Having fun in the water doesn’t only happen in the summer. The Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort South Padre Island caters to families with an indoor water park, two pools, a gift shop and restaurant. Weekends are busy at the 221-room beachfront hotel, open year round.
When we visited, the massive outdoor water park was closed, but the indoor water park located next to the hotel was open. Before booking a stay, check the dates parks operate and the height requirements for each attraction.
The indoor water park is open weekends and select weekdays. It features two 70-foot-high tube slides; two tidal wave rivers; and a whimsical play area with a pirate ship, yellow submarine and raining mushrooms for younger kids. Plus there’s a grand carousel. Guests can take a plunge in the saltwater pool or the giant heated pool with swim-up refreshment bar. Check-in at the hotel is 4 p.m., but registered guests may use the water park when it opens. Changing areas, showers and lockers are provided on the premises.
Our large wheelchair-accessible guestroom contained a king-sized bed and a sofa sleeper. Additional amenities included free WiFi, an in-room safe, microwave, mini fridge and coffee maker. The non-smoking hotel also has loaner cribs, an on-site laundry service and a small workout room. Much of the furniture, such as our bedside tables, is made from reclaimed wood salvaged from the devastating wildfires that burned in Bastrop County, Texas, in 2011.
Guests can dine at the outdoor Seaside Grill with Gulf of Mexico views. It’s the perfect spot for morning coffee or an afternoon cocktail. The Shrimp Haus Restaurant is a casual establishment serving lunch and dinner. Live music is performed Tuesday–Saturday.
South Padre Island Nature and Birding Center © Jim Twardowski
Visitors who wish to see more than the water parks can stroll along the beach, take surfing lessons, fish or explore the South Padre Island Nature and Birding Center. If you’re looking for a laid-back destination with family-friendly accommodations, book a weekend at Schlitterbahn.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort South Padre Island
100 Padre Blvd.
South Padre Island, Texas 78597
tel 855 923 7543
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