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Sea Turtle, Inc., South Padre Island

4.7
#1 of 118 in Wildlife in Texas
Wildlife Area Nature / Park Must See
Since 1977, Sea Turtle, Inc. has grown from a concerned conservation group to include a hospital and rehabilitation center. Numerous sea turtles get hurt by predators or fishermen, and their eggs get lost due to urbanization. That threatens the balance of the ecosystem and leads to large reductions of sea life. At the center, you can hear about sea turtles and about the organization's efforts to protect all marine turtle species. You'll see tanks with different kinds of turtles--some injured and some nearly cured--and learn about the ways they are rehabilitated before being returned to the wild. Donations are welcome. For travelers who use our custom trip planner, South Padre Island holidays become easier to arrange, with trips to the Sea Turtle, Inc. and other attractions mapped out and timetabled.
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Reviews
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating
2,186 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • August 14, 2017
    We go every summer, and have every year since my daughter was little. She's 13 now and not quite as impressed with the turtles but I still love it! Last year we were fortunate enough to be on the isla...  more »
  • August 14, 2017
    We needed a day off the beach so stopped by the turtle rescue and spent about 90 minutes there. The intern who gave the presentation was very knowledgable and well spoken and was interesting for all. ...  more »
  • August 14, 2017
    Enjoyed seeing the turtles, and reading their stories! We wish we'd come sooner and seen the babies~!  more »
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Google
  • May 13, 2017
    Oh my. We had such an amazing time here, while vacationing in South Padre Island. We visited twice and would have returned a third time if they had not been closed on Mondays. My kids had such a great time meeting Merry Christmas and Alison. The gift shop had some amazing items too. My kids definitely loved picking out a toy turtle to take home, that they each named Merry Christmas. Lol. And I'm loving their turmeric beach soap. My husband was just so happy to be around turtles and for all of us to learn how important they are to all living things.
  • April 2, 2017
    This place is beyond amazing! Great for the family or a little date. Lots to see and learn about the sea turtles they've rescued here. Totally worth it to wait around at "Gerry's" tank to get a glance of him when he swims by, hes HUGE! Gift shop is full of fun little trinkets and fun shirts. Very friendly staff. Everyone should visit this awesome gem at least once! Its free admission but they accept donations. GREAT PLACE!
  • May 22, 2017
    Awesome place to spend part of the afternoon! Admission is free with a suggested donation to the organization who runs the place. Lots of mini pools with sea turtles to walk around and look at. Had no trouble seeing, so great place for kids too. Don't miss the most special turtle there, Gerry! He is "famous" and has a fun story to read about!
  • April 21, 2017
    I love the sea turtle rescue! I come to South Padre often and grew up here and this is always one of my families stops. Definitely recommend coming here and staff is so nice! Gary and Allison are worth seeing along with the others. Teaches everyone about animals rights which I absolutely love! After coming here a lot of times I have learned all of the sea turtles names and hope you will too. Please, please, PLEASE donate and support the sea turtles! 😄😁😄😁
  • June 6, 2017
    This is a great place to visit. They do great work here and it's extremely accessible. Just walk in and visit the turtles. Pro tip: They have a website that allows your friends or family to see the turtles while you look. Wave at the cameras!
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Where to stay in South Padre Island

As with most tropical destinations, room rates in South Padre Island increase the closer you get to the beachfront, especially if you arrive at the height of tourist season. If you’ve built in a big budget for accommodations, stay at one of the town's high-rise luxury hotels or private seaside cottages. To stay near the water without spending too much, avoid the expensive spring break season. Consider one of the island's inns or developed campgrounds with easy beach access.
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