. Some of the common animals in the net are squid, stingrays, toadfish, and eels. The tour leaves at 10:30 a.m. every day and costs $10 per person.

The Original Dolphin Watch

The Original Dolphin Watch offers a dolphin watch and eco-tour aboard their boat, Double Sunshine. The crew member will take you along Devil’s Elbow, where you will follow the resident bottlenose dolphin pods. Afterward, they will use a net to bring marine life board into the boat’s saltwater tank. After you get the chance to learn about the sea critters, the crew will release them back into the wild. Each tour starts at 1:30 p.m. and lasts for two hours. Tours cost $13 for adults and $10 for children.

Planning Your Stay and Things to Do In South Padre Island

If you are looking for accommodations on South Padre Island, consider booking one of our vacation rentals . Our rentals range from one-bedroom apartments to beachfront homes. For more information on our vacation homes or to learn more about things to do in South Padre Island , please contact us today.

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Now fishing red snapper in state waters. Book now to guarantee a spot.

956-761-6655 (osprey cruises) 956-943-6283 (black dragon pirate cruises).

Go First Class!

The quality of your vacation experience is what’s important to us at Osprey Cruises. With six boats, we offer you and your family choices that range from Deep Sea and Bay fishing excursions and sightseeing nature cruises to Pirate Adventure cruises. Something for everyone in Port Isabel! If you’re looking for fun on the water, you’ll find it here. Welcome aboard.

Want to score the big catch? Choose from our Bay Fishing or Deep Sea Fishing Trips .

Book a Private charter for your special event. Your enjoyment is what counts and outstanding service is our goal!

Fireworks cruises

Our cruises offer the finest in luxury voyages in the Laguna Madre. Complete your romantic getaway with your own fireworks display. Get tickets today.

All ages enjoy our Sea Life Safari cruises. Set out for your adventure on the Laguna Madre today. Get tickets today.

A pirate's life for me

Yo ho! Ahoy there mateys. Join our pirate crew for adventures on the high seas of the Laguna Madre. Yar. Get yer tickets now.

Amberjack season is open

Amberjack season is open and our famous 10 hr deep sea trips are available again. Ask for the amber jack discount when you call!

Charter, Dinner & Fireworks Cruises

Osprey sea life cruises, eco tours, dolphin watch & sunset cruises, the black dragon, pirate adventure cruises, the osprey ii, deep sea fishing, bay fishing, private charters, all vessels in the osprey fleet are available for private charter.

Imagine a sunset cruise on our passenger yacht Osprey for your wedding, corporate meeting, birthday party, or other special occasion. We’ll help you make it magical.

Birthdays Weddings School Field Trips Corporate Charters

Phil Calo, General Manager and Events Coordinator, will be happy to help you with your arrangements. Call him today for your reservation, 956-592 2223.

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3:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Must be purchased 24 hours before the tour..

5:00 pm - 6:30 pm

If you are looking for the BEST DOLPHIN WATCH TOUR on South Padre Island you have found it with Isla Tours!

Enjoy an hour and half thrilling dolphin watch and eco-tour aboard the Murphy's Law. Cruise along the lower Laguna Madre on our 67 ft double-decker is specially designed to allow our guests to have an optimum viewing experience while on the water! See our local dolphins in their natural habitat. Take in Boca Chica Beach (home of #SpaceX), the US Coast Guard Station, and SO MUCH MORE!!!

Sightings of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are frequent year-round in South Padre Island. Captain Murphy’s Isla Tours can transport you to the natural environment of these wonderful creatures, with a few added features. One hour and a half in duration, this excursion offers you a brief tour of the Laguna Madre and provides a glimpse of the bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. 

Sunset Dolphin Watch Cruise

Time varies depending season.

Price: $23.00.

Must be purchased 24 hours before the tour Please call 956.761.4752 if you are unable to book your sunset dolphin watch tour online.

*Please book online, but all tickets must be purchased 24 hours before the tour, and we will need your cell phone number. Please call 956.761.4752 if you are unable to book your tour online.

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What to Know When Going on a South Padre Island Eco Tour

South Padre Island is a beautiful and unique destination located in the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a pretty popular vacation spot for tourists seeking a tropical escape from their daily routine. However, beyond the beaches and resorts, South Padre Island is also home to various unique ecosystems and wildlife. One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of South Padre Island is through an eco-tour.

Choosing the Right Eco Tour

When selecting an eco-tour, it is crucial to do your research and choose a reputable eco-tour company. Look for a tour company that is certified by organizations such as the National Audubon Society or the International Ecotourism Society. These certifications ensure that the tour company operates in an environmentally responsible manner and provides a quality experience for visitors.

