Galveston isn’t just a beach town—it’s a beach lover’s dream. Whether you’re chasing waves with the kids, craving a quiet spot for sunrise yoga, or just want to feel the sand between your toes while cracking open a cold drink, Galveston has a beach for you. Here’s my hand-picked list of the top 10 beaches in Galveston, each offering something special for locals and vacationers alike.
Stewart Beach
Family-friendly and packed with amenities, Stewart Beach is one of Galveston’s most popular coastal spots. It’s great for travelers with kids thanks to lifeguards, clean restrooms, playgrounds, and shaded picnic areas. There’s even beach wheelchairs available for accessibility. Located at the intersection of Broadway Avenue and the Seawall, it’s close to downtown but still feels like a true getaway.
During summer weekends, the beach comes alive with volleyball tournaments and sandcastle competitions. If you’re renting nearby, you can walk right over or park for a small fee.
👉 Learn more about Stewart Beach
East Beach
Want a livelier scene? East Beach is where the party’s at. Known for live music, festivals, and a BYOB-friendly policy (alcohol is allowed here unlike many other Galveston beaches), it’s the perfect spot for groups, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and beachgoers who like their sun with a side of celebration.
There’s an entertainment stage, food trucks on weekends, and umbrella rentals if you forgot your beach gear. While still family-friendly during the day, East Beach leans more adult in the evenings.
Babe’s Beach
Located along Seawall Boulevard, Babe’s Beach is a beautifully restored stretch of sand popular with families and solo travelers alike. It’s quieter than Stewart or East Beach but still centrally located, making it easy to enjoy nearby restaurants, shops, and cafes after a swim.
This is a great place to bring your beach chairs and soak up a sunset without the heavy crowds. Plus, the recent beach nourishment project has made the sand here some of the softest on the island.
Jamaica Beach
Tucked away on the island’s West End, Jamaica Beach is a local favorite for a reason. It’s peaceful, residential, and perfect for vacationers who want to stay in beach houses or short-term rentals right by the water. You won’t find vendors or loud crowds here—just wide open spaces, warm surf, and a whole lot of tranquility.
There’s also nearby access to Galveston Island State Park, so you can go from sunbathing to hiking or birdwatching in no time.
Galveston Island State Park Beach
Nature meets coastline at Galveston Island State Park, which offers both Gulf and bay-side beaches. It’s ideal for kayakers, birdwatchers, and anyone who wants to get away from the noise and experience Galveston’s wild side. There are nature trails, boat ramps, and even overnight camping spots.
Pack a picnic and your camera—you’ll spot herons, pelicans, and maybe even dolphins offshore. This beach is a must if you’re staying on the West End or looking for a more laid-back day.
👉 Plan your visit to Galveston Island State Park
Pirates Beach
Pirates Beach is a charming, upscale neighborhood beach west of Jamaica Beach, perfect for vacationers renting one of the area’s stylish beach homes. The vibe is quiet and refined—think morning coffee with a sea breeze or lazy afternoons reading in a hammock.
There are no public facilities here, so it’s best for those staying nearby. It’s popular with families who want a beach day minus the crowds and love the idea of walking back to their own decked-out rental.
👉 Browse Pirates Beach rentals
Terramar Beach
Looking for a true hidden gem? Terramar Beach is secluded, clean, and quiet—ideal for long walks, shell collecting, and letting your dog roam freely. The homes here are spaced out, and the beach rarely gets crowded, even during peak season.
It’s best accessed if you’re staying in a rental in the area. You won’t find facilities, but that’s part of its charm. It’s perfect for those who want to unplug.
👉 Explore Terramar Beach vacation homes
Sunny Beach
Located just west of 61st Street, Sunny Beach is one of the closest “drive-on” beaches to central Galveston. It’s popular with locals because you can park your vehicle directly on the sand—no lugging chairs and coolers for blocks. It’s great for BBQs, sunset views, or quick weekend dips.
While not as polished as Stewart or Babe’s, Sunny Beach has a laid-back, tailgate-style vibe that makes it super convenient for families and beachgoers with gear.
👉 See where Sunny Beach is located
Dellanera RV Park Beach
Traveling in an RV? Dellanera RV Park Beach is your coastal campground dream. Located on the west end of Seawall Blvd., this beach provides full RV hookups just steps from the Gulf. It’s clean, well-maintained, and quieter than the main tourist beaches.
Dellanera is ideal for road trippers, van-lifers, and families who love a front-row seat to sunrises. The on-site pavilion and showers are a bonus after a sandy day.
👉 Book your RV spot at Dellanera
Beachtown Beach
At the far east tip of the island sits Beachtown, a master-planned community with stunning dunes and a serene shoreline. This area is more upscale and feels like a luxury coastal retreat. You’ll find high-end vacation homes, winding boardwalks, and fewer tourists.
Beachtown is perfect for couples or small families wanting a peaceful beach escape with beautiful scenery. If you’re staying in the neighborhood, beach access is just a stroll away—no car needed.
👉 Discover Beachtown Galveston
Wrap-Up Tip:
Whether you want adventure, romance, or a quiet nap with your toes in the sand, Galveston’s beaches deliver the goods. I always suggest pairing your beach day with a nearby vacation rental so you can rinse off and relax just minutes away from the shoreline.
Next Up: Ready for blog post #11? Let me know what direction you’d like to go—romantic getaways, best seafood joints, pet-friendly stays, or something else entirely!