South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, South Padre Island

4.7

#3 of 69 in Things to do in South Padre Island

Must see · Wildlife Area · Nature / Park

Create an itinerary including South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center

Whether you’re a devoted birdwatcher or simply enjoy spending time outdoors, South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is a great stop for your itinerary. Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre, South Padre Island’s wetlands are home to more than 300 species, including the endangered brown pelican, piping plover and peregrine falcon. Watch the documentary screened in the auditorium to learn about the island’s birds and other wildlife. Then, head to the boardwalk to spy a variety of birds. The five blinds and five story-tower are great spots for watching. The island’s rich wildlife also includes a variety of plants and animals, such as dolphins and alligators. Bring sunscreen if you’re visiting on a hot day, as most of the boardwalk doesn't offer cover. Arrange to visit South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center and other attractions in South Padre Island using our South Padre Island vacation planner.

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South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating

1,417 reviews

Google

4.8

By Wanda c

You can spend an hour or many hours here. Just depends on how much you enjoy checking out the many birds you will see here. We spend several hours walking around the area and saw lots of different...

You can spend an hour or many hours here. Just depends on how much you enjoy checking out the many birds you will see here. We spend several hours walking around the area and saw lots of different... more »
By rick19348

As birders we were excited to visit the birding and nature center. We were very impressed with the boardwalks which transverse the mangroves out to the bay. The site is near the water treatment...

As birders we were excited to visit the birding and nature center. We were very impressed with the boardwalks which transverse the mangroves out to the bay. The site is near the water treatment... more »

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Google

By Chris J.

Wonderful experience with very friendly staff. The animal enclosures were all well maintained and clean. This is a great opportunity to stop and learn about local wildlife. Feed the gators and tortoise, so fun! The facility also has a phenomenal nature walk (beverages both alcoholic and non alcoholic available for the outdoor walk).

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By whoboatcaptain

Do you like reptiles?? If you do, you’re gonna love this place! There’s three floors all filled with different wildlife and experiences. Outside, you have the ‘gators and other wildlife like birds and turtles and such. I believe, in total, there’s like a mile or more to explore outside. Very beautiful and very informative. The gator talks are amazing so please make an effort to show up for one of those AND the extra $10 (per person) is totally worth paying to hold an alligator and snake!!!

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