Isla Blanca Park at the south end of South Padre Island hosts the premiere wave in Texas. Deep water offshore funnels swell into the inside sandbar less than 100 yards from shore, producing long, fast waves that can hold surf up to 8–10 ft. An outside sandbar breaks when waves reach 6–8 ft and can get 12–15 ft in tropical storms. Paddle‑outs are challenging and rips are strong.
South Padre Island water temperature today
South Padre Island, Texas
South Padre Island water temperature today is 86°F. Is it cold? It's warm for most people, so plan on boardshorts.
Water temperature refreshed hourly from an observed station reading.
South Padre Island water stays swimmable most of the year, but winter cold fronts can drop temps fast. Hurricane season brings the warmest water alongside the best waves. This guide helps you pick the right rubber for each season.
Warm enough for boardshorts or a bikini
7-Day Temperature Trend
Data from South Padre Island – Isla Blanca Park · Updated hourly
Beach Water Temperatures
Current water temperatures at each surf spot. Temperatures can vary based on local conditions, currents, and depth.
Surf spots in South Padre Island
Loading map...
Spot guide for South Padre Island
Break types, ratings, and local tips for each beach.
What to know about water temperature
- Weekly temperature trends and seasonal averages
- Gear recommendations for dawn patrol versus midday
- Upwelling signals that drop temps overnight
- Health and recovery tips for long cold sessions
Surf Guides for South Padre Island
Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
About surfing in South Padre Island
- South Padre Island water is 86°F today, which is warm for most people, so most surfers wear boardshorts. Wind, air temperature, and session length change how cold it feels.
- South Padre Island water is 86°F today. Readings differ from beach to beach and through the day, so check the per-beach temperatures on this page before you go.
- Water temperatures in South Padre Island typically range from 58-82°F. For summer, boardshorts or spring suit is recommended. In winter, you'll want 3/2mm. Spring and fall may require adjusting based on your cold tolerance.
- Yes! During June-September, water temperatures in South Padre Island are warm enough to surf in boardshorts. Outside that window, boardshorts or spring suit is a good baseline for comfortable sessions.
Check it, surf it, log it
Check the forecast, surf the session, log what happened — and build the record you'll compare every next call against.
iPhone app is live. Android beta is open.