What Are The Unique Things To Do In San Marcos For Kids And Adults? (A 2027 Guide)

Feb 9, 2023

Last Updated on: Sep 26, 2026

Travel Guides

Like many visitors, I almost missed San Marcos. 

It is a stop on I-35, and it is easy to drive past it on the way between Austin and San Antonio. 

However, every time I am in Texas, I plan a day around it. 

I love the spring-fed river, the century-old cave, and the honky-tonk that launched a country legend.

So, in this article, I will talk about the things to do in San Marcos along with some other details.  

San Marcos At A Glance

DetailWhat to know
LocationRoughly 30 miles south of Austin and 40 miles north of San Antonio (San Marcos Chamber)
River temperatureAbout 72°F year-round (Visit San Marcos)
Glass-bottom boat$12 adults, $10 seniors, and $8 children 3–12
Lions Club tubing$25 per tube with unlimited shuttle 
Outlet shopping200+ stores, and they have about 14 million visitors a year.
2025 visitor spending$208.7 million, supporting about 2,600 local jobs (Visit San Marcos, May 2026).

What’s New In San Marcos And Worth Knowing For 2027?

What’s New In San Marcos And Worth Knowing

If you are planning around the springs 2027, you need to know two updates. 

The Meadows Center has scheduled maintenance closures on January 11–15, 2027, and August 18, 2027. 

Since February 2026, day parking permits bought at the kiosk carry a 10% service fee, So, you must use the AMP Park app instead.

Wonder World Cave and Adventure Park is scaling back its schedule.

Its homepage currently advertises opening on Fridays and weekends, so book a tour time before driving out.

If you like spectacle, the Texas Water Safari is worth timing a trip around.

The 260-mile canoe race begins on the second Saturday of June. In 2027, that is June 12, weather permitting. Confirm with the organizers.

Best Things To Do In San Marcos With Kids

Best Things To Do In San Marcos With Kids

Kids do best in San Marcos when the day mixes water, animals, and something a little strange. 

These are the three activities you must try with them. 

Meadows Center Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

This is the first thing I book. 

The 30-minute tour of Spring Lake shows the lakebed, plants, animals, and the springs themselves through a glass panel. 

The boats are a piece of local history, since they’ve been running since 1945. The lake is an ecological treasure. 

It holds eight federally listed endangered or threatened species. 

Grounds access is free and includes a self-guided wetlands boardwalk.

Also, the on-site aquarium has free admission. 

Note that winter hours run 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and the last boat leaves 30 minutes before closing.

Wonder World Cave And Adventure Park

Wonder World is a ready-made family half-day. 

The guided cave tour visits the nation’s only true earthquake-formed cave. 

Above ground, you get the Anti-Gravity House, a train ride, and a petting park with deer and goats. 

However, strollers are not allowed on tours, and the cave and Anti-Gravity House are not wheelchair accessible. 

River Tubing For Beginners

For young kids, I would pick the Lions Club float over the longer trips. 

It takes about 45 minutes to an hour, versus about three hours with Texas State Tubes or Don’s Fish Camp. Here’s how the three compare.

OutfitterCostFloat length
Lions Club Tube Rental$25/tube and $15 for shuttle if you bring your own.About 1 hour
Texas State Tubes$30 rental and $10 for ages 7–12Free for 6 and under (life jackets required)About 3 hours
Don’s Fish Camp$30, or $19 with your own tubeAbout 3 hours

Safety matters here because there are no lifeguards on duty. Put life jackets on non-swimmers.

Discovering the Mermaid Art Trail

San Marcos proudly celebrates its title as the Mermaid Capital of Texas through a whimsical, city-wide public art project. 

Keep an eye out for the Mermaid March, a trail of ten 7-foot-tall fiberglass mermaid statues scattered across the city. 

Each statue is individually hand-painted by a local artist to showcase different aspects of San Marcos’s history, culture, and environmental preservation efforts. 

It makes for a fantastic, free scavenger hunt.

It also bridges the gap between downtown shopping and the river, offering perfect photo backdrops while highlighting the community’s deep creative roots and love for its pristine waters.

