Babes Beach
Babes Beach
61st to 81st on Seawall Blvd
The 15-block stretch of beach west of 61st Street on Seawall is named after A.R. “Babe” Schwartz who fell in love with the island and its beaches.
As a member of the Texas House and Senate from 1955 to 1980, A.R. “Babe” Schwartz helped create the Texas Open Beaches Act, which ensures free public access to all Gulf of Mexico beaches. Babe worked as a lifeguard during the summers while he was in high school, and he quickly fell in love with the island and its beaches. Because of this admiration and unwavering commitment to protecting the beaches and their visitors, city of Galveston officials named this 15-block stretch of beach after him. At Babe’s Beach you will discover historical markers along the path that present information about Galveston’s part in the foundation of the state of Texas. Set to a backdrop of the Seawall, this pristine beach is located west of 61st Street close to a variety of gift shops, tattoo parlors, restaurants, and bars. It is also the only Galveston Island beach that still offers free parking. View a live camera of Babe’s Beach here.
Named in 2016 for a former member of the Texas House and Senate, Babe’s Beach is a 15-block stretch of sand that pays homage to A.R. “Babe” Schwartz. Babe helped create the Texas Open Beaches Act, which ensures free public access to all Gulf of Mexico beaches. He worked as a lifeguard during the summers while he was in high school, and he quickly fell in love with the island and its beaches. His admiration and unwavering commitment to protecting the beaches and their visitors inspired island residents to name the spot in his honor.
Here, you will discover historical markers along the path that deliver information about Galveston’s part in the foundation of the state of Texas. This pristine beach is located west of 61st Street, close to an array of gift shops, tattoo parlors, restaurants, and bars. It is also the only Galveston Island beach that still offers free parking. It is one of the best beaches on the island due to its striking rock backdrop, known as the Seawall. Visitors love to fish, bird watch, surf, picnic, and swim at this popular locale.
Read below for more details about where to eat, play, and stay when you visit Babe’s Beach.
Where to Eat near Babe’s Beach
Gypsy Joint
6105 Stewart Road | 1.6 miles from Babe’s Beach
An eclectic café serving a variety of natural and organic recipes, Gypsy Joint exudes a hippie vibe in a fun, casual setting. This Bohemian-style restaurant’s menu includes pizza, hamburgers, sandwiches, salads, desserts, and specialty coffees alongside beer and wine. Live music, beads, and flags make this family-owned eatery a vibrant spot for a meal near Babe’s Beach.
The Cajun Creek
2226 61st Street | 1.6 miles from Babe’s Beach
Injecting each entree with Cajun flavor, this casual restaurant offers everything from burgers and gyros to live crawfish and Ahi Tuna filets. Set on 61st Street and just a few minutes from Babe’s Beach, this local favorite delivers fresh fare and friendly service. At The Cajun Creek, you can take advantage of happy hour Monday through Friday from 4PM to 6PM, where you will find $10 oysters, $3 beer, and $8 crab cakes.
Café Canela Restaurant
6105 Stewart Road | 1.5 miles from Babe’s Beach
Stop by Café Canela Restaurant for the best Birria tacos on the island. This bright eatery also features authentic Mexican food staples such as burritos, tortas, and tacos in an inviting, festive environment. In addition to the amazing cuisine, customers rave about this restaurant’s prompt service and friendly staff as well.
Lil’ Buffalo Grille
13 Evia Main | 2.8 miles from Babe’s Beach
Originally located on Buffalo Speedway, next to the iconic Buffalo Pharmacy, this hearty dining spot has been in operation in Houston since 1984. In 2021, the 7th generation Texan owners opened a third location in Galveston. ‘Lil Buffalo Grille is a counter-serve space that exudes a rustic vibe and offers massive helpings of breakfast, lunch, and dinner favorites. This spot serves their tried and true American comfort food favorites, such as chocolate pancakes, in addition to island favorites.
The Gumbo Diner
3602 Seawall Boulevard | 2.6 miles from Babe’s Beach
The Gumbo Diner invites island locals and visitors alike to experience classic American fare infused with New Orleans flavor. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this cozy restaurant is located less than 3 miles away from Babe’s Beach. Here, you will find Cajun and creole-inspired dishes, including chicken & waffles, fresh beignets, mouth-watering burgers, and Gulf seafood dishes.
