Winter has arrived on South Padre Island, and if you think there isn’t much to do during the winter season, you are in for a big surprise. SPI has multiple attractions you can enjoy even in cooler temperatures. One of the best things about South Padre Island is that the temperature doesn’t drop drastically during winter. The average temperature for the day is in the low 70s, so you can still enjoy an island vacation without worrying about the cold. Trade your jackets and scarves for sunglasses, and head down to SPI to enjoy the Christmas spirit and winter season without the frigid temperatures.
Holiday Events and Attractions
South Padre Island Tree Lighting Ceremony
Kick off the holiday season in coastal style at South Padre Island’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Gather at South Padre Island historic center with friends and family on the first Thursday of December to enjoy festive entertainment, dazzling lights, and a magical start to the holidays by the sea.
The Holiday Sandcastle Village
Located on West Ling Street, is one of South Padre Island's most popular and photographed spots. What makes it unique is how, as the seasons and holidays change, so do the sand sculptures. Our sandcastle artists get to show off their skills as they update sculptures to match the winter season. Check out life-size sculptures decorated with festive ornaments and lights, perfect for the holiday season.
South Padre Island Christmas Parade
Kick off the holiday season with the annual Christmas Parade! Bring a beach chair and get into the holiday spirit with the family to watch festive floats and cheerful groups pass by, spreading all the Christmas cheer! The parade route travels down Padre Boulevard, starting at Mars Lane and ending at Acapulco Street.
South Padre Island Lighted Boat Parade
The Lighted Boat Parade is a great way to enjoy the island holiday spirit for free on the first Saturday evening of December! Enjoy a cool winter breeze and watch as boats of all sizes cruise by, decorated in their holiday finest. Designated viewing areas throughout the route offer free public viewing as the bay sparkles with the light of these beautifully decorated boats. Head to the greens at the Entertainment District, lay out a blanket, and enjoy the show!
Winter Wonderland
As the boat parade dazzles over the water, SPI’s Winter Wonderland adds to the holiday magic on shore. This festive experience, happening on the first Saturday of December, features twinkling lights, live music, local vendors, and plenty of cheer for the whole family. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy both enchanting events in one unforgettable evening on the Entertainment District greens!
Breakfast with Santa
Start your morning with holiday cheer on the first Sunday of December at South Padre Island's free Breakfast with Santa event! Held at the South Padre Island Convention Center, this festive gathering invites families to enjoy a delicious breakfast and meet Santa himself. Kids can share their secret holiday wishes, snap photos, and enjoy a delightful time with the Big Guy. It's the perfect way to add a little extra magic to your holiday season.
Holiday Gifting
The Island is the place to find unique, gifts that will capture hearts for years to come.
Experience Sisters Interiors' “Sip and Shop Saturdays”, where you can discover holiday favorites and stunning gifts all while enjoying a little bubbly. Make your holiday shopping an all-around experience.
The 5200 block is your ultimate stop for guaranteed successful Holiday shopping. Shops like Art Sea Gallery & Goods, Ship Shape, and Charmed Boutique offer a diverse selection of items, ranging from clothing and shoes to books and handmade jewelry.
What makes shopping on the Island all the more special is that many of the items for sale are personally crafted by artists and creators alike who specialize in using their talents to bring joy into others' lives. The SPI Art Business Incubator is where you can find unique gifts that you won't find anywhere else, like hand-crafted coasters, hand-painted ornaments, oil-painted necklaces, and much more.
Skip the big stores' common mass-produced gifts and shop local for personalized, heartfelt treasures instead to fill everyone’s stockings!
Great Weather for Outdoor Activities
Take a Stroll on the Beach
The mild weather on SPI during winter and around Christmas is perfect for a stroll on the beach. On South Padre Island, you can bring your furry friends for a walk and enjoy the beach together. Whether you go for a stroll early in the morning or late at night, the serene sounds of the waters will keep you company. With over 34 miles of beach, you can enjoy a long, peaceful walk.
Horseback Riding
Cross off a bucket list item by riding a horse beachside. Horseback riding is offered all year round, but there is something special about riding the horses in the winter. During the winter, you don’t have to worry about the heat from the sun beating down. All you need is a good sweater, and you can have a comfortable gallop on the sand.
Dolphin Watch/ Eco-Tour
You can still enjoy a dolphin watch or eco-tour even in chillier temps. The simplicity of a dolphin watch makes it enjoyable all year round. Even in the winter, it is easy to wrap yourself in a jacket and enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the bay. Dolphins will still show themselves in the cold, as they love the attention they receive from tourists. Eco-tours are still informative, as the net showcases the living sea creatures that are active during the winter.
Sandcastle Lessons
While it may be a little too chilly to swim during winter, sandcastle lessons are a great way to spend a day on the beach without entering the water. South Padre Island is home to notable sandcastle sculptors who can teach you all you need to know about creating your own sand sculptures. From amateurs to experts, there’s so much to learn here on South Padre Island.
Visit the Entertainment District
For the nightlife experience, visit South Padre Island’s Entertainment District. It’s filled with various bars and restaurants near Laguna Madre Bay. If you’re looking for a place to grab some drinks and take in the beautiful bay view during golden hour, then this is the perfect place. Alongside the restaurants and bars, you also have a variety of activities to partake in, such as a lighted Ferris wheel, mini-golf, and go-karts. The Entertainment District is also in a festive spirit during the holiday; the buildings are decked out with lights and ornaments to celebrate the holidays.
Dining During the Holidays
Want to take a break from the kitchen this year? South Padre Island’s Christmas and New Year dining is the perfect way to enjoy the holidays with a coastal flair. For Christmas Eve dinner, try Bar Louie for a coastal Christmas feast. Head down to Lobo Del Mar on Christmas Day to enjoy a waterfront Christmas dinner. Staying for New Year's? Ring in the New Year at Liam's Steakhouse and Oyster Bar. Browse our restaurant list to find the perfect choice for your family.
Bring your loved ones to SPI this holiday season for a relaxing holiday getaway! There are plenty of things to do in South Padre Island in December, from holiday light shows to sandcastles on the beach. And the best part is you can get into the holiday spirit while enjoying great island weather! SPI is the perfect destination for a sunny yet festive Christmas. Plan your South Padre Island Christmas holiday today!