East Beach
East Beach
1923 Boddeker Drive
Galveston, TX 77550
Known as Galveston’s “party” beach, East Beach exudes a laid-back vibe and is the only beach on the island where alcohol is not only openly allowed but sold as well. Here, you will discover a large entertainment stage, several volleyball courts, and horseshoe pits. Situated near the downtown area of the city, on the eastern tip of the island, this vibrant locale also offers fantastic panoramas of the Galveston Bay Shipping Channel, East End Lagoon Nature Preserve, Big Reef, and of course, the Gulf of Mexico. Here, you can enjoy activities such as horseback riding, birdwatching, and fishing in addition to annual events, including the American Institute of Architects Sandcastle Competition. East Beach is also set away from the hustle and bustle of the Seawall, offering the ideal spot for private events such as birthday parties, corporate outings, and weddings. A playground, concessions, and beach rentals are available on-site as well.
As one of Galveston’s only spots that allows alcohol, East Beach has earned the reputation as the “party beach.” This chill section of sand and surf gives off a laid-back vibe and is nestled on the far eastern end of the island. A true social destination, it not only allows alcohol but sells it as well. Take advantage of an array of volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and on-site beach rentals as you take in striking panoramas of the East End Lagoon Nature Preserve, Big Reef, the Galveston Bay Shipping channel, and the Gulf.
Concessions, showers, a picnic pavilion, and a playground are available as well. With a large entertainment stage, East Beach is also home to several annual events such as live music concerts and popular competitions. You can even check out the intricate and immaculate sand structures at the famous American Institute of Architects (AIA) Sandcastle Completion.
Though it is known for its parties, this beach is also secluded from the noise of the Seawall, making it the perfect spot for private events, including weddings, birthday parties, corporate outings, and more. During the summer, East Beach operates from 9AM to 6PM on weekdays and from 8AM to 7PM on weekends. In the offseason, most amenities are closed during the weekdays and are only open from 9AM-6PM Friday through Sunday. Parking is $12 per vehicle from Monday-Thursday and is $15 per vehicle from Friday-Sunday (and during holidays or special events). The park closes for the winter on November 7th.
Find out more about where to eat, where to sleep, and what to do near East Beach:
Where to Eat near East Beach
Taquilo’s Tex Mex Cantina
Open 7 days a week, Taquilo’s Tex Mex Cantina has been serving classic Tex-Mex dishes such as chicken, shrimp, and beef fajitas in a festive setting since 2016. Located on Post Office Street, this island eatery prides itself on its handmade food and friendly customer service. Here, you will enjoy an upbeat environment where you can sip on an award-winning margarita as you enjoy the view from the covered sidewalk patio.
Shark Shack Beach Bar & Grill
2402 Strand Street | 4 miles from East Beach
Shark Shack Beach Bar & Grill invites guests to come for the food and stay for the party. Situated on the corner of 24th and Strand, this down-home restaurant is right next to the famous “I Love Galveston” mural and just one block from the cruise ships. This local favorite boasts an extensive menu of hearty pub grub with everything from deep-fried calamari and bacon-wrapped barbeque shrimp to creamy pasta jambalaya and Texas-sized barbeque burgers. Come in your best beach attire (flip-flops are welcome) and enjoy a fantastic bar scene with beer, wine, and cocktails. The lively spot also offers patio seating and a great Happy Hour from 2PM to 6PM Tuesday through Thursday.
Mama Teresa’s Flying Pizza
416 21st Street | 3.8 miles from East Beach
At the corner of Post Office Street and 21st Street, you will find Mama Teresa’s Flying Pizza, an authentic Italian diner that was originally opened in the 1980s in Crystal Beach and was lost to Hurricane Ike. Now given new life in downtown Galveston, this restaurant serves hand-tossed pizzas and pasta dishes in a cozy, relaxed setting. Some of the most ordered menu items include Zita Mama Teresa’s, Tortellini Alfredo, Create Your Own Calzones, and of course, pizza.
East Beach Cantina and Rentals
1923 Boddeker Road | Located on East Beach
With breakfast items, lunch favorites, snacks, and drinks alongside beach essentials, East Beach Cantina and Rentals is your one-stop shop for all things East Beach. If you arrive early, fuel up with morning staples such as kolaches and croissants to start your day. For lunch, you will find all the classics, including hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, and hamburgers. Quench your thirst with drinks such as soda, Gatorade, beer, margaritas, and pina coladas as well. In addition to these items, you can also rent beach chairs, sports equipment, and umbrellas. Several items are available for purchase, including goggles, sunscreen, towels, boogie boards, and more.
Fisherman’s Wharf
2200 Harborside Drive | 3.1 miles from East Beach
Offering impressive daily drink and appetizer specials from 11AM to 7PM, Fisherman’s Wharf claims to have the best happy hour on the island. This waterfront restaurant features scenic bay views and is located next to the tall ship Elissa, the historic Strand District, and the Galveston Cruise Terminal. Open daily for lunch and dinner, their extensive menu includes signature dishes such as seafood platters, chicken dishes, steaks, fresh fish, and pasta.
Where to Stay near East Beach
Mariner Inn Galveston
1602 Seawall Boulevard | 3.7 miles from East Beach
This charming inn offers a complimentary continental breakfast that includes pastries and coffee, in addition to free high-speed internet access and a comfortable lounge. At Mariner Inn Galveston, the standard rooms include two double beds, cable television, a mini refrigerator, and a microwave. In the King room, you will find the same great amenities alongside an expansive King-sized bed. They also offer spacious suites that reveal breathtaking beach views.