Gaido’s
3828 Seawall Boulevard | 2.5 miles from Babe’s Beach
Originally opened in 1911, Gaido’s is a historic island kitchen that combines rich Creole flavors, Southwest open-flame grilling, and traditional southern deep-frying into all its dishes. Everything from the sauces to the desserts and salad dressings are made using time-tested family recipes. The fresh fish, oysters, and shrimp are also peeled, shucked, and fileted by hand.
Where to Stay near Babe’s Beach
Captain’s Cove Resort Condos
7600 Seawall Boulevard | .3 miles from Babe’s Beach
Set right across the street from Babe’s Beach, Captain’s Cove Resort Condos are just a short stroll from your room’s front door to the warm sand. These vacation rentals will immerse you in the best that the island has to offer, thanks to an ideal location directly on Seawall Boulevard. When you stay in this community, you can whip up a meal in the fully stocked kitchens before enjoying a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or hot tub. You can wash the sand out of your clothes in the on-site laundry room or practice your swing on the on-site tennis court as well.
Hilton Galveston Island Resort
5400 Seawall Boulevard | 1.3 miles from Babe’s Beach
Visitors to Babe’s Beach love to stay at the Hilton Galveston Island Resort – this is due to its idyllic location near Pleasure Pier, the Grand 1894 Opera House, and the Galveston Island Convention Center. With a swim-up bar and poolside cabanas, this hotel offers a resort-inspired experience along 35 acres of Seawall Boulevard. After you explore the island, come back to a welcoming space with free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, and access to an on-site restaurant.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Galveston West Seawall
2901 63rd Street | .8 miles from Babe’s Beach
Located a block from Babe’s Beach, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Galveston West Seawall is a contemporary hotel with understated rooms and impressive amenities. When you wake up, you can enjoy complimentary breakfast items such as eggs and waffles at the Bright Side Breakfast area. Then, you can work up a sweat at the on-site fitness center, catch up on emails in the business center, or take a dip in the outdoor pool. Each room includes a coffee maker, microwave, mini fridge, and a flat-screen HD television. The hotel is also within driving distance of William P. Hobby Airport and George Bush Intercontinental Airport and is just 4 miles from the Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal.
Holiday Inn Resort Galveston – On the Beach
5002 Seawall Boulevard | 1.6 miles from Babe’s Beach
With private balconies, flat-screen televisions, and refrigerators, Holiday Inn Resort Galveston – On the Beach offers everything you need for a comfortable stay near Babe’s Beach. The comfortable guest rooms also include complimentary toiletries, hair dryers, a work desk, and a safe. Just outside your front door, you will find a host of on-site attractions, including an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a sports court. Additionally, you can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, The Jetty, or dance the night away at the on-site nightclub, B’Jigger’s Lounge. The hotel provides a free shuttle service to local island attractions as well.
Beachfront Palms Hotel
5914 Seawall Boulevard | 1 mile from Babe’s Beach
At just 1 mile away from Babe’s Beach, the Beachfront Palms Hotel is an excellent lodging choice when vacationing on the island. This convenient hotel offers free parking, free continental breakfast, and free parking, in addition to an on-site gym, laundry room, and swimming pool. Retreat to your comfortable room, where you will find premium DirectTV channels, a microwave, refrigerator, hair dryer, and in-room coffee maker. Several sit-down restaurants, fast-food eateries, and a 24-hour Kroger are all within walking distance as well.
What to Do near Babe’s Beach
Galveston Island Brewing
8423 Stewart Road | .9 miles from Babe’s Beach
Showcasing a rotating tap wall with 13 unique selections, Galveston Island Brewing is a great place to stop for a refreshing brew close to Babe’s Beach. Year-round classics include TIKI Wheat, the “Official Beer of Galveston,” and Citra Mellow, their popular IPA. Started by home brewers in 2017, the brewery began as a small operation with only 3 tanks for fermenting beer, using dairy farm equipment to create a 5-barrel brewing system. With the help of loyal customers and self-distribution, production has now ramped up significantly.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston
2109 Gene Lucas Boulevard | 1.7 miles from Babe’s Beach
Thrill seekers and water lovers alike will appreciate all the attractions available at Schlitterbahn Galveston. When you are ready for a break from the salty waters of the ocean, head to this waterpark for an exciting experience. A massive, winding, lazy river connects three separate areas of the park that includes everything from water coasters, lounging pools, and raft rides. Little ones will love the water playgrounds, and everyone can take advantage of the covered picnic pavilions. Schlitterbahn is open all year and even has an area that transforms into an indoor waterpark when it gets cold outside.
