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, concessions and other amenities. Unlike most of Galveston’s beaches, alcohol is permitted 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 9 - May 23, 2024:

Monday - Thursday: Closed

  • EXCEPTION: SPRING BREAK HOURS
    • Monday, March 11 – Thursday, March 14: 9AM – 5PM

Friday - Sunday 9AM – 6PM


May 24 – August 18, 2024:

Monday - Thursday: 9AM – 6PM

  • EXCEPTION, MEMORIAL DAY & INDEPENDENCE DAY HOURS:
    • Monday, May 27: 8AM – 7PM
    • Thursday, July 4: 8AM – 7PM

Friday - Sunday: 8AM – 7PM


August 19 – September 1, 2024:

Monday – Thursday: Closed

Friday - Sunday: 8AM – 7PM


September 2 – October 27, 2024

Monday – Thursday: Closed

  • EXCEPTION: LABOR DAY HOURS
    • Monday, September 2: 8AM – 7 PM

Friday - Sunday: 9AM – 6PM


Park closes on October 27, 2024 until the start of the 2025 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)

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 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

Book Your Special Event

Plan your dream beach wedding or other special events at East Beach in Galveston.

To inquire about hosting your event at East Beach:

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.

AIA Sandcastle Competition
Other Galveston Beaches