By: DIANTÉ MARIGNY
editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com
For a quarter of a century, the waterpark on South Padre Island has been a place where families gather, memories are made, and summers truly begin.
Now known as Beach Waterpark, the attraction is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year—marking not only its longevity, but its continued evolution as a staple of island entertainment. Many longtime visitors still remember it by its former name, Schlitterbahn Waterpark South Padre Island, before the park rebranded several years ago.
Admissions Manager David Pizana said this milestone year is all about enhancing the guest experience and giving families even more reasons to return.
“This year is finally the year we’re adding more attractions,” Pizana said. “We want people to create more memories out here and have as much fun as possible.”
Among the newest additions are go-karts—bringing a different kind of thrill to the traditionally water-focused park—as well as a new lagoon area designed to offer a unique experience for guests. The lagoon will feature a man-made wave element, something Pizana described as a standout attraction not commonly found elsewhere in the Rio Grande Valley.
While space on South Padre Island is limited, park leaders recognized the importance of continuing to grow and evolve.
“It’s something our guests have been asking for,” Pizana said. “We’re always looking for ways to make it better for them.”
For Pizana, the park’s growth is personal. Having grown up in the Valley, he said the waterpark has long been a part of his own summers.
“Every single summer, I was here,” he said. “Now being part of it and seeing how it’s changed over the years—it’s really special.”
Over time, the park has adapted to meet the needs of both locals and visitors, serving as the only waterpark of its kind in the region. As tourism continues to grow on the island, so does the demand for attractions that appeal to all ages.
The park officially opens for the summer season on April 18 and will remain open through August 9. While no specific anniversary events have been announced, the focus remains on what the park has always offered—fun, family, and lasting memories.
As the waterpark marks 25 years, Pizana said the goal is simple:
“We hope everyone enjoys it as much as we do, and leave with big happy smiles.”
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