61st Street Fishing Pier
6101 Seawall Boulevard | .8 miles from Babe’s Beach
With a location less than a mile from Babe’s Beach, the 61st Street Fishing Pier is ideal for those looking for the perfect spot to drop their line. Here, professional anglers and novices come together to fish for an array of species, including Angelfish, drums, whiting, ocean catfish, and many others. You can bring your own gear or rent a rod and buy bait and tackle right at the pier. 61st Street Fishing Pier also hosts fishing tournaments, birthday parties, family reunions, corporate events, and more. Admission ranges from $1-$12 per day, depending on age, and a maximum of two rods per person is allowed, with rods not exceeding 10 feet in length. No glass containers or pets are allowed on the pier, and anyone over the age of 17 must have a fishing license.
Moody Gardens
1 Hope Boulevard | 2.1 miles from Babe’s Beach
Moody Gardens is a sprawling entertainment destination for visitors of all ages. A splash pad is a perfect place for littles to play, a zipline offers thrills for older kids and adults, and a golf course provides the ideal spot for every experience level to practice their swing. Additionally, 3 different pyramids with exciting themes and breathtaking settings are ready to be explored. In the 1.5 million gallon Aquarium Pyramid, you can get up close and personal with seals, sharks, jellyfish, penguins, and more. The Discovery Pyramid focuses on exhibits related to science, while free-roaming monkeys, a two-toed sloth, and an array of other animals can be found in the Rainforest Pyramid.
1838 Menard House
1605 33rd Street | 3.5 miles from Babe’s Beach
Currently operating as an event venue and a museum, the 1838 Menard House is the older remaining residence on the island. Owned by one of the founding members of Galveston, Michel B. Menard, this Greek revival-style residence includes antique furniture from the 1800s, along with replicas of drapes, carpets, and other upholstery from that time. Purchased by Pat and Fred Burns in 1994, the home was fully restored in 1995 and now offers self-guided tours. Outside, stately columns, a gazebo, and whimsical oak trees provide the perfect setting for weddings and other private functions.
- Jiggers Lounge
5002 Seawall Boulevard | 1.6 miles from Babe’s Beach
Voted “Favorite Live Music Venue,” B. Jiggers Lounge is a local nightlife spot inside the Holiday Inn Resort Galveston near Babe’s Beach. Discover a monthly line-up of fantastic musicians on top of fabulous drinks and snacks. You can show off your Karaoke skills every Tuesday and Wednesday from 7-11PM. Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 3-6PM, offering specials such as $5 well drinks, $4 import beer, $6 and mozzarella sticks.
The Best Galveston Beaches: Babe’s Beach
Are you a travel enthusiast who will do anything for a good holiday? Who doesn’t like a good holiday, anyway? We all love to travel and see what the world has to offer, but we are at times limited by finances and probably time. Have you ever thought of Galveston, Texas, as an incredible holiday destination?
Also referred to as the “Oleander City,” Galveston prides itself in numerous tourist attractions that will delight you even if you are the most well-traveled individual. Galveston enjoys a rich history with the best things to do here, reflecting this. While in the city, there are several top museums to visit. A variety of fun attractions cater to younger visitors and families. Top on the list of things to do is visiting beaches and enjoying your holiday with your family.
What makes Galveston particularly attractive?
Some of the best ways to enjoy Galveston’s seaside location include soaking up the sun on beaches like Babe’s Beach or Stewart Beach, as well as taking the unrestricted ferry across to Port Bolivar. If you weren’t aware, this island city is home to 32 miles of magnificent gulf beaches. The Galveston beaches might be your vacation choice if you want to spend your summer relaxing on a beach.
Numerous people visit the beach during the sweltering months in Texas due to the state’s extremely hot summers. The City of Galveston offers numerous alternatives to cooling off at the beach. The city is only a short drive south of Greater Houston, so many people leave the city in search of the cool coasts.
Texas sees a lot of tourists because the city has a beach. The beaches start to look very alluring. One of the biggest ports in the United States is Galveston. Off the Texas coast, on Galveston and Pelican Islands, is where it is located. Some tourists stay in Galveston all year round, while others come on weekends. One of the Galveston beaches you should check out while visiting is Babe’s Beach.