Best Things To Do In San Marcos For Adults

Best Things To Do In San Marcos For Adults

Adults get the same river, plus music and shopping that make an evening out of it.

Cheatham Street Warehouse

If you love Texas music, this is the pilgrimage. Kent Finlay and Jim Cunningham opened the club in June 1974. 

George Strait’s band played its first show there on October 13, 1975. 

The venue is now overseen by country star Randy Rogers and still hosts weekly songwriter circles. I’d check the calendar and pair a show with dinner downtown.

Paddle Or Snorkel Spring Lake

For something quieter than tubing, the Meadows Center offers guided kayak and SUP tours, limited to paddlers aged 12 and up. 

Because the lake is so protected, this is among the few chances to be on the water at the springs’ source.

The Outlets

The adjacent Tanger Outlets and San Marcos Premium Outlets are consistently ranked among the state’s most popular tourist attractions. 

I go on weekday mornings to skip the crowds.

A Sample One-Day Itinerary In San Marcos

TimeActivityBest for
9:30 AMGlass-bottom boat and wetlands boardwalk.All ages
11:30 AMLunch downtownEveryone
1:00 PMLions Club river floatFamilies, first-timers
3:30 PMWonder World cave tour (check hours)Kids, geology fans
7:30 PMLive music at Cheatham Street WarehouseAdults

Tips For A Visit To San Marcos (As I Learned From Multiple Visits)

Tips For A Visit To San Marcos

You take four simple yet smart measures if you want to save money for a trip to San Marcos. 

Visit it early in the day as tubing crowds become dense by mid-morning. Also, the boats and caves are calmer before noon. 

Also, reserve ahead for Wonder World and the boats on weekends and holidays.

Furthermore, check the dates of big events such as the Water Safari and holiday weekends push up demand.

Also, budget for parking, especially if you are visiting the Meadows Center. 

Is San Marcos Worth It In 2027?

Yes, a visit to San Marcos is worth it in 2027. 

Tourism is a real economic engine here.

The 2025 visitor spending reached $208.7 million and supported about 2,600 jobs. 

The town has also earned its identity, since the Texas legislature named it the Mermaid Capital of Texas in 2021. 

So, come for the water, and stay for the music.

Share on Social Media

Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE best time to visit mauritius

I Had No Idea When To Visit Mauritius Till I Went There THIS Time!

