Best Beaches in Galveston – Stewart Beach
With summer upon us, there’s no better time than now to head down to Galveston and check out one of the many beautiful beaches near Galveston, located just an hour away from downtown Houston. Whether you’re looking for simple sand and surf, or a livelier atmosphere with restaurants nearby, there are many options to choose from to enjoy the Gulf of Mexico or Galveston Bay.
Editor’s Note: Please note that all beaches in Galveston TX are officially open, but social distancing measures may be in place. Also, our staff tried to bring you the most up-to-date information. However, as always, the information is subject to change. Please confirm all the details by reaching out to the business before you head out.
Beaches in Galveston – List of Top 10
Ready to get outside while having some safe fun at the beach? Get ready to dig your toes in the sand at one of the following best beaches in Galveston Island. From the best beaches in Galveston for families to private and public beaches in Galveston, and free beaches in Galveston, we’ve included them all in this list. Plus, we’ve provided a link to each Galveston beach map so you can easily access more information about the best beaches in Galveston Texas.
Seawall Urban Park
Location: 801 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
Image Credit: Great Runs Website
With more than 10 miles of beach and the country’s longest continuous sidewalk, this Galveston Seawall beach is close to several beachfront restaurants and tourist attractions, including Pleasure Pier. This is a popular spot for running and biking, with the ocean as the perfect backdrop. Visitors can park between 6th and 69th Streets, as well as 81st to 103rd Streets.
Stewart Beach Park
Located At: 201 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
Image Credit: Stewart Beach Facebook Page
Stewart Beach is one of the most popular spots for anyone visiting Galveston. In addition to beautiful beaches, it has volleyball courts, a playground, concessions, an umbrella, and chair rentals. Heading out to dinner straight after your day at the beach? If you are looking for beaches in Galveston with showers, Stewart Beach is surely the one for you. They’ve also got showers and changing rooms! Parents will also appreciate the presence of lifeguards who keep an eye on things. Plus, Stewart Beach is known to be amongst the cleanest beach in Galveston, so you stay relaxed and worry-free when you decide to visit this beach in Galveston, TX.
Galveston Island State Park
Location: 14901 FM3005, Galveston, TX 77554
This quiet park on the city’s west end has both gulf and bay access. Enjoy kayaking, mountain biking, birdwatching, geocaching, and fishing during the day, and take advantage of beach camping a night. There are beach and bay campsites, plus air-conditioned lodges for rent. Park admission for adults is $5 per person, and kids 12 and under are free.
Galveston Island State Park is located right off Seawall Blvd., about 10 miles from the 61st Street and Seawall intersection.
East Beach Park
Where: 1923 Boddeker Drive, Galveston, TX 77550
Image Credit: East Beach Park Facebook Page
If you’re looking to enjoy an adult beverage while soaking up the sun, East Beach is the spot for you. As the only public beach in Galveston where alcohol is allowed, it’s a top choice for those looking to have a good time.
In addition to an entertainment stage and pavilion, East Beach has a playground for the kids, chair and umbrella rentals, and restrooms and showers. There are also food and alcohol vendors in case your cooler ends up running low. It also hosts the famous American Institute of Architects (AIA) Sand Castle Competition every summer.
Pocket Park 1
Located At: 3790 7 1/2 Mile Rd, Galveston, TX 77554
If you’re looking for some sun and sand close to Moody Gardens, look no further than Pocket Park 1. Located at 11102 San Luis Pass Road on the west end of Galveston, and is one of the few area beaches that offer on-beach parking. Pocket Park 1 makes it easy to set up camp for the day and even grill out if you want. Portable restrooms are open for the summer season.
Localite Tip: One of the reasons why so many people choose Pocket Park 1 is that you can drive right onto the sand and park near the ocean. For those looking for a less crowded place to soak up the sun, head past the vehicle barricades.
Pocket Park 2
Where: Pocket Park 2, Galveston, TX 77554
Image Credit: Visit Galveston Website
Located a little further west than Pocket Park 1 at 11745 San Luis Pass Road, Pocket Park 2 is just minutes from some of the city’s hottest attractions. With paved parking and indoor restrooms and showers during the official summer season, it has plenty of amenities. Looking to grab some good food or drink during your beach day? The Tipsy Turtle Bar & Grill is just steps away from the water with an unobstructed sun deck from which to enjoy your meal and an ice-cold beverage.
Best Beaches in Galveston – Continued
Sea Isle Beach
Where: 21906 Kennedy Dr, Galveston, TX 77554
Visit this Galveston beach if you prefer beaches in Galveston island that are less crowded. Plus, if you want a great sunset view, then Sea Isle Beach is the perfect choice for you. There is easy parking for everyone driving to the area.
Porretto Beach
Located At: 824 Ave M1/2 / 10th @ Seawall Blvd., Galveston, TX 77550
Image Credit: Porretto Beach Website
Porretto Beach is one of the many awesome private beaches in Galveston with spectacular views and a calm environment, as well as food and restroom amenities nearby. It’s less crowded and cleaner than many of the other beaches along the famed Seawall, and it’s perfect for relaxing beach walks. This is one of the most kid friendly beaches in Galveston!
Sunny Beach
Location: 2704 8 Mile Rd, Galveston, TX 77554
Looking for dog-friendly beaches in Galveston? Then look no further than Sunny beach! You can have fun with your furry friend along its sands and calm waters. Plus, Sunny Beach is convenient to go to, so you can visit it anytime you feel like having a quick seaside break. There is plenty of beach parking, public restrooms, and clean sand.
Babe’s Beach
Location: 7499-7295, FM3005, Galveston, TX 77551
Image Credit: Babe’s Beach Facebook Page
Named one of 2015’s top five Best Restored Beaches in America by the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association, Babe’s Beach is 15 blocks of beach right along the Seawall beach Galveston, west of 61st Street. The beach continues to be improved thanks to the Galveston Park Board, which approved adding 800,000 cubic yards of sand to offer visitors and guests even more room to relax and enjoy the waves.
A lot of people consider this beach as one of the best family beaches in Galveston!
While you’re at the beach, enjoy a good meal with an even better view with our guide to some of the Best restaurants with patios in Galveston.
So, what is your favorite Galveston beach for a day of fun? Let us know by commenting below.
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8 Mile beach area. Tipsy Turtle to be exact