Harbor House Hotel & Marina at Pier 21
No 28 Pier 21 | 3.7 miles from East Beach
Exuding an industrial yet warm vibe, Harbor House Hotel & Marina at Pier 21 is set in a 19th-century steamship terminal. Located near the Texas Seaport Museum, several restaurants, and shops, this modern hotel on Pier 21 is the perfect place to stay when visiting East Beach. The cruise ship terminals and Grand Opera House are just a short walk away as well. Inside the well-appointed guest rooms, discover unique artwork, stylish furnishings, and scenic harbor views. The accommodations include free Wi-Fi, mini-refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers. For your convenience, you also have access to 9 marina slips/hook-ups.
The Tremont House Hotel
2300 Ship Mechanic Row Street | 4 miles from East Beach
With historical features and Southern charm, The Tremont House Hotel is a boutique hotel nestled in the historic downtown Galveston area. Luxurious accommodations blend with exquisite on-site bars and restaurants to deliver a one-of-a-kind stay while on the island. Custom-crafted furnishings, high ceilings, and hardwood floors are just some of the elegant touches found within each room, in addition to high-definition televisions with premium channels, free Wi-Fi, and a coffee maker with Wolfgang Puck Coffee. The hotel also offers 16,000 square feet of flexible space for events that can accommodate up to 800 guests.
Grand Galvez
2024 Seawall Boulevard | 4 miles from East Beach
Fully restored, the Grand Galvez is renowned as the only historic beachfront hotel on the Gulf Coast. This modern resort boasts relaxing amenities, 224 guest rooms, and 6 suites in addition to a relaxing on-site spa. You can choose from a Gulf View room, City View room, spa-inspired room, or a suite. Inside, you will find impeccable features, such as rain showers, cozy bathrobes, panoramic views, and premium toiletries, depending on the model you choose. You can also have breakfast in bed or head out for a meal at the on-site restaurant, where you will enjoy freshly caught seafood in a captivating environment.
Clarion Pointe Galveston Seawall
2300 Seawall Boulevard | 4.3 miles from East Beach
Clarion Pointe Galveston Seawall boasts comfortable guest rooms, a refreshing outdoor swimming pool, and an ideal location in the center of town. Located in the East End district, this hotel is not far from island attractions such as Galveston Island’s Historic Pleasure Pier and Bishop’s Palace. Start your day with a workout at the on-site fitness center before heading out to explore East Beach. Come back after a long day to a relaxing room with free wireless Internet, flat-screen televisions, a mini fridge, and microwave.
Where to Do near East Beach
Reel Men Fishing Charters
715 N Holiday Drive | 2.6 miles from East Beach
Part of the Galveston Fishing Charters fleet, Reel Men Fishing Charters is a private fishing guide service with multiple trip options to choose from. Each skilled and credentialed captain has grown up on the Gulf and brings extensive knowledge of these waters. Founded in 2013, this business caters to skilled fishermen and novices alike. Choose from full or half-day jetty trips, shark hunts, flounder fishing, speckled trout charters, and more.
East End Lagoon Nature Park and Preserve
Boddecker Drive | .6 miles from East Beach
Encapsulating all the characteristics of the island, the East End Lagoon Nature Park and Preserve is a mesmerizing natural space set on the eastern end of Galveston, just a few minutes from East Beach. Bordered by land, the preserve itself is almost entirely wet, is home to diverse habitats, and spans almost 700 acres. Relatively hidden, this tranquil spot reveals active shore birds, sheltered tidal ponds, lush plant life, and several species of fish. It includes a slender finger of water known as the East Lagoon and a dune walkover as well.
The Grand 1894 Opera House
2020 Post Office Street | 3.8 miles from East Beach
Featuring comedy, drama, dance, and musical acts in addition to year-round tours, the Grand 1894 Opera House is one of the most popular destinations on the island. Situated in downtown Galveston’s Historic Downtown Cultural Arts District on Post Office Street, this Romanesque Revival-style building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is known as the “Official Opera House of Texas.”
Galveston Naval Museum
100 Seawolf Parkway Boulevard | 2.7 miles from East Beach
Take a self-guided tour through a decommissioned World War II submarine, the USS Cavalla, when you visit the Galveston Naval Museum. This educational center houses a variety of exhibits related to American nautical history, including the USS Stewart Destroyer, which was formerly a presidential escort and is the last of its kind. Nestled in Seawolf Park on Pelican Island, this incredible museum is dedicated to preserving the authenticity and integrity of historic water vessels while honoring U.S. military heroes.
East End Historic District
1501 Post Office Street | 3.5 miles from East Beach
Designated as a National Historic Landmark, Galveston’s East End Historic District is a 50-block area replete with stately 19th-century homes. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this district is bounded by Market Street to the north, Broadway to the south, 9th Street to the East, and 19th Street to the west. Here, you can get a fascinating picture of the island’s “Gilded Age” as you venture through tree-lined streets dotted with historic residences in a range of Victorian and Greek Revival styles.
Google Reviews
East Beach
1923 Boddeker Drive
Galveston, TX 77550
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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.
Amanda Green
October 24, 2022This 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!
Teri Hitchcock
September 27, 2022The 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.
Jennifer Johnston
August 27, 2022when 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.
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.
Regina Mills
August 27, 2022We 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
Leticia Rodriguez
August 27, 2022Great 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.
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
Verified Hotel Guest
August 27, 2022