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 27, 2023

Mauritius! I had the amazing experience of going to this island country recently, and let me tell you, it was an experience of a lifetime. Initially, I was confused about which time to plan it out for. The temperatures and weather in Mauritius are at odds with the rest of the world because of its position in the middle of the ocean. But, when I got there, lucky as I was, I had arrived just before peak season. I got to know about their culture, their food, and most importantly, the best time to visit Mauritius. Here I will describe to you what Mauritius has to offer in each of the months of the year. If you want to know about Mauritanian weather the year around, make sure to stick it out to the end. Plan your trip then on, accordingly. The Best Time To Visit Mauritius Image Source: images.news18.com Mauritius is known for its sunny beaches and beautiful nature treasures. I am here to give you a season-by-season breakdown of the island. Keep reading! January To March Image Source: www.lexpressproperty.com In Mauritius, January is considered one of the hottest and wettest months of the year. Despite the high rainfall, the island is still quite busy due to the influx of tourists from the Christmas period. You can expect heavy rainfall during late afternoons, and there is a possibility of torrential storms during this month. Similarly, February is also quite hot, humid, and rainy in Mauritius. However, the rain usually doesn't last long and clears up after a few hours. Though not perfect for a beach vacation, February has fewer crowds than January. It is important to note that there is still a chance of cyclones during this month. March marks the Holi Festival, also known as the 'Festival of Colours' on the island. This annual celebration is held in honor of Lord Krishna, a Hindu deity. During the festivities, people line up on the streets and cover themselves with vibrantly-colored powder, creating a jovial atmosphere. Despite being a humid month, March sees less rainfall than January and February. April To June Image Source: media1.thrillophilia.com The month of April is a hot and humid season, making it an ideal time for sun-seekers. However, the Easter holidays make the island quite busy. If you prefer a quieter beach vacation, it's better to plan your trip outside of this period. April is also the beginning of the best time of the year to indulge in surfing or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. May is officially the start of winter in Mauritius, but the temperature remains comfortable, and the humidity drops. This month is popular among tourists as there are reasonable travel specials on Mauritius accommodations. The evenings can get chilly, so it is recommended to pack some warmer clothes. June is a cooler month in Mauritius compared to the humid weather at the beginning of the year. If you prefer hot weather, then June may feel much cooler. The trade winds start to increase, and like in May, the evenings can become a little colder. It's the perfect time for kite surfers. July To September Image source: www.eventsmauritius.mu July is also considered a cooler month in Mauritius. If you want to enjoy the best possible weather during this period, it's recommended to visit the North of the Island. Despite the lower temperatures, July is still a popular time of the year due to school holidays in the Northern Hemisphere. I visited Mauritius in August. In Mauritius, August is a month with mild temperatures and no rainfall, making it perfect for sunny days without the scorching heat. I would recommend you stay on the west or north coast during August as these areas provide more shelter from the wind. This month marks the Ganesh Chaturthi Festival, a festival honoring the God Ganesh, and you can see statues of the Elephant God all around the island during the celebration. September is considered the unofficial beginning of peak season in Mauritius. At this time, the strong trade winds start to die down, and the temperatures rise, ushering in the summer months and longer days of sunshine. Despite this, September still offers some quiet beaches, good deals on flights, exciting tours in Mauritius, and discounts on accommodations. October To December Image Source: www.mauvillas.com October is the driest month of the year in Mauritius, and it tends to be a busy time at the most popular destinations on the island. This month is also significant as it is the time for the Hindu festival of Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. During this festive period, candles and lamps light up the island in a soft glow, making it a beautiful sight to behold. November is characterized by a significant increase in humidity and temperature. The month offers more sunshine, but it's also associated with an increase in rainfall. It's a perfect time for scuba diving enthusiasts who want to catch a glimpse of the seasonal turtles, particularly the Green turtle and the Hawksbill turtle, which are commonly spotted during this period. In December, the last month of the year, Mauritius experiences a surge in global activities, and the island is no exception. Humidity levels rise, and heavy rainfall is expected, mostly in the afternoons. The sea temperature is warmer, making it ideal for water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and scuba diving. However, it is advisable to plan your beach holiday well in advance to avoid the high demand during the festive season. Things To Do When Visiting Mauritius Image Source: planetofhotels.com Mauritius is absolutely gorgeous most of the time, and visiting it is a must, whether solo or with family. Here are some things you can try once you decide to try this island country for your next trip: Snorkeling At Blue Bay Marine Park Image Source: static2.tripoto.com If you're interested in witnessing the beautiful marine life of Mauritius, snorkeling is an excellent way to do so. By snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park, you'll have the opportunity to closely observe the amazing underwater world of Mauritius that has been hidden for centuries. This excursion will transport you to a different world, allowing you to explore something that is beyond your imagination. Cave Sea Kayaking At Albion Caves Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com Kayaking in Mauritius offers a unique and adventurous experience. One such experience is kayaking across the cave sea, providing you with an exclusive opportunity to witness the beauty of the caves. If you are fascinated by caves and enjoy exploring their hidden stories and interesting designs, then you should definitely try a kayaking tour at Albion Caves. Walks With Lions At Casela Park Image Source: toursmauritius.mu Have you ever considered taking a walk with the king of the jungle? If so, Casela Park in Mauritius offers an opportunity to experience the wild side of the jungle by taking a thrilling walk with lions. This excursion in Mauritius promises to give you an adrenaline rush and an unforgettable experience that you may have never imagined! Wrapping Up If you are planning to visit Mauritius and want to know more I hope this article helped. My Experience of Mauritius and knowledge of it will help you select your trip timing better. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Read Also: This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do! This Is The Best Time To Visit The Seven Magic Mountains In Vegas! THIS Is When You Should Visit Maldives!

