Stewart Beach

Stewart Beach
in Galveston, Texas

The Family Vacation Critic named Stewart Beach in Galveston, TX as one of the “10 Best Beaches for Families” and it is easy to see why. This expansive, calm destination features an outdoor pavilion with a snack bar, a playground, and a bath house with restrooms and showers. It is also under constant supervision by highly trained lifeguards during operating hours. Situated at the intersection of Broadway and the Seawall, Stewart Beach plays host to an array of exciting events, including volleyball games, sandcastle building competitions, concerts, and other family oriented activities. You will also find a souvenir shop, in addition to rental chairs and umbrellas for your convenience. Parking is $12 per vehicle and the beach is open 9AM-6PM Monday through Thursday and 8AM-7PM Friday through Sunday.

With an outdoor pavilion, snack bar, restrooms, showers, and more, it is not hard to understand why Stewart Beach was named one of the “10 Best Beaches for Families” by the Family Vacation Critic. Set at the junction of the Galveston Seawall and Broadway, this popular strip of sand is open from March 8th to October 8th. Peak season runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day. During this period, the beach hours are Monday through Thursday from 9AM to 6PM and from 8AM to 7PM from Friday through Sunday. Parking is $12 per car during the week and $15 per car during the weekend (beginning Friday). In the offseason, park hours are 9AM to 5PM Monday through Thursday and 9AM to 6PM Friday through Sunday. 

Lifeguards and a souvenir shop, along with access to chair and umbrella rentals make this spot the perfect destination for visitors of all ages. Keep in mind that this is a family-friendly beach, so alcohol is prohibited. Learn more below about some of Stewart Beach’s most popular destinations, including restaurants, accommodations, and entertainment attractions.

Where to Eat near Stewart Beach

Mario’s Seawall Italian Restaurant

628 Seawall Boulevard | .05 miles from Stewart Beach

Awarded Restaurant of the Year for 2021, Mario’s Seawall Italian Restaurant is nestled among an array of seafood eateries on the Seawall. This authentic Italian spot serves everything from deep dish pizzas to homemade lasagna and Italian sausage alongside sweeping ocean views. You will also enjoy an inviting, family-friendly setting and impeccable service. Brunch is served on Sunday from 11 AM to 2 PM as well.

Mosquito Cafe

628 14th Street | .09 miles from Stewart Beach

Voted the Best Overall Restaurant in Galveston County, among other awards, Mosquito Café continues to boast a loyal customer following since it opened in 1999. An elevated, eclectic menu includes seafood items that are either grilled, roasted, sauteed, or steamed. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Tuesday through Saturday, this popular eatery is sure to satisfy every taste. They are also open on Sundays for breakfast and lunch.

Rudy & Paco Restaurant & Bar

2028 Post Office Street | 1.4 miles from Stewart Beach

Set in the heart of the island’s historic downtown district,  Rudy & Paco is located adjacent to The Grand 1894 Opera House. It is ideal for date night, a special occasion, or just a relaxing evening on the town. Here, you will discover seafood and steak dishes that are infused with Central American and Southern flair. This restaurant has a dress code during dinner hours, and reservations are highly recommended.  

ShyKatZ Café & Bakery

1528 Avenue L | 1.1 miles from Stewart Beach

Grab breakfast favorites or lunch classics, including pastries and deli sandwiches, at ShyKatz Café & Bakery. This friendly eatery prepares dishes with only the freshest ingredients, has affordable prices, and delivers excellent service to its loyal customer base. In addition to breakfast and lunch, this café also offers custom cakes, baked goods, pies, and more.

Miller’s Seawall Grill

1824 Seawall Boulevard | 1.5 miles from Stewart Beach

Miller’s Seawall Grill is the perfect place for those with big appetites. This casual restaurant serves huge breakfasts that include favorites such as waffles, pancakes, omelets, French toast, and steak and eggs. For lunch and dinner, you can order seafood dishes such as shrimp, flounder, salmon, or crab, in addition to steaks, sandwiches, po-boys, burgers, and more. In addition to a variety of entrees, you will also enjoy scenic views and cold drinks. 

Star Drug Store

510 23rd Street | 1.6 miles from Stewart Beach

Designated as the first lunch counter in Galveston, the Star Drug Store is an iconic destination near Stewart Beach. This nostalgic spot serves everything from omelets and pancakes to Reuben sandwiches and grilled cheese, surrounded by nostalgic photos and décor from the island’s past. Their famous soda fountain boasts several tasty treats and concoctions, including ice cream sundaes, floats, malts, and shakes as well.

