Located at the southern end of a long barrier island that stretches along the Gulf of Mexico, the Texan resort town of South Padre Island is a hugely popular jumping-off point for dolphin-watching excursions.
(Photo: Isla Tours / Courtesy Viator)
Tours from South Padre Island are among some of the best-value opportunities to see dolphins in their native environment anywhere in the United States, and there are several excellent local companies that offer dolphin-watching boat excursions in these parts. We’ve taken a look at them all and selected three of the best dolphin tours from South Padre Island currently available, based on factors including duration, amenities and previous guest reviews.
Eco and Dolphin Watch Tour
This 1.5-hour wildlife tours takes you along the coast of South Padre Island. Along the way, your guide and captain will keep their eye out for the many Atlantic bottlenose dolphins that reside in this part of the ocean, as well as other species including sea horses, starfish, and sea slugs. You’ll also cruise past several notable sites and places of interest, such as the U.S. Coast Guard Station and Boca Chica Beach. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drink onboard. From $39 per person.
Sunset Dolphin Watch Tour
(Photo: Isla Tours / Courtesy Viator)
If the array of marine and bird life in the area is not enough natural beauty to satisfy you, then you can take a boat tour at sunset as well for even more eye candy. While the amount of time you’ll have to make clear sightings of the dolphins will be slightly reduced, spotting dolphins breaching the surface of the ocean as it’s painted orange by the sinking sun still makes for an extremely memorable experience. This tour runs daily and usually lasts for around 90 minutes. From $19 per person.
Fireworks Cruise with Dolphin Watch in Laguna Madre Bay
(Photo: Isla Tours / Courtesy Viator)
For an even more extended sunset experience with an extra thrill at the end, this 2 to 3-hour tour may well appeal. After stepping aboard your vessel, you’ll voyage into the enchanting Laguna Madre, where the waters are teeming with exotic marine life. Here you’ll be captivated as playful dolphins dance around your boat. Later, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking sunset, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink. But that’s not all, because next up, you’ll have a front-row seat to a spectacular fireworks display over the bay, lighting up the night in a dazzling array of colours, before your return journey to dry land. From $38 per person.