Summary
Texas experiences extremely warm summers, making it unsurprising that many individuals seek refuge at the beach during these hot months.
The City of Galveston provides a plethora of choices for visitors looking to cool off by the sea.
Located just over an hour south of Greater Houston, Galveston attracts a substantial number of individuals escaping the heat for cooler coastal environments.
When considering the influx of tourists to Texas and its Gulf of Mexico shoreline, the beaches become quite inviting.
Galveston functions as a major port—one of the largest in the United States—situated on Galveston and Pelican Islands, just offshore from the Texas Mainland.
With a modest population of around 50,000 residents, the area enjoys a prime coastal location with ample beach access.
Some vacationers utilize Galveston as their base, while others venture down for weekend getaways.
No matter their plans, visitors are likely to explore at least one of the 15 Recommended Beaches in Galveston.
1. Surfside Jetty County Park, TX77541
This complimentary 15-acre park features a beachfront playground that is ideal for families.
The park includes enjoyable winding slides for children.
With ample parking available and nearby restroom facilities, the picnic area is well-equipped.
Visitors can explore the picturesque beach.
This area is rich in birdlife, and opportunities for fishing and swimming are readily available.
Historically significant, this region served as an important harbor; the old Fort Velasco is located just outside the park, while Velasco Battery is found within its boundaries.
2. Seawolf Park, TX77550
Located on Pelican Island, this park is named after the USS Seawolf, which was inadvertently sunk during World War II. The park also features the USS Cavalla and the USS Stewart, both World War II vessels now serving as tourist attractions.
Despite not being ideal for swimming, the park offers a multitude of other attractions.
Along with the beach, facilities include fishing piers where flounder are the most common catches.
A picnic area is available, and children will find enjoyment in the park’s playground.
3. East Beach, TX77550
East Beach emerged as a byproduct of port and harbor development in the 19th century.
Now recognized as Texas’ largest beach, it can get quite crowded in the summer, yet ample space remains for all.
This public beach hosts numerous events throughout the season, including concerts and festivals, and permits alcohol consumption, setting it apart from many other beaches in Galveston.
Facilities include changing rooms, showers, and a café.
Activities on the beach encompass horseback riding and volleyball.
4. Stewart Beach, TX 77550
Stewart Beach is an excellent option for families.
Offering nearby parking and robust facilities, lifeguards are present during peak seasons, and visitors can rent chairs and umbrellas on site.
Clean restrooms, showers, and changing areas complement this beach, as well as a pavilion.
Children can take advantage of the playground, where lessons on sandcastle building may also be available.
Sand volleyball courts are on-site, along with a snack bar and a shop for necessary items during visits.
However, alcohol consumption is prohibited on Stewart Beach.
5. Beachtown Development, TX77550
Public Access Beach 1A, located at the eastern terminus of the island, features a delightful café, superb ice cream, and nearby rental beach houses.
Convenient parking is available adjacent to the beach, leading visitors through dunes to the sandy areas.
Even during the high season and weekends, this location tends to feel relatively quiet due to its remoteness.
Visitors are welcome to bring dogs, while others may enjoy flying kites.
The waters are safe for swimming, allowing dogs to enjoy a splash as well.
6. Porretto Beach, TX77550
Porretto Beach, positioned along Seawall Boulevard, provides a stunning location for watching sunsets; in fact, the entire coastline offers breathtaking evening views.
Patrons of the boulevard represent a diverse group—encountering everyone from hippies and cowboys to bikers and fishermen is common.
Rental options are conveniently located near the beach, which minimizes the hassle of transporting personal items from parking to the shore.
A variety of hotels and restaurants can be found nearby, with seafood highly recommended at dining establishments.
7. Crystal Beach, TX77550
Obtaining a parking permit for a nominal fee of $10 is worthwhile, as it remains valid for the entire year.
Access allows you to park close to the sand before heading directly to the beach to find your perfect spot for the day.
A ferry ride is essential to reach Crystal Beach, where opportunities to observe dolphins may arise during the crossing.
Shallow water areas ensure safety for young children, and the beach is well-maintained, with trash bags distributed to visitors for easy disposal of waste.