Where to Stay near

Stewart Beach

 

Wingate by Wyndham Galveston

1402 Seawall Boulevard | 1.1 miles from Stewart Beach

On top of a prime Stewart Beach location, Wingate by Wyndham Galveston is also situated close to I-45, the Port of Galveston, the Galveston Island Convention Center, and several other popular island attractions. Inside each non-smoking guest room, you will discover a mini-refrigerator, a hair dryer, a flat-screen television, a microwave, and everything else you need for a comfortable stay. Start your day with complimentary fruit, waffles, bagels, and more breakfast favorites before taking advantage of the seasonal outdoor pool and sundeck.

Best Western Plus Seawall Inn & Suites by the Beach

102 Seawall Boulevard | .01 miles from Stewart Beach

The Best Western Plus Seawall Inn & Suites by the Beach is one of the closest hotels to Stewart Beach and is located near an array of other Galveston attractions, including the historic Strand district, Pleasure Pier, and the Galveston Cruise Terminals. In addition to comfortable rooms with large flat-screen televisions, microwaves, refrigerators, and free high-speed internet, you will also enjoy free continental breakfast and parking. Guests can get in a morning workout at the fitness center, take a dip in the refreshing outdoor pool, or finish up work in the on-site business center as well.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Galveston

110 Seawall Boulevard | .01 miles from Stewart Beach

Ideally situated across the street from Stewart Beach’s main entrance, Homewood Suites by Hilton Galveston offers a laid-back setting for your vacation on the island. Each room comes with a fully equipped kitchen and dining table, so you can whip up meals even when you are away from home. Pull-out sofas and separate living rooms extend your living space in select accommodations. This hotel also offers convenient, free amenities such as a fitness center, on-site parking, hot breakfast, and an area shuttle.

Sandpiper RV Resort

201 Seawall Boulevard | .04 miles from Stewart Beach

With 43 paved and landscaped RV sites that include tons of green space, dog-walking areas, and 30 and 50 Amp hookups, Sandpiper RV Resort is the perfect place to park your RV at Stewart Beach. This newly built resort located at the intersection of Highway 87 and Seawall Boulevard is set at the previous site of the historic Sandpiper Motel. On-site, you can take advantage of a plethora of amenities, including laundry facilities, an entertainment lounge, a hot tub, an infinity-edge pool, and so much more. As a guest of Sandpiper RV Resort, you also have access to 6 hotel rooms available for rent on the property.

Scottish Inns

928 Ferry Road | 1.2 miles from Stewart Beach

Scottish Inns is not only close to Stewart Beach but is also just minutes away from Crystal Beach, East Beach, and Piers 19 and 21. This modest hotel is just a short walk from the famous Pleasure Pier and the Galveston ferry terminal. Mini-fridges, microwaves, and comfortable furnishings are available in each room, while on-site laundry facilities and a refreshing pool await just outside your hotel room’s door. Complimentary conveniences such as parking, local calls, and continental breakfast are included with your stay as well.

Where to Do near

Stewart Beach

 

1892 Bishop’s Palace

1402 Broadway Street | 1 mile from Stewart Beach

Also known as Gresham’s Castle, the 1892 Bishop’s Palace is situated just 1 mile from Stewart Beach in the historic East End District of Galveston. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, this sprawling Victorian-style mansion was built sometime between 1887 and 1892 for the founder of the Colorado and Santa Fe railroads. Colonel Walter Gresham and his family moved to the island after the Civil War, and this building is a shining illustration of Gilded-Age architecture. Tours are available to the public daily from 10AM to 5PM. You can also explore Mrs. Gresham’s third-floor studio and other rarely seen parts of the home when you book a Basement to Attic Tour, which runs on Saturday mornings.

Galveston Helicopter Adventures

201 Seawall Boulevard | .01 miles from Stewart Beach

Experience panoramic views of the island like you have never seen before when you book a tour through Galveston Helicopter Adventures. Get up close and personal to the massive cruise ships in the channel, take an exciting 7-mile flight along the Seawall or enjoy a romantic evening on a sunset excursion. Ranging from $50-$75 a person, these unique adventures begin at a helipad located directly on Stewart Beach. 

