East Beach (R.A. Apffel)

If you’re looking for a good time, East Beach in Galveston, TX is your ultimate beach destination!

Located at the far eastern tip of the island, East Beach is home to a pavilion, boardwalk and entertainment stage as well as restrooms, showers, chair and umbrella rentals, children's playground, concessions and other amenities. Unlike most of Galveston’s beaches, alcohol is permitted at East Beach.

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Friends and family gather along coast at East Beach, Galveston TX for annual Sand Castle Competition

pictured: AIA Sandcastle Competition at East Beach

East Beach Overview

Special events and concerts are held here throughout the summer, and alcohol is permitted and available for purchase. The expansive, scenic beach is also suitable for outdoor activities, such as beachcombing, volleyball, and horseback riding. Its stage and outdoor pavilion are perfect for private parties and corporate events. The beach is located at the far eastern tip of the island.

Location

R.A. Apffel Park (East Beach)
1923 Boddeker Drive
Galveston, TX 77550

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Hours of Operation

R.A. Apffel East Beach Park
Park Hours of Pavilion and Guest Services Operations:

March 12 – May 26, 2022:

Monday - Thursday: 9AM - 5PM
Friday - Sunday: 9AM - 6PM

May 27 – August 21, 2022:

Monday - Thursday: 9AM - 6PM
Friday - Sunday: 8AM - 7PM
*Monday, May 30 (Memorial Day): 8AM - 7PM
*Monday, July 4 (Independence Day): 8AM - 7PM

August 22 – September 8, 2022:

Monday - Thursday: Closed
Friday - Sunday: 8AM - 7PM
*Monday, September 5 (Labor Day): 8AM – 7PM

September 9 – November 6, 2022:

Monday - Thursday: Closed
Friday - Sunday: 9AM - 6PM

Park closes November 7 until the start of the 2023 Season. Hours are subject to change without advance notice. Exceptions to standard dates and times can be made on a case-by-case basis for special events wishing to rent the pavilion or park grounds for a fee.

Admission & Parking

(Cash or credit card)

Monday - Thursday: $12/vehicle
Friday, Saturday & Sunday: $15/vehicle

$50 Seasonal Beach Park Pass (window decal) for entry to the following beach parks for the entire season (March to October): East Beach, Stewart Beach, Dellanara RV Park, and West End Pocket Parks.

$95 for an Ultimate Pass (window decal) for an entire year of seawall parking plus entry to the beach parks for the entire season

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Amenities

Beach wheelchairs available (free with valid driver’s license)
Showers and restrooms
Chair & umbrella rental
Food and drinks
Alcoholic beverages permitted/sold
Beach supplies
Pavilion
Entertainment stage
Boardwalk
Lifeguards
Bird sanctuary

Beach Rules

One-time entry per vehicle with each paid entry
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
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
Fishing is permitted from the south jetty and west of the park
4-wheelers, ATVs, and dirt bikes are prohibited

East Beach Events

Head to East Beach for some fun in the sun. The beach hosts concerts and several annual events, including the annual American Institute of Architects (AIA) Sandcastle Competition, in which over 50 teams sculpt designs in the sand and compete for the Golden Bucket Award. Designs are judged based on originality of concept, artistic execution, technical difficulty, carving technique, and utilization of the site.