Looking to get into your improve your windsurfing skills? Trying to find a place to practice your kiteboarding? Windsurf/Kiteboard inc can accommodate both with its rentals and friendly instructors. Different areas around the island are good for different types of riding and helpful advice is gladly given. On the days when there is very little wind, take advantage of the variety of kayaks, wakeboards, bodyboards, and surfboards to spend the day on the water no matter what.

Kiteboarding is one of the most exciting sports out there, and nowhere is better for the sport than South Padre Island Kiteboarding. New to the kiteboarding scene? No problem. South Padre Island Kiteboarding provides the newest equipment and instructors with know-how to teach you to enjoy the sport, or even to improve your skills. Even you are out boarding, your instructor can be right next to you to give you tips as problems or new situations arise. If there isn't enough wind to board, take a lesson on "Stand Up and Paddle," a great workout and fun way to enjoy a windless day on the water.

The waters off South Padre Island provide access to beautiful and unique marine life that can be explored in many different ways. American Diving provides visitors with the means to do just that, explore this wilderness in whatever way you choose. From scuba diving training and dive trips to snorkeling to dolphin watching, American Diving provides all the necessary services. Cool fishes, friendly dolphins, and knowledgeable staff are all waiting for you to come and explore!

As the world's longest barrier island, South Padre Island is a welcome sight for flying birds. Located on 50 acres, the reserve is home or plays host to a variety of different birds, many of which are fairly rare. There is a visitors center and boardwalk with informative displays to educate visitors. The trails are free and open to the public every day of the year.

Whatever your age or ability, the Island Equestrian Center will provide the horse to match your skills and get you out on horseback. The beautiful South Padre Island beaches are a draw all their own, and riding at sunset makes for very picturesque scenes, as the photos on the website will attest to. Safety precautions are numerous: all young riders must wear a helmet and the rides are limited to walking or trotting only. Rides are typically between and hour and and hour and a half.

The sea turtle is an endangered species and Sea Turtle, Inc is doing its best to change that. Learn about all the different species of turtles, and about what each individual can do to help the sea turtles. Whether there for an information session, or to meet some turtles, you are sure to learn a lot about this serene and misunderstood animal. The nonprofit was started in 1977 by a woman known by many as the "turtle lady of South Padre Island" and the organization continues to do good works to this day by rehabilitating and returning turtles to the wild.

This is a waterpark where you could truly spend a whole day - or week! Brimming with warm weather attractions, little children, young adults, and parents can all find something to keep them occupied! For the thrill seekers, try Boogie Bahn- a place to surf. The Sea Blaster, Storm Chaser, and Tempest are all uphill water coasters designed to make your heart pound. For those looking for slightly tamer attractions, the Lily Pad has the quintessential raining mushroom and a slide down a frog. A five story tall sandcastle provides plenty entertainment for all ages. Beaches and bars also come standard at the Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark and don't miss the Sea Trek - an underwater helmet-diving experience.

Cossey Creations, in the heart of downtown Harlingen, offers custom-painted furniture and murals, antiques, and decorations for the home. Wall murals by the Cossey artists are especially popular for children's bedrooms or furniture and children are welcome to participate in creating the artwork, if they so desire. Customers are encouraged to bring in swatches or anything else that inspires them in order to create a custom piece for their home.

The D'Arte Centre, which is the permanent location of the Harlingen Art Forum, has been the heart of the Harlingen downtown district since it opened in 2004. The Centre exhibits the work of local artists, including students and children, and offers classes in oil painting, watercolor, and "creative recycle art projects." Participants turn recycled electronics, plastics, and glass into jewelry or useful household items. Children are welcome to participate in any of the Centre's classes as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Located just outside Harlingen in Palm Valley, the Harlingen Country Club is one of the best places for golf in the area. The 18-hole course is a lush course perfect for year round golf. A driving range and putting greens round out the golf offerings, while a fitness center, pool, and tennis court are available elsewhere in the club.