Galveston‘s East Beach is the biggest and most popular beach on the island, located at R.A. Apffel Beach Park on the east end.
This beach offers plenty of amenities to visitors, including restaurants, picnic tables, volleyball courts, and an entertainment pavilion.
Swimming and simply enjoying the relaxed beach scene are popular activities here, and visitors can rent chairs, cabanas, and umbrellas for a little extra luxury.
East Beach is also home to a number of events and festivals, such as sandcastle building competitions and concerts, making it a great place for a fun day out.
There are two entrances to East Beach with beach parking, and Entrance 2 provides access to the East End Lagoon Nature Preserve.
This nature preserve features brackish water, native birds and wildlife, a hiking trail, fishing, and kayaking, making it a great spot for those looking for some outdoor adventure.
There‘s something for everyone at East Beach, making it one of the most popular destinations in Galveston.
East Beach Information
Address
R.A. Apffel Park (East Beach)
1923 Boddeker Drive
Galveston, TX 77550
Amenities
- Free beach wheelchairs with valid driver’s license
- Showers and restrooms
- Chair & umbrella rental
- Food and drinks, including alcoholic beverages
- Beach supplies for sale
- Pavilion with entertainment stage
- Boardwalk
- Lifeguards on duty
- Bird sanctuary
Beach Rules
- Do not disturb wildlife, birds, turtle nests, or the designated conservation area
- Pets on leashes are permitted but please clean up after them
- Tents and tarps are permitted in designated areas
- Camping is not allowed
- Glass is prohibited
- Open fires are prohibited except in BBQ pits
- Please stay off the dunes
- Fishing is permitted from the south jetty and west of the park
- 4–wheelers, ATVs, and dirt bikes are prohibited
- Launching boats is permitted in the designated area west of the park
- Hard–bottomed craft (surfboards, kayaks, etc.) are prohibited mid–May through Labor Day except west of the park
- One–time entry per vehicle with each paid entry