About Babe’s Beach
The American Shore and Beach Preservation Association (ASBPA) named this revitalized waterfront spot one of the country’s top restored beachfronts in 2015. To honor A.R. “Babe” Schwartz’s several accomplishments, this 15-block expanse of beach, located west of Seawall’s 61st Street, was named after him. For years now, Schwartz became fascinated with this island and its beaches, and he worked tirelessly to promote them. During the summers when he was in high school, he worked as a lifeguard.
His dedication to protecting these beaches and the visitors who tour every year has not wavered. Schwartz helped draft the Texas Open Beaches Act when he was a member of the Texas House and Senate from 1955 to 1980. The Act guarantees free public access to the Gulf of Mexico’s beaches.
Safety at Babe’s Beach
The safety of one’s family is something that most people think about when going on family activities, such as visiting beaches. It is especially crucial if you are taking your children on vacation. You don’t want to go to places where people drink freely, which could endanger your family’s safety.
To ensure visitor safety and to encourage more families to Blue’s Beach and other beaches in the area, the City of Galveston, as well as the Galveston Park Board of Trustees, partnered to restrict alcohol intake on a number of these public beaches, with the exception of permitted locations.
Alcohol is restricted at Blue’s Beach and is only permitted in certain areas. As a result, you will not encounter wild parties or drunks.
Furthermore, your safety is ensured while swimming. There are lifeguards on duty at the beach. As a result, swimming at the beach is relatively safe for children.
Activities to do at Babe’s Beach
Lots of space is available for sunbathing at Babe’s Beach. However, there are additional fun activities you can do with your loved ones to make the experience memorable. Here are the top activities you may try while at Babe’s Beach, Galveston.
- Begin a treasure hunt, where you hide objects in the sand and let your loved ones look for them. You may write clues on cards and get your friends to start searching.
- Constructing a sandcastle is also another enjoyable beach activity.
- Start squatting, lunging, and exercising while the weather is nice. This is going to be your best summertime workout, we assure you.
- Take your yoga mat and music to the beach, and begin your beach yoga session. Finish with a relaxing period of meditation.
- Take your favorite book with you to the beach, take a seat, unwind, grab a cold beverage, and begin reading.
- Let a kite fly! If you’re traveling with kids, this might be a great activity to do on the beach.
- Swimming in the water is the most enjoyable thing you can do.
- How about a game of XO on the beach? To do this at the beach would be a ton of fun.
- Initiate water gun battles and escalate the situation. Bring everyone inside and give the gathering a twist with the water balloon fight!
- Are there many of your friends joining you at the beach? So why not try a game of “Truth or Dare”?
- Begin to make funny shapes, such as a mermaid, and bury a friend’s body in the sand while taking silly photos of them!
- Bring a few board games, such as chess, snakes and ladder, and backgammon, and have fun competing with your family or friends.
- You can host a barbecue event and take pleasure in the setting, including the food, view, music, and, of course, the company of your loved ones.
- You can begin learning new sports, such as sailing, kiteboarding, hoverboarding, surfing, and boarding, and have a ton of fun.
- Playing beach volleyball is another enjoyable beach activity. You may easily play using a beach ball; it does not have to be proficient.
- 1Hold a competition for the best Limbo dance moves if you are with your friends! All you’ll need is lots of moves and some good music!
When is the ideal time to go to Babe’s Beach?
Babe’s Beach, as well as other Galveston beaches, are best visited in May, June, September, and October when the weather is warm, and there are fewer people (not guaranteed). June and September are the hottest and wettest months, while January, February, March, and December are the coldest.
Babe’s Beach rules
Babe’s Beach in Galveston has laws and regulations just like any other city or beach to protect its locals and visitors. The laws and regulations are there to keep everyone safe, whether they are swimming or just walking around the city.
Galveston has a lot of beach regulations. Here are some guidelines—and, in some cases, laws—to bear in mind as you take in the soothing ocean breeze.
- The bonfire
On all beaches on Galveston Island, open flames of any kind, including bonfires, are prohibited. A BBQ pit or other type of fire pit must be used to contain fires. To be safe, make sure a fire extinguisher is close by.
- Dogs
Pets are permitted on the beach. However, they have to be leashed, and you must clean up after them if they relieve themselves there. This rule is for the protection of anyone who is concerned about dogs and the potential mess they might leave on the beach. The authorities want to make sure that everyone enjoys their stay. So, let your pet be restricted and ensure you maintain cleanliness.