Baywatch Dolphin Tours

2101 Harborside Drive | 1.5 miles from Stewart Beach

Hop on a tranquil boat ride and see playful marine mammals in their natural habitat when you book a cruise through Baywatch Dolphin Tours. Situated in front of Galveston’s Harbor House Hotel, these excursions leave out of Pier 21 near Stewart Beach. On top of seeing the dolphins, you will also view other famous Galveston landmarks, such as the historic tall ship Elissa, the United States Coast Guard vessels, and the Port of Galveston cruise terminal. 

Galveston Island Horse & Pony Rides

1923 Boddeker Road | .01 miles from Stewart Beach

Combining their love for the Gulf Coast, public service, and horses, local inhabitants of the island established Galveston Island Horse and Pony Rides. Follow the shoreline on a guided horseback ride, where you will see both bird and sea turtle sanctuaries as you then pass through the southeast tip of Galveston. After that, you will travel to the ship-channel side of the beach before ending your trip at a calming lagoon surrounded by natural wildlife and a scenic beach. This company ensures a fun and safe horseback ride thanks to thoughtfully selected and trained horses, in addition to friendly and experienced staff members. 

Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum

2002 Wharf Road | 1.4 miles from Stewart Beach

Spanning three levels, the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum is a former oil rig that was in operation from 1969 to 1984. Now, you can take a self-guided tour of this massive museum on the water, where you will find an extensive collection of exhibits and artifacts dedicated to the Texas oil industry. This 1.5 hour walking tour also features informative videos and interactive displays. In addition to tours, the museum offers an array of exciting events during the year as well. On Family Days, guests of all ages can enjoy hands-on activities and experiments in a collaborative setting. Check their calendar for more details about teacher workshops, fundraising events, and overnight programs.

Old Cellar Bar

2013 Post Office Street | 1.5 miles from Stewart Beach

In the middle of the island’s arts and entertainment district sits Old Cellar Bar. With a location on Galveston’s historic Post Office Street, this venue is just a few minutes from Stewart Beach. Boasting over 60 draft beers from around the globe (as well as a full-service bar), this venue offers the perfect setting to play pool or darts with friends. 

Google Reviews

Stewart Beach
in Galveston, Texas

  • The Inn is a little older but don’t let that scare you away. Our room (King bed- courtyard view) was extremely comfortable and cute. The pool and hot tub were by far the best part. The pool bar overlooks the sea wall and water. The staff is very nice and helpful. Can’t beat the location!! We love it here and will definitely stay here again.

    thumb Amanda Green
    October 24, 2022

    This is the only place I want to stay in Galveston. Pool amazing! On the sea wall. Walk to the beach or to the pool! Service is excellent and friendly!! I will be back!

    thumb Teri Hitchcock
    September 27, 2022

    The rooms are super cute with oil paintings and flower arrangements. The place is pretty clean as well. The pool is absolutely fantastic and the staff treated us like family. Also, breakfast was delicious. Our family had a wonderful time and we plan to come back again.

    thumb Jennifer Johnston
    August 27, 2022

    when i travel to galveston, this hotel is my number one option. I like the rooms because they are very warm-welcoming. The beds are so comfortable and I love them so much because they have 6 pillows per bed. The pillows are the best. I know things have changed with COVID. So, if you need anything just ask the front desk people. The pool is awesome my daughter loves it. the spa is great. just the food is not my favorite at the bar.

    thumb Bris Ideas
    August 27, 2022
  • My friends and I stayed there for a girls getaway.. The location and pool were great. But the reason we would come back was the outsanding customer service, and attentiveness that Anne (front desk lady) gave us. We appreciated it. Will definitely return.

    thumb Regina Mills
    August 27, 2022

    We loved staying here clean room, the breakfast is good and you can order from Nick's poolside, and it's great food, great view, great sunrise. Poolside bar, with good music. We had no problems with anything.. We are looking forward to our next month visit

    thumb Leticia Rodriguez
    August 27, 2022

    Great rooms comfortable beds and views that are hard to beat. Beach is walking distance across the street with a fantastic pool and restaurant on the grounds. I highly recommend.

    thumb Mark Thieme
    August 27, 2022

    + The staff I dealt with were friendly and very good. I did request some soap for the next day and never got it though. - Rust on the fridge. Socket sparked when I plugged in phone charger. No complete face plate for switch in bathroom and lighting in bathroom as well. Very moody, musty smell. found someone else¿s dirty crusty sock under bed skirting. Water & no soap in d

    thumb Verified Hotel Guest
    August 27, 2022

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