READ MORE Best Beaches in Croatia

Why Should You Visit Croatian Beaches By Boat? Which Are The Top 10 Best Beaches To Visit?

BY  Sibashree Oct 24, 2025

Croatia is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. Moreover, tourists can see crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and pristine silver sand beaches. Statistics reports suggest that almost 20 million arrivals were recorded in Croatia,  Therefore, a large number of tourists from around the world visit Croatia. This often makes several spots and destinations very crowded.  However, many travellers do not like being in highly crowded places. Thus, people often prefer to visit beaches that remain untouched by people and are clean. Moreover, Croatia’s coastline is home to hundreds of breathtaking beaches. The list of attractions includes things like hidden coves and pebbly bays to soft sandy lagoons. However, we will inform Tour and Travel readers about the less crowded beaches accessible by waterways.   Therefore, the best way to explore all these beaches is by boat or yacht. Moreover, tourists can anchor in crystal waters and explore every hidden corner of the Adriatic. Which Are The Top 10 Best Beaches in Croatia To Visit By Boat? Croatia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. However, we have sifted out the names of some of the best beaches in Croatia for you to visit.  All these beaches are best visited by boat. Thus, let us know in detail about these beaches. 1. Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn): BraÄŤ Island Zlatni Rat is one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. Moreover, the beach stretches out into the sea like a golden horn. However, the golden-stretching beach constantly changes shape with the wind and ocean currents. Zlatni Rat is located on the island of BraÄŤ. The island is one of the most significant geomorphological wonders in the world. Moreover, the Island offers some of the most incredible scenery. The water surrounding the Island becomes turquoise blue to dark blue within just 20 metres. The Island also houses decades-old pine trees that were once planted by the locals to create natural shade around the place. Therefore, the white pebbles and turquoise water turn the Island into a dream stop for sailors.  Thus, tourists can simply drop anchor nearby with a Split yacht rental and relax in the blue waters.  Moreover, tourists can spend the afternoon swimming, participating in other watersports such as windsurfing, or enjoying the lively Bol promenade. Zlatni Rat is one of the best beaches in Croatia for spending some time alone. 2. Stiniva Beach: Vis Island The island of Viz serves as the home to Stinava Beach. Stinava Beach is one of the best beaches in Croatia.  Moreover, Stinava Cove is popular among tourists for its high cliffs that form the entrance to the sea.  Furthermore, the Tourism Organization European “Best Destinations” considers the beach the most beautiful beach in Europe. Vis attracts people from all over the world because of its mild Mediterranean climate. The beach remains hidden between the cliffs. Hence, tourists can only reach the place by a short hike. However, the boat serves as a more scenic way to reach the place. The tiny pebble beach and emerald-green water make it one of the most photographed places in Croatia. Arrive early in the morning for calm seas and perfect light. 3. Dubovica: Hvar Island Tourists should take a short sail from Hvar Town. Moreover, they will reach Dubovica Beach. The beach is one of the most peaceful coves, framed by stone houses and olive trees.  