Facilities are basic, yet it provides an affordable day of enjoyment.
8. Babe’s Beach, TX77551
Babe’s Beach, featuring a lifeguard presence, offers a small, well-kept stretch of shoreline.
Visitors may choose to relax here, while children, surfers, and fishermen find enjoyment in the waters.
A variety of bird species adds interest to the environment.
This beach, located west of 61st Street, honors A.R. ”Babe” Schwartz—a former Texas senator known for his dedication to Galveston and its beaches; he also served as a lifeguard in his youth.
The beach was named in his memory in 2016 as he approached 90 and passed away two years later at the age of 92.
9. Pirates Beach, TX77554
This beach on the Gulf of Galveston offers tranquility away from bustling locations.
Parking is conveniently located just a block away, allowing easy access to the beach via nearby houses.
Both sunrise and sunset present beautiful views at this location.
Though amenities are limited for a day-long stay, bringing a picnic and refreshments is recommended.
At times, seaweed may accumulate, but it is removed, ensuring a safe environment for nesting sea turtles.
Ample accommodation options are available for those wishing to stay in the vicinity.
10. City Jamaica Beach, TX77554
City Jamaica Beach offers a family-friendly beach environment, with safe waters suitable for young children, though the beach does not have lifeguards present.
This clean and welcoming location avoids overcrowding.
Various beach houses are available for rent, granting guests the opportunity to savor sunrises and sunsets without an early wake-up call or the need to leave for dinner.
Although winds may occasionally be strong, they do not detract from the enjoyment experienced at City Jamaica.
Local dining establishments serve excellent options for lunch and dinner, with seafood being a favorite among visitors.
11. Galveston Island State Park, 77554
This state park has been operational for over four decades, providing an excellent beach day experience for families.
Swimming is completely safe, and children particularly enjoy playing in the sand.
Piers for fishing, as well as trails for cycling and hiking, enhance the outdoor experience.
There are interesting channels for canoeing, with the requirement that visitors bring their own canoe.
With a minimal entrance fee, the park includes restrooms, showers, and picnic facilities throughout its grounds.
Campsites and rental cabins are available for those wishing to spend the night.
12. San Luis Pass, TX77554
San Luis Pass Pocket Park is located at the western end of Galveston, featuring beautifully sandy beaches and natural wetlands.
Besides enjoying the beach itself, various bird species can be observed, along with pleasing picnic areas and adequate facilities.
Shaded chairs and umbrellas are provided for comfort.
Whether flying a kite or swimming in the warm waters, the park is a delightful place for recreation.
Outdoor showers are available for rinsing off before departure.
A vehicle can be parked within the park, allowing for easy access to parking, even during peak seasons and weekends.
13. Terramar Beach, TX77554
Terramar boasts a supporting beach community behind the sands, ensuring the beach remains clean and relatively secluded, providing an escape from busier locations.
Relaxation comes easy here with ample space.
It is advisable to bring all necessary provisions for the day, as local vendors are absent.
This includes food, drinks, paddleboards, or snorkeling gear as desired.
Fortunately, an ice cream truck frequents the area multiple times during the day, delighting children.
14. Galveston Pocket Park 2, TX77554
This beach is suitable for families and individuals of all ages.
A vendor rents chairs and umbrellas during the peak season, although bringing personal items is encouraged.
Parking is complimentary, and nearby dining at the local restaurant—the Tipsy Turtle—is recommended.
With no entrance fee, facilities including showers and restrooms contribute to an enjoyable day spent on the shore.
This location remains pleasantly uncrowded, even during peak seasons and weekends.
Dogs are permitted as long as they are leashed.
15. Beach Access Point 11, TX77554
This beach is a small, designated area located behind the Spanish Grant homes.
A marked parking space exists, and the beach tends to be relatively calm.
However, visitors should avoid parking in restricted spaces to prevent towing.
A few homes line the beach, yet the area does not appear overdeveloped.
Visitors can dispose of waste in the provided trash cans, but there are no shower or restroom facilities.
Remember to bring umbrellas and food for an enjoyable day soaking up the sun and scenery.
