On South Padre Island, ecotourism is part of daily life. It’s one reason more than 7 million people visit each year. Some come to learn from real-world encounters with marine life and coastal ecosystems. Others come to soak in the natural beauty that makes South Padre Island Texas’ Best Beach.
Founded in 2015, the RGV Reef Project helps sustain and grow ecotourism on South Padre Island. The team builds man-made reef structures that turn barren seafloor into thriving habitat, inviting fish, corals, and other marine life to move in. Over time, soft and hard corals and algae cover the modules, attracting an even wider range of species and forming new Gulf ecosystems.
The RGV Reef Project fuels opportunities for divers, snorkelers, anglers, and charter operators, supporting the local economy along the way.
Curtis Hayungs, director of RGV Reef, explains that healthy fisheries drive South Padre Island, and RGV Reef helps keep them that way.
“Texas has more than 750,000 saltwater anglers, with over 50,000 living right here in South Texas. These anglers fuel our local tourism industry—charter captains, hotels, restaurants, and small businesses all depend on healthy fisheries,” he said. “The reality is simple: if there are no fish, there is no fishing—and without fishing, South Padre Island would lose one of its most important draws for visitors. The RGV Reef ensures that future generations can experience world-class fishing and diving here, while strengthening our community’s economy and setting an example of sustainability for the entire Gulf Coast.”
In addition to ecotourism and economic promotion from the RGV Reef Project, scientists are also studying these large, active reef systems for their potential to capture and store carbon, another tool in the fight against climate change.
Local volunteers power this effort, donating time and funds and spreading the word to build and maintain a reef that supports ecotourism and the island economy.
Ecotourism shows up in countless island experiences. Add these to your itinerary:
- Go fishing with a pro. Book a guided trip with Captain Murphy’s, Always a Catch Fishing, or another local charter. Learn the waters, set the hook, and chase the species that anglers travel here to catch.
- Experience inclusive sportfishing. South Padre Island is the Special Needs Sportfishing Capital of Texas, thanks to the ICAN initiative led by local environmentalist Shane Wilson. The program helps wheelchair users enjoy sportfishing on the Laguna Madre—free of charge.
- Birding and wildlife. The South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary offers year-round bird watching and wildlife observation. Bring binoculars and see how many species you can spot.
- Meet the sea turtles. Explore Sea Turtle Inc., our rescue and rehabilitation center known worldwide for conservation and education. Don’t miss the new Sea Turtle Hospital, now the largest enclosed sea turtle hospital in the world.
- Dolphin watches and bay cruises. Get close to the action with The Original Dolphin Watch or Osprey Cruises and see marine life most visitors only read about.
- Snorkeling the Laguna Madre. How about seeing what lies under the waters of Laguna Madre? Book a guided snorkel excursion with Breakaway Cruises, KaMotion Sailing Adventure, or other local operators who’ll snag you a front row seat to the underwater world of ecosystems and marine life.
- Turn up the adventure. Jet skis, parasailing, and classic banana boat rides for the whole crew. Sonny’s Beach Service, Coconuts Water Sports, SPI Excursions, and SPI Sessions will have you on the water in minutes.
Whether you’re casting a line, diving below the surface, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Gulf, RGV Reef proves that conservation and recreation can thrive together. By supporting projects like this, you’ll enjoy unforgettable marine adventures and help keep South Padre Island’s natural treasures healthy for generations.