The tourists visiting the place will witness calm, transparent waters. Moreover, tourists should go prepared for water sports activities.  The place provides ideal spots for swimming and snorkeling right from their yacht.  Moreover, the rustic beach bars onshore also add to the island's authentic charm. 4. PasjaÄŤa Beach, Konavle, Near Dubrovnik The place is carved beneath towering cliffs. Hence, PasjaÄŤa is one of Croatia’s most dramatic beaches.  Moreover, the beach is a mix of fine sand and pebbles. However, the beach remains accessible only via a steep path from the cliffs above. Thus, tourists find it difficult to reach the place. However, the travellers can always reach the beach by sea. Moreover, people should anchor their boats offshore and enjoy the untouched beauty and serenity. Moreover, the place remains a hidden paradise. Far away from the chaos and crowded places. Thus, it is one of the best beaches in Croatia. 5. Sveti Jakov: Dubrovnik Travellers who sail near Dubrovnik should definitely visit Sveti Jakov Beach. Moreover, the place is located just outside the Old Town. Therefore, people can enjoy stunning views of the city walls and Lokrum Island from the spot.  Moreover, the pebble-and-sand beach offers a very relaxed vibe. Hence, the beach provides ideal conditions for swimming. Travellers can also take in the historic skyline from the comfort of their yacht. 6. Sakarun Beach: Dugi Otok People know Sakarun Beach for the rare sandy beaches on the Adriatic. Moreover, Sakarun feels almost Caribbean with its shallow turquoise bay and soft white sand.  The place is surrounded by a pine forest. Moreover, the yachts cruising the Zadar archipelago find the place to be a popular destination. The anchorage is calm, making it ideal for a lazy day in paradise. 7. Lubenice Beach: Cres Island Perched below the medieval village of Lubenice, this hidden cove offers a wild, natural setting and crystal-clear water.  Lubenice Beach is difficult to reach by land, which makes arriving by boat the perfect option. It is quiet, pristine, and ideal for a refreshing swim far from the crowds. 8. Nugal Beach: Makarska Riviera Nugal Lies between cliffs and pine trees. Hence, Nugal serves as one of Dalmatia’s most peaceful beaches.  The beach has gained popularity for its privacy and naturist-friendly atmosphere.  However, travellers can access the beach only on foot or by boat. Hence, the place remains a true hidden gem for those seeking peace while sailing. 9. Pupnatska Luka: KorÄŤula Island KorÄŤula, Pupnatska Luka is one of the most beautiful bays in Croatia. Moreover, the beach features smooth pebbles, crystal-clear water, and lush green hills in the background.  Therefore, the Sailors often stop here for swimming and lunch, thanks to the small local konoba (tavern) nearby. The sheltered bay offers safe anchoring and a perfect island escape. 10. Rajska PlaĹľa (Paradise Beach) – Lopar, Rab Island Rajska PlaĹľa boasts long stretches of fine sand and shallow, warm water. Moreover, most of the Croatian beaches do not offer this. Hence, these conditions remain ideal for families and others.  Moreover, the beach is one of the few where you can anchor nearby and swim ashore easily.  The 2-kilometer sandy bay is surrounded by cafĂ©s and restaurants, making it a lively stop on your northern Adriatic route. Things To Remember While Visiting The Best Beaches In Croatia  Croatia has several beaches. Moreover, people can access several beaches by hiking trails as well. However, the route to several hiking trails involves steep hills and cliffs.  Thus, the waterways serve as the best way of transportation to visit the best beaches in Croatia.