- Alcohol intake
On the beach, alcohol is permitted in some areas. There is a sign that indicates whether you can or cannot, so you will know if it is permitted. The purpose of this law is to make sure that all visitors are safe from intoxicated individuals.
- Off-road automobiles
ATVs, dirt bikes, and other off-road vehicles are permitted on some portions of the beach. A sign will let you know if it is permitted on that stretch of the beach. You may go at over 15 mph. Also, keep in mind to avoid the sand dunes.
- Dune Sand
Playing or driving on the sand dunes is prohibited. Also, don’t take anything out of the dune vegetation. Additionally, keep an eye out for snakes and other slithery creatures that live in the sand dunes.
- Fireworks
Own fireworks are not permitted at all on the beach. This is because they don’t want anyone to suffer serious injuries due to all the firework-related accidents in the past.
- Weddings
With some restrictions, weddings are permitted on Galveston’s beaches. T here are particular guidelines that must be followed when having a wedding on this beach. Make contact with the authorities to find out what you should and shouldn’t do when organizing a wedding at Babe’s Beach.
To ensure safety at Babe’s Beach in Galveston, regardless of whether you are a visitor or a local, keep these guidelines in mind at all times.
Beaches near Babes Beach
While at Galveston, you may also be interested in visiting other beaches within this Texas city. Beaches near Babe’s Beach include:
- Stewart Beach
Stewart Beach is a popular family destination in Galveston. There are a variety of amenities available, such as clean washrooms and outdoor showerheads, as well as beach wheelchairs and lifeguards, making the beach an ideal place to spend your day.
Beachgoers enjoy building swimming, sandcastles, and playing on volleyball courts. You may also rent umbrellas and chairs at the beach. You will also find numerous local eateries where you can eat something. What is more, Stewart Beach provides one of the best sunset views in Galveston.
- Crystal beach
This non – incorporated neighborhood is situated on the Bolivar Peninsula and is accessible through the Galveston-Bolivar Ferry. The best part is that it’s free and very well valuable a quick trip!
Although there are no lifeguards on duty at Crystal Beach, the shore and waters are generally calm. It’s simple to find a spot to enjoy on this white sand beach. You might even see a dolphin if you’re lucky!
- Pirates Beach
Pirates Beach is ideal if you want beach houses right on the water in a quiet area. There aren’t many activities here, so it’s a good place to unwind. Having said that, more attractions are only a short drive away.
Whilst Pirates Beach is situated in an endearing Galveston neighborhood, there are numerous vacation rentals nearby. It’s without a doubt among the top places to relish a laid-back local ambiance and lovely shoreline. It is also a fantastic beach for watching the sunset!
Other things to do in Galveston
There are additional family-friendly activities in Galveston. There are countless activities to keep you busy and entertained on your next trip to sunny Galveston, from excursions to the Lone Star Flight Museum to strolls through the charming East End Historic District. One of the most common things visiting families can do while here is to take tours in one of the historical locations of the city.
For instance, you could go to the wonderful Bishop Palace. A must-see attraction is a palace, which once served as the residence of an adorned Confederate officer.
You won’t also go wrong with a trip to the Moody Mansion Museum if you’d like to learn a little about Galveston’s past. One of the most well-known families in the city is the Moody family, and many visitors—both tourists and locals—come to learn as much about them.
If your kids love history, you should take them on trips to the Galveston Island Railroad Museum or the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum. The Galveston Children’s Museum is a fantastic resource for education.
The Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark is also a popular destination for families traveling with kids and has a variety of thrilling slides that kids will love.
You might also think about bringing your youngsters to Seawolf Park to enjoy Galveston’s scenic surroundings. In Galveston, many families choose to go camping and stay at Galveston Island State Park. Picking up a map when you get there will be all you need to do in order to enjoy the park’s activities like swimming, hiking, and water sports. The Seawall is another place that kids really like to go. To get a close-up view of the ocean, head to the eight-mile wall.
Visit the Victorian era, which is along The Strand, on rainy days to window-shop. Get a cold drink at Galveston Island Brewing to end your afternoon of sightseeing after a long day of exploring.
Conclusion
While Babe’s Beach is new and underappreciated, this well-kept seafront is beautiful, relaxing, and age-friendly. With lifeguards on duty, the beach is a relatively safe place for children to swim. Meanwhile, anglers and surfers will have a great time splashing around in the water.
Google Reviews
Babes Beach
61st to 81st on Seawall Blvd
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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