Your Labor Day Weekend Guide to South Padre Island

Labor Day is almost here, which means a well-deserved 3-day weekend for many. And what better way to say sayonara to summertime than a weekend getaway on The Island? Whether you're into water sports, fresh-off-the-boat seafood, or just kickin' it on the sand, South Padre Island has your Labor Day covered. From families to friend-groups, and couples to solo-travelers, there’s a beach chair with yours and the whole squad’s name on it. Ready to do Labor Day the right way? Follow these tips on how to make your weekend So Padre!

Couples and solo travelers can claim their slice of paradise with breezy beach bungalows, while families and large parties can take advantage of the many poolside hotels and vacation rentals built for spreading out. Select properties offer Labor Day Weekend promotions, and you’ll want to jump on them because these deals don’t last long! Reserving your accommodations early — in late winter or spring — will secure you the best prices, with options for every budget. Check out all the available offers at these places to stay.

During Labor Day Weekend on The Island, the only thing you’ll run out of is time–not things to do. 

Beach Day: We’ve got the best beaches in Texas, so be sure to pack all of your sandy essentials (sandals, sunglasses, bathing suits, and beach towels) to make the most of our miles-long coastline. Want the best spot? Set up camp early in the morning, or you can even slide in late Sunday when the crowds start to clear out. If you forget something, On the Beach Surf Sports has you covered.

Animal Encounters: South Padre’s got more than just beachgoers—The Island is crawling, flying, and swimming with all kinds of wildlife. Gather your crew and get up close (safely) to our neighbors while on a dolphin watching excursion, or go birdwatching at a 43-acre protected habitat.

Adventure Time: Ever wondered what it’s like to fly? Strap into a parasail and see why the birds stick around. Flying above the gulf, you’ll catch air — and incredible views of the Queen Isabella Causeway, Laguna Madre Bay, and the skyline. If heights aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other Labor Day activities, from kiteboarding to a relaxed catamaran cruise. Or dry off for any of the other unforgettable things to do on South Padre Island.

With more than 40 local dining options — from fresh-caught Gulf seafood to authentic Mexican cuisine — The Island is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Experience bold, tropical flavors while taking in beach or bayside views from a breezy patio or rooftop deck. Bonus: There are often restaurant deals and special menus over the long weekend.

It’s not a South Padre Island Labor Day Weekend without a full-throttle firework finale. Here in the Fireworks Capital of Texas, we end the big weekend even bigger. The main family-friendly show begins at 9:15 p.m. on August 31. Arrive at the Entertainment District or a bayside restaurant early enough (around 6 p.m.) to secure a prime viewing spot. Bring your favorite snacks and a tasty beverage to cap your weekend with a bang!

There’s plenty to do until then, though. Live music rocks along the beach all weekend long, including at Coco Beach Hotel and Clayton’s Beach Bar & Grill (which also hosts regular weekend fireworks shows). And the Suwabes Labor Day Festival gets the community and visitors up for three days of beach volleyball competitions, a sunrise run or yoga, and more activities for all ages.