READ MORE golf holidays in Thailand

How To Create An Unforgettable Golf Trip To Thailand

BY  Sibashree Oct 30, 2025

A golf trip to Thailand! Now that’s something else. It’s not just a vacation; it’s golf, sunshine, beaches, and that laid-back Thai feeling all mixed together. Sounds great, right?  And it might seem like a lot to plan at first, but honestly, it’s not that bad. With a bit of prep and the right mindset, you can pull off a trip that runs smoothly and ends up being one of those “I’ll never forget that” kind of weeks. Here is more on how to make your golf holidays in Thailand unforgettable.  Understanding Why Thailand Is So Special For Golf So here’s the thing. Thailand’s kind of sneaky about being one of the best golf spots out there.  The weather’s good most of the time, the courses look amazing, and the service... man, they really care about making you feel welcome.  One day you could be playing through jungle fairways in Phuket, and the next you’re in Hua Hin with mountain views all around. Every area has its own thing going on. And it’s not just golf either. Thailand has this relaxed rhythm to it. You finish a round and next thing you know, you’re sitting by the beach eating grilled fish or wandering through a night market.  Maybe you get a massage because, well, you earned it. That mix of great golf and total chill time? That’s the magic. Choosing The Right Destinations For Golf Holidays In Thailand Alright, first choose where to go. Thailand’s main golf areas are Bangkok, Hua Hin, Pattaya, and Phuket, and each one’s got a different vibe. Bangkok’s busy, sure, but it’s got a ton of courses and easy access from the airport. Hua Hin’s quiter, sort of classy, with views of the sea.  Pattaya’s lively (to say the least) but full of fun and variety. And Phuket... well, that’s just pure island life. Feels like you’re playing in a postcard half the time. Try mixing a couple of them if you can. A few days in Bangkok and Hua Hin work great. Or Phuket and Pattaya, if you want both beach and nightlife. Keeps things fresh, you know? Finding The Right Golf Courses Thailand’s got loads of courses — fancy ones, budget ones, and pretty much all of them are in good shape. Think about what you enjoy most. Some people like a challenge, others just want those wide fairways and nice views. Honestly, most golfers mix it up — one big “wow” course, then a few laid-back rounds where nobody’s really keeping score. You don’t have to sort it all out now. Check some reviews, maybe watch a couple of YouTube clips, or ask someone who’s been. If that’s not your thing, just get a local golf company to handle it — they know the best spots anyway. Where To Stay Hotels and resorts in Thailand... there’s something for every budget. Simple, fancy, whatever you like. Try to stay close to the golf courses or somewhere near the beach — saves you a lot of time. If you’re going with a group, look for a place with a pool or a bar where everyone can hang out after the game. And honestly, the people here are so friendly. The staff always seem to notice what you need before you even ask. It’s kind of amazing. Getting Around Getting around’s not hard, but yeah, those golf bags can be a hassle. It’s smart to set up your airport rides and course transfers before you get there. Most folks go with private vans that have air-con (and trust me, you’ll be thankful for that in the afternoon heat). Having a driver who knows the golf routes is a big help, too. You don’t have to worry about getting lost — just sit back, chill, and watch the scenery roll by. Adding Local Experiences Let’s be real — if you fly all the way to Thailand just to golf and go home, you’re missing half the fun. Between rounds, try something different. Maybe a longtail boat ride, a Thai cooking class, or a few hours in a spa. Night markets are great too — good food, random stuff to buy, and that fun chaos you can’t really explain. Oh, and if you like a drink, local rum and gin are becoming a thing now. Little side adventures like that make the trip more yours, you know? The Best Time To Travel The best months are November to March. Nice weather, dry, and not too hot. But if you don’t mind a few clouds, the months just before or after that are still great — fewer people and better prices. Even when it rains, it usually passes quickly, and you’re back out playing again soon. Just plan around it a bit, and you’ll be fine. Traveling With Friends Golf trips with friends hit different. Thailand’s perfect for it — easygoing people, good food, warm weather, and a pace that fits everyone. You can plan a few friendly matches, a silly competition, or just play for fun. Most courses have really nice clubhouses too — perfect for sitting down after the round, grabbing a drink, and laughing about that one shot nobody saw coming. Why Planning Golf Holidays In Thailand With Experts Makes It Easier You can plan everything yourself, sure, but honestly, a golf travel expert can make things so much easier. They deal with tee times, rides, hotels — all the little details that can eat up your time. One of the best ones out there is Fairways of Eden. They’re based right in Thailand and focus only on golf holidays. You can build your trip from scratch with them — choose your courses, hotels, and add whatever extras you want. It’s all in one place, which makes life a lot simpler. And no, using them doesn’t mean you lose control. It just means you get to relax knowing someone’s got your back when you land. Making Your Golf Holidays In Thailand Truly Unforgettable The best memories from a golf trip aren’t just about perfect weather or amazing greens. It’s the stuff in between — the laughs, the sunsets, the random moments you didn’t plan for. Take your time. Listen to your caddie. Enjoy the quiet. Let Thailand’s slow rhythm kind of take over for a bit. Every smell, every sound, every smile adds something to the story. When you finally head home, you’ll realize it wasn’t just about golf at all. It was about finding a place that fits — golf, people, peace, and a bit of adventure all wrapped together. So yeah, whether you do it all yourself or get Fairways of Eden to help, your unforgettable golf trip to Thailand really just starts with one idea — play the game you love in a place that feels made for it.