R.A. Apffel Park (East Beach)

1923 Apffel Rd Galveston, TX 77550

Hours

Beach is open 24/7 (parking fees required only when amenities are open)

Seasonal hours updated on their website.

  • Fall: Amenities open Saturday & Sunday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Mid-August through late October (Closed Monday - Friday)

Cost

Admission fees to East Beach in Galveston depends upon amenity operating hours.

  • $15 per vehicle Monday - Sunday (during amenity operating hours)
  • Limited Free Parking

Hours and admission fees are subject to change (seasonal hours); check their website for updates.

About

Known as the "party beach," this Galveston beach is popular because it is one of the few that permits alcohol! Particularly lively during summers, there will be a ton of events and activities for you to choose from. They are known for their concerts and festivals. Additionally, the beach is popular for its annual Sandcastle Competition hosted by the American Institute of Architects. This event attracts thousands of fans!

*Hours listed are based on the June-September season. For additional hours, visit their website for more details*

This park is located on the far eastern tip of the island. During off seasons, this beach is great for a relaxing stroll. Also, this is the perfect place to bring snacks and drinks, set up a tent, and have a date! Supplies such as tent rentals and alcohol are available. If you're interested, there is horseback riding along the shore too.

Admission to the park is charged per vehicle and does not permit re-entry. On Mondays-Thursdays, the charge is $12/vehicle. During the weekend and holidays, the cost is $15/vehicle. For locals or long-term visitors, we recommend purchasing an unlimited annual entry pass for $50.

Beach Amenities

You'll find that this beach is one of the most exciting on the island! With a pavilion, boardwalk, and of course alcohol privileges. Additional amenities at this beach include restrooms, showers, chair and umbrella rentals, beach supplies, food/drinks, and more! Further, beach wheelchairs are available for free on a first-come first-served basis. Note: you must provide a driver's license to rent the wheelchair as a hold until the wheelchair is returned.

Park Rules

Keep in mind that there are some rules and restrictions at this beach.

  • No glass on the beach
  • Dogs are allowed, but they must be on a leash. Also, you must clean up after your pets.
  • Propane is not allowed.
  • Open fires are not permitted, but BBQ pits are.
  • You may not go on the dunes.
  • 4-Wheelers, ATV's, and Dirt Bikes are Prohibited
  • Tents and Tarps are permitted in designated areas For the full list of prohibited activities and items, visit the Galveston Park Board website.

Beach Warning Flags & Meanings

Double Red - Water is closed to the public due to hazardous conditions.
Red - High hazard meaning high surf and/or strong currents.
Yellow - Medium hazard meaning medium surf and/or strong currents.
Green - Low hazard meaning calm conditions, exercise caution.
Purple - Dangerous marine life spotted.

Location

1923 Apffel Rd Galveston, TX 77550

Frequently Asked Questions

Galveston is located in Southeast Texas on the Gulf of Mexico. It is a coastal resort city and port. It is located on Galveston Island and Pelican Island, providing residents with some of the best Galveston vacation rentals on the waterfront. Galveston is only about an hour from Houston, and near the communities of Alvin, La Porte, and Friendswood, Texas. For those who plan to visit Galveston, vacation rentals on the waterfront is an excellent option.

For those flying to the Galveston area, the closest airports are located in Houston, TX, about an hour away. The larger Houston Intercontinental Airport (IAH) handles national and international flights, while the smaller William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) serves mostly domestic routes and is a hub for Southwest airlines.

Galveston Island is a large island spanning 27 miles long and less than 3 miles wide at its widest point. Overall, it has 66 square miles of land area. The island creates a separation between the Gulf of Mexico and West Bay. The Galveston Bay system, which the island is a part of, is at the eastern end of a chain of barrier islands. Overall, that island barrier extends for over 600 miles along the coasts.

More questions

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