East Beach

One of the Island’s Best Kept Secrets

East Beach is tucked away at the far eastern tip of Galveston Island.

Once known for concerts and beach parties, this stretch of sand is now a place where peace, nature, and thoughtful design come together for a more meaningful day by the sea.

Surrounded by protected coastal habitat and the 700-acre East End Lagoon Nature Preserve, East Beach invites you to move slower, breathe deeper, and reconnect with nature, with each other and with yourself.

Find events at East Beach

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Pictured: Galveston Sandcastle Festival

East Beach Overview

East Beach is one of the few beaches on Galveston Island where you can spot rare birds, take a kayak into a quiet bay, or just watch the tide roll in with a cold drink in hand, thanks to beachside service from East Beach Cantina. Mobi-mats and access ramps make it easy for everyone, including wheelchair users and families with strollers, to get from the parking area all the way to the shoreline.

Location

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

For a map of beach locations, check out our beaches page!

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Hours of Operation

Park Hours of Pavilion and Guest Services Operations

March 8th - May 22nd
Monday – Friday: Closed
Saturday and Sundays: 9 am - 6 pm

Spring Break
9am - 5pm

May 23rd - August 15th
Monday – Thursday: 9am - 6pm
Friday, Sat, Sun: 8am-7pm

Memorial Day and Independence Day
8am-7pm

August 16th - October 26th
Monday – Friday: Closed
Sat and Sun: 9am - 7pm

Labor Day
8am - 7pm

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)

Daily Vehicle Parking: $15 (One-time entry)

$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

Learn More

Amenities


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

Book Your Special Event

Plan your dream beach wedding or other special events at Galveston Island’s largest beachfront famous for its coastal event venues. Stationed on the eastern-most end of the island, it’s expansive sands and picturesque views provide the perfect backdrop for any event. This expansive beach template boasts the largest collection of sand volleyball courts on the gulf coast and is suitable for sporting events, weddings, reunions, corporate gatherings, birthdays and more.

To inquire about hosting your event at East Beach:

Things to Do at East Beach

What Makes Galveston's East Beach Special

East Beach is full of surprises. From its rich coastal habitats to accessibility features, this isn’t just a place to spend the day, it’s a place to feel connected. Here’s why East Beach stands out among Galveston’s many beautiful coastal spots:

  • A nature lovers retreat: Sitting adjacent to East End Lagoon Nature Preserve, East Beach is home to rich coastal prairie land and over 20 species of birds in their natural habitat. Birders, photographers, and kayakers will find plenty to explore.
  • Wildlife in every direction: The American Bird Conservancy monitors nesting shorebirds here during breeding season – including piping plovers and red knots. Conservation areas are carefully protected with temporary fencing to prevent nesting disturbances.
  • Birding is for everybody: In partnership with the national Birdability movement, East Beach and surrounding nature preserve offer accessible trails and guided bird walks led by Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council. During FeatherFest, a local favorite springtime event, visitors can join inclusive birding workshops and field trips.
  • Laid-back comfort: The beach is all about balance – wide open spaces, the option to rent umbrellas and chairs, and plenty of room to roam. The beachfront pavilion includes outdoor showers and changing rooms. And the outdoor stage hosts occasional events, and can be reserved for weddings, reunions, and private celebrations.
Things to Do at East Beach

East Beach Cantina

Perched on the eastern tip of Galveston Island, the East Beach Cantina is the ultimate spot for casual beachside dining and drinks with a view. Enjoy a quick bite or a refreshing cocktail while soaking in the sun, or head to the second-floor patio for panoramic Gulf views.

For the ultimate beach day, take advantage of chair and umbrella rentals, with the added convenience of food and drink delivery straight to your spot on the sand. With its laid-back charm and unbeatable location, the East Beach Cantina is a must-visit for anyone looking to relax, refuel, and take in the island’s coastal beauty.

Plan Your Visit

To inquire about hosting your event at East Beach:

Galveston Sandcastle Competition

Other Galveston Beaches

Stewart Beach
Stewart Beach is designed for easy, stress-free family beach days, offering calm waves, lifeguards on duty, and plenty of kid-friendly amenities.
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Galveston's Seawall Beaches
For over a century, Galveston Island’s Seawall has been a beloved gathering place for beachgoers, photographers, food lovers, and shoppers.
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Galveston West End Pocket Parks
For those wanting a quiet, laid-back beach day, Galveston’s West End Pocket Parks offers the perfect retreat.
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State Park
From swimming and fishing to hiking, birdwatching, and paddling, Galveston Island State Park offers endless opportunities to explore the island’s natural…
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