Types of Eco Tours

South Padre Island offers a variety of eco-tours to choose from. Some popular options include:

• Dolphin Watching Tours: South Padre Island is home to a large population of bottlenose dolphins. Visitors can take a guided boat tour to see these majestic creatures up close. These tours usually last around two hours, and visitors are likely to see dolphins swimming, jumping, and playing in their natural habitat.
• Birding Tours: South Padre Island is a popular destination for birdwatchers due to its location along the Central Flyway migration route. Visitors can take a guided tour to spot a variety of bird species. These tours usually last around three hours and are led by experienced guides who can help visitors identify different bird species.
• Kayaking Tours: Kayaking is a great way to explore the shallow waters of the Laguna Madre. Visitors can see a wide variety of marine life up close, including sea turtles, stingrays, and fish. These tours usually last around two hours and are led by experienced guides who can help visitors navigate the waters and spot different types of marine life.
• Sea Turtle Release Tours: South Padre Island is a nesting site for many species of sea turtles. Visitors can take a guided tour to witness the release of baby sea turtles into the ocean. These tours usually take place during the summer months and are led by experts who can explain the life cycle of sea turtles and the challenges they face.

What to Bring

When going on an eco-tour, it is important to bring the right gear. Some items to consider bringing include:

• Sunscreen: South Padre Island is known for its sunny weather. Make sure to apply sunscreen before the tour and bring extra sunscreen to reapply throughout the day.
• Hat and Sunglasses: Protect your face and eyes from the sun by bringing a hat and sunglasses.
• Water and Snacks: Bring plenty of water and some snacks to stay hydrated and energized throughout the tour.
• Camera: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture all the amazing sights you will see on your eco-tour.

Responsible Tourism

When going on an eco-tour, it is important to practice responsible tourism. This means being respectful of the environment and wildlife you encounter. Some tips for responsible tourism include:

• Do not disturb or touch any wildlife you encounter.
• Stay on designated trails and paths to avoid damaging the ecosystem.
• Do not litter or leave any trash behind.
• Follow the instructions of your tour guide and respect any rules or regulations in place.

Final Thoughts

South Padre Island is a beautiful and unique destination with a variety of ecosystems and wildlife to explore. An eco-tour is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the island while also supporting responsible tourism. By choosing a reputable tour company, bringing the right gear, and practicing responsible tourism, visitors can have an unforgettable experience on their South Padre Island eco-tour. Whether you choose to go dolphin watching, birding, kayaking, or sea turtle watching, you are sure to have an amazing time exploring the natural wonders of South Padre Island.

Make the most of your South Padre Island vacation with the help of Aquarius Condos. We offer affordable South Padre Island rental properties that are perfect for families. Our one and two-bedroom beachfront condos feature fully equipped kitchens, living rooms, and patios to the beach or bay with a great clean pool and staffed front desk. Get in touch with us today!

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THE LEADING DOLPHIN WATCHING EXPERIENCE IN SOUTH PADRE ISLAND!

Breakaway cruises offers you and your family a dream dolphin encounter..

For people of all ages, dolphin encounters make for some of the fondest memories and best vacations. If you’re looking for things to do in South Padre Island, check out dolphin watching at Breakaway Cruises! Get a close look at some of nature’s coolest critters with our dolphin watching experience!

If you want to learn more about our dolphin watching, keep reading! If you know you’re ready for the best dolphin watching in South Padre Island, save a spot now!

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT OUR DOLPHIN WATCHING TRIPS

Like the many other thrilling activities we offer, there are some things you should know before beginning your dolphin adventure!

1. Our dolphin watch lasts one and a half hours as we sail across Laguna Madre.

2. With real-time availability and instant booking, you can sign up for our multiple trips that take place each day, every day of the week.

3. Bring your own snacks. Beer/wine, water and soft-drinks are sold on-board. No coolers allowed.

When dolphin watching in South Padre Island with Breakaway Cruises, your voyage will take place on either the Xcape or the Getaway – both United States Coast Guard-certified.

In addition to dolphins, our knowledgeable and experienced crew will drag a net behind the boat to catch a variety of other sea life. Not only will you be able to see some of Laguna Madre’s most incredible creatures, the crew will identify and describe everything caught on your adventure!

WHAT TO BRING ON YOUR DOLPHIN WATCH

Make sure you’re well-prepared for your dolphin-watching trip in South Padre Island by bringing along a few essential items:

• Extra water

Once you’ve packed these essentials, all you need to bring is your sense of excitement. Our dolphin encounters with Breakaway Cruises are sure to leave you in awe, making it one of the best things to do in South Padre Island.

THE UNIQUE DOLPHIN TRIBES OF LAGUNA MADRE

What makes Breakaway Cruises dolphin watching trips the best in South Padre Island? The dolphins themselves, of course! Over the course of hundreds of thousands of years, the Laguna Madre has become a fascinating and diverse ecosystem, home to a number of different species of flora and fauna – dolphins being one of the stars. Additionally, the particular tribe of dolphins that live in the South Padre Island area has grown smaller in size compared to their more deepwater brethren.

Many of the fish available to catch in our fantastic bay fishing trips also find themselves meals of our local dolphins. It is very common to see a pod of dolphins, old and young, catch and share Sheepshead fish for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Listen to them communicate in their unique dolphin language as they dash across the waves.

There’s not really another experience quite like getting up close and personal with these incredible animals.

Don’t Wait Another Second!

Book your next exciting adventure and come dolphin watching in south padre island.

33384 State Park Road 100, South Padre Island, Texas 78597

(956) 761-2212

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© 2023 Breakaway Cruises | USCG Certified Vessels

South Padre Island Eco-Adventures: Exploring the Natural Beauty and Wildlife

Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, South Padre Island boasts an astonishing array of natural wonders and wildlife experiences that can transform your vacation into a thrilling eco-adventure. From the island’s remarkable bird-watching opportunities to the awe-inspiring marine life encounters, the diverse ecosystems that surround South Padre Island offer an incredible chance to appreciate the beauty of our planet. At South Padre Trips, we understand the importance of environmental conservation and responsible tourism, and we strive to provide unforgettable experiences that respect and protect the island’s natural treasures.

To help you make the most of your eco-adventures on South Padre Island, we have designed an informative blog series filled with engaging and educational content. In each entry, we will delve into the rich and varied natural attractions of the island, as well as introduce you to ways in which you can support both local conservation efforts and the overall health of our planet.

As you join us on this exciting journey, we’ll guide you through the fascinating world of South Padre Island’s unique ecosystems, offering expert tips and captivating content to help you craft a memorable and eco-friendly vacation experience. With a wealth of eco-adventures waiting to be discovered, this vibrant island provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to reconnect with nature and deepen your understanding of the incredible wonders our planet has to offer.

The Wonders Beneath the Waves: Discovering South Padre Island’s Marine Life

South Padre Island’s warm, crystal-clear waters teem with diverse and fascinating marine life. A snorkeling or diving trip offers an up-close encounter with the island’s vibrant underwater world, revealing a dazzling array of colorful fish, coral reefs, and unique aquatic species. Book a guided boat tour to explore the island’s best snorkeling and diving spots, or rent a kayak and embark on your own eco-friendly adventure through the coastal waters.

Remember to follow responsible snorkeling and diving practices to minimize your impact on the delicate marine ecosystem. This includes avoiding physical contact with coral, maintaining a safe distance from marine animals, and refraining from feeding or disturbing any wildlife you encounter.

Winged Wonders: Birdwatching Paradise on South Padre Island

With over 300 recorded bird species, South Padre Island is a premier destination for birdwatching enthusiasts. The island serves as a key stopover point on the Central Flyway for migratory birds, attracting an impressive array of both common and rare species throughout the year. Visit popular birdwatching hotspots like the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center or Laguna Madre Nature Trail, and marvel at the unique avian residents that call the island home.

During your birdwatching adventures, follow eco-friendly practices such as maintaining a respectful distance from nests and wildlife, staying on designated trails, and avoiding the use of flash photography. By showing consideration for the island’s feathered inhabitants, you contribute to the ongoing conservation efforts essential for protecting their habitats.

Sharing the Shores: Supporting Sea Turtle Conservation on South Padre Island

South Padre Island is home to several species of endangered sea turtles, and the island’s conservation organizations work tirelessly to protect these gentle giants. Visit the Sea Turtle Inc. facility, where you can participate in educational tours and witness the inspiring work of sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation in action. During the nesting season, attend a “Turtle Talk” and join expert-led beach patrols in search of nesting females.

To support sea turtle conservation efforts on South Padre Island, follow some simple guidelines: remain vigilant while swimming or boating to avoid accidentally injuring turtles, give nesting females plenty of space and refrain from disturbing their nests, and properly dispose of trash to keep the beaches clean and safe for all inhabitants.

Paddle into Nature: Kayaking and Paddleboarding Eco-Adventures

Explore the tranquil waters of South Padre Island’s coastal mangroves and wetlands with a kayaking or paddleboarding eco-tour. These guided excursions provide an opportunity to observe local wildlife, including diverse bird species, fish, and even dolphins. As you navigate through the island’s lush habitats, your tour guide will share information about the various flora and fauna species you encounter, as well as valuable insights into the importance of conservation efforts on the island.

When enjoying kayaking or paddleboarding adventures, always remain vigilant to avoid disturbing wildlife and stay within designated channels to protect the fragile ecosystems of the mangroves and wetlands.

Conclusion: Creating Meaningful Memories while Exploring South Padre Island’s Natural Beauty

A vacation on South Padre Island offers much more than just sun, sand, and surf. Through engaging eco-adventures and immersive wildlife encounters, you can develop a deeper appreciation for the island’s diverse ecosystems and join in the ongoing conservation efforts essential for preserving these natural treasures.

Embrace the spirit of eco-adventures and create cherished memories while exploring the stunning beauty and wildlife of South Padre Island. Together, we can ensure a sustainable future for our planet, leaving a positive impact on the environment and fostering a deeper appreciation for the world around us.

As you plan your South Padre Island vacation, allow South Padre Trips to curate an eco-friendly experience tailored to your unique interests and desires. From our environmentally responsible accommodations to our commitment to sustainable practices, we strive to provide unforgettable experiences like South Padre Island boat tours that nurture a lifelong connection with the natural world. Contact us today to learn more!